OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

by Camille Bounds

Growing With an Upward Spiral

Young, energetic, full of vitality, different, beautiful, eclectic, vibrant---these are adjectives that have been applied to Vancouver British Columbia and not without good reason. Vancouver is growing with a fast upward spiral that has attracted an influx of foreign trade---much due to the Hong Kong hand over. A nonstop quality construction and development boom for the past 10 years has changed Vancouver so vividly. It has brought this delightful city into the 21st century with so many changes that natives, that have been away a few years, can hardly believe the progress.

So Young With So Much History

Vancouver is just a little over 125 years old. When British Columbia became a part of the British confederation in 1870, Vancouver was just being born. The Chinese came for gold in 1850 and called the province Gum-sham or Gold Mountain. They built the Canadian Pacific Railway that opened the doors to the commerce that created the positive nonstop roll into the 20th century. From cobbled late Victorian Gastown to shiny postmodern glass cathedrals of that commerce, the short but amazing history growth unfolded.

A Stunning Harbor

With the stunning natural harbor as a backdrop, Vancouver has become the busiest port on North America’s west coast which operates all year round, handling all of Canada’s trade with Japan and the east.

The Outdoors Man’s Paradise

On clear days, mountains seem close enough to touch. Here is a place skiing on a world-class mountain and rock climbing are a draw for sportsmen worldwide. Mountain biking, kayaking and wilderness hiking are available in close proximity for the outdoor lover. Two thousand acre wilderness parks are situated within the city limits for the enjoyment of the locals and visitors alike.

Stunning Sculpture

A visit to the Museum of Anthropology on the campus of the University of British Columbia will give the visitor an insight to early native life. A stunning sculpture by Bill Ried called, “The Raven and the First Humans” and gigantic totem poles at the entrance are worth the visit alone to this beautifully designed building.

Easy to Get Around

The main part of Vancouver includes the downtown area, Stanley Park, and the west end high-rise residential neighborhood sits on a peninsula bordered by English Bay and the Pacific Ocean on the west; by False Creek (where the super 1982 Expo was held), the inlet home of Granville Island to the south; and to the north by Burrard Inlet, the working port of the city. Gastown and Chinatown lies on the edge of Burrard Inlet, around Main Street, which runs north-south and is roughly a dividing line between the east and the west side.

Indignity at Its Best

Gastown evolved when an enterprising young man saw a need and filled it. Since the employers of the sawmills in the mid 19th century had a ban on drinking on the mill property, the workers found that the former river boat Captain Jack Deighton could save them a long trip to town to New Westminister. He had landed his canoe with a wife and a cask of good grade whiskey. He built a saloon close to the mill property and immediately began selling to the workers. They called him “Gassy Jack” because he was so garrulous. A small community rose up around his establishment and became known as Gassy’s Town and this was the embryo for what is now Vancouver. The area is now known as Gastown. The area sunk into a downtrodden, poor, skid-row type area for many years until 1970 where it was renovated; the Victorian buildings were restored into pleasant restaurants, boutiques, bars and galleries. The streets were set with brick with lamps of that era, street vendors and street performers bring the delightful flavor of the past. A great place to relax and enjoy.

A Complex-Complex

Canada Place is a glorious huge complex left over from the superb Expo 86. It is a major city landmark with its tent-like sails and overall resembles an ocean liner. It houses shops, restaurants, offers marvelous views across Burrard Inlet. It now is home to the city’s World Trade Center, BC Convention Center and the Pan Pacific Hotel. It is also a terminal for the cruise ships leaving and returning to and from Alaska. The five story CN IMAX Theater is found here and shows amazing features that gathers the audience as a part of the huge awesome panoramic film.

A City to Enjoy

Vancouver is a city to enjoy and savor. The people are friendly, laid back and there is an abundance of wonderful history (especially for a city so young). A truly great destination, and so many varied things to do and see.

Getting There

Air Canada offers its fine service to Vancouver with three nonstops every day. This is a popular destination that most airlines offer flights to Vancouver. Check with your travel consultant for times and best rates.

The Pan Pacific is an exciting pulsating spot--good service and location. It is in the expensive category, but Vancouver also has available and reasonable B&Bs and hotels. Your travel consultant is your best bet.

Dining

Great food everywhere. Varied prices and with the Canadian dollar at this time in our favor, makes everything a bigger bargain.

Camille Bounds is the travel editor for Sunrise Publications and The Inland Empire Business Journal.

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