The Tourist Gaze

A Traveling Outsider Looking In

In Vancouver, My Brother Finally Found His Place

Young person in grey hoodie and white cap gazes at Vancouver skyline from Stanley Park Seawall waterfront with winter trees and sandy shore under overcast sky.

Winter Evening in Gastown: Vancouver Through First Impressions

Side-profile shot of a man in a grey hoodie standing beside the Gastown Steam Clock at night as steam rises, with brick buildings and streetlights in the background
For many immigrants, their earliest memories of Vancouver happen around Gastown, the area where the city literally began. The image of the city is tied to the quirky, hissing Steam Clock.
Back-view shot of a man in a grey hoodie and white cap looking through a metal fence toward Vancouver’s skyline, including a lit skyscraper and the blue sails of Canada Place at night
The area around the Waterfront Station is in many ways the starting point of exploration around Vancouver. It is where the city starts to “make sense” after visitors and immigrants arrive from elsewhere.

Gastown’s Steam Clock releases a plume of white vapor into the cold night. Cobblestones damp from the slight drizzle earlier that evening reflect the amber streetlamps, giving the streets an ethereal, nostalgic feel. The misty, salty air from the nearby Waterfront harbor mixes with the smell of coffee and pubs while a light fog softens the sound of footsteps and street music.

My brother Joseph and I are in this Vancouver neighborhood after handling a small errand. Earler today, my family arrived in this city after a lengthy trip from Manila, and Joseph had purchased day pass tickets for public transit. Our plan to rely on buses and walking fell through, however, as navigating the city on foot was challenging for my parents. So instead, we rented a car that can also carry our parents’ wheelchairs, leaving the day passes unused.

It’s the first night of our most recent visit (our first Vancouver trip was in 2012), and already the city feels larger than the reasons that have brought us here. After a short rest in Joseph’s place in southern Vancouver, my brother and I make our way to the Waterfront terminal via the Skytrain. The terminal, with its polished floors and classical columns, was my first real point of contact with Vancouver’s pulse, the threshold between arrival and the city proper, probably just as it was for my brother nearly two years ago.

Refunds sorted, we decided to wander a bit, which brings us here in Gastown. The neighborhood is busy, with people moving between restaurants and shops, yet it still feels laid-back.

“The first time I went to Gastown, I was completely amazed,” Joseph says. “The Steam Clock was the first thing that caught my attention. But it wasn’t just the clock. The whole neighborhood, the streets, even the train and the Waterfront terminal — everything felt so vast. It was nothing like back home.”

This is Joseph’s city now, the home he had slowly built over nearly two years. But for the rest of us—me, my parents, my sister Yanyan, and Ate Lita (who has been with our family for more than 30 years and even took care of Joseph when he was a toddler)—everything still feels new.

Vancouver: A City of Immigrants

Grassy shoreline with three empty benches facing the water, overlooking the Lions Gate Bridge and North Shore mountains under a clear sky
Connecting downtown Vancouver with the North Shore, the Lions Gate Bridge serves as a threshold between the sheltered harbors of Vancouver and the vast Pacific world.
A wide street-level shot of Vancouver’s Chinatown Millennium Gate, featuring tall grey pillars, colorful geometric designs, and terracotta-tiled roofs with animal figures, framed by stone lion statues and red brick buildings under a cloudy sky
The Chinatown Millennium Gate is a symbol of Vancouver’s earliest immigrant communities, particularly Chinese workers who helped build the city and suffered discrimination and exclusion.

Vancouver, perched between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, grew from a small sawmill settlement in the late 19th century into one of Canada’s most dynamic cities. Incorporated in 1886, it quickly became a hub for trade, shipping, and railroads, connecting the Pacific coast to the rest of Canada.

Evidence of Vancouver’s early days are still seen in its streets and neighborhoods, from the historic timber and brick architecture of Gastown to the grid patterns shaped by the railway lines. The city’s evolution was rapid, shaped by its natural harbor, abundant resources, and strategic location. But it was not without challenges, with fires, economic booms and busts, and the displacement of its Indigenous peoples all marking its growth.

