Exploring Vancouver

Western Canada’s largest city—the third largest in the country—is tucked away down in the southwest of British Columbia, near the US border, between the mountains and sea. Easy on the eye and featuring a cool downtown area and historic neighbourhoods, it is certainly fun to explore and visit at any time of the year owing to its mild Pacific coastal climate.

Vancouver has a plethora of hotels and though they are more expensive than other sizeable provincial cities in Canada, great rates can be had. You can stay in any of the central parts, such as the CBD or Gastown, and be an easy train ride away from main sights. There are some great museums and galleries, while the huge Stanley Park is a world class city park with great options for recreation.

Sights nearby

There’s not a vast amount to see in Vancouver (‘Van’ for short), which makes it easy to decide where to go, and the town is roughly divided into a trio of areas: Westside, Eastside and the CBD. There are good discounted hotels in all areas within walking distance of the city sights.

Chinatown
Many tourists head to Vancouver’s version of the China street scene, located off to the east of the city centre. It covers several streets, including Main and Pender, and features typical quaint noodle joints, medicine shops and other recognisable slices of the Orient. There are several worthy attractions here, with the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden making most visitors’ shortlist, a beautiful piece of tranquillity amid the modernity and bustle of midtown Vancouver. As you’d expect, Chinatown is especially busy during Chinese New Year when hotels here books up.

Gastown
This historic area—originally called Granville—adjoins Chinatown and is one of the oldest parts of the city. Though touristy, it is a delight to stroll day and night, with its grand buildings and cobbled alleys featuring trendy coffee shops, boutiques and bars. The Gastown ‘Steam’ Clock and Gassy Jack statue are heavily touted landmarks here. The Victorian Hotel is a good option for visiting this area and regularly has good deals on.

Stanley Park and Aquarium
This vast city park adjoins the West End and is the place to head for space and a bit of quiet. It is strewn with miles and miles of walking trails, including a long loop around the water’s edge, and also plays host to a number of worthwhile sights. The Vancouver Aquarium is the top attraction here, located off to the east near the harbour. Very well put together and maintained, it is a big hit with kids and features dolphins and whales.

Eating and drinking and shopping nearby

There are well demarcated places tourists head to for entertainment and shopping, with the Gastown area being best all-round. Here are located high street stores, boutiques, cafés, restaurants and some cool bars. Robson Street in downtown is also good, and you’ll find lots to do in the West End and out at Kitsilano. Larger city hotels also usually have good eating, such as the L'Hermitage Hotel. Yaletown is a good bet for some shopping.

Public transport

Vancouver is squeezed into a peninsula and though spread out at the suburbs; the interesting bits are easily got to with public transport and even on foot. The elevated train system (SkyTrain), ferries (SeaBus) and buses are linked via the TransLink card system and taxis run 24 hours a day. Those looking to be near to the city centre, Gastown and waterfront for ferry trips, should consider the Fairmont Waterfront hotel.