Vancouver Guide
Introduction to Vancouver
One of the world's most beautiful cities, Vancouver is centred on a glitzy downtown, fringed by water and set against a spectacular backdrop of mountain peaks. Its setting and surroundings make it an outdoor-lover's paradise, and locals barely have to move to take advantage of the countless recreational opportunities afforded all year round – whether it's sailing or swimming in crystal-clear English Bay, biking or Rollerblading in vast Stanley Park, skiing or boarding on the mountains, or wandering through the forests and canyons on the city's northern shore.Vancouver also has plenty that contributes to a cultured atmosphere: top-notch museums, superb restaurants – arguably the best in North America after New York and San Francisco – countless cafés, great parks and gardens, and any number of hip bars and clubs.
Summer and winter it's all hedonism and healthy living, typically West Coast obsessions that spill over into its sophisticated arts and culture. Vancouver claims a world-class symphony orchestra, as well as opera, theatre and dance companies at the cutting edge of contemporary arts. Festivals proliferate throughout its mild, if occasionally rain-soaked, summer, and numerous music venues provide a hotbed for up-and-coming rock bands and a burgeoning jazz scene.
Some idea of the city's outlook can be gleaned from a slew of lifestyle surveys which show that, per capita, its inhabitants read more, drink more wine, smoke less, spend more on outdoor gear and support more bars and restaurants than do residents of any other Canadian city.