Situated between the North Shore Mountains and the serene Salish Sea, Vancouver carries a few monikers. The renown artist and writer Douglas Coupland named it the City of Glass, due to the abundance of glistening skyscrapers in the city. It is also known as Rain City, credited to its persistent rainfall that ensures the surrounding environment remains lush and emerald. Renowned travel photography site Kiwi Collection, and celebrated photographer Britney Gill, affectionately call Vancouver their home. When Gill is not globetrotting with her camera capturing stunning visuals, she unwinds in this culturally vibrant city abundant in nature. This article is Britney Gill's fascinating guide to Vancouver, encapsulating the best lobby bar, hiking tracks, art galleries, delicacies, and more.
STAY
Fairmont Pacific Rim
The buzz around the Fairmont Pacific Rim hasn't subsided since its grand opening in 2010, with globetrotters and city-dwellers alike making this hotel their go-to place. The irresistible allure is fuelled by the Botanist restaurant, offering a menu mirroring the rich gastronomy and flora of the Pacific Northwest. The grandeur of the lobby bar offers visitors an impression of Vancouver's vibrant cultural scene, providing top-notch people-watching opportunities. Additionally, the hotel prides itself on the spectacular Willow Stream Spa, featuring an imposing stone steam room and facials presented with the renowned Biologique Recherche from Paris. For those considering a stay at this opulent location, taking advantage of excellent Hotel deals in Vancouver can further enhance the experience. By booking smartly, visitors can indulge in the luxury of the Fairmont Pacific Rim without compromising their travel budget.
OPUS Vancouver
Nestled amidst the cultural hub of Yaletown in Vancouver lies a unique boutique gem, the OPUS Vancouver. The characterful accommodation offers generously proportioned rooms awash with character and a quirky blend of modern pop-art and vibrant hues. Inline with the chic design ethos, each room is fitted out with top-notch amenities, including none other than Dyson hair dryers. Always staying ahead of the curve in the dining scene, OPUS boasts impressive food and drink experiences. Their latest culinary delights include the delectable homemade Italian cuisine and pizzas served at Capo. Bring your day to a close at the warm and welcoming The Spritz; its menu boasts both classic and innovative cocktails by globally renowned bartenders.
Shangri-La Vancouver
In the epicenter of metropolitan Vancouver stands a monument of elegance and tranquility, the renowned Shangri-La. This iconic structure holds the title of the city's highest building, nestled in the bustling downtown district renowned for its plethora of shopping destinations and culinary delights. The inviting ambiance of the lounge beckons you to unwind with a classic Negroni while taking in the city's vibe.
Adding culinary splendor to its repertoire, the Shangri-La's in-house dining establishment, Carlino, has swiftly become a beloved hotspot amongst locals and tourists alike. This eatery elegantly blends British Columbia's regional offerings with the refined flavors reminiscent of northern Italy. No visit to the Shangri-La is complete without indulging in a session at the hotel's health retreat, CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia
Merging the elegance of yesteryears with a modern esthetic, Rosewood Hotel Georgia emanates an allure that never fails to captivate visitors. Nestled in vibrant Vancouver, it flawlessly encapsulates the opulence of the 1920s while maintaining a fresh appeal. A must-visit is the 1927 Lobby Lounge, a hidden jewel within the bustling city, where splendid cocktails provide escape and tranquility. The Hawksworth Restaurant is renowned for its cutting-edge culinary creations, complemented by its praiseworthy collection of wines. In addition, Reflections Terrace, offering scrumptious tapas-style meals in one of the city's premier patio environments, should certainly be on your Vancouver itinerary.
EAT & DRINK
Autostrada Vancouver House
Conceived as an experiment but blossomed into a success, Autostrada seamlessly blends the richness of Italian cuisine with the easy-going charm of Vancouver. Particularly at the Vancouver House outlet, the most engaging one among the three in the city in my perspective, anticipate an inviting, vivacious, and humble ambiance. The downtown location, with its trinkets and decor, conjures up precious memories of a homey feast at grandma's place.
Elephant
Emerging as a cozy dining spot in the rising East Village of Vancouver, Elephant presents dinners in the Omakase style of Japan, making use of the finest locally sourced ingredients from B.C. Given its limited seating capacity of just 18 seats, we recommend you reserve a spot ahead of time.
St. Lawrence
The renowned St. Lawrence brilliantly showcases the roots of Chef JC Poirier, hailing from Quebec, while artfully combining them with elite dining techniques from France. My foray into this culinary delight began with their signature sugar shack dinner, a multi-course extravaganza starring Canada's own maple syrup, an experience that still tugs at my taste buds.
Chambar Cuisine
Chambar, a top-notch restaurant in Vancouver, offers an outstanding experience with its Belgian-inspired menu. It's not just about dinner - lining up mouthwatering dishes like moules-frites - but the brunch offerings here have successfully garnered a legion of food lovers around the city.
Fabrique St. George
The unique charm of this winery, lounge, and market enables you to customize your own feast to eat within its vibrant ambiance or opt for a take-away. The FSG enables visitors to take the merriment outdoors with a to-go picnic. A nearby favourite spot to enjoy these delicious treats, especially during the sunny months, is Jonathon Rogers Park. This location offers stunning urban landscapes and is known to be a popular respite for picnic enthusiasts under the radiant sunshine.
