Vancouver-travel-tips
Vancouver Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips
Getting Around:
- Public Transit: Vancouver boasts an excellent public transit system with buses, SkyTrain (rapid transit), and SeaBus (ferry). Purchase a Compass Card for easy fare payment.
- Walking & Cycling: Vancouver is very walkable and bike-friendly. Explore Stanley Park, Granville Island, or the seawall on foot or rent a bike.
Cultural Etiquette:
- Politeness: Canadians are known for their politeness. Say “please” and “thank you” frequently.
- Queuing: Line up patiently and respect personal space in queues. Cutting lines is frowned upon.
- Tipping: Tip servers 15-20% at restaurants and bars, and $2-5 for taxi drivers.
Dining:
- Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially during peak season, make reservations in advance.
- Dress Code: Most Vancouver restaurants are casual, but fine dining establishments may have dress codes. Check beforehand.
- Sharing: Sharing dishes is common and encouraged in some restaurants.
Nature & Wildlife:
- Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, pack out your trash, and admire wildlife from a distance. Don’t feed animals.
- Bear Safety: Be aware of bears in mountainous areas. Carry bear spray and know what to do if you encounter one.
Other Tips:
- Weather: Vancouver has mild weather year-round but be prepared for rain, even in summer. Pack layers.
- Language: English is the primary language spoken in Vancouver.
Enjoy your trip!