The Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics is about to begin and the buzz is in the air.

Ever since Vancouver was announced as the host city for the 2010 Winter Olympics, we have lived through the development leading up to today’s start of the Games.  We experienced the very beginnings with the headaches of construction, road closures, tax hikes, etc.  The trip has been a challenge of massive proportions and has been quite an exciting one.

With the Opening Ceremony taking place today, we have been welcoming the World with open arms.  The hospitality has been wonderful and the general consensus is people really love this city and country.

The torch passed by my work in Richmond, BC and we stepped out to take it all in.  February 10, 2010 was a memorable experience.

During the past week, my family and I have taken several trips downtown to explore the sights and sounds of the Winter Olympics.  Of course, the place was extremely busy with people from all over the World.  Athletes, fans, and others can be seen proudly sporting their country’s colours and unique uniforms walking around the city.  The transformation has been truly amazing and I encourage you to use Google Maps Street View to explore Vancouver and Whistler.  There have been several new features added just for these Olympic Games.  I highly recommend checking out Whistler.  You can even see the Street/Mountain View of the runs.

At the countdown clock in Downtown Vancouver. 3 days to go!

Another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity we experienced was the torch relay around the province.  Let me tell you from personal experience that it was quite the memorable, heartfelt, and emotional moment.  I definitely felt the buzz in the air and was quite close to breaking a tear or two.  It was a very touching event in history and will be forever remembered.

Here’s the torch passing just a block away from our home in Vancouver, BC on February 11, 2010.  You can see my parents in this video.

Unfortunately, I did not plan ahead and missed an grand opportunity to acquire some highly sought after Hockey tickets back when they were on sale a year or so ago.  I really do regret it now as it might be a once-in-a-lifetime chance.  However, all is not lost and I did get some Victory Ceremony tickets taking place at BC Place.  I’m sure this will be an amazing experience as well.  Don’t get me wrong though, it’s not all about the paid events.  There are tons of free events and activities all over the city that is open everyone.

Luanne with Sumi at Robson Square.

It is truly an exciting time in Vancouver and I’m very proud of the accomplishments of the organizers responsible for the big party.  We welcome the World to Vancouver, so please check it out where ever you are.

Peter Nguyen

PS: GO CANADA GO!