The line was long. We got there and 'took a number' at about 9:20 am. Our number was #831 but the electronic counter showed just 757 at that point. The queue went more quickly than one would expect because a lot of people who'd taken a number had decided the wait would be too long. So on occasion three or four numbers clicked by at once. On the other hand, there were only two windows and often people would have to return after making a photocopy or something and need to go to the window directly. I didn't mind waiting at all as I was in a zone where it felt like I was already on vacation. The experience was ... well ...just part of the experience. When we finally got to the window, it only took several minutes for the officer to check the papers. She gave a slip needed after four business days to pick them up. Apparently a lot of people were attempting to pay double fees in order to complete the process in one day. We're in no hurry as we're not leaving until September 14th. It was probably 11:30 by the time we left.
It was a beautiful summer day, so we went to look around Granville Island. We also had lunch on the way back to New Westminster.
I am trying to think of the last time we needed to get a paper visa before a trip. It's been years, I think. Well, on last year's trip to Cambodia, we did the whole application online but the visa was waiting for us when we crossed the border on the highway from Thailand. When, travelling on Canadian passports, getting visas, if required, are usually granted right at the airport.