The city of Vancouver is located on a peninsula opposite of Vancouver Island. Surrounded on three sides by water and the majestic Rocky Mountains on the east side, Vancouver is one of the most beautiful and tranquil cities in North America. Originally called Gastown after a talkative prominent citizen, the city was renamed Granville in 1870. In 1886, the city was once again renamed, this time after the British Naval office who first visited this earthly paradise in the 1790's, George Vancouver. Vancouver quickly rose to prominence as a wood processing centre, railroad terminus and a port. Since Vancouver bc Skyline its settlement, Vancouver has enjoyed great prosperity. It is also one of the most popular vacation destinations on the west coast, both in Canada and the United States.

Cruises and Vancouver

The city of Vancouver is a major departure and stopping point for numerous cruise lines. On any given day you can see throngs of vacationers boarding ships that are preparing to embark on a voyage to visit other interesting and beautiful cities. For those who have chosen cruising as their vacation option, it is best to arrive in Vancouver a day or two early in order to explore this wonderful city. Canada Place was built in 1986 to accommodate Vancouver's growing cruise industry. Recently, a third berth has been added at Canada Place to better serve vacationers. A hotel and convention center Killer Whale Show at the Seaquarium in Vancouver bc are also located at Canada Place.

Sightseeing in Vancouver

Vancouver is bursting with numerous sightseeing opportunities and activities. For those who are afraid of heights, beware! The Capilano suspension Bridge and Park is not for the faint hearted. This 450 foot bridge sways above the canyon floor that lies 250 feet below. Vancouver is also home to the world's thinnest office building. This occupied business is only six feet wide and is located in Chinatown. Chinatown is the result of the influx of emigrants who came to Vancouver to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway. The food and shopping in Chinatown are out-of-this-world. The Gastown Steam Clock is another unique point of interest. Every hour the whistle can be heard and it is the only clock directed by steam in the world. Vancouver is also home to many beautiful parks. English Bay in Vancouver bc At 1,000 acres Stanley Park is the largest park in Canada. The Vancouver Aquarium, a petting zoo and public swimming pool are also located at Stanley Park. This is an ideal place to enjoy a picnic or game of Frisbee. Queen Elizabeth Park is the first Canadian park to be devoted entirely to trees. Popular outdoor activities include snowboarding and skiing at Grouse Mountain in the winter and boating during the summertime in the beautiful waters surrounding Vancouver.

So Much to See

Vancouver is home to many wonderful museums. One of the most popular is the BC Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. Here, sport enthusiasts can learn all sorts of interesting facts concerning British Columbia's sports history. This is also an interactive museum. Visitors can test their skill at activities such as climbing, sprinting and roaming. Science World British Columbia is also fun for the whole family. Hands-on exhibits and the IMAX theater will delight children of all ages. For animal and nature lovers the Greater Vancouver Zoological Centre is a must see. Beautiful landscapes and exotic animals are abundant. Granville Island draws the creative element of Vancouver. Local artists have set up their studios here and farmers sell fresh fruit and vegetables. Art lovers will be drawn to the Vancouver Art Gallery. This gallery is a testament to Canada's rich history concerning the arts. The Museum of Anthropology pays tribute to the original Vancouver residents, the indigenous people. Vancouver is a city that is ideal for people watching. Settle down at one of the city's many cafes and enjoy the surrounding sights and sounds.

Time Zone Pacific Standard Time Zone

Getting Around: Visitors travelling by air can fly into Vancouver International Airport. Visitors departing the airport are required to purchase an Airport Improvement Fee ticket that must be presented at the security checkpoint. The fee ranges between $5.00 and $15.00 depending on your destination. Taxis are difficult to find in the downtown area. It is best to utilize public transportation. Other means of transportation are car rentals, ferries, trains and buses.

Weather: Vancouver has mild weather year-round. Spring arrives in February or March but you'll still need a warm jacket in the evenings. Summers are very comfortable and rarely scorching. The fall season is long with temperatures remaining mild till November when the wet season begins. Snow is a rarity except, of course, in the nearby mountains. Your best bet is to wear layers so you're always prepared for changes in weather.

Important Telephone Numbers
Emergency 911
BC Ferries (Vancouver) 604-444-2890
Bus Transit 604-521-0400
BC Rail 604-984-5246
Weather Report 604-664-9010
Canada Customs 604-666-0545