If travelling through the Canadian prairie, alone on an explore, or if on business; there is not a better place to stay than Calgary, a thoroughly modern city, in its University District as the guest of Bryan.
Centrally located for easy access to college (graduate student?), shopping, in a quiet neighborhood. Calgary has excellent roadways, arterials well integrated to major Canadian thoroughfares.
Your host is a certified master chef, oft employed by Canada as a contractor to feed and nourish Canadian military personal on site. He will love to cook you breakfast, and is a curious and intelligent conversationalist. He has wide personal experience and would to know yours, he is equally sensitive to those who prefer privacy.
The second-floor apartment is across the street from a city park with plenty of street parking. There are three flights of stairs (21 total) and no elevator. The bedroom is on the second floor of the apartment.
His military training is evident in the cleanliness of the entire apartment. Though not modern - last remodeled in 1978 - this has the middle-class charm of the era.
The shared bath is a classic built in tub and shower. The water pressure is excellent, as is the temperature control. Best of all it is the 60’s style wide rims, a place to rest one’s arms while soaking in the tub. Or perhaps, to rest your morning coffee, of your evening’s champaign.
The rental room has a firm and comfortable twin bed and a fine window looking out over a balcony. The window opens nicely, for night air, as is my want. It includes a study desk and an era appropriate dresser and closet.
I drove to Calgary from Tacoma, WA. In future visits, I shall fly, unless one wishes to get a true appreciation of how vast Canada is. Calgary is linked with a modern, efficient and well-coordinated public transit system. Buses are timed to meet light rail and disabled individuals can contact Access Calgary a door to door transport system for handicapped individuals. Like every other metro city, Ubers, Taxis and powered scooters are ubiquitous.
University of Calgary is within walking distance, has excellent parking and beautiful, modern architecture. My favorite site is the downtown Calgary Main Library Branch – a new and beautiful four-story masterpiece of purposeful design, integrating progressive learning and research strategies with learning centers appropriate to all ages. Shout out to the Bear and Kilt!