The fast growing city in British Columbia district has long history of gateway to the Far East and these connections are visible in restaurants and buildings covering the Chinatown.
Unfortunately for Vancouver the Great Fire of 1886 has destroyed most of the city, one of few survivals is Old Hastings Mill Store.
Bill Reid's sculpture Raven and the First Men
The natural settings surrounding Vancouver are visible especially during the popular here air tours, the Gulf and river waters are good for cruises and sailing, and the city streets tempt for bus and walking tours.
Stanley Park
The area that once was inhabited by Squamish and Musqueam native Canadians in 1886 has been changed into the public park, and liked both by the citizens and visitors alike.
There are plenty of trails within the cedar woods and wild fir
ready for walking, hiking and biking, there is a choice of mountain bikes to rent near the park’s entrances. There are beaches, woods, mountain views, Beavers Lake, the mysterious Shiwash rock and the Vancouver Aquarium with six Beluga whales from Arctic waters and various species one can find near British Columbia coast.
BC Place Stadium
The modern architecture building can hold over 60 000 spectators of sporting and entertainment events.The famous guest, which visited the stadium since its creation in 1983 include Queen Elisabeth II and John Paul II.
In 2010 it held Opening and Closing ceremonies of Winter Olympics.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
One of the longest ( 137 m ) suspension bridges in the world is also one of the most thrilling attractions. Imagine the stunning views, while hanging 70 m ( 230 ft ) above the canyon – there are the old trees, waterfalls, trout pounds. If your sense of vision is somehow clouded by fearful thoughts, do not worry, the steel ropes are to hold the weight of two Boening 747 planes.
Vancouver Art Gallery
originally designed for local courthouse the building from the turning of 20th century today hosts Vancouver Art Gallery. On display are the most valuable items from the collection of over 8 000 works of Canadian and international art, including British Columbian artist Emily Carr.
University of British Columbia Museum of Anthropology
One of the world’s finest collections of Northwest coast native peoples’ art is housed inside of the building designed by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson.
The architecture of main display gallery Great Hall has been inspired by Haida houses and displays full-size totem poles, canoes, and feast dishes. Many of the items have been created by
Vancouver’s contemporary Haida artist Bill Reid and Namgis artist Doug Cranmer.
Chinatown
The area remembers the first Chinese workers from Canadian Pacific Railroad development, and the emigrants, who came here at the end of 19th century following the gold rush.
To see here is Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Chinese Garden and to eat are special dishes from Eastern cuisine prepared in numerous cozy restaurants and bars.
Canada Place
The last on our list is often the first place for the visitors who came here on cruise or line ships to one of the busiest american harbours. The futuristic buildings prepared for Expo ’86 still can amaze with the construction details.
[ photo courtesy of EarthOwned]