From the bustling city itself to winter sports and even whale watching, Vancouver has a plethora of exciting activities to experience – all delivered with that customary all year round Canadian welcome!
A fantastic example of a big city in touch with its natural roots, Vancouver is a city of incredible contrast that is ideal for people who love both the great outdoors and the indoor cosiness you’d expect in a cooler climate. Comprising just over 600,000 people in the city itself, Vancouver is one of Canada’s most diverse cities where speakers of English and French mix with ease. Set amongst the lush, green natural splendour of Western Canada, Vancouver is a paradise for those that enjoy the outside lifestyle. Winter sports are always on the agenda in this city, with popular ski areas like Cypress Mountain to the west and Grouse Mountain located as little as fifteen minutes from the city itself. However, many winter sports enthusiasts prefer the Winter Olympics experience of Whistler Blackcomb – situated just two hours from Vancouver and offering some of the best snow in the world. Being outside though doesn’t always mean skiing. With the breath taking Canadian Rockies themselves in touching distance, high point adventure is never far away. Perhaps one of the most famous high walks in the world, the Capilano Suspension Bridge north of the city offers 140m metres of awe inspiring fir-lined views 70m above the ice cold waters of the Capilano River – a wonderful way to experience the Canadian landscape on foot. Height lovers needn’t feel left out in the city, however. Standing over 130m tall, the Vancouver Lookout at the Harbour Centre offers incredible views of its very own. Indeed, the harbour itself is a great source of interest for anyone interested in nature thanks to the Vancouver Aquarium. For an even wilder look at the sea, why not join one of the ocean catamaran cruises to view the area’s stunning whale population in even closer detail. Truly a once in a lifetime experience! Whilst it’s hard to ignore the call of the Canadian outdoors, Vancouver is also home to many fine museums and arts institutions. Ranging from the internationally acclaimed Vancouver Art Gallery to the superbly interactive exhibits of the city’s famous Science World museum or even the H. R. Macmillan Space Centre, there’s sure to be something to please all the family.
