5 THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER [TRAVEL GUIDE]
Visiting Vancouver for the first time? Here is a Vancouver travel guide and vlog of fun things to do in Vancouver. And yes, Vancouver is solo travel and black travel friendly.
I found myself in Vancouver for the first time this past Winter. And by “found myself”, I mean, I randomly yet intentionally travelled to Vancouver and paid for a $700 round-flight from Toronto. And just as I hypothesized - because making educated guesses on your level of comfortability in a foreign place is a literal science that needs to be recognized from this point forward - I’m a West Coast kind of gal. From the mountainous views and oceanside vibes, that are so reminiscent of my crazy year living in Korea, to the endless outdoor opportunities and zen-filled scenic short drives, Vancouver is a must see destination while travelling Canada. And this is why…
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER
1. BE A QUARANTINA @ COAL HARBOUR MARINA
Take a scenic walk from downtown along the Coal Harbour Marina. With luxury yachts docked in the background of this seaside hangout, you can snap the staple “I’m in Vancouver bishhh” pic and get a glimpse of the city’s beautiful duality of both nature and city vibes.
VIA @CHELSSOLOGY / COAL HARBOUR
2. STANLEY PARK BEFORE DARK
A mini hike through Stanley Park is the perfect afternoon for the half-ass adventurous. That is, the one’s that aren’t quite ready to hike the likes of Grouse Mountain, yet need to somehow throw in the literal word “hike” for their weekly curated content. That was totally me, and I loved every second of it. Located in West Vancouver, Stanley Park is the perfect mini getaway from the city vibes to forest tribes. And by tribes, I mean the countless squirrels and fur friends I became acquainted with while hiking in solitude. But speaking of tribes, the Stanley Park Totem Poles located in the eastern part of Stanley Park called Brockton Point, are a must see during your peaceful afternoon. The totem poles display the artistry of B.C First Nations, which is the term used for the native peoples of Canada. So now that you’ve healed in nature and got a bitesize of indigenous culture, it’s time to take a stroll on the popular Stanley Park Seawall and maybe even spark some sativa (it IS legal in Canada and personally my favourite place to safely and legally sesh outdoors - you’re welcome).
3. GRANVILLE ISLAND IS A MAJOR FLEX
Granville Island will treat each and every one of your senses like royalty with it’s very essence. From the wondrous waves crashing against the pier, to the busy marketplace filled with cheerful fresh food shoppers and the sweet sounds of the local guitarist - Granville has something for everyone. In actuality, Granville is more of a sandpit than an “island”, but it does not fail to disappoint as it brings full island vibes, saturated with paddle boaters and ferries transporting people from downtown to the local paradise. The Aquabus - the ferry taxi - only costs $3.75 and provides breathtaking views of the city. Shopping at the Granville Public Market is a foodie’s paradise, offering local fresh produce, cuisine and inexpensive bite sized treats (Lees Donuts for the WIN). Plus there is a Granville Brewery (!!!!!) and many unique souvenir shops and skilled artisans to bring a piece of British Columbia’s First Nations culture back “home” with you - wherever that is !
VIA @CHELSSOLOGY / GRANVILLE ISLAND
4. HANG OUT IN WEST VAN (LIKE THE COOL * RICH * KIDS)
VIA @CHELSSOLOGY / RAMEN DANBO
We all need a full day of (window) shopping and restaurant hopping to entertain ourselves sometimes - and that is exactly what West Van is great for. My favourite shopping district is Robson St., which I find to be similar to Bloor St. Toronto vibes, with high-end boutiques and classy dine-ins. The Robson area is saturated with affordable Asian cuisine, from Korean BBQ to all-you-can-eat Japanese Ramen and authentic Thai dishes. I highly recommend ordering the green curry from Rice & Noodle, and trying the ramen at DANBO (promise, it’s worth the outside wait). After treating your taste buds, you can take a short walk to Granville St. and party your problems away. Think of New Orleans Mardi Gras vibes, with unique characters interestingly underdressed galavanting the street with absolutely zero direction. That is Granville St. for ya.
VIA @CHELSSOLOGY / WHISTLER OLYMPIC VILLAGE
5. DAY TRIPS THAT DON’T COST BIG DRIPS
If B.C doesn’t scream “STAYCATION”, then I don’t know what would, because Vancouver is in close proximity to hidden gems all over the province and allows simple travel in short time. I 100% recommend taking a mini road trip along the breathtaking Sea-Sky Highway to Whistler for the day, or even a weekend if your pocket allows. When I first thought of Whistler, images of underage White kids snowboarding and drinking local brews flooded my mind, because that was all I heard about it from my polar opposite well off peers that I was forced to socialize with in university. But anyways, I’m here to tell you that I thought CORRECT. After the 2 hour scenic drive on the Sea-Sky Highway, I was greeted with seasoned double-fisters dancing on table tops belting songs in unison I’ve never heard of, and Winter sport enthusiasts gushing over their “oNe oF a kInD” Whistler/wild lifestyle. But, to each their own. If you’re not trying to ski, snowboard, or drink to get drunk in the mountains, then you can find your fun in the many cute shops and restaurants to try out in Whistler Village, with its small town Winter Wonderland feel. And if you’re like me, and been there done that (minus the mountains), a full 12 hour day is way more than enough time to explore Whistler. Just make sure you make a quick stop at Porteau Cove Provincial Park, located minutes from Squamish. It’s the perfect spot to stop, take a breath of fresh air, Insta worthy photos and a quick piss before carrying on to Whistler. Thank me later.
VIA @CHELSSOLOGY / PORTEAU COVE PROVINCIAL PARK
Vancouver exceeded my expectations and offers the perfect blend of city life and off-grid nature living. From clearing your mind on the calming seawalls, to exploring new spaces like Granville Island - Vancouver will find you walking the waterfronts plotting how to take control of your life. The city is magic and the perfect piece of peace of mind that everyone needs during their travels.
Are you planning on visiting Vancouver? Where are you most excited to go to?
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