Vancouver, Canada’s third largest city, has more cargo exports than any port in North America. This coastal city is consistently ranked one of the top three most ‘livable’ cities in the world due to its scenic location. Surrounded by ocean, mountains, forest and parklands with a popular cruise ship port due to its close proximity to Alaska; you will soon discover why Vancouver is a favourite on any traveler's list.
Its nickname, ‘Hollywood North’, is earned from being the third largest film production city in North America and with the 2010 Winter Olympics being held in Whistler, 125km north of Vancouver, this really is a must see city.
Vancouver Information
Population: Approx. 2.3 million
Time Zone: UTC -8
Languages: English, French
Currency: Canadian dollar ($CAD)
Currency Exchange: Purchase your CAD cash and traveller’s cheques here before you leave Australia
Electricity: 110v - 60Hz
Vancouver Climate
Vancouver's climate is unusually temperate by Canadian standards. Vancouver has daily minimum temperatures falling below 0°C (32°F) on an average of 46 days per year and below −10°C (14°F) on only two days per year. Summer months are quite sunny with moderate temperatures, tempered by sea breezes.
The daily maximum averages 22°C (72°F) in July and August, with highs occasionally reaching 30°C (86°F). The summer months are often very dry, in contrast to winter which is the rainy season with more than half of all winter days receiving measurable precipitation.
Vancouver Airport
Name: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Address: One 3211 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond
Distance to city: 12km (7 miles)
Opening Hours: Vancouver Airport is open 24 hours
Partner Airline: Alaska Airlines operate from the Transborder Terminal
Airport Hotel: We recommend The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel
Car Rental: Mates rates on all car hire with our preferred partners
Transfers: Most shuttle services are available curbside from both the Domestic and International Terminals
Taxi: Available from the curbside
Pan Pacific Hotel
5 Star property
The friendliness and hospitality of people along with all the conveniences makes you to experience an exotic and intriguing tropical holiday at Pan Pacific Hotel Vancouver.
The Sutton Place Hotel
5 Star property
Set against a majestic backdrop of mountains and sea, The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver allows guests to experience exceptional service and all the needed amenities within the cosmopolitan ambience of city.
St. Regis Hotel
3 Star property
Offering comfortable accommodation that will fit all budgets, this classic heritage property with personalised and friendly services is an ideal place for a relaxing stay.
Ramada Inn and Suite
3.5 Star property
Offering comfortable accommodation and convenient facilities, this property is an ideal place for both leisure and business travellers.
Sandman Hotel
4 Star property
Featuring a convenient location and presenting elegant accommodation, the Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver is an ideal place for an unforgettable experience.
Metropolitan Hotel
4 Star property
Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver is a charming and friendly hotel that offers unsurpassed service and comfortable accommodation to make your stay a memorable one.
Dining
If you can think of a food you'd like to eat, odds are you'll find it offered in one of Vancouver's restaurants. The hardest part about eating-out in downtown Vancouver is making the choice. With a vast ethnic demographic, there is an array of food options available to cover all tastes. With a large English and Scottish influence, Vancouver also has a great mix of Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Italian and Greek to name a few.
Shopping
Shopping in Vancouver is concentrated into a few blocks. Most antique stores are on South Granville or Main Street. Most outdoor gear is near MEC on West Broadway with most high end boutiques on Robson Street. However, for a megamall experience, hop on the Sky Train and get off at the Metrotown Station. Here you'll find three adjoining malls: Station Square, Metrotown Centre, and Eaton Square. Together they comprise over 450 shops, two food fairs, several restaurants, two giant grocery stores, two cinema complexes with 15 theatres and a hotel.
