Summer in Vancouver, Prelude to the Winter Games

With apologies to the 2010 Winter Olympics, causing a luxury building uptick, summer in Vancouver, British Columbia, is the four best months of the year -- June to September.

With "midsummer night" launching the high season each June, I am always reminded of our hot and delightful four-day summer sojourn from the global city of Vancouver, by ferry across to Vancouver Island, southeast to the old-world capital of Victoria, by ferry again through the Orcas and San Juan Islands across to the mainland -- and south to Seattle. Here are some photos and hot tips for a short but fabulous excursion.

Fly to the high-energy "world city" of Vancouver to begin. If you go up through California, you can relish on a good day a spectacular view of Mount Whitney, the 14,505-foot highest point in the US. In Vancouver, stay at the Westin Bayshore right on the water, a convenient location where urban and panoramic views extend in several directions.

Rent a car and take a ferry for an easy trip across to Vancouver Island.   Check out both BC and Washington State ferries for schedules and routes. Be sure to book ahead. There's also whale-watching, April to October, available through many charter services. A leisurely visit to the lovely British Columbia capital of Victoria is reminiscent of Europe, where Parliament buildings are silhouetted in lights, among other historic and recreational attractions in the mild-climate "City of Gardens." The Hotel Grand Pacific is an elegant option. While the adventure seems like a lot to pack in just a few days, it's easily accomplished with a well-planned itinerary. Next stop: Seattle.