Vancouver in the New Year

British Columbia. The only thing that will remind you of Britain is the weather. Everything else is truly Canadian. Stunning mountain scenery, the great outdoors, hiking, skiing and we aren’t even talking about the country side! All this and more can be found within and around Vancouver. It’s easy to see why the city consistently tops quality of life surveys on a yearly basis. Straddling the lowlands of the Fraser River and with the skyline to the North dominated by a mountain range it really is one of the most stunning cities you will visit.

As Canadians are all about the outdoor life we suggest you join them: rent a bike and follow one of the many excellent cycle routes the city has to offer. If you only have time to travel one route we would strongly recommend cycling around the edge of Stanley Park, taking in English Bay and Sunset Beach, then heading over Burrard bridge to the wealthy suburb of Kitsilano. Stanley Park itself is worth a day’s exploration. From a great pitch and putt course (watch out for the roaming raccoons) to Beaver Lake, to the majestic Totem Polls. While you’re there, the Vancouver Aquarium is definitely worth checking out with its fascinating array of fish, as well as dolphin shows and the always-entertaining sea otters.

Another great family-friendly venue is Science World, with a vast amount of exhibits that will keep you amazed at how the world works. One of the highlights is the ‘Living Lab’, which allow children to participate in research projects that explore their social reasoning such as empathy, moral reasoning, stereotyping and cooperation.

Granville Island is another must. Take one of the frequent tiny ferries across the inlet from Downtown to the island where the public market should be your first port-of-call. With its vast array of stalls selling fresh fish, home baked goods, gastronomic delights and brightly coloured candy, you won’t be hungry! The island is also home to an array of quirky shops selling handmade gifts, funky galleries, theatres, restaurants and a brewery.

Ice hockey is to Canadians what football is to the British so if you can, go along to the Rogers Arena and take in an NHL game involving the local team, the Vancouver Canucks. Not only is the game of hockey (don’t ever refer to it as ice hockey to a local!) fast-paced and exciting but there is also plenty going on within the stadium to keep the fans amused.

In terms of quality dining options – of which there are many – we suggest Cardero’s located by the waterfront with great views of the bay and if you are visiting during the winter a cosy bar with an open fire and great bar staff. One of the Vancouver institutions is Joe Forte’s with arguably the best seafood in town. Ask the greeter can you dine on the roof top patio (weather permitting!)

You can book yourself a great deal to Vancouver including flight and hotel on ebookers