Kitsilano Beach
Just pause to look around and then you’ll really see it: Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver’s popular city beach. Students from the nearby University of British Columbia throng to its shores to seek the sun. Or stroll down the boulevard with its shops, eateries and cafés. The beach also boasts the world’s biggest heated saltwater pool: Kitsilano Pool, nearly 450 feet long (137 meters).
Zwembad: 2305 Cornwall Avenue, Vancouver
Whale-spotting tours
The orca (killer whale) is the biggest predator in the oceanic dolphin family (Delphinidae) and can grow to a length of nearly 30 feet (nine meters). These beautiful animals enjoy cruising the Pacific coast, where you can see them up close and personal on special boat trips accompanied by a tour guide. If you’re lucky, your educational excursion may also take in a few dolphins, sea lions, seals, and white-tailed eagles.
Nitobe Memorial Garden
No shortage of gardens and greenery in Vancouver! One very remarkable form is the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese tea garden at the University of British Columbia, including inviting walking paths. This garden is known as one of the most authentic tea gardens in North America and is among the five best gardens of its type outside Japan.
6565 NW Marine Dr., Gate 4, Vancouver
Whistler
Vancouver is preparing for the Winter Olympics in 2010. The main venue for the sporting extravaganza will be the city of Whistler, surrounded by a breathtaking ski resort and nature reserve, great for amazing day trips. When the snow melts, mountain-bikers, whitewater rafters, and golfers populate the slopes.
Antropologisch Museum
The original inhabitants of British Columbia were the First Nations, sometimes referred to as the ‘Native Americans’, who are remembered in special ways in the Anthropological Museum at the University of British Columbia.
6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver
Seaplanes
Vancouver and its surroundings are exceptionally gorgeous, and the best way to behold this stunning beauty in all its glory is from a seaplane. Not cheap, but certainly memorable.
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Hundreds of acres of untouched wilderness with soaring peaks and deep valleys interspersed with glaciers, waterfalls, and rivers. With proper preparations, it’s the ideal spot for a hiking trip!