Vancouver is a major coastal city in the province of British Columbia and one of the most livable and picturesque cities in the world. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountain Range, Vancouver is known for its natural beauty, diverse population, and vibrant economy.
Quick Facts
- Province: British Columbia
- Population: Over 660,000 (city), 2.6 million (Greater Vancouver Area)
- Official Language: English (with significant Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi, and Tagalog communities)
- Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
- Demonym: Vancouverite
History
The area was originally inhabited by Coast Salish First Nations for thousands of years. The modern city began with a logging settlement called Gastown in 1867, and Vancouver was officially incorporated in 1886. It quickly grew due to the railroad and port trade.
Vancouver hosted Expo 86 and co-hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics with Whistler.
Geography
Located on the mainland coast of British Columbia, Vancouver is surrounded by water and mountains. Its scenic harbor, beaches, and nearby forests make it a popular destination for outdoor lovers.
Economy
Vancouver has a dynamic, diverse economy:
- Trade and shipping (Port of Vancouver is the largest in Canada)
- Film and TV production (“Hollywood North”)
- Technology and digital media
- Tourism
- Green energy and sustainability industries
Major Attractions
- Stanley Park
- Granville Island
- Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Vancouver Art Gallery
- Canada Place
- Grouse Mountain
- Science World
- Vancouver Aquarium
Neighborhoods
- Downtown Vancouver
- Yaletown
- Kitsilano
- Mount Pleasant
- West End
- Gastown
- Chinatown
- Commercial Drive
Education
Top institutions in and around Vancouver include:
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Simon Fraser University (SFU)
- Emily Carr University of Art + Design
- British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)
Transit
TransLink operates the SkyTrain, SeaBus, buses, and West Coast Express rail. Vancouver is served by Vancouver International Airport (YVR), one of Canada’s busiest.
Culture
Vancouver is known for its food scene, multicultural events, and outdoor lifestyle. It’s a global leader in environmental sustainability and urban planning.
Did You Know?
- Vancouver has one of the mildest climates in Canada.
- Over 40% of Vancouver’s population identifies as a visible minority.
- The city consistently ranks among the top 10 most livable cities in the world.