Experience The Keefer Bar
For cocktail enthusiasts, The Keefer Bar in the culturally rich Chinatown makes an essential stop! Their innovative drink offerings shine, especially when you're toasting to the evening. The Chinatown Sour, with its unique twist of Fernet Branca, is my go-to, but the aromatic Rosemary Gimlet has made its way into my favourites as well.
SHOP
Obakki
I am a firm believer in bolstering small-scale enterprises and my acquaintances who run shops within the town as it is an essential strategy aimed at fostering robust communities. Obakki is one store that I am uniquely drawn to, having worked on its development and being deeply committed to lifting both neighborhood and global craftsmen. As someone who has utilized art to earn a living and connect with the wider world, it deeply resonates with me when I have the opportunity to lend my support to others on a similar path. The proprietor, Treana, has meticulously accumulated an awe-inspiring collection of design-centric, ethically crafted goods from every corner of the globe. The items that I yearn to possess from this store is quite an extensive list.
One of a Few
Michelle Rizardo, the pioneer behind One of a Few, has been aiding in the creation and prosperity of countless startup fashion brands for nearly two decades. The commitment of her store to the principles of slow fashion made it incredibly attractive to me. It's perfectly situated in the historic district of Gastown, a location that demands a leisurely visit!
The Block
For those trendsetters who yearn to discover emerging designers and independent labels alongside established fashion lines, The Block is a premier Gastown destination. Founded in 1999, this sophisticated center presents a unique selection of apparel, footwear, handbags, and adornments.
Discover Neighbour
Welcome to an oasis of luxuriously crafted apparel, curated goods, and unique finds in Gastown. Meet Neighbour, your friendly proponent of marvellous retail therapy. Make it a point to tour their trinity of specialty stores — Neighbour Object, Neighbour Men, and Neighbour Women, each offering an immersive shopping experience.
Boboli
Having been a family-run business since 1985, Boboli presents premium fashion in a cozy boutique environment. It's a destination for those seeking enduring wardrobe staples to be treasured for years to come, nestled within the bustling South Granville shopping district in Vancouver.
Atelier Harlow
Atelier Harlow exists as a haven knowledgeable in the creation of all-natural goods, each product crafted meticulously and mindfully. My trust in their scrupulous sourcing - a beacon of ethical commitment - often beckons me to empty my wallet in favour of their expansive offerings at Harlow. Their commendable selection of candles and skin gloss, in particular, sweep me off my feet every time!
Explore
Seawall
One of the most enjoyable methods to discover the city's charm is by renting a bike, allowing for a delightful tour around the city's 28 kilometres of seamless, perfect pavement known as the seawall. The journey begins at the bike rental stand in Coal Harbour and takes you around the breathtaking Stanley Park, allowing a pit stop at Third Beach and English Bay. The tour then continues, bringing the charming sights of Yaletown, False Creek, and Olympic Village into view. For those seeking to quench their wanderlust even more, the route extends to Granville Island and can even lead them to the beautiful Kits Beach and Spanish Banks.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Undeniably, the Capilano always serves as an remarkable point of interest for visitors and a distinct approach to witness the commanding rivers and vast canopy of British Columbia from an extraordinary perspective. Offering a thrilling mixture of cantilevered and suspension bridges, it's no wonder why this spectacle is adored. While many locals love the independence and thrill of taking backcountry trails on foot or bike, this place provides an excellent initial insight into our diverse ecosystem before embarking on more intensive explorations.
Parks & Nature Trails
Vancouver's distinct appeal stems from its accessibility to numerous exciting escapades. The metropolis houses the globally acclaimed Stanley Park, conveniently located within the city center. Not far off, near the University of British Columbia, the vast and verdant expanse of Pacific Spirit Park awaits exploration. A short 20-minute commute unveils the forest-laden North Shore, liberally sprinkled with a variety of parks. For a crowning wilderness experience, don't miss a journey through the intricate forest trails and riverside paths of Lynn Canyon, which also features a captivating suspension bridge, adding an elevated thrill to your adventure.
Galleries
If you adore immersing yourself in a vibrant arts atmosphere, pure serendipity awaits as you leap from one gallery to another across Vancouver's artistic landscape. There's a fascinating blend of fresh talent and globally recognized artists on offer. Monte Clark never fails to intrigue with its eclectic pop-up art installations and stunning industrial backdrops, often the canvas du jour. Other significant entries on the must-visit list includes Equinox Gallery (captured in the image), Gallery Jones along with the centrally located Vancouver Art Gallery.
Whistler
Renowned for its world-class ski facilities, Whistler has evolved into more than just a winter paradise. Come summer, its alpine trails beckon hikers and mountain bikers for thrilling adventures. Perfectly nestled a mere ninety minutes from Vancouver, this haven offers a tranquil respite from the city's relentless pace. Brimming with sparkling lakes and challenging hikes, not to mention its selection of delectable eateries and chic boutiques, Whistler radiates an irresistible allure, whether you're carving your way down its slopes or not.