Vancouver

Visiting Vancouver in summer or winter is the best way to pass your holidays as this wonderful metropolis is blessed with attractions that suit both these climatic extremes. Sitting on the eastern edge of the Pacific Ocean, this city boasts a uniquely diverse geography that features mountainous, pine-covered terrain, beautiful green plains and a stunning waterfront.

This city has been hailed the world over as one of the most ‘liveable’ cities. Thanks to its magnificent snow-covered slopes it was selected to host the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. But skiing is just one of a host of activities available to visitors here. There is plenty to see and do and holidaymakers planning a visit here are advised to plan carefully. It would be a shame to travel all the way to this splendid resort and still miss out on its best attractions.

Sightseeing and activities

A winter holiday to Vancouver is every skiers dream because here they will get marvellous pistes without having to brave extremely low temperatures. This locale has mild temperatures and average lows during winter will normally remain above freezing.

Grouse Mountain is usually the site skiers gravitate to in search of challenging descents. Snowboarders will also enjoy weaving down this mountain’s slopes. But even in summer visitors will want to keep the ‘Peak of Vancouver’ in their itinerary as it provides excellent hiking opportunities. And whichever season you plan your ascent, you will be met with spellbinding panoramas which few other locations can match.

For a relaxed day out and about in a town, visitors will want to take a tour of Granville Island. Here they will be able to shop for everything from textiles to fresh farm produce to one-of-a-kind works of art. To refresh themselves they will find many top notch cafes and restaurants serving a wide range of repasts and drinks. However, one of the most attractive things about this part of Vancouver is its rich culture.

If not by browsing through exhibitions in the art galleries, by attending theatrical performances, or by witnessing one of the many street shows, visitors can take a piece of this culture for themselves. Also of interest to those seeking R&R in a metropolitan environment will be Stanley Park and the West End. Here they will find a string of tiny outlets alongside plenteous places in which to grab a bite.

Mt Pleasant South-Main will appeal to the more artsy traveller who will no doubt find its shops intriguing. This area is also home to Queen Elizabeth Park, a beautiful, green space where they can seek quiet repose. The Chinatown in Vancouver (one of the biggest in North America) provides evidence of this city’s cultural diversity. A boat ride along False Creek is a fun experience not to be missed. Getting around the city by bicycle is a good idea as there are well-designed bicycle routes linking the various parts of Vancouver.

Events

Lovers of sports can catch a live game of ice hockey any weekend between October and April at the Rogers Arena. Live musical performances and theatre shows can be caught at South Granville.