Why Vancouver?
Vancouver is surrounded by ocean and mountains, which makes for spectacular views from essentially any vantage point in the city
If you know a little about Vancouver's history, you likely know the name came from Capt. George Vancouver, a British naval officer and explorer who sailed through the area in the 1790s. Recommended reads for you: 5 things you (probably) didn't know about Sikh culture in Vancouver These 2 breathtaking Vancouver hotels were ranked among the world's best But that's not the whole story. Vancouver's family name can be traced back to a northern Dutch town on the German border with very little in common with the Canadian metropolis. It's called Coevorden. It's from there that the ancestors of George Vancouver came; at one point they were the van Coevordens, which is essentially saying they were "from Coevorden." The name Coevorden originated from the Dutch words for "cow crossing"; it's not unheard of for towns to be named that way (Oxford in England, for one). And there is, in fact, a river at Coevorden, just like Vancouver (though it's significantly smaller than the Fraser). So to extend the translation, Vancouver means "from the cow crossing."
Favorites
My favorite places in the city
Biking the sea wall
One of Vancouver’s top attractions is nothing more than a paved pathway that stretches some 28 km (17.5 miles) around the city’s waterfront. But what a path it is! Known simply as “the seawall,” you’ll find that following this route, whether on foot or bicycle, is one of the best ways to discover Vancouver. In fact, spending a day exploring Vancouver’s seawall ranks as one of the very best ways to spend a day while you’re in the city.
Walking in Stanley Park
Ideally situated on a peninsula at the northwestern edge of downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park is one of the city's main tourist destinations, attracting approximately 8 million visitors each year. Featuring lovely beaches, miles of well-maintained paved and dirt trails, and an array of can't-miss kid-friendly spots (including a pool, water park, miniature railway and more), this 400-hectare (1,000-acre) haven is recognized as one of the greatest urban parks in the world.
Hanging out in Gastown
Gastown is a neighbourhood that seamlessly combines old with new, history with the way forward. An essential part of Vancouver’s history, a visit to Gastown should include a stroll along Water Street, where you’ll find a picture-perfect collection of old buildings, cobblestones, the Steam Clock, and vintage lampposts. Gastown is home to many of the city’s hottest restaurants, making it a great pick for a special night out.
Gallery
My photos from Vancouver
