Introducing newcomers to the Vancouver neighborhoods – A complete guide
Explore the activities that Vancouverites engage in their spare time. Learn about the city’s transportation system and dining options.
As a city in British Columbia, Vancouver has been called “Manhattan with mountains” for years. The mild climate, the picturesque scenery, and the lively downtown make it a great place to live. In case you’re considering moving to Vancouver, here are some things you should know.
Vancouver
A city with a population of over one million people, Vancouver is the largest in western Canada. Gastown first emerged as a community centered around a temporary inn in 1867. Vancouver never seems far from nature. The surrounding landscape is filled with forests, mountains, and beaches. In 2016, Greater Vancouver had a population of approximately 2.5 million, making it the fifth-most densely populated metropolis in North America. With one of the most ethnically diversified populations in Canada, it is considered one of the most livable cities in the world. First, you need to obtain Canada PR if you plan to relocate to Vancouver. Every Canadian province operates its Provincial Nominee Program. Individuals can submit applications through PNP to obtain Canadian PR.
A summary of key points
Vancouver is a maritime city along the coast of British Columbia with a crowded downtown and suburban sprawl to the south and east. There are many neighborhoods to visit, but here are just a few:
Gastown
Located in downtown Vancouver, this is where it all began. A single bar was established in 1857 under the name “Gassy Jack” Deighton and maintained its attractiveness. In addition to its Victorian architecture and dining options, Gastown is home to various retail and dining establishments. Enjoy a visit to a working steam clock while you’re here.
Commercial Drive
As one of the most diverse and cultural neighborhoods in East Vancouver, this one is rich in history and culture. The area is home to the Little Italy of Vancouver, which is home to restaurants offering authentic Italian food, espresso bars, and gelato stands. The region is well renowned for its bars and music. From May through September, a farmers’ market is held in Trout Lake Park, also known as John Hendry Park. Along Commercial Drive you will find a variety of Queen Anne-style homes.
Kitsilano
As a hippie hangout in the 1960s, Kitsilano was a popular coastal neighborhood. West Vancouver has enormous popularity among young families and students. Vancouver is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Vancouver Maritime Museum and the Museum of Vancouver, some of the best in the region. A vegetarian restaurant is one of the Kits’ most historic landmarks, which makes sense given its history.
Yaletown
A red-brick warehouse once stood here and the Canadian Pacific Railway terminated here. A seawall that stretches from David Lam Park to George Wain-born Park has transformed Yaletown into one of Vancouver’s hippest neighborhoods. Runners, rollerbladers, and cyclists enjoy this location. Lofts have been built in former warehouses in Yaletown. A variety of hip eateries, patios, and regional breweries can be found nearby.
Granville Island
Visits to Granville Island are made even more enjoyable by getting there. To access the public market on Granville Island, take the tugboat ferry across False Creek. The Granville Island Brewing Company offers beer, a student art exhibit, and a street performer to accompany visitors’ seafood meals at the market.
West End
It is possible to access Stanley Park from the West End. This area of the city is also home to the Vancouver Pride Festival and the LGBTQ+ community of Davie Village. A mile-long stretch of coast is also found in the West End, known as English Bay. Stand-up paddleboarding is available here, as well as watching the sunset.
Moving to a Vancouver neighborhood: Things to consider
Utilizing public transportation
The public transportation system in Vancouver is convenient for residents. TransLink, which connects Metro Vancouver with SkyTrain and SeaBus, operates a bus system as well. Located in the suburbs, the SkyTrain connects Vancouver’s suburbs and its downtown. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) can be reached via one of three SkyTrain lines.
A SeaBus ferry connects the Waterfront Station on Vancouver’s North Shore with Lonsdale Quay in the city’s center. It is possible to board a bus anywhere in the city, with most routes operating from 5 a.m. until 1 a.m. No matter how far you drive, a bus ride costs the same.
However, SkyTrain and SeaBus have three separate fare zones. SkyTrain and SeaBus require a Compass Ticket from a vending machine or a refillable Compass Card, but bus fares can be paid in cash.
It’s pleasant and beautiful to cycle around Vancouver. Bike racks are available on buses, the SkyTrain, and the SeaBus, and a bicycle map of the city is available. Besides public bike sharing, Mobi also offers 365-day and 12-month passes.
Without a car, Vancouver is a simple city to navigate. As an example, downtown Vancouver offers public transportation and is easily accessible by foot. It is now even simpler to live in this city without a car thanks to services like Evo and Modo.
Shopping and recreation
The city is home to more than 190 parks, beaches, and a breathtaking landscape framed by the Rocky Mountains. Residents take leisure seriously as a result. With more than 27 kilometers of walking paths, Stanley is Vancouver’s largest urban park. The area is well known for its seawall, its three magnificent gardens, and its First Nation Totem Poles as well as its jogging, rollerblading, cycling, and trekking trails.
Grouse Mountain offers skiing, snowshoeing, and ziplining in North Vancouver, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations. Picnickers and rollerbladers like English Bay, whereas locals prefer Kitsilano Beach, which has an outdoor heated pool. Summertime events there include the Celebration of Light fireworks display.
In spring, the city hosts the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival as well as PuSh International Performing Arts Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and International
Jazz Festival
Whether you’re looking for a large department store, a boutique, or a unique shop, Vancouver is a great place to shop. Many renowned retailers can be found on Robson Street, the busiest shopping district in Vancouver. Over 100 shops are housed in the Pacific Centre, an indoor mall in downtown Vancouver, including Holt Renfrew and Nordstrom.
A variety of upscale stores and galleries can be found in South Granville, while the Granville Island Public Market is known for its artisanal goods, such as delicacies, jewelry, and unique crafts.
Schools
Vancouver School Board (VSB), one of the largest school districts in the country, has 89 primary and 18 secondary schools serving around 55,000 students. Top private schools in Vancouver include Collingwood School, West Point Grey Academy, and York House School.
The University of British Columbia (UBC), which is ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world, has recognized the University of British Columbia (UBC) as one of the best public universities in the world for the quality of its faculty and researchers, according to the university. Many people in Canada rank the Simon Fraser University campus in Vancouver as one of the best.
This institution focuses on the arts and humanities through training and analysis. Apprenticeship programs are offered at Vancouver Community College, as well as courses in culinary and business.