Taking in Vancouver on a Budget
Canada’s west coast is home to Vancouver, one of the hippest and most trendy cities in North America. But, is a visit to this popular destination going to put your travel budget in a tailspin? Not at all!
With some planning you can experience this Northwest wonder and even leave with change in your pockets.
The first consideration is what time of year to visit. Travelling in the off season is one way to save a big chunk of money off the top. Vancouver has the mildest winter climate in all of Canada, so don’t immediately disregard a winter visit.
Where to stay
For the best Vancouver hotel deals, you might want to look outside of the city center. While doing your search, make sure to pay attention to how close the hotel is to the train line, or you’ll be spending a lot of time walking or spending more cash on cabs.
What to Eat
If you love to eat than you’re going to be very happy in Vancouver. The city has a thriving, diverse food scene loaded with delicious international cuisine. Granville Island is home to a famous public market – one of Vancouver’s most popular places to grab a bite. You can purchase whole foods or prepared items. Plus there’s lots of free samples!
When you’re ready for something more substantial, a visit to Vancouver’s Chinatown or Little India is an experience for all senses. One food craze that is alive and well in Vancouver is food trucks. There are at least 50 in the city, some are always in one place while others are mobile. Grab the Vancouver Street Food App to find what’s nearby.
What to Do
It’s probably not a surprise that there’s lots to do outside in Vancouver. While it’s a large city, there is access to plenty of nature. The Grouse Grind is a vertical climb up a serious hill but for $10 you can take the gondola back down. For an easier option take a hike to the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge or walk through Stanley Park – the city’s largest. If you’re visiting in winter and want to ski, Whistler ski resort is 125km away.
If museums are more your style the Vancouver Art Gallery is home to more than 10,000 works of art. The Museum of Anthropology and H.R. McMillan Space Center are two other interesting museums worth a visit. Kids will enjoy Science World at Telus World of Science for exhibits and hands-on demonstrations. Located right on the Pacific Ocean, the Vancouver Aquarium provides lots of entertainment for visitors but also is dedicated to the important work of education and conservation.
Be sure to check local listings before you go as there are many activities, performances and events in the city year-round that are free or very reasonably priced. No matter what time of year you visit a Vancouver vacation has something special to offer!
Also, don’t forget to use your Expedia Rewards, and get exclusive member-only deals and bonus offers as you shop. Plus, you’ll get Unreal Deals— the day’s absolute best package deals leaving from your home airport — with savings as big as 100% off flights or hotels.
Now that’s budget travel!
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