Vancouver, British Columbia is a beautiful seaside metropolis nestled between ocean views and mountain backdrops. Rivaling Seattle in size, and only four hours from that popular American tourist destination, Vancouver is well worth the t...
Vancouver, British Columbia is a beautiful seaside metropolis nestled between ocean views and mountain backdrops. Rivaling Seattle in size, and only four hours from that popular American tourist destination, Vancouver is well worth the trip north.
It features an incredible cultural diversity that has distinguished the city since its inception, beautiful parks and beaches, and a large variety of interesting destinations inside city limits that will impress any visitor.
If anyone asks why Vancouver . . . why not?
1. Urban landscape! Boundless nature!
Vancouver is a huge city, but don’t be fooled, nature-lovers: there is plenty of greenery and more than a few natural sites to explore. Consider any number of beaches for lazing in the sun or a game of frisbee or beach volleyball.
Some of the more popular destinations include Kitsilano or “Kits” Beach, English Bay, or Wreck Beach for those who like to trot around in the nude. You might also love the city’s beautifully kept Nitobe Japanese Garden, near the UBC campus, or Lynn Canyon and Stanley Parks.
2. Shopping and history galore
Take the trip to Granville Island and experience a quaint little marketplace in a former industrial area. Adopted by those with an interest in local goods, the Granville market has a plethora of products and goods, specifically food and handcrafts, that can be purchased and devoured either inside the market or at the nearby oceanside benches.
Another area of the city famous for its shopping and atmosphere is Gastown. The oldest commercial district in Vancouver, this part of the city is known for its Victorian architecture. Even if you don’t feel like stopping to buy anything, just walking through is a beautiful, historical experience.
3. I spy a cultural center
Vancouver is known for its diversity. Consider stopping at a few of its famous museums to take in local exhibits and art/artifacts of international interest alike. The Museum of Anthropology is a common stop for people interested in world culture. Inside are fascinating artifacts from various First Nation tribes, and other items that relate more to global natural history.
The Vancouver Art Gallery is another popular destination for tourists and locals. Really, it would appeal to any appreciator of beautiful art.
Where to Stay
There are a number of beautiful hotels you may call home upon arrival in Vancouver. For interesting scenery and proximity to the Granville Island market, consider the Granville Island Hotel, a 3-star get-up with relatively inexpensive rooms for the prime location, at around $150 a room.
Another option, near the airport, is the Sandman Hotel, with great service and beautiful rooms offered at comfortable prices. L’Hermitage Vancouver is centrally located, relatively inexpensive, and offers an extended-stay option, for those looking to linger in this beautiful city for a while.
