Frequently ranked as one of the “best cities to live in”, Vancouver, in Canada’s most westerly metropolis is nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The first inhabitants of Vancouver were Coast Salish indigenous peoples who have lived in the area for at least 6000 years. Sandwiched between the Strait of Georgia and the soaring Coast Mountains, the city’s oceanside location, offers travellers with plenty of green space offers outstanding opportunities for outdoor adventure and many recreation opportunities.
Warmed by Pacific Ocean currents and protected by a range of mountains, as far as the weather in Vancouver is concerned, travel enthusiasts claim that there’s only one word to describe it- unpredictable. The weather can be completely different depending on what part of the region you are in. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Vancouver enjoys mild temperatures year-round. The climate is always hospitable. However, July and October are considered to be the most recommended months to travel to Vancouver as you will most likely have excellent weather. The rainy season often starts in the middle of October. Winters are wet, but it rarely snows.
As far as accessing Vancouver is concerned, tourists can easily access the city via air. Its international airport is located immediately south of the city and also happens to be the second busiest airport in Canada. Reaching Vancouver by road is another option which travellers have. For the ones driving from East, the main Vancouver is well served by bus service. There are also a number of different bus lines providing service to Vancouver. One can opt for them as well. Taking the train to Vancouver is unlikely to be the cheapest option, but it is a scenic one. Vancouver also has the Port Metro Vancouver for its cruise ships. So, there’s no dearth of options to access Vancouver.
A variety of attractions and points of interest are in Vancouver for the visitor to choose from:
• Capilano Suspension Bridge: A Vancouver landmark, this bridge has thrilled visitors since 1889. Treetops Adventure, another feature takes guests 100 feet into the mid-story of a coastal rainforest on seven suspension bridges attached to old-growth trees.
• Vancouver Aquarium: Home to over 70,000 fascinating creatures including majestic beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, curious sea otters among others, Vancouver Aquarium opened in 1956. Today, it has grown into a thriving 90,000 square-foot facility.
• Vancouver Lookout: Located at Harbour Centre, Vancouver Lookout offers a spectacular 360° view of the city of Vancouver, sometimes, even offering a glimpse of the distant, majestic hills.
• Vancouver Art Gallery: Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver; the Art Gallery showcases four floors of inspirational art pleasures. Some of the 2014 highlights include Emily Carr, Douglas Coupland, Lawren Harris on display.
• Grouse Mountain: One of Vancouver’s most visited attraction receiving over 1.2 million visitors each year, Grouse Mountain was named so by a visiting hiking party in 1894, after they encountered a blue grouse bird on the alpine slopes. It is located 15-minutes from downtown Vancouver and has something or the other to offer for everyone.
For the ones looking forward to plan a pleasant holiday, Vancouver is your destination!