From the city’s earliest days, immigrants played a crucial role in shaping Vancouver’s character. Workers from China, Japan, and Europe helped build the railroads and docks, while later waves from South Asia, the Philippines, and Latin America added to the city’s cultural fabric. Today, over half of Vancouver’s residents were born outside Canada, making it one of the country’s most diverse cities. This history of migration has influenced everything from cuisine and festivals to neighborhood identities. This gives Vancouver a unique blend of global cultures while reflecting the ongoing tensions and triumphs of integration.

It was into this city of diverse communities that Joseph had arrived nearly two years ago, carving out a life of his own while navigating the same streets that generations of immigrants had walked before him. He had arrived on a student visa, ready to begin his MBA at the University Canada West. It was a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal of becoming a permanent resident.

And now, he’s about to graduate, which is why we’re visiting him—to attend the graduation ceremony and reconnect after all this time.

Brunch at Granville Island: Immersing into the City

Back-view shot of a man in a tartan hoodie leaning on a blue railing overlooking a Vancouver marina with fishing boats, docks, and high-rise buildings under an overcast sky
The marina around Granville Island reveals the once beating industrial heart of Vancouver. The area has since reinvented itself as a vibrant cultural and food hub.
High-angle view of fruit baskets at Granville Island Public Market with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and shoppers browsing under wooden rafters with holiday decorations
The Granville Island Public Market is a place where newcomers can observe and blend into local life—not to mention purchase a wide array of colorful fruits.

A couple of mornings later, having settled into the city, the whole family make our way one morning to Granville Island. The plan is to have brunch before driving Joseph to his work in Annacis Island, a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. We’re ready to experience another side of Vancouver and see how Joseph has made this place his own.

Granville Island’s pavement is slick and dark from the morning drizzle, with gray skies providing muted light all over the city. Yet the bright splashes of color from produce, artisan goods, and market signage, stand out against the gloomy tones of the overcast morning.

Joseph leads the way, effortlessly weaving through the market as though he belongs. He points out a restaurant where he and Karthik—an Indian schoolmate and roommate he’s been living with for the past year—once grabbed lunch. Karthik cooks oftentimes, Joseph mentions, though sometimes they would like to explore the city’s flavors. He points out his favorite bakeries and coffee stalls, clearly indicating that he has made this corner of Vancouver part of his world.

Granville Island, a former industrial area turned cultural hub, stretches along the waterfront just south of downtown Vancouver. Today, it’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, known for its public market, artisan shops, breweries, and waterfront views. Usually, it pulses with a mix of commerce, creativity, and community, giving visitors a glimpse of the city’s buzzing local life.

But on a chilly, damp morning, with only a handful of people wandering the slick, gray streets, the whole area feels forlorn. Inside the market, however, is a different story. The vibrant colors of fruits and the sharp orange and yellow of various cheese all vie for attention. Vendors arrange their goods with the precision of someone doing it for so long. The chatter of people rises around us, punctuated by the occasional clink of dishes and crates being moved. We pick out some fresh fruits, but decide that we prefer a proper meal than the light bites sold in the market.

So we settle at the Tap & Barrel a few meters away. It’s a bar and restaurant, but in the morning is cozy enough for a family brunch. We are seated at a table near a heater, which provides a welcome reprieve from the cold. The warmth seeps in slowly, mingling with the savory scents drifting from nearby tables. I dig into my protein bowl, which features Moroccan chicken slices sharing space with quinoa and peppery arugula. The rest of us tuck into burgers and pasta dishes. I sip my Coke Zero regularly, to allow the crisp fizz to provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty meal.

The soft conversations of other diners with one another make the morning feel relaxed, even as drizzle continues outside. As for us at our table, our talks range from small talk to reflections on Joseph’s life in the city and his future plans.

Watching Joseph move confidently through the market and the stores of Granville Island, I’m seeing how he has woven himself into the city. It’s all become familiar to him, a testament to the life he has built far from home.

