If you’re learning English in Vancouver then there are endless opportunities to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while practising your newly-acquired language skills. To help you get started on your learning adventure, we’ve come up with 10 of our favourite things to do when you’re studying at EC Vancouver!
[hs_action id=”3586″]
1. Capilano Suspension Bridge
This is by far one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver and one of the most exciting ones. It’s a simple suspension bridge crossing Capilano River in the District of North Vancouver. The bridge is 140 meters long and 70 meters above the river.
So if you’re afraid of heights, you might have to think twice before adventuring yourself on going. It’s
plenty of fun and quite a wonderful experience if you appreciate nature. There are guided tours through the Story Centre and eco-tours in the rainforest, which are both very interesting.
2. Stanley Park
This is Vancouver’s largest and most beloved park. There’s over 400 hectares of natural West Coast rainforest, kilometers of trails, beautiful beaches, places to eat, cultural and historical landmarks such as the First Nations art, totem poles, and many more. You will probably need more than one day to explore this breathtaking place.
Fun Fact
Stanley Park is bigger than Central Park in New York City – 10% bigger.
3. The Bloedel Floral Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park
Welcome to one of Vancouver’s highest points, with more than 200 free-flying exotic birds, and 500 exotic plants and flowers. Located in the enchanting Queen Elizabeth Park, this place is a must see if you are a nature lover. More information at: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/location-hours-and-fees-2.aspx.
4. Van Dusen Botanical Garden
Another must see nature hotspot, this garden’s mission is to inspire understanding of the vital importance of plants to all life through their huge botanical collections, programs (they have a great year calendar of courses and events) and practices.
Choose a sunny day to explore this beauty. Further information on: http://vandusengarden.org/plan-your-visit/hours-admission/.
5. Vancouver Aquarium
This is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conversation of aquatic life. Located in Stanley Park, it’s home to more than 70,000 creatures including dolphins, sea otters, anacondas, three-toed sloths, eels and many more. Learn more about the region’s marine life through the numerous exhibits. The (over 1,500) staff members and volunteers will be more than happy to tell you anything about it. Find more information at: http://www.vanaqua.org/.
6. Granville Island
An early home to factories, plants and sawmills, Granville Island was once known as Industrial Island. The greatest thing about it is that even though it is considered a tourist attraction, locals absolutely love it. And how can you not? It has loads of merchants selling seafood, fresh produce, cheese and breads. This is by far one of North America’s best markets, with theater, culture, restaurants, and unique attractions. Don’t miss the Public Market, the island’s most famous attraction. See more: http://granvilleisland.com/.
7. Gastown
When you enter Gastown you feel as though you’re entering a whole new Vancouver. It’s one of the city’s most cosmopolitan areas has an interesting mix of people. You will see well-to-do people having brunch at one of the many famous restaurants, like Flying Pig. You will also see music lovers going to a jazz bar, exploring the underground music scene at one of its famous clubs, like Brooklyn Gastown. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there are plenty of options. Don’t forget to take a picture of the steam clock, a clock that is powered by a steam engine, the neighborhood’s main symbol.
8. Fly Over Canada
Fly Over Canada is a 20-25 minutes virtual flight ride. It may sound dull but it’s actually very entertaining and one of visitor’s number one recommendations. The rides incorporate state of the art special effects including wind, scents, and mist, and it’s a great way to experience the whole city without doing much. Located at Canada Place. Further info: https://www.flyovercanada.com/.
9. Robson Street
This is the downtown shopping center. The place is always packed, no matter the weather, and it has over 100 shops including department centers like The Bay, Holt Renfrew, the Pacific Center Mall and Nordstrom.
10. Victoria, Vancouver Island
This beautiful place is well worth the journey. The island is a unique combination of the new and old world. Don’t be surprised if it reminds you of the United Kingdom, since its name was inspired after their queen. It’s definitely worth spending a day there to see the interesting architecture, colorful gardens, and traditions like the afternoon tea. The island is 114.5 km away from Vancouver and there’s more than one way to get there, the most common one being by ferry.
Voted the number one place to see in Canada, it is worth your time to pay a visit. More info: http://www.tourismvancouver.com/plan-your-trip/day-trips/victoria/.
Would you like to know more about this beautiful city? Download our Vancouver Travel Guide for FREE to find out what to see in Vancouver, the top 10 things to do, tips for how to improve your English, and much more!
[hs_action id=”3586″]