I haven't been everywhere, but Vancouver has to be the most beautiful city in the world. Actually more than a few world travelers agree with this impulsive statement. In any event, good luck finding a more beautiful city. With the North Shore Mountains as a backdrop and the cityscape perched on bays, sounds, fiords, inlets and the mouth of the Frasier River, the modern glass high rises, modern office buildings and hotels are striking to anyone's view. Beyond the beauty is an International collection of people who are making things happen in shipping, technology, forestry, mining and tourism. An example of collective "can-do" spirit helped Vancouver host the 2010 Olympics' Winter Games. City planners, in co-operation with First Nation peoples made these games possible. Add to that managing a multitude of venues across 150 kl (90 miles) of terrain represented trust and a collaborative spirit.
The city is close to the Pacific Coast and close to the US border, but is quite mild for Canada. From Stanley Park, to Gastown, to Granville Island, to the West End, Vancouver begs for a stroll (or a brisk walk for that matter). With such a diverse population comes diverse ethnic cuisine and activities. If you are here for one of the many cruises that launch from Vancouver Harbor, do yourself a favor, plan to spend at least a few more days exploring this beautiful city. Residents are an active bunch as the mountains and the water offer quite a selection of outdoor activities. If it is raining, there are plenty of inside enclaves to explore. And did I say Vancouver was beautiful?
