I used to love Kelowna as a teenager. For me and other small town Albertans, it was like California with its hot weather, beaches and buxom blondes!
But now, decades later, I dislike Kelowna for the most part. Sure it has nicer weather, the lake, the beaches and the wineries. But there are many things that put me off.
It's a massive tourist trap.
Apart from its small sliver of downtown, it is unwalkable.
It's more like a really huge town instead of a city despite the population.
Traffic is horrid.
Poorly planned sprawl (especially West Kelowna).
Cost of living is ridiculous.
I still find it a bit too redneck.
Even though it gets sold as a wine lover/foodie's paradise, I see nothing but the usual chains (Earls, Cactus Club etc).
Worst of all, Bedrock City closed about 15 years ago!
For me, it's like that old saying: nice place to visit but I wouldn't want to live there.