Vancouver — The Big O

Photo by Lucas Finlay

The boom precipitated by the 2010 Winter Olympics is altering the city’s skyline, as seen here in Southeast False Creek, future site of the Olympic Village. As people deal with delays, detours, and dump trucks, the mood of Vancouver’s citizens is also shifting. Short-term pain for long-term gain? Let the Games begin.

The Olympics represent a once-in-a-century chance for a host city to send a message to the world. Salt Lake City used the 2002 Winter Games to position Park City, Utah, as an exclusive vacation resort on par with Vail and Aspen. Turin used the 2006 Games to restore that city’s image from foundering urban rustbelt — the Detroit of Italy — to sophisticated European capital. What will the 250,000 visitors and three billion television viewers think of Vancouver in the wake of 2010? That it’s North America’s gateway to the Pacific Rim? That its combination of human capital and natural abundance and political stability makes it a compelling place to invest? That it’s one of the world’s most livable cities? How about all of the above.

On The Block

Like all great cities, Vancouver is a collection of diverse neighbourhoods — get to know them, and the people who live there, at these top spots to eat, drink, and shop.

Downtown »»
Yaletown »»
Coal Harbour »»
Gastown/Chinatown »»
West End »»
False Creek »»
Kitsilano »»
South Granville »»
Kerrisdale »»
South Main »»
Commercial Drive »»
Hastings Sunrise »»
Strathcona »»
North Shore »»

VANCOUVER REAL ESTATE

Where the Other Half Lives »»
The 5 most expensive homes in the region.

Vancouver Real Estate Guide »»
Vancouver Real Estate Resources