Staying local during the pandemic gives Vancouverites the opportunity to get to know our city again. As we transition into the fiery colours of autumn, here are some reasons to play tourist in our town with a staycation or day trip to the city.
Hear me out: Yes, 2020 has been a crazy year. And yes, the pandemic cancelled our trips abroad. But we live in the most gorgeous city. My old roommate used to say we live in a postcard, and she’s 100% right.
Playing tourist in my town has always been a favourite activity — particularly when I started dating my English partner. Five years later, I’m still discovering or re-discovering new things about the city I grew up in. The need to stay close to home gives us an incredible opportunity to show our city some love, and here are some hidden benefits:
Museum of Anthropology at UBC
Appointments for attractions mean VIP treatment
Feel like a VIP wherever you go. Booking an appointment at attractions or activities means no crowds and a more personal experience — it also gives some peace of mind. And it feels amazing to essentially have place to yourself.
Venues booking appointments include the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Art Gallery, Fly Over Canada and Grouse Mountain gondola. Click here for other local favourites offering timed-entry tickets for peaceful visits.
Prince of Whales Whale Watching
Off-peak rates and deals for locals
A little known “secret” in major tourist centres is that many places offer deals for locals and usually have off-peak rates. Vancouver is no exception, and now is the time to take advantage of some great family discounts before the kids go back to school or before you need to get back to work. Rent a boat, go kayaking, visit some museums, go on a whale watching tour — Vancouver is your oyster. Find some great deals here.
Photo: Shutterstock
City-endorsed patio extensions and alcohol consumption in outdoor public spaces
If you’ve ever had a picnic in Hyde Park or sipped wine in the Champ de Mars, you’re as thrilled as I am that our city now allows responsible alcohol consumption in certain outdoor public spaces and parks. The city has also endorsed patio extensions for restaurants, breweries and cafes, which have made for Vancouver to feel especially European.
A sparkling clean public transportation experience
Translink’s Safe Operating Action Plan (a.k.a. SOAP) and the now mandatory use of masks on transit, BC Ferries and other modes of public transport have made for a very clean and safe passenger experience. Taking transit also has the added bonus of not having to worry about parking — always a win! Find out more about Translink’s COVID-19 safety protocols here.
Photo: Pan Pacific Hotel
A tropical getaway poolside is just a short car or transit ride away
Who needs Vegas or Mexico when your poolside oasis is in the downtown core? Hop on transit or roll into valet parking like a boss to settle in for a poolside staycation. Tropical cocktails and stunning mountain views await at hotels like Pan Pacific, Fairmont Pacific Rim and Westin Bayshore.
Things to keep in mind as you explore Vancouver local:
- Make sure you have a mask at the ready
- Respect the policies of establishments you visit
- Wash or sanitize your hands often and well
- Please remember to follow Dr. Bonnie Henry’s Good Times Guide.
- Socially distance, even in outdoor public spaces
- We’re all in this together!
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