For over 30 years, this has been the tourism slogan of Canada’s westernmost province, perfectly capturing what visitors will see and enjoy. Although the capital of British Columbia is Victoria, the province’s largest and most popular tourist destination is Vancouver.
My first visit to Vancouver was when my siblings, coming from various parts of the world, and I decided to hold our family reunion in the city to celebrate my birthday two years ago. To save on expenses, we opted for an Airbnb villa instead of booking individual hotel rooms. The villa featured nine bedrooms, a swimming pool, a sauna, a bar, a game room, and a spacious lanai overlooking the city. It was the ideal venue for a family reunion, allowing us to enjoy private accommodations and daily celebrations.
During the day, we made sure to carve out time to explore Vancouver’s many tourist attractions.
What are some important facts about Vancouver? Its port is the busiest and largest in Canada. While forestry is the city’s major industry, its proximity to nature makes its tourism industry a close second. It also has a growing film production center, which has led to the branding of the city as “Hollywood North.”
Stanley Park is the city’s most popular tourist attraction. It is a 405-hectare “green escape” from modern urban life and provides the peace and calm ambiance that any harried mortal longs for. It is bigger than New York’s Central Park.
For those who prefer an easier way to explore the park, there is the Stanley Park Train or the more enchanting horse-drawn carriages, similar to those in New York’s Central Park. For a leisurely meal, there are many restaurants to choose from, most offering a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush green mountains on the other.
If you’re looking for adventure, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is the tourist attraction for you. This 136-year-old bridge spans 450 feet across the Capilano River and stands 230 feet high. It is made of hemp rope and planks from cedar trees. It sways with the weight of people on it, which is the thrill that visitors seek.
However, the bridge’s claim to fame is its sturdiness, being strong enough to carry the weight of a fully loaded 747 aircraft or 75 full-grown elephants. When my siblings and I walked on it, I don’t know how many Hail Marys I prayed for my safety, though I was smiling the whole time because such a thrilling “physical endeavor” was something entirely new to me.
Grouse Mountain’s iconic Skyride is an experience that’s hard to forget. The breathtaking scenery it offers is simply out of this world. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, once you’re on the Skyride, surrounded by the awe-inspiring panoramic view of nature at its finest, you can’t help but appreciate God’s marvelous creations.
If you’re looking for adventure, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is the tourist attraction for you. This 136-year-old bridge spans 450 feet across the Capilano River and stands 230 feet high. It is made of hemp rope and planks from cedar trees. It sways with the weight of people on it, which is the thrill that visitors seek.
However, the bridge’s claim to fame is its sturdiness, being strong enough to carry the weight of a fully loaded 747 aircraft or 75 full-grown elephants. When my siblings and I walked on it, I don’t know how many Hail Marys I prayed for my safety, though I was smiling the whole time because such a thrilling “physical endeavor” was something entirely new to me.
Grouse Mountain’s iconic Skyride is an experience that’s hard to forget. The breathtaking scenery it offers is simply out of this world. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, once you’re on the Skyride, surrounded by the awe-inspiring panoramic view of nature at its finest, you can’t help but appreciate God’s marvelous creations.
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com
