Been to Vancouver yet? If not it should definitely be on your bucket list! Why? Read on and find out.
Vancouver Mountains
Vancouver is well known around the world for its location near to spectacular mountains and the pacific ocean. It is one of the only cities in the world where it is possible to ski, sail and golf all in the same day. However, the mountains are a particularly big draw for many people.
Rising dramatically above the city to the North, they are a sight to behold, and can be seen from most places in the city. They are an attraction all year round, with hiking in the warmer months and skiing in the colder months.
Grouse Mountain is a particularly popular site to visit, with shows, a bear enclosure, hiking in summer and skiing in winter. It also provides amazing views over the whole city, but especially the downtown area. Here you can enjoy a refreshing (or warming) drink while looking out over the expansive city of Vancouver.
About a 2 hour drive from Vancouver is the ski resort of Whistler. Whistler provides a breathtaking mountainous landscape, with many different activities. There is hiking, mountain biking and beautiful views in the summer, and snow sports in the winter. This resort also offers fantastic shopping and dining opportunities.
From wildlife spotting, to skiing, to hiking, the mountains around Vancouver are a must for anyone visiting the Vancouver area.
Hiking
Although I did speak about hiking in the previous section, I think it deserves its own mention. Hiking can be a brilliant way of getting rid of stress, which many of us need in our daily lives. The exercise helps release endorphins in the brain, making you happier and the fresh air rejuvenates you.
While hiking anywhere in the world will have a beneficial effect on you, hiking in the mountains around Vancouver is a whole experience in itself. With the breathtaking views and the crisp and fresh air, it is an experience that not only will you never forget, but also will benefit your health in the long run.
Vancouver Wildlife
Another fantastic draw for the Vancouver area is the fantastic array of wildlife. From bears to eagles to whales, this area is a wildlife lover’s paradise. While in urban areas it may be difficult to get a sense of the extensive wildlife population, taking a trip to the mountains, or out on a boat will make it clear to you.
The bear sanctuary up Grouse Mountain, and the many whale watching tours that can be taken from Richmond provide visitors with unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Shopping
Now, I have spoken an awful lot about the environment and the wildlife in Vancouver. I know that this is not everyone’s cup of tea, so I am here to assure you that there is something for everyone in Vancouver.
The shopping in the actual city is a wonderful experience. From designer malls to independent shops, the variety of items on offer will stun even the most dedicated shopper.
The Park Royal Mall in North Vancouver, just the other side of the Lions Gate Bridge from Downtown is a personal favourite of mine. With many different shops set out in a quaint street layout, this is a truly memorable shopping experience.
Film sets
Vancouver is famous for the number of movies and TV shows that call it home. It is difficult to go anywhere (in Downtown especially) that hasn’t been used in a film set for some kind of media.
Visit the sites of your favourite films or shows, or if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of a film shoot.
Vancouver is the ideal destination for film fanatics or just people who enjoy watching films and TV shows, who just want to geek out a little bit.
History
While I have spoken about an awful lot of interesting, but sometimes superficial attractions in the area, it would be wrong to miss out the extensive history that this area of the world has to offer.
Many Native Canadian Tribes call this area home. The Squamish and the Lil’ Wat Nations reside just north of Vancouver, with their territories overlapping in Whistler.
In the Vancouver area you can visit historic sites and important spiritual places for the Native Tribes. Here you can learn more about the fascinating cultures that exist alongside our westernised culture that we are used to.
The Native history is extensive and captivating, with myth, legend and fact all blurring together to create wonderful stories and beliefs which are amazing and humbling to learn about.
Vancouver, A Summary
Vancouver is a wonderful place to visit, with a rich culture that just cries out to be learnt about. With its beautiful landscape and its many amenities it is the perfect destination for ridding yourself of stress, and getting immersed in another culture.
