- by Rich Patterson (@pattersonbrands)

Even before the Olympics began I think most riders agreed the Canada Line was an unqualified success.  One Vancouverite decided that the new transit line deserved its own Pocket Guide to describe the rich experiences available on and around the Canada Line.  I sat down recently to ask author Noam Dolgin about his new book.

RP: Thanks for talking to me about your new transit pocket guide, Canada Line Adventures.  Tell me, why a pocket transit guide?

ND: The Canada Line Project has proven to be one of Vancouver’s most controversial Olympic related projects, yet it is immensely popular moving more than 100,000 residents and tourists daily.  This guide will provide people the resources to more fully access the many offerings of Vancouver and Richmond in an eco-friendly manner.  No matter where one fell in the debate, the line is now complete and provides immense opportunity for personal use and recreation.  Why not take advantage of all it has to offer?

RP: Explain to me how the guide works?

ND: For each station, readers will discover unique neighbourhood highlights, and a self-guided off-the-beaten-track adventure.  At each station, readers will find a restaurant, cafe, bar, entertainment venue, special point of interest, children’s activity, walking tour, heritage buildings, and a suggested picnic spot.  A beautifully designed map of each neighbourhood, directs users through the walking tour and neighbourhood offerings.

RP: Where is the guide available?

ND: The guide can be purchased at 3 Vets at 2200 Yukon Stand various convenience stores and cafes across the line.

RP: What was the highlight of researching this book?  What new things did you discover?

ND: Minoru Park blew my mind, the Chapel, waterfall, bunnies, and so much more in the centre of Richmond, I had no idea.  In my own neighbourhood, I discovered schoolhouse #472, an originally one room school now serving as someone’s backyard shed.  The guide is full of hidden treasures.

RP: What station is a must visit?

ND: Everyone should take the opportunity to explore the airport now that it’s so cheap and easy to get there.  Take in the art, the parks, the observation area, and the general hustle and bustle.  It’s wonderful being there when you don’t have a flight to run off to.

RP: Why you? Why now?

ND: Growing up along Cambie Street, near what is now King Edward Station, I spent a considerable part of my childhood walking, cycling and riding the bus through the neighbourhoods now served by Canada Line.

Author Noam Dolgin onboard Canada Line

My first haircut was on Cambie Street, as well as my first sleepover and first job.

As an environmental educator and advocate, the opening of the Canada Line provided a great opportunity to encourage eco-friendly travel and I was delighted to help promote everything my neighbourhood and the city had to offer.

Rich Patterson, has a twenty years experience in Public Relations, Marketing & Sales. Rich owns a successful Licensing, Apparel & Promotional Product company and is part owner of a social media consultancy based in Vancouver. Contact Rich at rich[at]pattersonbrands.com or follow twitter @pattersonbrands