| British Columbia Destinations Beauty, diversity among Vancouver’s many charms By Caroline and Steve Lake  Vancouver, Canada’s sunniest city and largest port, is situated in the southwest corner of British Columbia. The city itself is on a peninsula, an extension of the Fraser River delta. This enviable location boasts waterways, bays and a beautiful coast mountain range.
The multicultural makeup of Vancouver is among the many charms of this vibrant young city. Vancouver casts a magic spell over its visitors, whether they spend time walking along cobblestone streets in Gastown, shopping at the many boutiques on Robson Street or sampling the exotic fare in North America’s third largest Chinatown. Outdoor sports such as skiing, golfing and sailing are so popular in the temperate climate that citizens brag about being able to engage in all three sports in one day.
If architecture is your interest, don’t miss seeing the central branch of the Vancouver Public Library at Library Square. The Coliseum-like structure is remarkable.
Vancouver is renowned for its parks and gardens. The 1,000-acre Stanley Park is considered one of the finest parks on the continent. The design of Stanley Park was based on Frederick Law Olmstead’s design for Central Park in New York City.
There is no better way to enjoy Stanley Park than on a horse-drawn carriage tour, a Vancouver tradition since the 1800s. A guide narrates as you explore the park’s natural beauty and stop to see the magnificent totem pole display. This is a wonderful opportunity for the camera buff.
For a gourmet meal in the park, make reservations for the Sequoia Grill at the Teahouse. There is a lovely view and the cuisine is superb.
The Van Dusen Botanical Garden is a horticultural wonder. It is a botanical garden of international stature and is ranked among North America’s top 10 gardens. The plants are displayed among rolling hills and tranquil lakes with vistas of the mountains and the Vancouver cityscape and the mountains on the northern shore of Burrard Inlet.
There are self-guided walking tours can last anywhere from 20 minutes, going through the heart of the garden and along Livingstone Lake, to two hours to cover the entire area. Throughout the gardens there are magnificent sculptures and art pieces, and each season brings its own special delights.
Little Mountain, the city’s highest point, is home to Queen Elizabeth Park and the Bloedel Floral Conservatory. The spectacular setting draws more than six million visitors a year to what was formerly an industrial rock quarry. Wedding parties arrive with great regularity at the place of choice for photographs. Seasons, a hilltop bistro in the gardens, offers panoramic views and gastronomic pleasure. Make reservations for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Sun Yat-Sen Garden is the first full-scale classical Chinese garden built outside of China. Constructed in 1986, the gardens are considered a historical, architectural and horticultural masterpiece. This serene retreat is located in Vancouver’s bustling Chinatown, a treasure to be savoured.
The West End is the downtown core of Vancouver and the most densely-populated area in Canada. A forest of skyscrapers houses a lively group of people from every walk of life. This is Vancouver’s most liveable area and a great place to walk and people watch. There are many shops, restaurants and coffee bars to savour.
Not far from the hurried pace of the city streets is English Bay, which features a lovely sandy beach that is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the glistening water.
Yaletown, formerly an industrial district, has been transformed into a haven for artist galleries, trendy shops, swanky apartments, offices and sidewalk cafes. Known as Vancouver’s Soho, Yaletown is now a designated historic district where the old brick buildings retain a unique period feel.
Without question, the Opus Hotel is the place to stay in Yaletown. Built in 2002, the Opus was voted one of the world’s best hotels by Conde Nast Traveler magazine and has twice been chosen for the presenters’ gift basket at the Academy Awards.
A contemporary boutique hotel, the Opus offers a great location, striking decor and beautiful spa bathrooms. The vibrant colours echo the vibe felt throughout Yaletown. The eclectic, hip Opus bar is fun and the Elixir restaurant is a superb French brasserie.
The scenic beauty of Vancouver and the multicultural makeup of the city add up to a uniqueness that draws the traveller back. Once having enjoyed her charm, Vancouver will become your favourite destination.
For information
Vancouver Tourist Information Centre
604-683-2000
www.tourismvancouver.com
Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours
604-681-5115
www.stanleyparktours.com
Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
604-878-9274
www.vandusengarden.org
Opus Hotel
866-642-6787 Toll free
604-642-6787
www.opushotel.com
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
604-662-3207
Queen Elizabeth Park and Bloedel Conservatory
604-257-8570 | 