A Morning Jog And a Walk along Main Street

Wide shot of the Bloedel Conservatory geodesic dome on an overcast day, with wet pavement, a Canadian flag, concrete steps, and surrounding planters and trees
The Bloedel Conservatory is a refuge for tropical and desert plants in the middle of Vancouver’s cold, gloomy season. It reflects the immigrant experience of finding that warm comfort in an unfamiliar world.
High-angle view of a landscaped garden at the Queen Elizabeth Quarry Garden with winding paths, green lawns, and diverse trees including a rust-colored conifer and blue spruce
Vancouver is busy, dense, and expensive, but paradoxically full of places built for slowing down, with Queen Elizabeth Park being one of the clearest examples.
Young man posing on a residential street near Main Street, Vancouver, with houses, sidewalks, and morning light visible, walking toward his bus stop
Vancouver is not merely a collection of landmarks but is an everyday city, where newcomers find their place and routine in a new life.

The next morning, I decide to go for a jog. From Joseph’s place, I try a light pace, but the cold drizzle and the fact that I haven’t had cardio for a few days leaves me winded after just two blocks. So the jog turns into a brisk walk. Nevertheless, after about half an hour, I reach Queen Elizabeth Park, perched on Little Mountain and offering one of the few elevated views of the city. Even in winter, the park’s winding paths, open lawns, and carefully tended gardens make it a favorite spot for locals to exercise, relax, or simply take in Vancouver’s skyline.

As I stroll, I spot man tossing a ball for his golden retriever across a wide expanse of grass. A group of elderly Asian women do morning stretches near the Bloedel Conservatory. Aside from these few souls, the park feels empty, with only the soft patter of drizzle on leaves and the occasional sounds of cars in the distance. I pause to gawk at the conservatory’s glass dome but don’t enter, before strolling toward the Quarry Gardens. Even in early winter, with muted tones and puddled pathways, the gardens retain a subtle, understated beauty. Having my fill of green views and damp earth, I return to our place.

At noon, Joseph is ready to leave for work. I walk with him to the bus stop near Main Street, following streets I’ve only glimpsed from a car. Main Street is lined with small cafés, second-hand shops, and colorful murals. The sound of traffic mixes with the drills from streets being renovated. Cars and buses pass at regular intervals, providing a steady pulse that matches the orderly grid structure of the neighborhood.

Walking with Joseph, I notice how naturally he navigates the sidewalks, a stark contrast to my own tentative steps in the city. He strolls the streets like a local, though Karthik often teases him about being overly cautious. (If he were here, he’d probably stride ahead, weaving through puddles without a second thought.) This reminds me of the many times back in the Philippines when we accompanied each other to errands and appointments, only now the city around us is completely different.

Later that evening, Yanyan, Ate Lita, and I head toward the waterfront to visit the Vancouver Christmas Market while my parents opt to sit in the warmth of the nearby Vancover Convention Centre.

Downtown Vancouver: Job Interview and City Life

Back-view of a person sitting on a concrete seat in a plaza, looking toward the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Fairmont Hotel with its green copper roof
The Vancouver Art Gallery and Fairmont Hotel show the city’s architectural layering, from Beaux-Arts elegance to urban modernity.
Low-angle wide shot of the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch with curved colonnades, steps leading to Dilawri Square, and a glass skyscraper in the background
The distinct architecture of the Vancouver Public Library central branch resembles Rome’s Colosseum. This visually striking landmark represents the city’s cultural “brain” amidst the skyscrapers.
Low-angle shot of the Terry Fox Memorial statues on a wet plaza, with BC Place stadium, a digital billboard, and surrounding buildings in the background
The Terry Fox Memorial in front of BC Place is a Canadian icon of hope and resilience, representing ideals that transcend individual backgrounds.

Joseph has taken a leave from work the next day for a job interview at a bank’s main office downtown. The position aligns more closely with his MBA, and, perhaps just as importantly, it’s much nearer to his place. He’s hopeful, walking into the towering glass building with the intensity of someone who knows what’s at stake.

Meanwhile, I wander a few blocks away to catch a movie at a nearby theater, the cold air nipping at my cheeks. Yanyan and Ate Lita head to a mall, browsing through stores. By early afternoon, the two return to pick up my parents, who stayed behind at our place. Joseph and I will meet them downtown, giving us a few minutes to kill.

We take advantage of the time for a small photoshoot and video session, since Joseph is dressed sharply in his corporate attire, and the downtown skyline and bustling streets providing the perfect backdrop. Pedestrians pass, a mix of office workers, tourists, and locals. It feels cinematic, the city becoming alive around us while Joseph prepares for the next step in his professional life.

