Written by Lana Tang, Manager, Programs and Student Services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For many of you, moving to Vancouver might be a new adventure, and you’re in a great position to explore this amazing city with an open mind. I moved to Vancouver a decade ago, and what really helped me understand the job market here was taking the time to research the vibe and immerse myself in the city\u2019s culture. It gave me a sense of belonging here and I made some very meaningful connections along the way. Here are some tips to help you get started on discovering what Vancouver has to offer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Embrace the Outdoors:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n People move to Vancouver because of the beautiful outdoors! People come to Vancouver for the stunning natural environment! You\u2019re surrounded by mountains, and it\u2019s easy to reach hiking trails in the forest. Plus, the transit system is efficient, so you don\u2019t always need a car to explore. For walking and hiking trails, Stanley Park, Pacific Spirt Park and Lynn Canyon are all accessible by bus. Not only are you getting exercise but being in a forest can be nourishing for the soul. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Many Canadians move to Vancouver for its outdoor lifestyle, so it\u2019s a great topic to use in small talk. Showing an interest in nature and trying some of the city\u2019s popular trails will help you connect with others. People who love the outdoors are often excited to share their favourite trails and will give you recommendations to try. It\u2019s a great way to build new friendships!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Go See a Game:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When people think of Canada, they often think of hockey. While Vancouver is home to the Vancouver Canucks hockey team, there are other sports teams and games to enjoy, often with cheaper tickets. Learning about popular Canadian sports and attending games can help you connect with locals and get a sense of Canadian culture. Even if you didn\u2019t grow up playing these sports, watching or participating can still create shared experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are a few of the professional sports teams in Vancouver:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whitecaps<\/a> (Soccer in North America, which is football everywhere else in the world) is Vancouver\u2019s own soccer team. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver Warriors<\/a> is Vancouver\u2019s own lacrosse team. The origin of Lacrosse is rooted in Canada through various Indigenous nations in North America. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver Canadians<\/a> is Vancouver\u2019s own baseball team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Join a Sports Team or Club:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019d rather play sports than watch them, Vancouver has many sports clubs and leagues you can join. The City of Vancouver offers a great list on their website<\/a>. Playing a sport or joining a league is a great way to meet people outside your program. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Take a Class at a Community Centre:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver\u2019s many community centers offer classes in everything from fitness and cooking to art and swimming. These classes are often more affordable than those at private gyms. To find activities that interest you, check the City of Vancouver\u2019s Recreation portal<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Community center classes are a great way to meet people of different ages and backgrounds who share your interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Join and Volunteer at the Neighbourhood House<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Neighbourhood Houses<\/a> bring people together to build stronger communities. Each house reflects the needs of the area it serves, making it a unique way to connect with locals. Volunteering at a neighbourhood house allows you to give back while learning about the issues that matter most to that community. There\u2019s also an opportunity to participate in their neighbourhood events in case you\u2019re not able to volunteer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check Out Free Events Around the City:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver can be expensive, so take advantage of free events! Several websites list free events around Vancouver:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Eventbrite<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Meetup Vancouver<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Do604<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Car Free day<\/a> is an event where certain streets are closed to traffic and filled with live music, vendors, and food. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are other festivals and events to explore\u2014many of which offer volunteer opportunities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Italian Day on Commercial Drive<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Greek Day on Broadway<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Khatsahlano Street Party<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n South Flats Fest<\/a> \u2013 CDM was part of the Innovation Hub at Flats Fest. It was a wonderful event!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver Mural Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Powell Street Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Celebration of Light<\/a> \u2013 Firework festival<\/p>\n\n\n\n Carnaval del Sol<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dragon Boat Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Check out a Film or a Show!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver has an amazing film and theatre scene. There are many film festivals to check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver International Film Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Just for Laughs Film Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Documentary Film Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver Queer Film Festival <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver Latin American Film Festival <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vancouver Asian Film Festival <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Bard on the Beach<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Fringe Festival<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Arts Club Theatre<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Clutch<\/p>\n\n\n\n