It takes three hours to drive from Calgary to Edmonton. It seems like we are spending more time in the car than actually being on vacation (but hey, it gives me time to blog). The best part of Edmonton was the dinner we had at this steak & fish place call Vons in the Old Strathcona district. The West Edmonton Mall (apparently the largest in the world) is totally not worth the visit. Sure it?s got an indoor water park and a roller coaster but other than that, it?s a typical mall. I can see it being a quality destination for young families but for the seasoned traveler, expectations should be set low. Edmonton is like Calgary because it?s in the middle of no where. It?s the capital of Alberta but all the buildings, houses, and hotels look like they were built in the 70s without any attempt to update them. It actually comes across as really ugly but if you are a fan of 70s architecture (sarcasm) you might want to check it out.
Jasper National Park really caught my attention. It?s a 3.5 hours drive from Edmonton but it?s about the only drive that has been worth it. The town of Jasper is much more quaint and less touristy than its sister city, Banff, about 2 hours south. The actual drive into the National Park with its steams, lush forest, and mountain backdrops is gorgeous. There?s a popular lake which is comparable to Lake Louise but significantly less crowded. If you visit, don?t miss out on the glaciers?they are a real treat. We stayed at this person?s house who rents out rooms during high tourist seasons. It worked out well for our situation. Up next: the 12+ hour ride home 
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