Nick Hays

Vice president Canada, Vancouver

The explorer

Vancouver is all about the outdoors. Stanley Park is one of the world’s great urban parks, with a seawall you can walk or cycle around for stunning views of the city, the harbour and the mountains to the north.
Or explore the dozens of trails that wind through Stanley Park’s 405-hectare rainforest interior. By then you’ll be thirsty, so head to The Teahouse at Third Beach for sunset views over drinks or dinner.
North of the city, Horseshoe Bay is a picturesque seaside village worth a visit. It’s the launching pad for ferries to the islands and the starting point of the gruelling Baden-Powell trail. It also has Vancouver’s best fish and chips at family-run restaurant Troll’s. For nearby hikes try Lynn Canyon for something easy (take your swimming gear if the weather’s good) or the tough Grouse Grind – if you dare…

Simpson Cheung

Payroll administrator, Vancouver

The hiker

Hiking is the first thing you need to do in British Columbia.

There are more than 100 hiking trails in Vancouver and the surrounding area. If you only have time for one trail, try the Joffre Lakes trail in Pemberton, three hours’ drive from Vancouver.

The Joffre Lakes area has three beautiful alpine lakes and this four-hour, 10-kilometre hiking trail gives easy access to all three.

When you get to Upper Joffre Lake, you’ll be rewarded with impressive views of the Matier Glacier that hangs high above. Picnic beside the lake with the glacier as an amazing natural backdrop. The best time to visit is between June and September – remember to bring plenty of food and water, as well as your camera.

Sharon Hung

Financial service officer, Vancouver

The day tripper

Granville Island, south of downtown Vancouver, is the day trip I always recommend: not only for the amazing local food, but because there’s so much to see.

My favourite restaurant is Edible Canada in the Public Market. There’s always lots of Canadian dishes on the menu like northern Alberta elk tartare, Nova Scotia lobster cakes and Quebec rabbit orecchiette. If you love fish and chips try Finest at Sea on Arbutus Street – but be prepared to queue.

After wandering around the market’s artisan shops, you can see a performance at The Improv Centre. If you have kids, they’ll love running around the Kids Market playground.

Before you leave the island, don’t forget to stop at the shops by the water. They sell the freshest shellfish in all of Vancouver.