Vancouver in British Columbia is the place to be. It’s winter and it’s time for the winter games. The Vancouver Winter Olympics 2010, which kicked off on 12 February, is garnering tourists, sports lovers and travelers alike. Do not miss it for the world. This multi-sport event, which has 15 ice sports, is in its 21st version. This is the third time that Canada is hosting the Olympics. Vancouver has the recognition of being the warmest as well as the most populous city to host the winter games. The mascots for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are inspired by traditional First Nations creatures. They are: Miga, a mythical sea bear that is part orca and part kermode bear. Then there is Quatchi, a sasquatch, who wears boots and earmuffs! These two are mascots for the winter games. The following two for the paralympic games: Sumi is an animal guardian spirit, who wears the hat of the orca whale, and flies with the wings of the mighty Thunderbird and runs on the strong furry legs of the black bear. And there’s a sidekick, too – Mukmuk, a Vancouver Island marmot.
And video-gamers have their share, too. ‘Vancouver 2010’ is a video-game based on the Vancouver Olympic Games. The Royal Canadian Mint is also bringing out commemorative coins that will celebrate the 2010 games. Various media are streaming live action of the many competitions and other functions. You can also watch them on many blogs and social networking sites. There’s an Olympic Store where you can buy Olympic accessories. Caps, tees, shoes, cards and more!
Log onto www.vancouver2010.com for more!!
Vancouver’s coast is full of activity: you can visit beaches, go surfing, and skiing on frozen lakes and cave exploring. Cycling, sailing, yachting and Scuba diving are common, too.