Vancouver

Filed in archive Hidden Gems on August 7, 2007

Vancouver is a mere border hop from the U.S. This city is consistently touted as one of the most pleasant places to live. It is definitely one of Canada's most diverse and colorful cities. With the 2010 Winter Olympic Games coming to town, Vancouver might be able to raise its profile as a viable vacation destination.

The city's diverse ethnic population means year round festivities including Chinese New Year and Oktoberfest. The surrounding mountainous regions offer plenty of outdoor activity during both summer and winter. The music scene, once comparable to Seattle's, continues to thrive, though nightlife itself is somewhat hampered by early closing times and strict zoning. Perhaps, as the games draw nearer, things will loosen up.

And, of course, there is the Canadian dollar, one of the few currencies that have a favorable exchange rate with the U.S. Dollar.