there's definitely potential to do something with our alleys especially in Gastown. no need to look to Europe on this one. i was blown away by what Melbourne has done with their alleys. it's just so cool!
here's a website that describes each alley with pictures. Melbourne actually uses its alleys as part of their tourism.
http://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/melbourne_details.php?id=9408
http://travellingworm.wordpress.com/2009/05/31/the-alleyways-of-melbourne/
http://travellingworm.wordpress.com/2009/05/31/the-alleyways-of-melbourne/
unfortunately, Vancouver hasn't reached a level of sophistication (or maturity) that it could do this all night but during the day there's no reason we couldn't. isn't it time we take back our city from the urinating, shooting up folk?