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Vancouver is a city that has taken two steps forward into the future while still keeping one foot into the past. It's a modern metropolis on the cutting edge of architecture and amenities for its citizens in the most expensive city in Canada. At the same time, it treasures its parks and nearby wilderness. The Rocky Mountains are just at its back-door, the Pacific Ocean at its front door and a cluster of skyscrapers in its centre.

Essentials in Vancouver

Staying au courrant while keeping its down-to-earth and trendy feel is something that Vancouver does without effort. While the city's official history starts just 125 years ago, the area has roots dating back centuries. With strong aboriginal roots, Vancouver is a city that celebrates the arts. It's a hub for culture and rich traditions passed from generations. Explore the hip and trendy neighbourhoods but don't forget to appreciate the impressive nature around as well.

Stanley Park: 1000+ acres large, Stanley Park is an impressive green oasis in the middle of the city. It's known for its old forests and great trails. Inside the park don't miss the Siwash Rock, a 32 million-year-old sea stack just off from Third Beach. Beaver Lake, for its... beavers and wild lilies and Prospect Point for great views of Lions Gate Bridge and Burrard Inlet.

Vancouver Art Gallery: This art space is edgy, on the forefront of exhibiting the best in modern and contemporary art that is exploding out of Canadian artists these days. It's ticket to fame was its collection of Emily Carr paintings, the famous unofficial female member of the Group of Seven. Today it's the place to see what's going on in the world of art and hosts a number of stand-out temporary exhibitions featuring global artists a year.

Granville Island: This island is famous for one thing: the marketplace. It's an extravaganza of gourmet fish, cheeses, baked goods and fruits. The locals flock here on weekends to pick up their produce and the atmosphere is addictive. Chat it up with the vendors and you'll quickly see why Canadians are reputed to being the friendliest people on earth. From here, the nearby seawall is a great place to walk for its views.

Museum of Anthropology: Canada's north-west is seeping in rich history and cultural traditions passed down from the First Nation's people. This is the best museum in the country to discover how these aboriginal communities shaped Canada into the country it is today. The huge collection of totem poles alone are worth the visit. Don't miss the art from Bill Reid, one of Canada's most famed Haida artists.

Whistler: While not in Vancouver, it's the most popular ski spot nearby. It's considered one of the best skiing spots in North America and is but a short drive up the mountain from Vancouver. This is where the 2010 Olympic Winter Games were held.

Find more information on tourismvancouver.com.

Accommodations in Vancouver

Because of Vancouver's varied and distinct neighbourhoods, you can bet that the hotel scene offers just as much variety and that there are hotels located all around the city. There is a host of new hotels and accommodations thanks to the Winter Olympic Games in 2010. In keeping with the city's chic and luxe vibe, hotels in Vancouver have had to make many innovations to keep up with the trends in Canada's most expensive city. Spas are the norm, even in smaller boutique-style hotels.

The best rooms in the city have waterfront views and can also be found in the city's heritage houses in fashionable neighbourhoods like the West End. It's best to choose a neighbourhood close to the part of the city you most want to explore. If it's your first time in Vancouver, stay central. If you're looking to enjoy the outdoors more, find someone within a few minutes walk of Stanley Park. If you have access to a rental car, there's no problem grabbing a hotel room on the West Side or the North Shore (cheaper too).