Sherman's Travel

Two weeks spent watching Olympians compete in the bitter cold and celebrating till all hours has left my skin feeling parched, my extremities chilled and muscles sore. What I need today is a bit of R&R so I head to downtown’s Yaletown neighborhood, which is characterized by industrial warehouses with elevated, brick-paved loading docks. The warehouses have been converted into restaurants, brewpubs, and boutiques – and the loading docks, with their al fresco tables, are popular in all kinds of weather – even on a gray day like today they are packed with people drinking coffee and getting ready to order lunch.

Blue Water Café & Raw Bar is a good bet for sustainable seafood while Cioppino’s serves excellent Mediterranean fare. After a bit of window shopping – check out Atomic Model for chic handbags and accessories, Fresh Lingerie for saucy intimates, and Barking Babies for designer dog clothing – I stumble upon Skoah, one of Canada’s most famous skin care companies. The day spa is currently offering a special one-hour Olympic treatment called Fan Facial. The facial of champions promises to leave my skin hydrated and cheer-worthy. Closing ceremonies, here I come.