Better Homes and Gardens (Australia)
Absolutely amazing Vancouver
If you haven’t been to British Columbia, you have a dream trip ahead!
Explore the delights of Canada
When we travel we plan every trip to surprise, delight and excite us – everywhere we visit and with everything we do. And that says it all for British Columbia. It delivers that and more in spades. If you haven’t been, make it a must. Or, is it time you went again anyway?
FIRST STOP, VANCOUVER
What a city! And it’s easy to get there. Fly, cruise or drive, it shares its exquisite scenery with the ocean, mountains and rainforest – all part of its busy city life. Stay a good few days because nature gives you the best time, along with a fast urban pace. There is much to love in Vancouver.
NOW, 5 OF THE MUSTS
1
Downtown Vancouver. Robson Street is a must-stroll. Famous for great shopping, it tantalises too, as amazing eating places beckon at every step. Begin at the east end’s spectacular BC Place Stadium and walk west to the city’s magnificent 400-hectare Stanley Park, where you can ride, walk, swim, eat or just enjoy. Gastown, Vancouver’s historic neighbourhood – trendy, arty and stylish, with the city’s most exquisite old buildings – is perfect for walking, before ending the day at a schmick cocktail bar. Chinatown, Yaletown and Coal Harbour round out the city’s beating heart.
Visit tourismvancouver.com.
2
The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa Vancouver is the must-stay in the city centre, just around the corner from Robson St and 10 minutes’ walk from Canada Place and the harbour. The decor is traditional, cosy and classic, but coupled with
all modern amenities. The rooms are charming, calm and elegant. The specialty spa is there to indulge you. But the Bacchus Restaurant, with comfortable club-like decor, is where you just want to sit, wine and dine. Or even enjoy afternoon tea. Whether it’s for one night or more, you’ll want to throw yourself into one of the huge armchairs and just stay and stay. Visit wedgewoodhotel.com.
3
Flyover Canada, located in Canada Place, is a virtual flight experience where you’ll see, smell and feel your journey over mountains, across rivers, through wilderness, into valleys and above exciting cities as you travel 6000km from coast to coast. It’s a must-fly. Don’t miss this one! Visit flyovercanada.com.
4
Granville Island Public Market is a fave place for foodies and locals. In fact it’s the second most-visited place in Canada after Niagara Falls. A must-do is the two-hour guided Foodie Tour. Think award-winning charcuterie, local cheeses and wines, delicious doughnuts, artisan breads and more. Bustling and delicious! Visit foodietours.ca.
5
Grouse Mountain is Vancouver’s year-round playground. Just across the harbour, the eight-minute thrilling Skyride to the peak is a must-take to amazing activities. In summer, meet grizzlies in the wildlife park, go hiking, trekking, ziplining, chairlift riding and paragliding in gorgeous alpine country. Or go to a show then dine with a huge view across the city. In winter, go skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, and sleigh riding. Then warm up in the restaurant with mulled wine before heading back to town. Visit grousemountain.com.