Tourism info
Vancouver is a top tourist destination, housing such attractions as Stanley Park, Granville Island, the Vancouver Aquarium, and more. Whether you sample local and world-class cuisine or immerse yourself in the great outdoors, you won’t be disappointed by the natural history and wonder this city has to offer.
For more information, visit Tourism BC.
Information for travelling to Vancouver
Canadian currency
It’s recommended that you have some Canadian currency on hand to pay for incidentals, but you can use your credit card for making larger purchases. American money is accepted at many local retailers, however you may not receive a competitive exchange rate. You may be eligible for a rebate on the tax you pay on your purchases – be sure to save your receipts and submit them with the Tax Rebate Form.
Transportation to the hotel
If you’re flying into Vancouver International Airport and looking for transportation options to the hotel or just want to get around the city, there are several cab companies to choose from. The cost to travel by cab from the airport to the Waterfront Hotel is approximately $40.00. See yellow page listing of taxi companies.
We also have an Airporter Bus that goes between the airport and downtown. It makes several scheduled stops in the downtown area and the rates are very reasonable. You will get $2.00 off your ticket if you mention our BC in 2008 conference. From the International Terminal you can purchase tickets at the kiosk located outside the main door of the Terminal and from the Domestic Terminal you can purchase tickets at the counter located across from baggage carousel #5.
If you’re driving to Vancouver, there is parking beneath the hotel and you can use a credit card to initially pay for it. The parking costs are:
- $3.25 for every ½ hour portion
- $6.50 per hour
- $20.00 maximum charge for 12 hours between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily
- $7.00 maximum charge for 12 hours between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily
Dining and things to do
See the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel's recommendations for dining and activities around the city.
Shopping
Looking to do a little shopping? Vancouver has several premier destinations located downtown:
- Pacific Centre Mall has over 140 stores to choose from
- Sinclair Centre contains some higher end choices
- Robson Street truly is the heart of Vancouver for shopping; vibrant and lively and always busy with shoppers or people looking for a different location to dine out.
For more information about Vancouver, visit the Tourism Vancouver web site. The hotel also has a concierge who would be happy to assist you with any additional questions you may have about Vancouver and the surrounding area.
2008 IAIABC/AWCBC pre/post-conference tour opportunities
Visit MyTravel.ca to explore pre/post-conference tour opportunities in Vancouver, Whistler, and Vancouver Island (Victoria, Qualicum Beach), or take the train to Rocky Mountain destinations like Jasper, Banff, and Calgary, Alberta.
Contact Sonja Thomas to book a tour, or phone 1 800 861-8007.
Enjoy the best of Vancouver on Vancouver Trolley Company's replica, turn-of-the-century, San Francisco-style trolleys. Visit the city's most spectacular attractions, parks, gardens, galleries, and restaurants.
Vancouver Trolley Company is providing conference delegates with a special group rate. Visit Vancouver Trolley Company online to book your tickets by entering the following promotional code: conf2008.