Top five neighborhoods in Vancouver

Vancouver is undeniably multicultural in her attitude and decor, but it’s not until you have stepped foot into each of the diverse neighborhoods that you get the true colors of her rainbow.

Photo by Taz, Commons Wikimedia

1. Gastown – It is Vancouver’s oldest sibling, as far as neighborhoods go.  It’s rich in history, beautiful architecture, one-of-a-kind shops and thriving restaurants and bars. It’s an up-and-coming area of Vancouver, which means that new apartments and businesses are popping up like spring flowers. Dancing, dining, shopping and sightseeing are all in a day’s visit to Gastown. Learn a little more about Gastown and Vancouver’s history by going on a Historic Walking Tour. And, no trip to Gastown is complete without a walk past the famous Steam Clock .

2. Commercial Drive – What was once well known as “Little Italy”, The Drive is now known as something even more diverse and eclectic. Restaurants vary from Ethiopian cuisine to Latin flavors to get your taste buds dancing. Me & Julio’s is a popular choice and it’s hard to go wrong with anything on their menu. Commercial also has many great shops and will have you covered if you’re looking for a new frock, olive oil from Italy or art. It’s also home to the Winter Farmers’ Market, where on a Saturday morning you can pick up local flavors and produce; an ideal way to start your weekend off. If the weather is nice, Trout Lake is a choice spot to spend a sunny afternoon.

3. Yaletown – This area was born after Expo 86; prior to that it was a warehouse district and elements of that era can still be seen in the architecture of current businesses and loft apartments and offices. Today, Yaletown is a buzzing neighborhood filled with lovely boutiques, art galleries, book stores and a large number of reputable restaurants. For a guaranteed fun night and the best oyster experience in the city, dive into Rodney’s. Yaletown is also perched on the Seawall, so rent a bike and take yourself for a cruise. It’s the best thing you can do on a sunny day in the city.

3. Main – Main Street is hip, just like Commercial and Yaletown, but totally unique in its own right and exudes individual vibes, making it unlike any other neighborhood in the city. Main is scattered with charming shops that hold funky pieces, delightful cafés and tasty restaurants. Les Faux Bourgeois is worth a trip out there for affordable and delicio

Photo by Mikano 2003, Commons Wikimedia

us French cuisine.

4. West End – Walking down Davie and Denman, you will notice that there’s color everywhere; the bus stops are pink and Pride flags are hung high. The West End is known for some great restaurants, fresh produce shops and beaches. On a warm summer day, English Bay welcomes eager sun-lovers to go for a swim, have a picnic or to just chill out. The Seawall runs along the West End, so it’s also a great spot to take a break and enjoy the ocean and mountain views.

5. Little India – It’s a little out of the way from Downtown, but well worth the trip if you’re craving traditional Indian delights, beautiful silks or a proper eyebrow threading. Located on Main Street, between 41st and 54th, the spicy aromas, colorful sari shops and restaurants will peak your senses as you bop about. If you appreciate architecture, the Sikh Temple on Ross Street is quite impressive.