Robert Lee YMCA

Up early and off on a 15-minute walk across town to the Robert Lee YMCA.

You enter the pool hall from the first floor, where a balcony overlooks the pool below. The first thing you notice is the floor-to-ceiling glass wall, flooding the space with natural light and creating a calm, relaxed vibe. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to take your time and enjoy the swim.

Knocked out an easy 2,000 yards at a steady pace, keeping things smooth and peaceful—no need to disturb the tranquillity. The pool itself isn’t flashy, but it’s clean, tidy, and has a modern, thoughtfully designed feel. There’s a large hot tub tucked between the pillars that I didn’t get around to trying, but it adds to the laid-back atmosphere of the place.

Overall, it’s a no-frills, well-maintained spot for a swim, with just the right balance of simplicity and style.

Things took a bit of a strange turn back in the locker room, though. After a quick shower, I found this massive bloke standing right by my locker, having a rather angry conversation ... with himself. Definitely not the kind of person you’d want to make eye contact with. Kept my head down and got changed; he then seemed to flash a knife at me — not in a threatening way, more like showing it off. Really odd moment and not what you’d expect in such a lovely city!

Made my way out and headed back to the Hilton. Later in the day, on a bit of a whim, jumped on a shuttle bus to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park for their forest Halloween light show - thought it would be an hour or two then back, didn't expect to spend 4+ hours there! Honestly, it was absolutely brilliant—totally magical and a bit spooky at the same time. A proper unexpected highlight!