Holidays to Vancouver

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains of British Columbia, Vancouver is a cosmopolitan city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern urban life. With its stunning skyline set against verdant forests and towering mountains, Vancouver is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.

Visitors can explore lush rainforests, hike breathtaking mountain trails, enjoy world-class skiing, or simply relax on beautiful beaches. The city's vibrant neighbourhoods offer a diverse culinary scene, rich cultural experiences, and a multitude of attractions, from historic sites to contemporary art galleries.

Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural exploration, Vancouver is an unforgettable holiday destination that truly has something for everyone.

Vancouver, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a vibrant city surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean. There are a plethora of attractions and activities to engage in. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Vancouver:

• Stanley Park: This 400-hectare park is one of Vancouver's most famous attractions. You can explore the many trails on foot or by bike, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, or enjoy the stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains from the park's seawall.
• Granville Island: Once an industrial manufacturing area, Granville Island is now a bustling hub of food, art, and culture. Visit the Public Market to sample a variety of local foods and peruse crafts from local artisans.
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A short drive from downtown Vancouver, this park's main attraction is a 137m long suspension bridge hanging 70m above the Capilano River. The park also offers a treetop walk and a cliffside walk for the more adventurous.
• Grouse Mountain: Just 15 minutes from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers a variety of activities year-round. In the winter, it's a great place for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, hiking and wildlife viewing are popular activities.
• Museum of Anthropology: Located at the University of British Columbia, this museum is renowned for its displays of world arts and cultures, particularly works by First Nations peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
• Vancouver Art Gallery: This is the largest art gallery in western Canada and houses a vast collection of local and international art.
• Gastown: The city's oldest neighbourhood, Gastown is famous for its historic charm, indie art galleries, stylish boutiques, and the famous steam clock.
• Whale Watching: If you visit between April and October, consider a whale watching tour. You might see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife.
• Vancouver Aquarium: Located in Stanley Park, it's a center for marine research, conservation and marine animal rehabilitation.
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: This tranquil garden was the first authentic classical Chinese garden ever built outside of China. Walk through the peaceful landscape and enjoy the intricate architecture.

Vancouver is a city with so much to explore, whether you're into nature, food, culture, or adventure sports. Its diverse offerings make it a destination with something for everyone, so if Vancouver is somewhere you plan to visit dont forget about your travel insurance. There are a range of policies including Multi Trip Travel Insurance which offers up to 62 days of continuous cover per trip, available from Tripinsurer.com.

Vancouver, located on the west coast of Canada, is known for its mild climate compared to much of the rest of the country. However, the weather can be quite variable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Here's what you can generally expect during different seasons:

Spring (March - May): Spring in Vancouver sees an increase in temperature and decrease in rainfall as the season progresses. Temperatures range between 8°C (46°F) and 15°C (59°F). Spring is a great time to visit as the city begins to bloom.

Summer (June - August): Summers are generally warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), although it can occasionally climb higher. This is the best time to take advantage of outdoor activities and is the peak tourist season.

Autumn (September - November): Autumn weather is somewhat unpredictable, with temperatures generally ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). The city is quite beautiful during the fall as the leaves change color, but rain begins to increase during this season, particularly in November.

Winter (December - February): Winters are mild by Canadian standards, with temperatures usually hovering around 0°C (32°F) to 8°C (46°F). Snowfall in the city itself is not heavy and usually doesn't stay long, but nearby mountains receive ample snow, making it a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Rain is more common than snow in the city during winter.

While Vancouver is known for its beautiful outdoor scenery, it also has a reputation for being quite rainy, particularly from late fall to early spring. If you're visiting during these times, it's a good idea to pack a raincoat or umbrella. The summer months are the driest and sunniest, making them a popular time for visitors.

