Life in Vancouver

Located in southwestern British Columbia, Vancouver is a young coastal city renowned for its stunning natural beauty. It was originally founded as the settlement of Gastown in 1867 with the establishment of a sawmill on the south shore of its fine natural harbour. In 1886, the growing townsite was incorporated as the City of Vancouver. A year later, the transcontinental railway was extended to the port, after which it became a vital trade link between Asia, Eastern Canada, and London. Today, Port Metro Vancouver is busiest in Canada and the fourth largest port by tonnage in North America.

Surrounded by the Coast Mountains in the north, the Straight of Georgia to the west, and the Fraser River in the south, Vancouver is an attractive tourist destination for those seeking nature, while being able to enjoy the comforts of Canada’s third-largest metropolitan area. This natural setting has made tourism Vancouver’s second-largest industry. With the establishment of major film production studios, the city has become North America’s third-largest film production centre, after LA and New York.

Vancouver has consistently ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities for over a decade. it was recognized by the Economist Intelligence Unit as the first city to rank among the world’s top ten most liveable cities for five straight years. This has attracted immigrants from around the world, which has formed the basis for a vibrant, multicultural society. Consequently, Vancouver has hosted a number of international events, including Expo 86, the World Police and Fire Games, and the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Where to Live | Housing Information

Vancouver General Hospital
The immediate area within walking distance surrounding the Vancouver General Hospital is known as the West Side, (not to be confused with the West End which is Downtown Vancouver), Fairview Slopes/False Creek, South Granville and Kitsilano, approximately 15 minute bus ride or drive to VGH or 15-20 minutes bus or drive to UBC Hospital.

UBC Hospital
The immediate area near UBC Hospital is known as West Point Grey or Arbutus/Dunbar.  This area extends to South Vancouver.  These are nice areas and tend to be expensive.  A car or a bus ride would be required to and from work.

Apartments and Houses
In the area of VGH, most apartments do not advertise in the local newspaper.  However they advertise by posting a sign in front of the building.  Living near VGH is a popular area and close to the amenities.  The main newspapers are:  The Vancouver Sun or The Province.

Accommodations websites: 

• http://vancouver.craigslist.org/
• http://www.canadarentalguide.com/
• https://www.padmapper.com/
• http://apartmentguide.ca/
• The University offers a website of home owners who rent their apartments/homes while on sabbaticals:
• http://www.sabbaticalhomes.com/
• http://www.housing.ubc.ca/: Website for UBC housing
• http://www.vanaps.ca/index.html:  This website was recommended by an incoming fellow who advised “I just wanted to forward this website to you in hopes that it can help future fellows with their house hunting.  The realtor (Tina Cooper) was extremely helpful and professional, and was a great help for placing me in a great home.”

Accommodations we recommend: