Vancouver and British Columbia

British Columbia is the westernmost province of Canada. Located between the Rocky Mountains and the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The total area of British Columbia exceeds that of France, the Netherlands and Germany combined. Friendly people live here, and the region is rich in its nature and beautiful views. The largest city in the province is Vancouver. It is the warmest city in the country, due to the many climatic zones of British Columbia.

Vancouver is considered to be the best city in the world with the highest standard of living. It is not surprising, because even Canadians themselves dream of living in Vancouver, which is why the city is constantly growing. The air here is crystal clear. Around Vancouver, forests are located in their original form, penetrating into the city limits - a huge forest park right in the center of the city. Majestic skyscrapers of glass and steel are mixed here with the forest area.

The island of the same name is located across the pass from the city of Vancouver. Victoria rises on its surface - the capital of the entire province, which is still inferior in size to the city of Vancouver.

Basic facts about British Columbia

Country: Canada

Provincial capital and largest city: Victoria

Date of formation of the province: 1871;

Population of British Columbia: 4,707,021

Official languages: English, French;

Main currency: Canadian dollar;

Weather conditions: cool summers, but mild and warm winters. The western part of the province is more characterized by a wide range of temperatures. It is hotter in summer and colder in winter. High humidity, British Columbia receives a lot of rainfall.

Interesting facts about British Columbia

The province's name "British Columbia" was chosen by Queen Victoria herself. This name was not chosen by chance. It was required to distinguish the province from the state of "Columbia" located in the United States of America. The largest city in the province, Vancouver, is located in the warmest part of the province. The velvety climate, however, is not the only advantage that attracts tourists from all over the world. The proximity of mountains and the ocean creates here a stunning view and a sense of unreality of what is happening. Thanks to this, everyone can enjoy skiing and wave swimming. Despite the fact that water sports in Vancouver occupy a special place. Together with classic yachts, the so-called "Stand-up paddleboards" ply the water surface. You can use such transport right in the city limits, and the amazing experience from the process is reminiscent of surfing and sport rowing together. This is especially true, because there are very few "beach" days a year in Vancouver, and this method of transportation does not imply immersion in cool water.

Hollywood stars and celebrities from all over the world stroll along the streets of Vancouver. The city is the most attractive location for filming after Los Angeles and New York. So you shouldn't be surprised if you happen to meet your favorite actor at a restaurant or strolling through Stanley Park, which is ten percent the size of New York City's central park.

Vancouver has a striking combination of nature and urban development. Even the sleeping areas are a separate art form. Here you can find a building with an oak on the roof! At the top of the seventeen-story lady grows a real North American tree. Interestingly, the residents themselves collected funds for planting the tree, and the total cost of the work cost half a million dollars. Numerous flower beds and plantings in Vancouver are commonplace. The facades of the houses and the surrounding area are decorated with greenery of various types and shapes. Because of this, Vancouver is often called the "city in the forest" or "garden city". Despite the high quality of landscaping, you can relax on the lawn in the city without fear of sanitation by law enforcement agencies and local government.

Vancouver is ideal for hiking, jogging and cycling. There is a record number of tracks for such types of movement. In the event that you get tired, you can always relax on the numerous benches and resting places, which are an ensemble of various forms.

Due to its high level of national diversity, Vancouver is a city of hundreds of cultures. They say that if you want to go around the whole world, but not leave one city, then Vancouver is the best option. Such a variety guarantees any tourist tremendous emotions from the festivals and festivals that are held here on an ongoing basis. You can catch any event, from St. Patrick's Day to the Chinese New Year.

Vancouver landmarks

Vancouver City Museum

For more than a century, the Vancouver City Museum has been replenished with various exhibits. And yet, the main emphasis is placed on the history of the city, its surroundings, and local culture. Along with educational activities, employees are engaged in research and expansion of the collection. Various programs are held in this museum, from cognitive to educational. Separately, the astronomical exposition presented by the MacMillan Space Center should be highlighted. Lovers of endless spaces, galaxies, planets and asteroids should definitely visit this department.

Vancouver aquarium

A huge oceanarium in the heart of the city, located in Stanley Park. It is home to more than 50 thousand underwater and marine inhabitants. It hosts entertaining shows and vivid performances, as well as educational excursions. By visiting the latter, you can learn a lot of facts about the history of the world's oceans and its inhabitants, as well as see with your own eyes sharks, otters, dolphins, corals and many other representatives of marine life.

Stanley Park (City Park)

Located on the shore of the bay. The city center of Vancouver is adjacent to the park. On this territory, long before colonization, indigenous peoples lived and it was here that the first British ships arrived. Stanley Park has a truly huge area. Walking trails and bike paths alone cover more than 250 km. The local infrastructure is framed by numerous sports grounds, flower beds, reservoirs, places for recreation, both active and leisurely. Thanks to the combination of natural and man-made objects, stunning compositions and combinations can be observed, which makes Stanley Park a favorite vacation spot.

Kitsilano beach

One of the most popular beaches in Vancouver, located in the area of the same name. Residential areas are adjacent to the beach. This place is characterized by picturesque sunsets. As in the rest of the city, on the beach of Kitsilano you can find vegetation, which, together with the azure ocean and white sand, create the feeling of a Sunday idyll. Local residents prefer to spend their time here in any weather. The coast is equipped with places for rest and reflection.

Capilano Bridge at 70 meters

The structure stretches over the Capilano River. The bridge has no supports, but it is so strong that it can support about a hundred elephants. It was originally erected at the end of the 19th century, and trees and branches served as the material for it. At the end of the 20th century, the bridge was reconstructed from metal. The atmosphere here is steeped in mythology, the structure seems to float in the air at the tops of perennial trees. Before entering the bridge, a totem of Indians, depicting mysterious creatures, awaits travelers.

Mount Grouse Mountain

Natural site located near Vancouver. It offers an excellent view of the city. In winter, the mountain is an excellent ski resort with extensive infrastructure. Guests have at their disposal numerous slopes and trails, panoramic cafes and restaurants, as well as everything needed for active recreation. You can climb Grouse Mountain using cable cars.

BBC Place is one of the largest arenas in Canada

BBC Place is a legendary place of world significance. The stadium was built in 1983 and underwent renovation in 2011. During the 2010 Winter Olympics, it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies. The arena is the main venue for the Canadian Football League matches, and in between sporting events, it hosts concerts and shows featuring internationally renowned actors and pop stars.

Gastown

Gastown is a Vancouver Historic District. This is the real heart of the city, demonstrating the uniqueness and originality. Contemporary architecture in Gastown is mixed with Victorian buildings. The historic houses here contrast with the backdrop of modern clubs and restaurants. Here you can also wander into Chinatown, the largest in size in Canada. The area is constantly changing, but at the same time retaining its historical appearance and identity.

Vancouver public library

The library complex, which includes nine floors, recalls a modern look at the architecture of ancient Rome. The Cyclopean building is built on the principle of collision and contains multiple reading rooms, cafes, a social service center, parking lots, offices and much more. Millions of publications are kept under glass vaults, including quite rare ones. Every literary connoisseur is obliged to visit the Vancouver Public Library, because it will leave a lasting impression!