The city of Vancouver is a happy mix of breathtaking scenic beauty and a cosmopolitan flavor. Prepare to be bowled over by its many beaches, parks and gardens, and a wealth of recreational and cultural activities. Vancouver, with its population of more than one million citizens, is a happening metropolis. At the same time, nature with her bounty of flora and fauna isn't far away either.

You just have to travel a small distance from the city limits and you will find deer and smaller animals. You can see gray whales, otter, sea lions and seals in the coastal waters.

Visit the superb sandy beaches having west coast logs such as English Bay, Kits and Jericho. Yearn for some vigorous action? Windsurf on the ocean.  Or do nothing and laze on the beaches, or join in a game of beach volleyball. Try the ski resorts of Cypress Bowl, Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour. Enjoy the vastness of wide, open spaces. Explore the majesty of the rainforest or the rugged terrains of the West Coast mountains. On the local mountains you can ski in winter and go biking and hiking in summer.

Public and private parks and gardens abound in the city of Vancouver. There are, in fact, nearly two hundred of them, including Stanley Park. Located on the fringes of downtown, Stanley Park is one of the world's biggest urban parks. It houses squirrels and raccoons and is also an important bird sanctuary.

If you are fond of the city life, experience the endless shopping choices, the colorful nightlife with pubs and cabarets, the theaters, galleries, operas, ballets and symphony orchestras. Indulge in gastronomical delights at restaurants specializing in all kinds of cuisines. Are you on a family vacation? Take your kids to the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Center, Imax Theater, Science World, the Kids Only Market, and the Miniature Train. They will simply love it! Visit the Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, the Vancouver Symphony, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and Ballet BC. Go on a trip to the Chinatown and Gastown historical areas and the hundreds of other heritage sites. Breathe deep in the clean and green city environment.

Go to Burnaby to the east of Vancouver and see for yourself the beautiful Burnaby Lake wildlife sanctuary, Deer Lake Park, or Fraser Foreshore Park. The surrounding communities are famous for sightseeing spots, great shopping, top quality accommodation, and excellent recreation facilities.

To sum up, the city of Vancouver has something for every taste. Make plans for vacationing in Vancouver these coming holidays, and you will come back with memories to treasure forever.