Two weeks before I was set to move across the country, my friends and I had the genius idea to squeeze in a quick road trip to Canada. I'd never been, and it was only a two-hour drive—what could go wrong?

Turns out: passports can expire. Mine had… in 2017. Cue a late-night panic call to my mom, who casually informed me that my actual passport was in another state. #adulting

But did that stop us? Of course not. We crossed into Vancouver armed with an expired passport, a birth certificate, a driver's license, and pure delusion. Boldmove—but somehow, it worked!!

**@annabellechoistudio** **in Chinatown**

It might've been a chaotic start, but here are some spots I loved in Vancover, BC!

☕Cafe’s

@annabellechoistudio in Chinatown

Coffee, pastries, natural light, and quiet cool-girl energy.Annabelle's is a hidden gem, I felt like journaling about my feelings and starting a ceramics brand at Annabelle's.

@superbolt.tea in Kitsilano

Matcha lovers, this one's for you. Superbolt makes Matcha that feels like a tiny ceremony in a cup. It's nutty, smooth, vibrant, and not too sweet. The owner was super kind, and I've been there drinking tea at home.

🍽️ Eats

@tvdinnershop in Kitsilano

The Jewish girl in me thrived here. The sandwiches were hearty and nostalgic, with just the right amount of flair. They also stock fine Coffee, pantry goods, frozen meals, and local things. My favorite part was that the owner knew every customer's name; it's a spot where the regulars lived.

@jinyaramenbar in downtown

Perfect for when the Vancouver rain kicks in. Soul-warming bowls of ramen that hit all the right notes. Salty, savory, slurpable goodness.

🛍️ Shops / Thrifts

@fasinfrankvancouver in Gastown

F, as in Frank, was worth exploring if you're into thrifting. It's where you might bump into your next indie boyfriend—or blow your rent money on a vintage leather jacket. Either way, it's a vibe. It has high-quality finds with a curated edge.

@outnabout_321 In Gastown

For something a little more polished, Out & About has beautiful, curated pieces that blend form and function—a great spot for unique homewares, eclectic objects & independent books.

🌲 Active/ Outdoor

Tunnel Bluffs Hike just north of Lions Bay

My last Pacific Northwest hike before the big move, and it delivered. The trail was really steep with a 2,260 elevation gain—but after the first mile, it mellows into a peaceful stretch through the woods. But the view at the top? Insane. Sweeping mountain and ocean views, My jaw was on the floor. I can't stop thinking about it.

Biking in the English Bay Area

There's no better way to see a new city than by bike. We rented Mobi bikes and cruised around the English Bay area—breezy, scenic, and one of my favorite parts of the trip.

Would 100% do it all again. Just maybe with a valid passport next time.