 False Creek
Albert Normandin photo Toes in the ocean, head in the skies, Vancouver is nestled in the slopes of the surrounding Coast Mountain Range. While this sea-level port city is known for its temperate climate, the surrounding snow-covered slopes are the venues for winter sports and breathtaking views of the city twinkling below. Vancouver is one of the few places in the world where you can ski in the morning and sail in the afternoon. Recently named the world's "Most Liveable City" by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Vancouver offers travellers both outstanding opportunities for outdoor adventure and the sophisticated amenities of a world-class city. Highlights of the city include: 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Look to Metro Vancouver for venues that will host ceremonies, covered ice events and cultural festivities. Cypress Mountain, towering over Vancouver will host freestyle skiing and snowboard events. Alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, bobsleigh and luge will be run in Whistler. But why wait for the Games? Learn more about the 2010 Olympic Winter Games
Stanley Park If you only do one thing in the city, cycle or stroll along the Stanley Park seawall, a paved 10-km loop with every moment of it privy to magnificent mountain, ocean, forest and city views. While you're in the park, pay a visit to the internationally-acclaimed Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, one of North America's five largest aquariums.
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Granville Island If you're downtown, hop on one of the small passenger ferries that can actually appear like bathtub toys as they cruise through False Creek to the island, famous for its year-round indoor farmer's market, boutique micro-brewery, street buskers, artisan studios and live theatre.
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Grouse Mountain While many people prefer to hike up to the top via the Grouse Grind, also known as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster," a scenic (and saner) option is to ride up on the 100-passenger tram, appreciating breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Lower Mainland en route.
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Robson Street Every major city has a famous shopping and cruising strip; ours is Robson Street. Head here for the high fashion, trendy restaurants and bars, the coffee-shop culture and even a little star spotting; don't forget, this is the Hollywood of the North, and Robson Street is a favourite spot for visiting stars to shine.
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UBC Museum of Anthropology Home to one of the world's most magnificent collections of First Nations totem poles, carvings and other artifacts, the museum is housed in an award-winning glass-and-concrete building designed by the world-renowned architect, Arthur Erickson, based on traditional Northwest Coast post-and-beam structures.
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Capilano Suspension Bridge It's shaky, but worth the walk across this swaying suspension bridge - located in the middle of a lush west-coast rainforest - for thrilling canyon views 70 m below.
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Gastown Vancouver began here - stroll down charming cobbled streets, explore heritage buildings and mews, visit unique stores and dine in restaurants - from quirky to gourmet.
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Vancouver Public Library Square Some go for the books, but most go for the architecture. Think ancient Roman Coliseum meets reconstructionist, post-modernism and you'll see why this full city block became an instant landmark in 1995.
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Chinatown and Chinatown Night Market Vancouver is home to one of the largest Chinese communities in North America. Its downtown Chinatown (the other major centre is in Richmond) is worth a visit for the historic buildings (including the world's narrowest), exotic markets and herbal apothecaries, not to mention bargains on imported goods, particularly kitchen supplies.
During late spring and summer, the streets are closed to vehicles once a week for the Chinatown Night Market, an exotic flea market with everything from great fashion finds to bargain Asian food.
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HSBC Celebration of Light Each year English Bay is lit up in a symphony of fire when Vancouver hosts a four-night spectacular international fireworks competition.
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