When the rest of the family arrives, we head to the food court in Pacific Centre, a mall that is always busy but not to the point of overwhelming. It’s also where Karthik works, though we don’t get to interact with him. Joseph’s schedule differs from Karthik’s, but the two still find time to cook together, run errands, or meet for whatever they need to meet for, their friendship steady amidst the demands of city life.

We grab a late lunch, forgetting the drizzle outside for the moment as we chat about the morning’s events. Even in an everyday setting like a mall, Vancouver’s energy reflects the ambition Joseph has while carving a space for himself here.

Kitsilano Charm and a Downtown Parking Mishap

Serene beach view in Kitsilano with fallen autumn leaves, a tree with orange foliage, and fog partially obscuring the water, mountains, and city skyline in the distance
Even in winter, Kitsilano Beach gives a sense of space and proximity to nature.
High-angle close-up of a bowl of Taiwanese-style rice bowl with mushrooms, bok choy, soy-marinated egg halves, and fried shallots, served with a side dish of tofu on a wooden table
Vancouver is known for its multicultural food scene, with authentic Asian cuisine available across the city. For many immigrants, food becomes a bridge to home, offering comfort and identity amidst a new environment.
Night portrait of a man in a grey hoodie and white cap standing on a wet street corner in front of a Tim Hortons at Punjabi Market, Vancouver, with illuminated windows and a colorful mural
A late-night visit to a branch of Tim Hortons—a Canadian cultural icon—represents learning to inhabit public spaces while negotiating familiarity and novelty, a key stage in the immigrant experience.

We invite Karthik to tour the city with us the next day since it’s his day off. The whole family, along with Karthik, first heads to Kitsilano Beach. “Kits Beach,” as it’s often called, is a popular Vancouver waterfront destination known for its sandy shore with views of the mountains and city skyline. It’s a favorite spot for swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and casual strolls, especially in the warmer months. On a December afternoon, though, gray skies hang overhead. It’s not quite raining, but it’s cold enough to make the neighborhood feel almost deserted. The beach has a much quieter charm in winter, with the occasional cyclist or dog walker punctuating the stillness.

After exploring the beach for a while, we drive downtown to have late lunch at an Asian restaurant we saw on Google Maps. Confident it will be a quick stop, I park at a curbside spot across from the restaurant. As soon as I finish my meal and step outside, though, I notice a tow truck starting to clamp our car. Heart racing, I hurriedly call Yanyan, and together with Karthik, we rush across the street to intervene. In the end, we miss it by a few seconds, but another tow truck driver points us to the impound number, and we soon take an Uber—me, Yanyan, and Karthik—to sort everything out. Meanwhile, our parents and Ate Lita wait comfortably at a hotel lobby nearby.

That evening, after Joseph returns from work, we take a short walk to a Tim Hortons branch near the bus stop he uses daily. The plan is to grab a cup of coffee for our dad, who’s been craving one all afternoon.

As we stroll along the silent streets, damp from the day’s drizzle, the familiar scent of brewing coffee drifts from the café. The lights from shop windows reflect on the wet pavement, casting a soft glow on the sidewalks. The walk stirs a memory of late-night trips to a nearby 7-Eleven back home in the Philippines. Back then, either he or I would casually say, “Let’s go to 7-Eleven,” and off we’d go for a late-night snack. Such mundane routine now feels like a bridge between two cities and two lives.

A Sunny Afternoon in Stanley Park: A Prelude to Weekend Adventures

Brockton Point totem poles at Stanley Park, Vancouver, with colorful traditional Indigenous carvings on a grassy rise, surrounded by evergreen trees and a blue sky with wispy clouds
The totem poles in Stanley Park tell of Vancouver’s deep-rooted histories, revealing a place layered with stories older than its locals.

It’s a sunny Friday afternoon. My dad is down with a headache, while Joseph is at work, so it’s just me, my mom, Yanyan, and Ate Lita heading out. Our first stop is Stanley Park, Vancouver’s largest urban park and one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Spread over nearly 1,000 acres, the park is a mix of dense forests, winding trails, and scenic waterfront paths, offering both locals and visitors a chance to escape the bustle of the city. Even in early December, the winter sun illuminates the towering evergreens and the sparkling waters of the harbor, creating a striking contrast between nature and skyline.

