I have decided not to try to make sense of Vancouver. At least not yet. The place seems ideal for ‘letting go’ and just absorbing whatever there is without having to think about it.

It is about an hour walk from the house to the ‘Carnegie’ – we are heading downtown for the first time. Surrounded by mountains and breathtaking views, this city gives away a small-town vibe as we walk through its neighbourhoods, each with its own distinctive character. Alongside neon Santas and perfect lawns, down the Commercial, passing port cranes, organic food stores and endless shops with god knows what; we eventually turn into East Hastings that will take us Downtown Eastside. Known as Canada’s poorest post code and one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Vancouver, this place keeps us entertained for the rest of the day. There is something atmospherical about this district. Junkies and prostitutes,  the scent of pot everywhere, busy traffic, China town, a geezer poking his head out of a dumpster and the hectic air. We are enjoying the character of this grim neighbourhood that, on the other hand, is well known for its community activism. It is to no surprise that the first shooting gallery and needle exchange in North America happened to be here. The Carnegie, The Women’s Centre along with Drug centres, all at once on East Hastings.

As we walk around, we course prices of certain goods. Yes, Vancouver is expensive – even Dunia is thinking about giving up smoking. .. We decide to avoid paying overpriced public transport, hence the hours of walking.  We enjoy yummy two-bucks-lunch at Carnegie.  The ‘yes-or-no-to-smoking’ debate takes place throughout the day, but eventually Dunia gives up and approaches a street seller at the junction. After examining the quality of the contraband, our debate about quitting the habit starts again…