Vancouver is one of my all-time favorite destinations. I love strolling through the West End with its shops and cafés along Denman Street (don't miss eating at the Rain City Grill - excellent food and service with a great wine list) and walking along English Bay as well as through Stanley Park.

If you don't have time to go to Whistler, you can have a lovely time atop Grouse Mountain, which is very close to the city (about 25 minutes' drive as I recall). You take a cable car up the mountain where you will find skiing (conditions permitting), decent food and drink and a spectacular view of the area.

On the way to/from Grouse Mountain, you can stop at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which you can cross (it's a little scary!).

"Gastown" is also interesting as is Granville Island, the waterfront and Canada Place...I could go on and on!

The ferry to/from Victoria is a fine trip and, for a more local (and brief) excursion on water, take the SeaBus across Burrard Inlet to North Vancouver for a beautiful view of the Vancouver skyline.

On one visit, I took a floatplane (DeHaviland Beaver) over to the Gulf Islands on the "mail run"...a thrilling experience with gorgeous scenery.

No matter which option(s) you choose, you are certain to have a wonderful time in Vancouver...will you please share your experiences in a trip report?

Meanwhile, you might want to have a look at these web sites:
http://www.tourism-vancouver.org/docs/visit/index.html
http://www.vancouvertourist.com/
http://www.bctransit.com

[This message has been edited by bbinchi (edited 10-11-2000).]