Vancouver is the largest city in Western Canada, located at the southwestern corner of the province of British Columbia. Situated between the North Shore and Coast Mountains and the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is recognized as one of North America’s most beautiful cities. With its scenic views, mild climate, and friendly people, it is known around the world as both a popular tourist attraction and one of the best places to live.
The vibrant downtown core offers all of the amenities of an international destination, from hundreds of restaurants and clubs, to countless parks and recreation facilities and world-class entertainment.
Vancouver is also one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in Canada. Federal government departments provide service in English and French, but most of the population speaks English as either a first or second language.
The City of Vancouver is quite cosmopolitan, and is a mix of many multicultural groups. Because the city is multicultural, it’s also multilingual on an unofficial level. Vancouverites speak many different languages and many follow the traditions of their native lands, sometimes moderating them with Canadian culture.
93% of Vancouver residents speak English, 16% speak Cantonese, 11% speak Mandarin, and 10% speak French.
Vancouver has hosted many international conferences and events, including the 2010 Winter Olympics and 2010 Winter Paralympics.
Indigenous Peoples in Vancouver
The City of Vancouver is located on the traditional, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, who have lived on these lands since time immemorial.
As a City of Reconciliation, the City of Vancouver has committed to “form a sustained relationship of mutual respect and understanding with local First Nations and the urban Indigenous community.” This is an ongoing and evolving commitment, and one that is essential to our path forward.
