Vancouver – Extraordinary by Nature

On the west coast of Canada between the rugged Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver lies in the estuary delta of the Fraser River and on the border with the United States. It is a city of diversity. More than 2.4 million people live in Greater Vancouver, about half of all British Columbians. The city itself has about half a million residents from a wide variety of countries, as well as First Nations people. 
By Helen Cleary

With a landscape of soaring peaks, sun-drenched beaches and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, it is no surprise that Vancouver, the birthplace of Greenpeace, is consistently voted one of the world‘s most liveable cities. In just one day, you can soar over rainforest on the Capilano Suspension Bridge, take a breath-taking simulated flight with Fly Over Canada and cruise the waters around the city centre with Sea Vancouver. Take the sea plane for spectacular views of the city‘s landmarks, including the ancient forests in Stanley Park, English Bay, historic Lions Gate Bridge and the North Shore mountains. Other attractions include whale-watching boat trips, sea-to-sky gondola rides to the top of Grouse Mountain, the grizzly bears at the Endangered Species Refuge, and the bustling Public Market on Granville Island.

Gastown - the city‘s oldest neighbourhood is a National Historic Site with the famous steam clock and many heritage buildings. Vancouver‘s colourful Chinatown boasts a vibrant culture and is rich in history and architecture. 

Raccoons, beavers and squirrels await in Stanley Park, the 400-acre emerald heart of the city, with evergreen forests, rose gardens, totem poles and beaches. Vancouver Aquarium is home to more than 50,000 animals.
Culturally, the city offers dazzling exhibitions, live performances, and non-stop nightlife. Learn about life and seafaring on Canada’s west coast through the paintings in the Art Gallery of Vancouver, in the Maritime Museum and in the Museum of Vancouver. The history, art, languages, cuisine, and traditions of the First Nations can be explored at the Museum of Anthropology.

Thanks to the mild climate in the winter Olympic city, you can go sailing in the morning, take an afternoon bike ride on the Sea Wall, ski or snowboard on the mountains at dusk, and dance the night away after dinner.