Lifestyle in Vancouver

Vancouver is a city that effortlessly ranks among the world’s top places to call home, and with good reason. It is a city where the ocean meets the mountains, offering natural beauty, a mild climate, and activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Add to that a thriving local music scene, world-class events, and great dining options, and it’s easy to see why Vancouver is an increasingly tantalising option.

Shopping in Vancouver

Shopping in Vancouver offers a wide variety of high-quality goods, sure to please even the pickiest of shoppers. There are a fair few malls dotted throughout Vancouver, with favourites like Pacific Centre in downtown, Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby, and Richmond Centre Mall offering a diverse mix of shops.

Downtown is also full of famous and popular chain stores. If you are looking for boutique shops, you will find these in either the high-end boutiques of Yaletown or Kitsilano’s West 4th Avenue. Alternatively, Commercial Drive in East Vancouver is home to counter-culture shopping. South Oak in Marpole is emerging as a lively retail neighbourhood, offering easy access to urban amenities.

Gastown, Vancouver’s most historic district, offers a shopping experience rich in culture and variety. Cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques, galleries, and decor shops housed in beautiful heritage buildings, perfect for finding unique homeware, handmade jewellery, and local art.

Eating out in Vancouver

Both fine-dining restaurants and inexpensive eateries abound in Vancouver. Thanks to Vancouver’s ethnic diversity, you will find all types of cuisines here. Upscale dining in Vancouver is mostly found in the downtown area, as well as Coal Harbour and Yaletown. Gastown is a popular tourist area, although discerning locals know the value for money isn’t there compared to other neighbourhoods.

The West End, along Davie and Denman Streets, is where you will find good-value food. Outside of downtown, the Commercial Drive in East Van also offers some really noteworthy deals. Other popular dining areas with various price points include Main Street (around Broadway) and Kitsilano’s West 4th Ave. 

Cambie Village is also becoming a new hotspot for Italian cuisine, with new establishments like Osteria Elio Volpe adding to the variety. Nostalgic dining is also trending, with eateries evoking simpler times, like traditional dim sum spots with push carts or diners reminiscent of the '90s. Sushi spots are plentiful and often more popular than chains due to their great deals.

Nightlife in Vancouver

The nightlife in Vancouver has been affected by the city’s strict liquor legislation and noise by-laws. You may consider this a downside to living in Vancouver, but things are gradually changing. 

Recent amendments to liquor by-laws have expanded the types of businesses eligible for liquor licences, including spas and retail shops. The aim is to make nightlife more lively and accessible across the city. Noise by-laws are also being relaxed to allow more outdoor patio establishments to open.

Nightclubs are concentrated in Granville Street, while bars can be found around town and along West Broadway. Outside these two areas, it is rare to find a true nightclub. Most drinking spots are more like casual restaurants where you can go for dinner and a drink.

Vancouver’s music scene has flourished, with top-notch venues offering intimate atmospheres and world-class acoustics, drawing musical superstars from around the globe.

See and do in Vancouver

Vancouver brims with rich history, lively culture, and diverse lifestyle attractions. It has an exquisite culinary scene, markets, boutiques, and galleries. Below is a selection of the best things to see and do in Vancouver.

Vancouver Lookout

You can visit the famous Vancouver Lookout to indulge in breathtaking bird' s-eye views of the city. Amenities include the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant, which serves scrumptious continental cuisine.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Located in downtown Vancouver, this well-established gallery offers an extensive library and showcases the works of local and international artists, including Emily Carr, Andy Warhol, Picasso, and Rodin. Check for new exhibitions, as the gallery frequently hosts significant pieces from renowned artists.

Museum of Anthropology

Totem poles on the Point Grey cliffs mark the way to the Museum of Anthropology, an institution displaying fine must-see examples of Northwest Coast art and architecture by acclaimed artists, including Haida artist Bill Reid.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is perfect for you and your family if you are looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The park is home to more than 100 tropical bird species, abundant flower gardens, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory, a Pitch and Putt course, and a lovely restaurant.

Vancouver Aquarium and Greater Vancouver Zoo

Dedicated to conservation and education, the Vancouver Aquarium and Greater Vancouver Zoo are wonderful places for your children to experience exotic sea life and wildlife. Check for any special exhibitions or interactive programmes that might enhance your visit.

Where to meet people and make friends in Vancouver

Meeting new people in Vancouver might seem challenging at first, but there are plenty of opportunities to connect and make friends. Joining clubs like the Vancouver Outdoor Club or YES! Vancouver can help you meet others with similar interests. If you’re into outdoor adventures, North Shore Hikers is a brilliant way to meet like-minded enthusiasts, and the YMCA offers classes and programmes for all age groups.

Useful links

• YES! Vancouver
• North Shore Hikers
• YMCA of Greater Vancouver