🇨🇦 The Best Way to Experience Vancouver? Take It Slow 🌿
My first trip to Vancouver lasted six days. I took it easy—and that’s exactly why I fell in love with this city 😍. Most downtown attractions are within walking distance. You could rush through them in 1–2 days, but I highly recommend slowing down 🚶♀️🍃. You’ll enjoy it so much more! I suggest staying within the gray area marked on the map It’s safe, walkable, and close to major sights — perfect for early morning or evening strolls without the crowds. Here’s what I recommend (see map for locations): 1️⃣ Stanley Park 🌳 Cycle the 9-km seawall (rental: $10-15/hour). Go at sunrise or sunset 🚴♀️🌅. Also, take a walk through the forest trails — you’ll find lakes, rose gardens, an aquarium, and wildlife like squirrels, geese, and seals! 2️⃣ Granville Island 🎨 Take a small ferry there 🛥️. Explore the public market, artisan studios, galleries, and craft shops. So colorful and full of creative vibes! 3️⃣ Gastown & the Steam Clock ⏳ Perfect for slow walks, people-watching, and relaxing at a street-side café ☕. 4️⃣ Canada Place ⛵ Iconic sail-shaped building with a cruise terminal, convention center, and shops. 5️⃣ 7️⃣ Coal Harbour & Seaplane Terminal ✈️ A beautiful waterfront walk. Next time, I’m trying a seaplane tour! 6️⃣ Sunset Beach 🌇 Perfect for evening walks and watching the sun set (after 9 PM in summer!). 8️⃣ Robson Street 🛍️ Go shopping at Lululemon, Arc’teryx, Aritzia, Club Monaco, and enjoy great food. Aritzia is a must — it’s a Vancouver brand! 9️⃣ UBC Campus 🎓 One of the most beautiful universities in North America — surrounded by ocean on three sides. 🔟 Queen Elizabeth Park 🌷 The highest point in the city. Stop by the Seasons Hilltop Restaurant for views over Vancouver and the mountains 🏔️. 1️⃣1️⃣ Arc’teryx Outlet 🎒 Discounts start at 30% off — some styles are even cheaper. A favorite among visitors! …and there’s still more I didn’t see — like Capilano Suspension Bridge or Whistler. That’s the beauty of slow travel 🧘♀️❤️. You don’t always have to rush. Traveling at 50+ is about savoring every moment 🍵📸. #MyTravelDiary #Vancouver #TravelCanada #SlowTravel #Over50Travel #RelaxingTrip #TravelGuide #RetirementLife #VancouverTips