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Metro Vancouver is the largest metropolitan city in British Columbia and the third largest in Canada. It is known for its stunning surrounding natural beauty, including its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, coastal mountains, and numerous parks and green spaces.

Climate – And What To Wear

Vancouver enjoys warm, comfortable weather with moderate temperatures that are tempered by sea breezes.

May weather in Vancouver is warm:

Average temperature: 18ºC / 64ºF
Average high: 22ºC / 71ºF
Average low: 14ºC / 57ºF

There are about fifteen hours of sunshine per day. Light fabrics or short sleeves is advisable during the day, with a light jacket or sweater for evenings. Visitors can expect warm weather and sunshine.

Accessibility

Vancouver enjoys a reputation as being one of the most accessible cities in the world among travelers with special needs. Whether using wheelchairs, white canes, seeing eye dogs or hearing aids, Vancouver leads the way in making the area a more livable place for people with disabilities through its progressive transportation systems, innovative housing and recreational opportunities.

Languages

Canada has two official languages – English and French. English is the predominant language in British Columbia, though many other languages are spoken throughout the province.

Time Zone / Daylight Savings Time

Vancouver, and most of BC, is in the Pacific Time Zone which is one hour behind Mountain Standard Time (Alberta and some eastern areas of BC) and three hours behind Eastern Standard Time (Ontario/New York). Daylight savings time is in effect from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November.

Metric Measures

Canada follows the International Metric System. Temperatures, rainfall measures, distance, weights, velocity are expressed in metric units. Distance is measured in kilometres.

Electricity

Outlets and voltage (120 volts) are the same as in the United States. Small appliances such as hair dryers, irons, razors, etc. can be used in Canada. For those from other countries, adapters are required for electrical appliances. The frequency of electrical current in Canada is 60 Hz.

Currency

The currency of Canada is the Canadian dollar (sign: $ or C$; code: CAD).

To avoid exchange problems, visitors are advised to exchange their funds to Canadian dollars at a bank or a foreign currency exchange outlet.

Money

Paper bills: $5 (blue), $10 (purple), $20 (green), $50 (red) and $100 (brown) denominations.

Coins include the nickel (5¢), dime (10¢), quarter (25¢), ‘loonie’ ($1) and ‘toonie’ ($2).

Electronic Transactions

Credit cards, ATMs, and direct-debit cards are commonly used in Canada.

Visa, MasterCard, and American Express cards are widely accepted in most stores and restaurants.

Banks

Banking hours are generally 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Some banks are open on Saturday.

ATMs (Automated Teller Machines or cash machines) are found at the airport, banks and in retail areas.

Tipping

Tipping in Vancouver is normal and is around 15% to 20% of the bill.

Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking is restricted at many places in Vancouver, including public transportation, restaurants, places of work and enclosed public areas. The current legal drinking age in B.C. is 19 years of age.