Vancouver is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Canada. You’ll be welcomed by warm and friendly people, low prices, and easy transportation around the city. If you’re traveling to Canada, either by train or by plane, knowing these things will help make your stay more enjoyable.
The people who live in Vancouver are very welcoming and are used to travelers and tourists visiting their city and enjoying their company. Vancouver is Canada's third-largest city and is among the most ethnically diverse cities in all of North America. While many people travel to Vancouver for work, it’s also a beautiful place for families and even singles to visit.
Vancouver is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and culturally diverse cities in Canada. If you're planning on traveling to Vancouver, British Columbia, either for work or pleasure, you will want to do some research to make sure you get the best accommodations and experiences. Before you travel to the city, here are some things you should know:
1. Save money by taking public transport
One of the essential Vancouver travel tips is to utilize public transport. Public transportation such as buses and taxis are very affordable and reliable. On top of that, traveling by bus and taxis is relatively safe as Vancouver has a well-developed transportation system. To get to the more remote areas in Vancouver, such as Stanley Park, you can either rent a car or use the intercity bus service. You can also find shuttles from YVR airport to help you go around the city or to your lodging.
2. Find the places with the best views
There are many places in Vancouver where you can enjoy beautiful views. It would be best if you looked into visiting Grouse Mountain, where you can also do many activities like hiking and a gondola ride from the top to the bottom of the mountain. It also features amenities like the Theater in the Sky, The World-Famous Lumberjack Show, chairlift rides, and visiting the refuge of endangered wildlife.
If you don't want to spend too much, you can visit Vancouver Lookout, where you can enjoy scenic views at a third of the price of visiting Grouse Mountain. You can also visit the Canada Place area, which is just west of the Waterfront Station, to enjoy photogenic views of Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, and the North Shore Mountains.
3. Explore nature and wildlife in national parks
Vancouver is also one of the best places to have a wildlife experience. There’s Stanley Park, where you can stroll around the area riding a bike. There are many bike rental shops in the area, like the ones at the corner of Georgia and Denman Street, which are right across the park.
If you want to enjoy a more serene area, you can visit John Hendry Park, also known as the Trout Lake Park. It's a smaller neighborhood and offers quiet solitude in the middle of the busy city. It's easy to access, and it's just a ten-minute walk from the Commercial-Broadway Station.
For those looking for a wildlife adventure, you can try the Canadian Rockies. It's a guided tour that usually lasts for 15 days. It starts in Vancouver, and you're going to travel to four pristine destinations like Jasper and Banff National Parks. During the trip, you'll see many animals like moose, deer, coyotes, elk, and bears. You'll also find some spectacular landscapes, and you can engage in different outdoor activities like canoeing and overnight camping in the Clearwater Lake area.
4. Prepare for a lot of rain
Most people think that Canada has freezing weather. However, most places in Canada, like Vancouver, experience a lot of rain. It rains about 170 days a year in Vancouver, and it collects nearly 100 inches of rainwater. So, it's essential to be prepared for rain when you roam around the city. Make sure you dress according to the weather and bring your umbrella wherever you go.
5. Get your tastebuds ready
If you're a foodie, you'll enjoy the wide variety of foods the place has to offer. From sushi joints to award-winning fine dining restaurants, there are a lot of things you can discover around the area. You can also find some Asian cuisine like ramen on Robson Street and in Richmond. If you want something unique, you can also find a lot of places that offer fusion cuisines.
Summary
Vancouver is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Canada. You’ll be welcomed by warm and friendly people, low prices, and easy transportation around the city. If you're traveling to Canada, either by train or by plane, knowing these things will help make your stay more enjoyable.
Using public transportation is more economical if you plan to visit places like Stanley Park. It would be best if you also did a lot of research about the different sites that offer amazing views and delicious cuisines. Have an itinerary on hand so you'll be able to have time to visit various places. Lastly, prepare yourself for a lot of rain. Make sure you bring your umbrella anywhere you go in case it starts to pour.
