Trip to Edmonton

I had the opportunity to visit Edmonton, during my trip to Calgary. Edmonton is the capital of the province of Alberta. With its population of more than 750,000, it boasts to be the second largest city in Alberta. Edmontonian is the term used for a resident of Edmonton.

Edmonton is well-known as the home to North America's largest shopping mall, West Edmonton Mall (6.1 million square feet, which was the world's largest mall from 1981 till 2004). It reminded me of the largest shopping mall in Malaysia, Mid Valley Megamall, which has become of the main attractions in the Klang Valley. The 4.5 million square feet complex with its 430 shops certainly has lots to offer.

The University of Alberta is founded in 1908. The university's current enrolment is over 36,000, placing itself among the five largest universities in Canada. The main campus consists of more than 90 buildings, located across the North Saskatchewan River from downtown Edmonton.

From top left (clockwise): The Butterdome (Universiade Pavilion), TELUS Centre for Professional Development, Stollery Children's Hospital, HUB Mall, parking parkade, overhead walkway, residence building, and Arts building.

After the campus visit, we explored around the city for a bit.

From bottom left (clockwise): The Old Strathcona Arch, Fairmont Hotel MacDonald, Public Library, Chinatown, City Hall, Muttart Conservatory, and LRT station (centre).

Next, we visited the West Edmonton Mall. We reckoned it'd be quiet on Christmas Day. It worked out great for photo shooting :)

From top left (clockwise): Christmas lighting and Venice architectures, Galaxyland Amusement Park, T&T Chinese Supermarket, a replica of Santa Maria, Bourbon Street (a taste of New Orleans), indoor mini golf course, and World Waterpark (centre).

The following day was Boxing Day. We seized the opportunity to shop at the West Edmonton Mall, before heading to Drumheller. We were there before 10 a.m., when the crowd was less busy. The best deal I've got? A pair of jeans from Urban Behaviour for $5 (original price was $40)!!!

Top: Long lineup outside a sportswear store observed on the street, before 9a.m. Bottom left: One of the many entrances at the West Edmonton Mall. Bottom right: Busy crowd at the mall around noon. Long lineup outside Abercrombie & Fitch.