Vancouver is a diverse, international city that welcomes new-comers from all over the globe. You’ll notice that cultural diversity the moment you step foot into the city.
You’ll also notice exactly why it’s consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world, thanks to a mild coastal climate, safe streets, and unforgettable natural surroundings.
It’s no surprise to those that live here that students from around the world are coming to study in Vancouver at Acsenda School of Management.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vancouver
What’s there to do in Vancouver?
- Get outside.
BC is legendary for its natural beauty, and living in Vancouver puts you in easy reach of it all. Some favourite outdoor activities include mountain biking, sea kayaking, hiking, whale-watching, and beach volleyball. In the Vancouver metro area, you’ll find 220 city parks, 120 skate parks, dozens of beaches, and 350 kilometers of seawall paths to explore.
- Enjoy winter at the top of a mountain.
Although it rarely snows in Vancouver itself, our three local mountains put snow within easy reach during the winter months. Skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and snowshoeing are all popular—or you can just grab some hot chocolate and take in the view high above the city.
- Take advantage of urban life.
Of course, Vancouver isn’t just mountains and ocean. No matter where you are, great cafés, eclectic shops, and high-end retailers are never more than a few minutes away. Head to Robson Street for big global brands, or Main Street for vintage finds. Gastown, Granville Street, and Yaletown are all packed with late-night restaurants, bars and live music.
- Get a taste of west-coast culture.
Every big city has its museums and art galleries, but Vancouver’s real strength is in our rich collections of Canadian Aboriginal artifacts, our vibrant indigenous artist community, and our living First Nations culture. Art not your thing? Try a different kind of culture in our international cuisine, which famously brings Asian, European and First Nations traditions together with fresh local seafood and produce.
Learn more at Tourism Vancouver and the City of Vancouver.
What can I do outside of Vancouver?
- Hit the slopes
Aside from the world-famous Whistler-Blackcomb, there are dozens of major winter resorts across BC and in neighbouring Alberta and Washington state.
- Hop on a ferry
Explore the eclectic island communities around the BC coast, including the provincial capital of Victoria.
- Visit Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco
Go south along the US west coast by bus, train, or plane. Washington state is just one hour from downtown Vancouver.
These are just a few ideas. Learn more from BC Tourism and Washington State Tourism.
What are the best ways to get around?
Vancouver is one of the most walkable and bike-friendly cities in North America, with protected bike lanes crossing the city.
When you need to go farther or the weather is less than perfect, affordable public transportation—including buses, boats, and trains—reaches throughout the region.
- City buses, trains, ferries: www.translink.bc.ca
- Regional buses: www.bctransit.com | www.pacificcoach.com
- Regional trains: www.viarail.ca
- Regional ferries: www.bcferries.com
- Air travel: www.aircanada.com | www.westjet.com | www.pacific-coastal.com
