| There aren't many cities in the world that offer Vancouver's combination of big-city lifestyle and outdoor fun in such cheek-by-jowl proximity. Ski in the morning, sail in the afternoon and still make it back to town in time for a cocktail or three.
Vancouver is still a city of new immigrants - wander the streets and you'll hear a dozen different languages. Vancouver also attracts young professionals and artists from the eastern provinces who come here to enjoy the city's recreation and laid-back sophistication.
If there's a drawback to this place 'where everyone would want to live', it's the rain - particularly in winter, when it rarely stops. Even in summer, a soggy spell can last for weeks. But when the sun shines gloriously and the mountains reappear, all is forgiven.
Today Vancouver is a bustling city of over two million, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean and the majestic coastal mountain range. Termed the 'Crown Jewel of Western Canada', Vancouver is the financial, shipping, industrial and cultural centre of Canada's west coast.
Be sure to see the landmark conference centre Canada Place where cruise ships dock while in Vancouver.
Go to the world famous Stanley Park, and the Vancouver Aquarium. Visit Gastown and Chinatown. Go shopping at Lonsdale Quay and Granville Island. Take the gondola up Grouse Mountain. Don't miss Vandusen Botanical Gardens or the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.
There is nothing like Stanley Park at Christmas time. There is a train ride and decorations that people of all ages can enjoy.
In 2010, Vancouver will play host to the winter olympics games.
The best beach is out past UBC, the University located on the western outskirts of town. Located down a trail, it is stuck between the trees & the ocean. Called Wreck Beach, it is clothing optional, but you really should not bother if you are not going to get naked.
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