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Vancouver Mini Guide
A View of Vancouver
Vancouver (not to be confused with the town of the same name in
Washington) is the third largest city in Canada. Situated in the province of British Coloumbia, this coastal city is described by those in the know as one of the best cities to live in, in all of North America. Named after Captain George Vancouver who sailed those parts in 1792, the city is the fastest growing metropolis in Canada and even so is renowned for its striking natural beauty. Surrounded by water on three sides and topped by the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver is a genuine city for all seasons with no shortage of activity available throughout the region.
What to See?
Most of the city’s major landmarks such as the Canadian Palace and the Vancouver Convention Centre are located in the Downtown area, as is the Vancouver Art gallery which houses a permanent collection of works by the artist Emily Carr as well as exhibition by contemporary artists. Science buffs and those with inquisitive minds should check out the Telus World of Science or Science World as it’s more commonly known. It has an excellent program of shows and exhibits that make science fun for both children and adults alike.
While those who like a little more adventure won’t be disappointed with a trip across the harbour to the famed North Shore and its three local ski hills, the Cypress, Grouse Mountain and the Seymour. If you’re really feeling brave, continue on to Whistler - the most highly rated snow destination in North America.
After Dark
Head towards the central business district where along the Granville Street Strip you will find a good selection of local neighbourhood bars with a friendly feel (think ‘Cheers’). Most bars stay open until 1.00am while the nightclubs usually boogie down till two or three in the morning. If beer is your tipple of choice you’ll not want to leave the Granville Island Brewery, it does exactly as its name suggests and tours of the works are available.
Worked Up an Appetite?
The best areas to head to when your tummy starts to rumble depend on what you’ve got an appetite for. Back to back mid budget options from BBQ to sushi can be found in the West End while high class eateries with prices to match are generally grouped in the central business area. For ethnic and international flavours you’ve got to head over to East Van, where you’ll find authentic flavours in mostly family run venues.
Getting There
Vancouver has its own international airport located in the south of the city and so there are regular domestic, cross border and international air connections to and from Vancouver. Float planes are another option providing connections to the city as well as scenic flying tours of the British Columbia region. Helicopter transfers are also a possibility if you’re feeling flush. But please beware if arriving at the
Abbosford Airport near Vancouver, while it may be a cheaper option there are no direct transport links from this airport to the city of Vancouver itself. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Vancouver and its laid back feel will welcome you every time.
- Until the 12th of August you can catch the exhibition called Neon Vancouver at the Museum of Vancouver. With hundreds of neon signs, many rescued from the dump, the exhibition will be a bright and glitzy tour through the last half century of the city.