Just as Captain James Cook spread word to the home country about New Zealand's potential for acquisition, he was also the catalyst for the British colonisation of Canada, sailing into British Colombia in 1778.
What must have left Cook awestruck 230 years ago remains the same for visitors to Vancouver today - the interlay of soaring mountain ranges and sweeping waterways creates a backdrop of epic proportions.
Vancouver has been endowed with dramatic scenery that leaves a lasting impression, in addition to the feast of sights and activities it offers.
Canada Place is a hallmark of waterfront design. Built for the World Expo in 1986, it's designed to resemble a series of sails and is home to the city's cruise ship terminal and convention centre. It's a stunning vantage point to survey the imposing landscape that cradles the city.
Gastown was the birthplace of colonial Vancouver, named in honour of "Gassy" Jack Deighton, an English sailor who jettisoned his day-job to open the city's first saloon. A humorous bronze statue of Gassy Jack posing on top of a beer barrel adorns the intersection of Cordova and Water Sts .
Gastown has been revitalised as a heritage precinct, studded with a huge range of souvenir shops, bars and restaurants, and cool urban living. A short stroll brings you to one of North America's biggest Chinatown districts. This vibrant neighbourhood is one of the city's oldest. The bustling market stalls of exotic produce and timeless Chinese remedies are touted to passersby. If you're visiting in the summer months, the night market is not to be missed. Don't miss the Classical Chinese Garden, either, which provides a haven of tranquillity, resplendent with pine trees, winding paths, traditional sculptures and some resident turtles.
If market shopping and art studios wet your whistle, Granville Island is a thrill. Dozens of artisans have opened galleries and quirky stores, such as the fabulous Umbrella Shop.
A popular haunt is the Public Market, which is more like an indoor food bazaar bursting with gourmet meat, fish, cheese and bakery delights. Pop into Granville Island Brewing, particularly if want to sample the agreeable Maple Cream Ale.
Stanley Park is the biggest urban park in North America. Originally a military reserve, this expansive green space was handed over to the city in 1891. Flora buffs will be enchanted by the rose and rhododendron gardens, which are Vancouver's most popular spots for wedding photos. In a striking salute to Vancouver's First Nation people, a collection of eight totem poles are well worth admiring.
Plenty of family-friendly attractions are available, including a children's farmyard, miniature railway and the aquarium centre, which houses more than 9000 sea creatures.