Living in Vancouver
One of the most livable.
Welcome to Vancouver, Canada – one of the most livable cities in the world. Known for its beautiful surroundings, modern infrastructure and multicultural community, it’s no surprise that the city of Vancouver is an incredibly popular study destination for students from all over the world. With more than 52% of the population speaking a first language other than English, Vancouver is considered the most ethnically and linguistically diverse city in Canada.
Vancouver has moderate weather year-round; the summer months are usually short, easy-going, and warm, with more sunshine and less humidity. Fall can be rainy but is very agreeable weather, less crowded than in the summer and with beautiful tree colours everywhere. Winter can bring a little snow, it is quite cold but compared to the rest of Canada it is much milder. Lastly, in Spring temperatures begin to warm, however, it is still quite cool, besides it has the beautiful bloom of nature and the popular cherry blossom trees.
In addition, throughout the city, you will find stores, restaurants and places of worship that represent all kinds of different communities, with frequent events that celebrate these cultures.
Also, for more information on what to do in Vancouver, please go to the article ‘Things to do in Vancouver while studying in a Post-Secondary Institution‘.
What’s there to do in Vancouver
Get outside.
British Columbia is legendary for its natural beauty, and Vancouver puts you in easy reach of it all. Some favourite outdoor activities are mountain biking, sea kayaking, hiking, whale-watching and beach volleyball. Besides, in Metro Vancouver, you’ll find 220 city parks, 120 skate parks, dozens of beaches and 350 kilometres of seawall paths to explore.
Take advantage of urban life.
Of course, Vancouver isn’t just mountains and oceans. No matter where you are, great cafés, eclectic shops and high-end retailers are never more than a few minutes away with the quick service of Vancouver public transit. Head to Robson Street for big global brands, or Main Street for vintage finds. In addition, Gastown, Granville Street and Yaletown are all packed with late-night restaurants, bars and music.
Enjoy winter at the top of the mountain.
Although it rarely snows in Vancouver itself, our three local mountains put snow within easy reach during the winter months. Therefore, skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and snowshoeing are all popular. Also, you can just grab some hot chocolate and take in the view high above the city.
Get a taste of west- coast culture.
Every big city has its museums 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 in our international cuisine, which famously also brings Asian, European, and First Nations traditions together with fresh local seafood produce.
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
also in Washington state.