Vancouver

A visit to Stanley Park is essential during your stay in Vancouver. Although there are attractions in Stanley Park that will cost you money (restaurants, the Vancouver Aquarium), a budget traveller can easily have an enjoyable afternoon without spending a penny.

Pack a lunch and start off walking or biking on the pathway from Coal Harbour, which is located just behind the Vancouver Convention Centre. Bikers must approach the park in a counter-clockwise direction from Coal Harbour.

If you disembark at the first rest stop, it’s a short walk to the Rose Garden and the Painter’s Circle where artists sell their wares during the summer. Keep going and you’ll see the lighthouse at Brockton Point, the Empress of Japan Statue, the Bathing Girl and finally the totem poles.

Stop for some refreshment at Prospect Point, you’re more than half way through your journey. Continue on and you’ll find two beaches: the first (Third Beach) will be less crowded than the second (Second Beach). However, Second Beach has a large outdoor pool which you can enjoy if you find the ocean too rough or cold for your taste.

You’ll exit at English Bay. Either browse the West End shops or keep following the path which will take you to Downtown Vancouver.

Vancouver Lookout

Arriving in a metropolitan city can be overwhelming. For a bird’s eye view, make the Vancouver Lookout one of your first stops. You’ll get a sense of where you are in relation to the mountains, the sea, the downtown core and the distant suburbs. After your visit, you’ll be able to orient yourself, just by glancing up at the mountains. With one admission you’ll be able to return on the same day. For the best value, schedule one visit for early in the day and one to catch the sunset. You won’t be disappointed. Tickets are $15 (adult); $12 (senior); $10 (student or youth); $7 (child 6-12); and free for children under six.
http://www.vancouverlookout.com/

 Visit Robson Street

Robson Street is the place to be on a Saturday afternoon. Chain stores mingle with boutique clothing stores. Food options range from affordable to fine dining. Grab a coffee and kick back on a patio and just people watch if you don’t want to be tempted by the shops. For more information, visit http://robsonstreet.ca/