We make our way to the park’s iconic Totem Poles, a collection of intricately carved wooden monuments representing stories, legends, and cultural traditions of the First Nations peoples of British Columbia. Each totem tells a tale of animals, ancestral spirits, or historical events with lively colors and meticulous detail that stand out against the deep greens of the surrounding forest. Seeing the totems in person brings a sense of connection to the land’s history, reminding visitors that Vancouver’s identity has been shaped by centuries of Indigenous presence and culture long before urban development began.

After soaking in the park, we drive to Capilano. Our plan is to catch a glimpse of the lights in the evening. This gives us a taste of the city’s natural beauty and festive charm.

Over the weekend, we also have other day trips: Saturday at Merry & Bright Martini Town to meet a family friend, and Sunday exploring Whistler and the Sea-to-Sky Gondola. The latter two especially mix city and mountain experiences, highlighting the diversity of British Columbia’s landscapes and the ways we can weave both nature and urban life into our visit.

Exploring Vancouver on Foot: Science World, Olympic Village, and Cambie Bridge

Eye-level shot of Science World geodesic dome in False Creek, Vancouver, with calm water in the foreground and modern glass skyscrapers on the shoreline behind it
Rooted at the edge of False Creek, Science World is both an iconic landmark and a hub for science and public engagement. Its geodesic dome design reflects Vancouver’s blend of innovation and accessibility.
Low-angle medium shot of a giant realistic sparrow sculpture in a public plaza in Vancouver, with modern apartment buildings, leafless trees, and red curved sculptures in the background
Sculptures like the Giant Sparrow in Olympic Village highlight Vancouver’s playful, human-centered design.

After the whirlwind weekend of driving and sightseeing, Joseph and Karthik return to their respective work, while we decide to take a breather. That afternoon, though, Yanyan needs to head back to a downtown mall to pick up a Lululemon order. I accompany her on the way, taking the chance to move through the city at a slower pace.

Yanyan drops me off at Science World, a striking geodesic dome perched on the edge of False Creek. The museum is one of Vancouver’s most recognizable landmarks, popular with both families and tourists for its interactive exhibits, science demonstrations, and panoramic views of the waterfront. Even without entering, the surrounding area offers lively sights and a glimpse of city life along the water.

I continue my walk along the waterfront to the Olympic Village, a neighborhood originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Its modern architecture, pedestrian-friendly paths, and lively cafes create a sense of energy despite the quiet winter afternoon. From there, I cross Cambie Bridge, occasionally slowing down enough to take in the views of False Creek and the downtown skyline reflected in the water, before making my way downtown (walking fast, faces pass, and I’m homebound, heh).

At the mall, I reunite with Yanyan and eventually meet with Karthik, who has just finished his shift. Together, we take our time at the food court before driving home, winding down the day with a more relaxed pace compared to the packed schedule of the past few days.

Queen Elizabeth Theatre: A Moment of Arrival

A newly graduated student standing in the lobby of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, holding flowers under modern chandelier lights, with a large banner reading ‘Congratulations UCW Graduates’ in the background
Amid the crowd and cold drizzle outside, Joseph stands in the lobby of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre after the ceremony.

We find our seats inside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, far enough from the stage to take everything in, but still close enough that I can get a good view. When the doors open, two men in red uniforms step forward, blowing bagpipes, which fill the hall with solemn, almost old-world music like some remnant of a British tradition.

And then there he is.

For a moment, Joseph looks like a high schooler: shorter than many of the graduates around him, especially the tall South Asian students who fill much of his cohort. But he looks confident, shoulders squared, and steps steady. If he’s nervous, it doesn’t show. He walks like someone who has earned his place in this room.

The ceremony is brisk, almost technocratic—brief messages, minimal theatrics, and then the roll call of graduates striding across the stage one by one. When Joseph’s name is called, I don’t even look at my parents. I’m too focused on the screen of my phone, recording him as he moves across the stage. Pride and happiness wash over me.

