Imagine living in a city where you can enjoy the glories of snow-peaked mountains in merely one hour of travel. Now imagine how it would feel if you could set off to breezy, sandy beach shores within 45 minutes of travel from the same mountains! Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Well, this dream is a reality called the city of Vancouver in Canada.
There’s a reason why Canada is ranked as the second most beautiful country in the world by multiple surveys. From the majestic Rocky Mountains in Alberta to the Great Lakes in Ontario, the grand country is truly blessed with it all.
Not only is the country considered beautiful, it is also ranked among the ten happiest countries in the world according to the World Happiness Report 2019. One of the many sources of happiness is the ability to pursue one’s interests and passion apart from working or studying alone. In this aspect, I consider myself lucky to have been blessed with the opportunity to reside in one of the most scenic and stunning cities in the world, Vancouver while I was pursuing my Master’s degree.
In this article, I’ll share with you a wide array of interests and hobbies you can pursue while you are in Canada. Whether you are going for academic, work or residential purpose, there is something for everyone. Let’s get digging!
Heaven for running/biking enthusiasts
If you love to go on long walks or biking, then Stanley Park, which has a stunning seawall along the park, is the place for you. A lot of folks prefer going hiking along the many trails around Vancouver. The views from the top are nothing short of breath-taking. Some of the most popular trails to visit are Quarry Rock at Deep Cove, Eagle Bluffs, Grouse Mountain Grind, St. Mark’s Summit, Garibaldi Lake and Stawmus Chief.
Beach buffs
In case you are a beach enthusiast, as I am, then you are in for a real treat. Vancouver is home to nine beaches! The most popular ones are English Bay, Kitsilano and Spanish Banks. You can even go paddling or boating to False Creek which is within the city. The sunset at the English Bay is a sight to behold and you can even see the ships dock in the bay area from the shores.
Sports lovers
Sports enthusiasts, especially Ice Hockey lovers, flock to Rogers Arena, home of the Vancouver Canucks to catch the game and wear the team jersey with pride. Go Canucks! Skiing fans can hit the slopes as soon as the first snowfall arrives. Head up to Whistler and Blackcomb ski mountains which have world-renowned ski resorts to get some R and R and snowboarding.
Foodie’s utopia
Vancouver is also home to the largest Chinatown after San Francisco, where some of the best authentic Chinese restaurants of the city are located. One of Vancouver’s most famous sites, The Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is also located here. It’s the first Chinese garden to be built outside of China and is worth visiting. You can also take the Seabus ferry boat ride and head to the Lonsdale Quay Market in North Vancouver where the local market has amazing fruit stalls, fresh fish and cafes to relax in. The views of Downtown Vancouver from this market are stunning.
Photography fanatics
Photography enthusiasts have a field day shooting in Vancouver. The best views are to be found between May and August where the sun shines bright and yellow.
In a nutshell, many interests are waiting to be pursued. I hope you get an opportunity to experience this wonderful place and rekindle your interest in an old hobby or discover an entirely new one!
So what are your hobbies? What are the hobbies you wish to take up upon moving abroad? Let me know your answers in the comment section below. Also, tell us if you found the article helpful in the comment box below. Have a terrific week!