• Seafood: Being a coastal city, Vancouver offers a plethora of fresh seafood. Visit Fisherman's Wharf for a diverse array of seafood stands and restaurants. You can find everything from salmon, halibut, and prawns to more local fare like geoduck and spot prawns.
• Farm-to-table dining: Vancouver is at the forefront of the sustainable dining trend, with many restaurants sourcing local, organic ingredients directly from nearby farms. Check out restaurants like Forage and Farmer's Apprentice.
• Poutine: No trip to Canada would be complete without trying poutine, a dish of French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It originated in Quebec but is loved throughout Canada, including in Vancouver.
• Craft Beer: Vancouver has a vibrant craft beer scene with numerous breweries and pubs throughout the city. Visit neighborhoods like Brewery Creek (Mount Pleasant) and East Van, often referred to as "Yeast Van," for a sampling of the best local brews.
• Sushi and Ramen: Due to a sizable Japanese community, Vancouver boasts exceptional sushi and ramen places. Look for sushi restaurants using local, wild-caught fish, and be sure to try a bowl of steaming ramen.
• Food Trucks: Vancouver has a thriving food truck scene that offers diverse options such as Japadog (a unique blend of Japanese and hot dog cuisine), Tacofino for tacos, or Vij’s Railway Express for Indian cuisine.
• Coffee Culture: Vancouver has a strong coffee culture with numerous local roasters and trendy coffee shops. Some local favorites are Revolver, Milano Coffee, and 49th Parallel.
• Dim Sum: In Vancouver's Chinatown and throughout the city, you'll find some of the best dim sum restaurants outside of Asia. Popular places include Sun Sui Wah and Kirin.
• Indigenous Cuisine: For a unique experience, try some Indigenous Canadian cuisine. Salmon n' Bannock is a popular spot serving traditional dishes.
• Vancouver's Night Market: Try the Richmond Night Market, typically open from May to October, where you can taste a wide variety of Asian foods, sweets, and specialty drinks.
• West Coast Cuisine: To experience the city's unique culinary identity, try West Coast Cuisine - a style that incorporates Pacific Northwest ingredients and Asian influences. Restaurants like Blue Water Cafe and Hawksworth are excellent choices.

Remember to always check the current operation hours and or other local conditions. Enjoy your gastronomic journey in Vancouver!

• Luxury Hotels: If you're looking for a high-end experience, there are many luxury hotels in downtown Vancouver. Notable ones include the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and the Shangri-La Hotel. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, views, and service.
• Boutique Hotels: Vancouver has a good selection of boutique hotels offering a more personalized and unique experience. The Loden Hotel and The Burrard are examples that offer great locations and unique, stylish decor.
• Budget Hotels and Hostels: Budget-conscious travelers can choose from a number of budget hotels and hostels. The HI Vancouver Hostel has several locations around the city and offers clean and affordable dormitory-style rooms. Budget hotels like the Moda Hotel offer private rooms at more affordable rates.
• Bed and Breakfasts: For a more homey stay, you can book a bed and breakfast. These are often located in residential neighborhoods, providing a quieter environment. Barclay House Bed and Breakfast and West End Guest House are good examples.
• Vacation Rentals/Apartments: Websites like Airbnb or VRBO offer vacation rentals in Vancouver, ranging from small apartments to entire houses. These can be a good option if you're traveling with a family or group, or if you want more of a local living experience.
• Serviced Apartments: If you're planning a longer stay, you might consider a serviced apartment, which offers hotel-like services such as cleaning and reception but with the added benefit of kitchen facilities. Companies like LEVEL offer stylish serviced apartments in the city.
• Eco-Friendly Hotels: Vancouver is known for its commitment to sustainability, and this extends to its accommodation options. The Listel Hotel is known for its commitment to environmental responsibility, as is the Fairmont Waterfront.
• Resort Hotels: If you're willing to stay outside of downtown Vancouver, consider the resort hotels in areas like North Vancouver and beyond. The Grouse Mountain Lodge or Capilano Suspension Bridge Resort offer a more nature-oriented experience.