As I watch him, memories thread their way in my head. I remember those early months after he first moved to Vancouver, when he would videocall me often, perhaps out of homesickness, or the disorientation of adjusting to a new country. Those calls came less and less as he settled in, built routines, found friends, and carved out a life independent of the one he left in the Philippines. Watching him walk across that stage, I feel almost certainly that he’s no longer adjusting. He now belongs.

Outside, the sky has turned into a typical Vancouver gray—overcast with a light drizzle that clings to our jackets as the crowds spill out of the theatre lobby. Families gather under umbrellas as graduates hold their bouquets with pride. Joseph simply huddles us together, stretches out his hand holding his phone and says, “Let’s take a picture.”

We take photos by the entrance. Karthik, who will have his own graduation next summer, wraps him in a congratulatory hug. Despite the cold air and the wet pavement, there is warmth in this simple, unembellished pride.

This graduation marks a turning point for Joseph: the transition from studies into the next chapter. He will now have to deal with applications, work permits, and the slow, and maybe grueling process of building a long-term life here. For our family, it is affirmation that all the sacrifices, all the years of waiting, all the small uncertainties carried from Manila to Vancouver were worth it.

Everything before this ceremony leads here. Everything after will be shaped by what this moment makes possible.

Wide shot of the “A-maze-ing Laughter” bronze statues at Morton Park, English Bay, Vancouver, with a man in a grey hoodie and cap walking among the towering laughing figures on a wet gravel ground
The exaggerated gestures of Yue Minjun’s laughing bronze statues contrast with the grey, often rainy environment of Vancouver.
Side-profile medium shot of a man in a grey hoodie with a red-and-black hood lining standing on a grassy slope overlooking English Bay, Vancouver, with a seawall path, pedestrians, and distant city skyline and mountains in the background
Standing on the slope near Stanley Park Seawall, Joseph engages in a moment of introspection, learning to adapt and finding patience as he navigates his place in the city.

One afternoon, Joseph and I stroll along the Stanley Park Seawall. The skyline looms across the harbor, softened by mist and low-hanging clouds, while the water mirrors muted grays and silvers. The sky is a layered wash of pale blues and steel, and though the sun struggles to break through, the city feels luminous in the diffused winter light.

Joseph walks beside me, our proximity bridging the spatial and temporal distance that have stretched between us for the past two years. I remember the little brother who once tagged along for late-night trips to 7-Eleven, and I smile at how far he’s come. He’s built a world of his own here, and for the first time, I can see the life he’s chosen. Where he was restless and unsure of what he wanted, he’s now steady and purposeful. That certainty feels in tune with the gentle lapping of the waves and the rustle of seawall trees.

Vancouver hasn’t demanded anything from him except being honest with who he is. He does not need to reinvent himself nor keep up with certain performances. He does not need to rush to prove he belongs. The city has given him space to slow down and let his past settle without being erased. In this city of people who have tried to find better lives for themselves, he can be anonymous when he needs to retreat and seen when he’s ready to reach out. The city is revealing itself at the pace of a person finally learning to stay. And here, along the seawall where the water meets the mountains, he has stopped feeling in transit. For the first time in a long while, he is home.

“It’s a bittersweet feeling,” he tells me. “Bitter because of all the challenges; sweet because the feeling is great when you overcome them.”

In that overcast afternoon, I feel a calm acceptance. Joseph is exactly where he needs to be. And for my dad, my mom, my sister, Ate Lita, and I, we’re just passing through, grateful to witness one of us finally finding his place in the world.

Vancouver Travel Basics

Timing

  • Vancouver is a year-round destination, but it’s at its best either in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November).
  • Winter (December through February) brings cool, often drizzly weather, with temperatures averaging 3–8°C (37–46°F). Days are shorter, and the sky is often overcast, but the city has a cozy charm. Cafés, indoor markets, and winter festivals make up for the gray skies. Expect quiet streets, misty waterfronts, and the muted beauty of parks like Stanley Park and Kitsilano Beach.

