Canada City Guide
Canada’s ‘gateway to the Pacific Rim’ and third largest city, Vancouver is blessed with one of the most beautiful settings in the world. Ocean and  mountains surround the city and expanses of tree-covered parkland fall within its boundaries. Vancouver is also the jumping-off point for exploring the spectacular scenery of British Columbia, from the islands and fjords of the Pacific Coast to the mountains of the interior, as it is located in the southwestern corner of the province, where the Fraser Valley meets the Georgia Strait. With the beauty of the natural environment and the city’s role as a haven for former hippies and counter-culture types, it is not too surprising that organisations such as Greenpeace and Adbusters sprang up here. But Vancouver is also the commercial and cultural heart of Canada’s West Coast and a major convention and tourist destination.
Vancouver is often called ‘Lotusland’ by other Canadians, as much for its temperate climate as for its reputation for offering a laid-back and natural lifestyle. The city prides itself on its outdoorsy attitude and the recreational options – ranging from sea kayaking, in-line skating and mountain biking to snowboarding, skiing and winter camping – are part of what lures millions of visitors to the city and the surrounding area.
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