Often ranked among the world’s most ideal metropolitan areas to live in. Crowned by the Coast Mountains and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and supported by environmentally friendly city management, this Canadian city inspires gratitude for being born here.
By VALENTINO LUIS
With the compelling motto, “By Sea, Land, and Air We Prosper,” Vancouver is a comfortable home for 2 million residents of diverse ethnic backgrounds. The city is still relatively young, 129 years old, four centuries younger than Jakarta, but its strides in economic and social progress cannot be underestimated. It is considered one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions. Advances in science and the intellectual horizons of its citizens also contribute to why this city, situated at an elevation of less than 3 meters above sea level, is considered one of the world’s most open and tolerant cities. It’s no wonder, then, that more than five of its universities are among the top schools for young people from all over the world.
Vancouver is named after the British captain, George Vancouver, who is considered the European pioneer of the Burrard Peninsula. Prehistoric life in this region remains sparse; perhaps thousands of years ago, there was more ice here.
In the tourism world, the hometown of Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds is gaining attention for its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. As a young city, Vancouver lacks an “Old Town,” palaces, or castles dating from the Early Middle Ages to the Middle Ages, as European cities do. The absence of historical traces of early Spanish or Portuguese colonization also protects Vancouver (and Canada in general) from the influence of Latin American cultures, such as those found in Central and South America. Although British, French, and Chinese influences are significant in Canada, the process of ethnic integration has resulted in Vancouverites emerging as a new generation, more confidently calling themselves “Vancouverites” (a nickname for Vancouverites).
Vancouver is also Canada’s leading cosmopolitan city, a melting pot of diverse cultures, cuisines, and bohemian sophistication. This city is charming to visit year-round, although the peak visitor numbers occur during winter. The offer of mountain-snow-related activities has added to Vancouver’s reputation as the heart of the world’s premier ski resorts.
IMPRESSIVE DOWNTOWN
Vancouver is vast and divided into several areas. Ideally, you should categorize your visit based on what you want to experience, such as downtown, shopping, or the mountains. For example, start in the city center, where Vancouver’s pulse is centered. Name it Downtown. Since walking is more enjoyable, wear comfortable shoes.
Start your day in the morning with breakfast at your accommodation. If your accommodation is outside the central area, take the bus or Skytrain and get off at Granville Station or Burrad Station. These stations are near Robson Street. However, if you want to save time or have already had breakfast, head straight to your first destination, Christ Church Cathedral, located between the two stations. This Anglican church adds a distinctive flair with its wooden furnishings flanked by concrete and glass office buildings.
After visiting the church, take the left and take the bus on Georgia Street to Stanley Park. This is a vast, lush city park. It’s ranked among the world’s best urban parks. Because of its size, rent a bike to explore it. You can follow the designated trails. There are two lakes, Lost Lagoon and Beaver Lake, but don’t forget to explore the north shore, where the white-and-red lighthouse stands. If you’re still up for cycling, explore the south shore, from English Bay to False Creek. The views are also stunning. For this bike trip, set aside half a day, bring food, and if you have a beach towel, you can use it as a base for a nap under the shade of the trees, just like other city dwellers.
In the late afternoon, heading north of the harbor is a great option. Simply call it Canada Place – Waterfront. You can walk or take the bus at Seymour Street. Get off at the Harbour Centre Complex. Lunch here is also a great way to enjoy the ocean. But perhaps another exciting activity, like climbing the Vancouver Lookout, will provide a truly sensational experience. The sunsets are especially beautiful from up high, offering a 360-degree view of the city. If the weather is clear, you can even see the tip of the Olympic Peninsula in Seattle, USA.
Just because the sun has set and the sky has darkened doesn’t mean the exploration is over.Downtown. There’s one more place worth visiting: Chinatown, located to the east. This is the largest Chinese commercial complex in Canada, and by the standards of the American continent, it’s said to be as bustling as San Francisco, USA. Try your luck finding an Asian restaurant or try Vancouver-style fried rice. Chinatown is a great place to find affordable dinners. The Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden and the Chinese Cultural Centre offer a unique perspective on the preservation of the culture of the Chinese diaspora.
HIKE UP HIGHER!
Downtown is over, now it’s time to explore the slopes and mountains. Of course, no visit to Vancouver is complete without exploring its protected nature. After all, skiing is a tourist trademark of British Columbia’s largest city.
There are two very easily accessible spots with complete infrastructure: Cypress Mountain and Whistler. For those who don’t want to be too far from the city center, choose Cypress Mountain. The bus ride from Downtown takes less than 25 minutes. Besides buses, you can also take the SeaBus Ferry, which departs daily. There are three ski areas on the North Shore; choose the one you prefer.
Cypres Mountain also has a must-see attraction. You’ll regret it if you don’t stop by: The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain Skyride. The Capilano Suspension Bridge in particular will make anyone who sees your photo crossing this mystical bridge jealous! The bridge hangs over a steep, misty cliff, flanked by dense, dense forest. It’s even more terrifying to cross in the morning, as if crossing a bridge from a magical movie. Plus, the trees in the forest near the bridge are said to be over 1,300 years old!
Grouse Mountain, at 1,100 meters above sea level, can be reached by cable car. Besides the views, this location is safe for sliding even in summer (thanks to the snow-making equipment), and it allows you to get up close and personal with the protected and preserved forest fauna.
Whistler is a different story. This is a suburb, or small town on the outskirts of Vancouver. Not just skiing, the hills are perfect for hiking enthusiasts. So, prepare to be captivated by blue lakes, waterfalls, and photogenic cliffs. Join a hiking group and enjoy the natural beauty. Just adjust your pace to your physical abilities, as there are various climbing levels available.
In fact, in downtown Vancouver, there’s a fairly high hill often used as a vantage point for views of the city: Little Mountain of Queen Elizabeth Park. Come here if you want a different perspective.
