Map pin placed on Vancouver, Canada on map, close-up

Explore the beauty of Vancouver, Canada now!

16th January 2016 No comments Article

Vancouver, located in British Columbia State, far western end of Canada is the ideal winter holiday. Don’t get me wrong, it’s equally awesome to visit during summer with the temperature hovering in the range of mid 20s Degree Celsius.

Picture took in Gastown, downtown Vancouver, located near to the cruise center where people often board the cruise to Alaska.

Vancouver is famous for the below must see attractions and it’s often the port of departure for your Alaska cruise. Of course, Seattle which is located further down South of United States is another alternative.

My humble suggestion if you are flying from the Far East is to get into Vancouver, and explore the famous Canadian Rockies and winter village of Whistler followed by around 10 Days of Cruise along the Alaskan Inner Passage up to Anchorage. From there, take a flight back to Far East.

Here’s what you need to cover within the short limited time you may have in Vancouver.

#1: Capilano Suspension Bridge

Located in the North Vancouver, the bridge has been around since 1889, making it the oldest tourist attraction in this city. If you have not taken a picture at one of the world longest foot suspension bridges, you would have missed out the excitement of one gets when crossing the bridge that hangs 230 feet above the rushing Capilano River.

#2: UBC Botanical Garden

Imagine walking on suspended walkways high above the ground, exploring the beautiful Asian Garden with the Japanese Garden being voted as one of the top 5 must visit in the world. No matter how you take, the pictures with the flowers and greenery as backdrop are perfect memories and reflection of the wonderful temperate climate that allows these flowers to blossom even during winter. Best time to visit is certainly in Spring (April- June).

#3: Granville Island Public Market

Often people say, the best way to see a city is to visit their market place. And what better place could one discovers treasure and savor delicious fresh produce in Vancouver than paying a visit to Granville Island Public Market. This was on my to do list when I was there and never regret a single bit. In short, the public market is a jewel with homemade products, fresh seafood catch of the day and busker activities making it a fun filled day out there! Simply so much to see and do, you need to come down and experience it yourself! Recommended for a half day visit.

#4: Grouse Mountain

Do you know the Skyride that takes one from the mid- base to the top of the mountain is North America’s largest aerial tramway? This is the ideal way to see Vancouver with the Skyride making its 2km climb to the peak of Grouse Mountain every 15 minutes. During winter, no doubt the main activity will be skiing, snow boarding etc. However, the summer month also witness the mountain buzzing with activity for all ages. The lumberjack shows, hiking, falconry demonstrations and a chance to visit the grizzly bears are things you should not miss! If you are feeling a little more adventurous, try zip-lining and tandem paragliding.

#5: Whistler

There are buses conveniently depart from Vancouver downtown or airport to the famous winter Village of Whistler, a short 2 hours scenic drive and allowing you to use free wifi availability in the bus. Home to the Winter Olympics in Year 2010, there is definitely no shortage of snowfalls in the area. With plenty of winter activities to do, you should be here during winter! Fret not if you visit during summer period as well, countless of adventure such as rafting, bungee jumping, cross country biking, zip-lining and the list goes on!

#6: Canadian Rockies Route

This is the highlight and I may say the main reason in people visiting Vancouver with it being the gateway to the beautiful scenic Canadian Rockies route. Please note that the Canadian Rockies are nearly 800 km from Vancouver. Self-drive is a good way to explore this route leaving you plenty of time to discover the nature in the area. The roads are well paved but please note that one-way drop off fees apply if you drive from Vancouver and leave the car at the end of the trip say in Calgary. The city of Calgary might be the end point of this splendid journey for some who choose to take the domestic flight back to Vancouver due to limited time in Canada. Note: Not recommended to do self-drive during winter period. Best to join a tour bus as the drivers will be more familiar with the winter slippery road conditions.