Neighbourhood highlights

DOWNTOWN

What is so special about Vancouver is that it has it all: mountains, forests, and the ocean! To make the most out of Vancouver, you have to do all the ‘touristy’ things such as walking the Seawall, going to Grouse Mountain, and watching the sunset at English Bay. As there’s only so many days without rain during the winter semester, make sure you make time to go outside on one of the rare sunny days!

— HAILEY CLARKE

DOWNTOWN Downtown Vancouver is a central point for nightlife and the more common ‘touristy’ spots (Gastown, Robson Street, etc.). Try to catch a show with your friends and support your favourite artists when they come to town. If you are in search of a daytime activity, explore Stanley Park and head over to English Bay Beach to catch some sun with takeout from Falafel King. Support small businesses and sightsee!

CHINATOWN Chinatown is an ethnically rich neighbourhood teeming with small businesses and restaurants. The community could use support now more than ever, so head over and explore this historical neighbourhood. Take some photos at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and head over to New Town Bakery & Restaurant and try the custard buns!

POINT GREY/KITSILANO These neighbourhoods are common for UBC students to live in, though Kitsilano is the pricier of the two. Kits and Point Grey are home to Jericho and Kitsilano Beaches. On these beautiful beaches, you can catch the sunset or play a game of beach volleyball. Kits and Point Grey are more suburban than some other neighbourhoods closer to downtown, so take a moment to enjoy the weather and have an equally mellow cake and coffee at Breka

KITSILANO

CHINATOWN COMMERCIAL DRIVE

Bakery and Cafe.

COMMERCIAL DRIVE Don’t know what to eat? Head over to Commercial Drive. It’s bursting with restaurants, cafes and eateries. If by chance you are looking for some great fried chicken, try Downlow Chicken Shack. Plus, Commercial Drive’s Little Italy is a wonderful place to satisfy Italian cravings. All in all, a trip down to Commercial Drive will provide ample opportunity for exploration, be it through cuisine or indie shops.

SOME SURROUNDING CITIES THAT ARE DEFINITELY WORTH VISITING:

North and West Vancouver: North and West Vancouver are home to beautiful scenery and hikes. For a less busy (and more COVID-19-friendly hike) head to Lynn Headwaters Park in North Vancouver. The walk alongside Ambleside Beach in West Van is also not to be missed. These neighbourhoods have a strong Persian presence, so drop by one of the many Persian restaurants in Lonsdale Avenue, such as Grab and Go for a delicious meal to-go. Richmond: Richmond is famous for its abundance of Asian and Asian-fusion restaurants and eateries, particularly Chinese food. If you’re keen to enjoy some dim sum or hotpot, go to Richmond. The bustling Richmond Night Market is an experience to put on your bucket list. Surrey: Surrey has a rich South Asian history evident in its restaurants and culture. Visit Payal Plaza, a.k.a. ‘Little India,’ for an introduction to what Surrey has to offer. U