"Real" Edmonton by VTShounen

Edmonton Travel Guide: 588 reviews and 909 photos

Edmonton, a friendly laid-back city of a million, had been the base of my world conquer for 16 years. Though it lacks the history and excitement of other major Canadian cities, it does have much to offer, especially for families, aside from the world's largest shopping centre.

Passing tourists tend to think it's a rather unremarkable city, but those who spend some time here discover its appeal. It lacks the attractions and the superficial glitz-factor. But its strong sports, arts and culture scenes become apparent soon enough. Record release party, gallery exhibit opening, opera, pro hockey, foreign embassy film screening, I've seen them all.. and I'm not really into that stuff!

For more (official) information on Edmonton, visit Edmonton Tourism at www.tourism.ede.org. But be sure to come back to take a gander at what opinion I have to give about it! =)

One note of disclosure: I don't live on Edmonton anymore - I moved to Calgary a year ago. Calgary has a more urban feel - that superficial glitz-factor - but it's a cultural void. Any semblance of culture has an awefully awkward, contrived and conformed tone to it. It's made me appreciate Edmonton's culture - much more natural, diverse, and tolerant, be it for the underground bohemian or the pretentious yuppie. The city and its vibe are real.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:Friendly, not too big, but has everything
  • Cons:Too friendly, lack of obvious urban flare
  • In a nutshell:A place that grows on you
  • Last visit to Edmonton: Sep 2002
  • Intro Updated Oct 23, 2004
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Reviews (34)

Comments (15)

  • kymbanm's Profile Photo
    Aug 5, 2005 at 12:52 AM

    Too bad I won't meet you when I'm out there ...... I ALMOST wish I could experience the police escort through the country side though ... ALMOST :)

  • luvthesun's Profile Photo
    Sep 21, 2004 at 10:19 AM

    Totally agree with about the people in Edmonton-small town hillbillies-a good thing!!

  • Aug 18, 2004 at 1:00 PM

    So glad we found this restaurant! The food is fantastic, the portion sizes are huge, and the service is great. In fact, I was back within a week with my mom. We shared a ceaser salad and an entree and still had extra to bring home.

  • kenHuocj's Profile Photo
    Mar 25, 2004 at 7:28 AM

    xclnt tips - hope the birthday celebration was fun and raucous ;-)))

  • THLIN's Profile Photo
    Dec 26, 2003 at 9:32 AM

    HA YOUR TIPS ARE DOWN TO THE DETAIL!! AMAZING

  • Carmanah's Profile Photo
    Feb 7, 2003 at 10:12 PM

    What.. no Rebar listed under nightlife? ;) Just kidding.

  • riproy's Profile Photo
    Jan 8, 2003 at 9:15 AM

    Well done, nice job on the photos and maps. I love Krua Wilai as well!

  • Jul 3, 2002 at 8:26 PM

    Bear cub...ha ha!

  • miksu's Profile Photo
    Jun 17, 2002 at 1:47 PM

    Great page & info.....

  • John195123's Profile Photo
    Jun 12, 2002 at 5:34 PM

    Very nice!

VTShounen

“The next time your life flashes before your eyes, make sure you've got plenty to watch.”

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