5 reasons you should visit Vancouver
Not many places can boast having it all. Vancouver comes close. If it should tickle your fancy, you could hike through a forest, ski down a mountain, sail on the ocean, and treat yourself to a world-class dinner – all in one day.
Vancouver’s green, mountain-studded and lake-jewelled space offers snow sports, kayaking, forest trails, beaches and the world-famous Stanley Park – and when you’re done exploring, 5* hotels and boutique cafes to wind down in.
Here are just a few of the reasons you should visit Vancouver.
The Food
It wouldn’t be wrong to call Vancouver the unsung culinary capital of Canada. Prepare your senses for North America’s finest Asian dining scene, from freshly-caught seafood, to Chinese noodles and anything else you could imagine in between. If it’s home-cooking you’re after, succulent seafood can be found at The Daily Catch market.
Feast your senses on almost every different ethnic cuisine. For authentic Mexican, try La Casita; epic pizza, Marcello; and if you’re looking for huge portions of Greek food, Stepho’s has what you need.
The People
Canadians are known world over as friendly, welcoming folk. While many cultural preconceptions turn out to be baseless, this Canadian characteristic hits the mark.
Vancouverites are no exception. A mixture of the city’s diversity, its yoga-loving hipsters and significant gay community gives Vancouver a laid-back and warm culture, and makes its people open, hospitable and always ready to lend a hand.
The Mountains
The best type of city is undoubtedly the one surrounded by nature – preferably a snow-tipped mountain range. In this, Vancouver more than meets the bill.
Surrounded by the stunning peaks of the North Shore Mountains, experienced in winter on a ski slope, or during summer on a sun-kissed hike, there are endless possibilities to explore Vancouver’s mountains. Nearby, turquoise glacial lakes provide chilly swimming opportunities for those who dare.
The Ocean
The Pacific Coastline is up there with the most beautiful coasts in the world. Sailing up the Inside Passage provides a chance to experience the beauty of the coastline between Vancouver and the tip of Vancouver Island – which is also definitely worth a visit.
If we’re talking wildlife, the whale watching tours are incredible. And of course, there are a multitude of other ways to enjoy the ocean: kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, diving… we could go on and on.
The City
If we’re talking Vancouver, it’s probably wise to mention the city life. From theatres, to trendy restaurants, to nightlife – Vancouver’s got all the perks of a cosmopolitan city. Have a giggle at the The Comedy Mix, discover modern art at Vancouver Art Gallery, or bask in the sounds of the Vancouver Symphony at the Orpheum. Whatever activity you choose, we’re sure you’ll have a good time.
All in all, it’s not difficult to understand why Vancouver is seen as one of the best – and most liveable – cities in the world. Cultural highlights and outdoor activities, framed by dramatic vistas. What more could you want?
