Carolyn B. Heller - Moon Vancouver: Including Victoria, Vancouver Island & Whistler

CAROLYN B. HELLER

Vancouver cuts a dramatic urban figure. Set on Pacific coastal inlets with forested mountains beyond, its frequently named one of the worlds most livable cities. When you stroll along the waterfront, or through rainforest parks where evergreens reach the sky, its easy to see why. Steel-and-glass towers grow like cedars on the downtown peninsula, but in green Vancouver, youre never far from a beach, a mountain, or a public park.

When the sun shines (and even when it doesnt), Vancouverites are outdoors, running or cycling on the seaside paths, kayaking local waters, or sipping a pour-over coffee or local craft beer in a sidewalk caf. And unlike in many North American cities, where the city center empties out when the office workers go home, many Vancouver residents live and work downtown, keeping the streets active from early morning into the night.

Home to roughly two million people, Vancouver looks to the Pacific Rim. More than 40 percent of the metro areas population is of Asian descent, influencing everything from art and urban design to food. Vancouver boasts the best Chinese cuisine outside China.

The aboriginal people whove lived on this continent for thousands of years have also made their mark on the city. Vancouver has several museums, galleries, and other attractions where you can explore First Nations culture. An extensive collection of native art at the airport welcomes visitors to the region.

Vancouver is a convenient starting point for trips along the British Columbia coast, north to the mountain resort of Whistler or across the Strait of Georgia to B.C.s capital city of Victoria. Theres much to explore in this part of the world, and it all starts here.

Lions Gate Bridge, Vancouver ()

ferry traveling between Vancouver and Victoria ()

view from the Vancouver Lookout ()

Olympic rings in Whistler ()

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve ()

Kitsilano Beach ()

Stanley Park: The rainforest meets the city in this 1,000-acre parkland, which is crisscrossed with walking trails (

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: This Chinatown oasis was the first authentic Ming Dynasty garden built outside of China ().

Granville Island Public Market: Nibble away the day on charcuterie, cheeses, pastries, fudge, and other treats ().

Museum of Anthropology: This striking modern museum illuminates the culture of British Columbias aboriginal peoples and traditional cultures from around the world ().

Chinese Food: More than half the population is of Asian descent in Richmond, where you can dig into some of the best Chinese food in North America ().

Craft Breweries: A growing number of craft breweries and micro-distilleries welcome visitors for sampling and sipping ().

Grouse Mountain: Ride the tram up this North Shore peak for mountaintop hiking trails, a wildlife refuge, and spectacular views ().

Outdoor Adventures: You dont have to venture far from the city center to experience the rainforest, the mountains, or the sea, whether on a hiking trail, a ski run, or a paddling route ().

Aboriginal Culture: Stay in Canadas first aboriginal arts hotel, sample traditional foods at a First Nations bistro, paddle a dugout canoe, and shop for works by contemporary native artists ().

Day Trip to Victoria: Ferry across the Strait of Georgia for a day trip to visit world-class Butchart Gardens, take afternoon tea at the grand Fairmont Empress Hotel, or go whale-watching ().

THE BEST OF VANCOUVER

In just a few days, you can experience the best of Vancouver, combining outdoor activities, cultural explorations, and time for strolling, snacking, and sipping. Vancouvers public transit system makes it easy to get around without a car; this itinerary includes tips for the most convenient transit options.