Access

  • From Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
    • SkyTrain Canada Line: Fastest and cheapest. 25 min to Waterfront Station, CAD 3.35–6.60, depending on zones.
    • Taxi / Rideshare: 30 min to downtown, CAD 35–50.
    • Shuttle / Private Transfer: 30 min, CAD 20–35.
  • From the U.S. Border
    • Driving: 2–3 hrs from Seattle via I‑5 North. Check road conditions in winter.
    • Bus / Shuttle: Cross-border services available; travel time 4 hrs.
  • By Train
    • Amtrak Cascades (Seattle – Vancouver): 4 hrs. Customs at the border.
    • VIA Rail (Canadian cities): Long-distance trains to Pacific Central Station.
  • By Ferry / Cruise
    • Alaska cruises: Dock at Canada Place downtown.
    • BC Ferries: From Vancouver Island (Victoria, Nanaimo) via Tsawwassen terminal (45 min drive).

Transportation

  • Vancouver’s public transit includes buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus ferries.
    • A single-zone adult fare (bus / short trip) is CAD 3.35 (cash or contactless) as of 2025.
    • For travel crossing more zones: a 2‑zone trip costs CAD 4.85 while a 3‑zone trip is CAD 6.60.
    • If you use stored value on a reloadable card (discounted rate): 1‑zone costs about CAD 2.70.
    • For frequent travel in a day across modes (bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus), the DayPass covers all zones costs CAD 11.95 for adults.
    • Monthly passes (for longer stays) are also available; depending on zones chosen, these can vary.
  • For families or groups with mobility considerations, car rentals can provide convenience, especially when traveling with wheelchairs or elderly family members.
  • Walking remains one of the best ways to soak in the city’s neighborhoods, from the historic cobblestones of Gastown to the colorful murals of Main Street.

Accommodation

  • For visitors to Vancouver, accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, depending on your preferences and itinerary. During our trip, we stayed at Joseph’s place, which allowed us the convenience of a home base in southern Vancouver while exploring the city.
  • Notable luxury and mid-range hotels include Fairmont Waterfront (CAD 350–450 per night), known for its historic charm and central location; Wedgewood Hotel & Spa (CAD 400–500 per night), offering refined boutique accommodations in downtown Vancouver; and Pan Pacific Vancouver (CAD 300–400 per night), which combines waterfront views with proximity to major attractions.
  • For travelers on a tighter budget, there are several options that still provide comfort and accessibility. YWCA Hotel Vancouver (CAD 90–120 per night) offers simple rooms in a central location; Samesun Vancouver (CAD 50–80 per night for dorm beds, CAD 100–130 for private rooms) provides a social, hostel-style environment; and HI Vancouver Downtown Hostel (CAD 60–90 per night for dorm beds, CAD 120–150 for private rooms) is clean, safe, and conveniently located for walking to downtown attractions.

Food

  • Tap & Barrel – With multiple locations including Granville Island and downtown waterfront, this casual pub-style eatery offers hearty options like burgers, protein bowls, pasta, and salads. Perfect for groups or families seeking comfort food with a view.
  • Granville Island Public Market – A must-visit for fresh produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and local snacks. Ideal for sampling local flavors while exploring the market’s vibrant stalls.
  • Miku – Famous for its aburi sushi (flame-seared), this downtown Japanese restaurant blends innovative techniques with traditional flavors, providing a refined dining experience with waterfront views.
  • Jam Cafe – A popular brunch spot known for generous portions, inventive twists on classic breakfast dishes, and a cozy, retro-inspired atmosphere.

Cafés

  • Tim Hortons – Canada’s iconic coffee chain, perfect for a quick caffeine fix, donuts, or a cozy spot to warm up on a chilly winter day. Multiple locations across the city make it convenient for tourists.
  • Blenz Coffee – A local favorite, offering expertly crafted espresso drinks, lattes, and seasonal specialties. Some locations feature comfortable seating for lingering with a book or people-watching.
  • Revolver – Located in Gastown, this specialty coffee shop is known for its curated beans and precise brewing methods, offering a refined experience for coffee enthusiasts.
  • 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters – Popular for both quality espresso and pour-over options, with a few locations including a scenic spot near Main Street for a relaxed city vibe.
  • JJ Bean Coffee Roasters – A homegrown chain known for strong coffee, light bites, and a friendly neighborhood feel.

For more practical information, visit Destination Vancouver.

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