One of the most beautiful cities in the world, nestled between the Rocky mountains and the Pacific ocean, Vancouver combines the best in cosmopolitan value-for-money shopping and dining with a relaxed, west coast vibe and an incredible array of outdoor activities calibrated to every pace. Whether it's strolling through the largest city park in North America (Stanley Park); sunbathing on long, secluded sandy beaches; sailing from one of the city's marinas; swimming; scuba-diving; cycling; hiking or skiing (you can be on the slopes within half an hour from the city centre), Vancouver has it all - including the most equitable climate in Canada. Truly a city for the twenty-first century, Vancouver is currently gearing up for the 2010 winter Olympics which it will host with nearby Whistler (regularly ranked one of the top five ski resorts in the world). Vancouver is the gateway to British Columbia, the emerging Okanagan wine region, and the Gulf Islands.