[personal profile] quippe
The Blurb On The Back:

EXPLORE every corner of Vancouver, using the clearest maps of any guide.

CHOOSE where to go and what to see, inspired by dozens of photos.

READ expert background on everything from Pacific Rim cuisine to the great outdoors.

RELY on our selection of the best places to stay and eat for every budget.




Published in 2010, this Rough Guide focuses on Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Victoria, Whistler and the Gulf Islands. It’s divided into 6 main sections:
– an introduction section that summarises things to see and places to go;
- a section setting out basic information on Vancouver (including transport options, what to do on arrival in Vancouver and other travel essentials);
- a section on the city itself. This is divided into different geographical areas and breaks down things to do and see with further information on how to get there and some historical facts about the area;
- listings for accommodation, eating, drinking, nightlife, performing arts, gay-friendly places, shopping, kid-friendly activities, sports and festivals;
- a guide to Victoria. The Gulf Islands and Whistler and the Sunshine Coast; and
- a section giving more on the history and aboriginal culture of the Vancouver area.

The map sections for the various parts of Vancouver are helpful, although due to construction within the downtown area, some of the features identified are no longer present or have been replaced (most notably with store names). I also found the transportation sections particularly helpful with regard to the river bus and tram/bus system and the history sections are informative without being dry. The book also remains accurate when it comes to identifying high entrance charges for poor attractions.

Unfortunately though, the book is a product of its time and a lot has changed since publication. For example, Capilano Suspension Bridge has added more attractions to its site, as has Grouse Mountain, which made them better value for money. I also found that a lot of the restaurants have disappeared since publication (no doubt victims of the financial crisis), which did make for a little frustration.

Ultimately, it’s not a bad travel book but it is out-of-date and on that basis, I’d recommending looking for something more up-to-date (perhaps the 2013 Rough Guide Snap Shot to Vancouver).

The Verdict:

There’s a lot to like in this guidebook and the maps and public transport sections are particularly useful but it is dated with some of the information no longer being up to date (particularly in the restaurants section). As such, I’d suggest looking for a more recent book – it might be worthwhile checking out the 2014 Rough Guide Snap Shot to Vancouver, which seems to share certain information.

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