The 411 On Vancouver

Welcome To Vancouver

Photo: Rich Wheater / allcanadaphotos.com
Climbing the infamous Grouse Grind, a rite of passage for Vancouverites and visitors alike.

Vancouver's reputation as a laid-back city isn’t uncalled for — it's generally true that people here work to live, not the other way around — but for an easy-going group, Vancouverites get a lot done in their spare time. There are neighbourhoods to explore — we've laid out a walking tour for each of them, mountains to hike, snowshoe or ski - ("Nature Calls") and beaches to comb (find some of the best in our top 10 attractions list - "The It List"). This city is filled with award-winning restaurants, novel dining trends ("Small Wonders"), art galleries that attract collectors from around the globe (don't miss the six artists we've profiled in "Star Trek"), and for the night owls, lounges, pubs and clubs that raise the roof into the wee hours of the morning (yes, we’ve got that covered too: "Clubland").

Of course, no matter how much you cram into a visit to Vancouver, your best bet is to take your cue from a local. Get up early. Hit the mountains, the ocean, the shops, the restaurants. End the day on a patio (bonus: most are heated when the night air gets nippy). Ask your waiter for a glass of B.C.'s best (if Joie's rosé is on their list — a perfect, sunny sipper straight out of the Okanagan — you can't miss), and soak in the view.

Now you've experienced what it means to be a Vancouverite. — Anicka Quin

The 411 - Fascinating Facts »»
Interesting facts for everyone visiting Vancouver.

The 411 - Vancouver Dialguide »»
Important phone numbers you should know.

The 411 - Vancouver Map »»
A simple map of the Vancouver area.