Vancouver is on the west coast of Canada. It has both ocean and mountain views, making it unique among top vacation destinations in North America. Although you will be able to see snow in most months of the year, the temperature in Vancouver is actually moderate year round, due to the ocean influence. Come and enjoy the city, you will not be disappointed.
Many visitors take advantage of Vancouver's beautiful seaside, wide-open spaces and mountain backdrop. Named after Royal Navy captain, George Vancouver, the history of this city, from the cobblestone late-Victorian Gastown, exotic Chinatown and the sleek modern buildings of downtown, is quite evident. The ocean and mountains create a dramatic contrast with downtown's shiny towers of commerce.
The two official languages of Canada are English and French; however, English is the predominant language in British Columbia. Over the years, many Asians have migrated to Vancouver, mostly from Hong Kong, but other cultures are represented as well. More than 30 percent of Vancouver's households speak Cantonese or Mandarin making the Chinese the dominant minority ethnic group.
Vancouver's diversity offers families an endless supply of things to see and do no matter what time of the year or what budget. Whether you choose to stay within the city limits or to venture along the coast and mountains there are plenty of activities to suit everyone.
Downtown Vancouver has an exciting selection of high-end retails stores, chic and unusual shops and excellent restaurants along side Canada's largest city park. Beautiful Stanley Park, which in the mid-1800's was a military reserve used to guard the harbor, offers hundreds of acres of lush forest and crystal clear lakes that create the perfect setting for a variety of entertainment and relaxation for visitors. The Lions Gate Bridge offers a panoramic view of Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains. Within the park are a miniature railway, Water Park, beaches, pool, kid's farmyard and the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre.
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Not far from downtown is Chinatown. Strolling block after block through Chinatown's maze of brilliantly colored markets, restaurants and shops you'll discover a fascinating array of exotic foods, clothing, art and entertainment. Be sure to check out the world's thinnest office building, the Sam Kee Building, on the corner of Pender and Carrall streets. Built in 1913 and currently occupied, the building is only six feet wide!
The quaint and oldest neighborhood of Vancouver, Gastown, was named after a talkative Yorkshire-born saloon proprietor, John Deighton, nicknamed Gassy Jack. Supposedly Gassy Jack told the local mill workers that could drink all the whisky they wanted as long as they helped him build his saloon. The saloon was built within 24 hours albeit how structurally sound is another story. Gastown's cobblestone streets and 1800's architecture creates a historical and interesting background for the unique shops and galleries.
The sea, mountains and the beautiful cosmopolitan city of Vancouver make a wonderful combination that will provide so much enjoyment for the entire family. For those who love winter sports, nearby Grouse Mountain is perfect for skiing, snowboarding or ice-skating. If you prefer warmer weather the spring and summer months are ideal for water sports and boating. No matter what time of year you choose to visit the city of Vancouver and the surrounding areas there will be an endless supply of fun and activities!
Hot Rate Hotels
Vancouver, Canada - Howard Johnson Hotel Downtown from $72 per night
Overview | Rates | Map In the heart of the Downtown Entertainment District Our hotel is the newest boutique hotel in Vancouver We offer 110 beautifully appointed guest rooms Book it now!
North Vancouver, Canada - Comfort Inn & Suites North Vancouver from $81 per night
Overview | Rates | Map The Canyon Court is nestled at the foot of some of the most spectacular mountain scenery. From a spectacular Front Lobby that opens onto a charming inner Book it now!
Vancouver, Canada - Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver from $177 per night
Overview | Rates | Map An independent luxury hotel renowned for its personalized service and intimate scale in downtown Vancouver's business and cultural district. Book it now!
Vancouver, Canada - Cassandra Hotel from $75 per night
Overview | Rates | Map Cassandra Hotel offers modern and tranquil accommodation in the center of Vancouver on famous Kingsway. Only 5 minutes away by vehicle from Metrotown - Book it now!
Vancouver, Canada - Best Western Sands from $114 per night
Overview | Rates | Map Conveniently located a half block from the beach at beautiful English Bay the Best Western Sands is Vancouver's most sought after location. Minutes from Book it now!
Last Minute Deals
Vancouver, Canada: Old-Growth Forest by Day, Martinis by Night
Come enjoy this cosmopolitan city poised on the edge of wilderness. Vancouver's dramatic profile is Mother Nature's own-- towering mountains soar above this seaside city. Book it now!
