Links and What to do in your spare time

Vancouver is a dynamic, multicultural city set in a spectacular natural environment. As both a vital centre of international trade and business, and a home to Canadian culture, sport and outdoor activities, Vancouver promises to be another perfect venue for the Zone 24-32 Rotary Institute. Vancouver has a number of impressive venues from which to enjoy an evening of music. Treat yourself to a symphony or opera in one of Vancouver’s state-of-the-art facilities, or try the opulent and historic Orpheum Theatre, home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra since 1930. For visitors, First Nations art can be a way to truly experience a unique culture. Because art was often worn or used for practical purposes – in ceremonies and storytelling, for example – First Nations art pieces provide a great deal of insight into aboriginal life. Of course, you’ll find the best examples of First Nations art in Vancouver’s galleries.

TRANSPORTATION - Given Vancouver’s unique location, there are a number of ways of getting around the city. A network of buses, trains, skytrains, and seabuses (ferries) link all parts of the city. Given that the institute is located in main downtown Vancouver, most of the city’s sites and attractions can be reached on foot or via a short cab or bus ride.

WEATHER - Warmed by Pacific Ocean currents and protected by a range of mountains, Vancouver enjoys mild temperatures year-round. From high 70s Fahrenheit (low 20s Celsius) in summer to a mild mid- 40s Fahrenheit (0º to 5º Celsius) in winter, the climate is always hospitable. The average daily high temperature in October is around 15º Celsius or 60º Fahrenheit. Weather is a popular topic in Vancouver because the weather here insists on being a factor in people's lives. It's true that Vancouver gets more rain than a lot of cities, especially in the winter. However, the result of all that rain is spectacular greenery and urban scenery, 130,000 street trees, fantastic spring blossoms and fall colors, clean air and a healthy place to live. Vancouver has an average 11.40 hours of daylight each day in October. There is a chance of warm dry Vancouver rain during the Institute.

There are more than 100 street food venders in the downtown core. They sell every type of food from hotdogs to Asian fusion to gourmet cuisine.You will find everything from dim sum and southern BBQ, to fresh fruits and vegetables, burritos and a host of other international flavours.   If you can make it in a food cart – you will find it.