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Vancouver’s Diverse Cultures
Vancouver is proud of its diversity, with richly woven textures and traditions of different cultures, lifestyles, and experiences. Several locations in the city would leave you a lasting impression and get to learn more about these cultures.
For starters, visitors in Vancouver could explore the award-winning Museum of Anthropology, where thousands of artifacts and objects linking to British Columbia’s First Nations are displayed. Checking out its exhibits on the province’s native cultures are both educational and entertaining.
From there, take a stroll along the colorful streets of Chinatown, one of the largest (and cleanest) of its kind in North America. Vancouver’s vibrant Chinese community started settling in the city since the mid-19th Century. Today, it is a haven for exotic shopping while admiring the center’s unique architecture and culinary aromas.Asian culture is also evident in Richmond, a city near Vancouver where you can find a deeply-rooted Asian community, in particular its Golden Village. It also has a great shopping area where one can see a showcase of Asian entrepreneurship. You would not miss its various shopping centers like the Aberdeen Centre, Parker Place Shopping Centre, President Plaza, and Union Square Mall, where you can expect jostling, noisy crowd all looking for the best bargain. After a round of shopping, one can also visit the Buddhist Temple for some moments of serenity, peace, and tranquility.
Vancouver also benefits from a sizable population of East Indian immigrants, majority of them living in Little India. Its vibrant shopping district, Punjabi Market, is worth a visit. This area bears a striking resemblance to its exotic homeland, with its rows of fine silk fabrics, aromatic spices, authentic food and a high concentration of jewelers who are always open for bargaining.
Vancouver is also home of Little Italy, located at Commercial Drive. One can find plenty of hip restaurants and shops doing brisk business next to traditional sidewalk cafes and trattorias. Stop by and enjoy listening to some entertaining street performers, pick up fresh produce and artisan foods, and sip a latte at a sidewalk cafe and watch other people passing by.
Whatever cultural experience you wanted to take, you’ll be glad that you visit Vancouver.
Posted in Travel
June 25th, 2007 / No Comments
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White Rock: Relaxing by the Oceanside
White Rock is an oceanside community located on the Semiahmoo Peninsula, a 45-minute drive south from Vancouver and several minutes away from the Douglas US Border Crossing. This quaint town is known for its mild climate all year round, relaxed atmosphere, sizable sandy beaches and a promenade from which we can view the magnificent Semiahmoo Bay. White Rock is named after the 486-ton rock that rests on the shores of the beach, apparently left when glaciers receded thousands of years ago. Large quantities of bird guano covered the rock, making it look white. Today, regular coats of white paint cover the rock. Visitors can reach White Rock through Highway 99, which links Vancouver and Seattle in the US.
Its moderate climate makes White Rock a preferred retirement spot. Summer temperature is averaged at 23°C while winter is averaged at 6°C.White Rock has the largest and one of the popular beaches in Greater Vancouver. Its long sandy beach is ideal for every beachside activity from picnics to throwing frisbees. The tide would sometimes go out, creating tidal pools where you can observe marine life up close. Also, the place is famous for its pier that juts out over 500 meters from the shore where people can take a leisurely stroll.
Marine Drive, the street right across the beach, is filled with different restaurants serving a variety of cuisines as well as street fare like fish and chips.
Because of White Rock’s proximity from the Canada/USA border, it is common for Americans—especially under 21—to visit the town for some drinks at the bar. White Rock has several bars and night clubs, the most popular being Ocean Beach Club and Grill at Marine Drive.
Posted in Attractions, Travel
June 8th, 2007 / No Comments
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Kelowna, the Gateway to Majestic Okanagan Lake
Kelowna is the largest inland city in British Columbia and it is located in the heart of the region’s wine country. It is a mecca of outdoor pursuits and cultural activities. The city is a restful getaway into Okanagan Lake, a 90-kilometer long body of water that has been a haven for boaters, swimmers, and even kite boarders. The lake’s inviting waters shimmer in the sunlight, a wonderful sight as vacationers bask along its beaches.
The city is as beautiful as it is delightful, with blooming surroundings, hanging baskets, and festive banners adorning the tidy streets. Kelowna succeeds in maintaining its image as one of the prettiest cities in BC.Kelowna never runs out of entertaining activities that tourists can enjoy, from championship golf courses to internationally-acclaimed wine tours, from downhill skiing to Shakespeare in the Park. You can browse the Kelowna Art Gallery or inside the city’s Centennial Museum. Visitors can also bask in the tranquility and peace of the Kasugai Japanese Gardens. Enjoy your nights here with free summer entertainment in City Park and Waterfront Park, or can even attend a concert at Skyreach Place. Downtown Kelowna has everything that a family can enjoy.
The Downtown City Park offers a great environment in the summer. One can sun tan, play and have fun. Children can use the playgrounds as well as the water and skate board park. Another place of interest is the Bertram Park at the end of Lakeshore Road, with beautiful beaches and grassy picnic areas. This is one of the most idyllic places in the city, where families can gather around for barbecue.
Gyro Beach is a half-submerged playground by the lake. In the summer you can let yourself slide along the rope into the Okanagan.
The city is also visited during winter time because of their popular ski resorts like the Big White, located 55 kilometers from the city.
Posted in Attractions, Travel
June 1st, 2007 / No Comments