Book a trip from Sydney to Vancouver with Cathay Pacific , fares from AUD1,593

If you are heading to downtown Vancouver, the Canada Line trains are inexpensive and will only take around 30 minutes. Rental cars and taxis are also widely available, and only takes around 20 minutes to reach the city centre. Vancouver International Airport also offers complementary hotel shuttles to a number of their local hotels.

Start your holiday in Gastown, Vancouver's charming historic neighbourhood, where the past beautifully intertwines with the present. Known as the city’s original downtown area, Gastown is characterised by its picturesque cobblestone streets and stunning Victorian architecture, creating an inviting atmosphere for leisurely exploration. Wander through this vibrant district and uncover a variety of independent shops, boutiques, and art galleries that highlight local talent. From one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods to contemporary art pieces, there's a treasure trove of unique finds waiting just for you. Food lovers will delight in Gastown’s diverse dining scene, featuring everything from cosy cafes to upscale eateries. Renowned restaurants like L’Abattoir offer exquisite culinary experiences, while Pourhouse serves up comfort food in a stylish setting.

For those looking to explore the great Canadian outdoors, Cypress Mountain is a popular mountain resort that offers year-round activities for all interests. In winter, it transforms into a haven for skiing and snowboarding, featuring over 600 acres of terrain with a variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy groomed runs, off-piste trails, and even night skiing, providing an exhilarating experience under the stars. For those looking to explore at a slower pace, Cypress Mountain offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning winter landscape. One highlight is the “Lights to the Lodge” event, which features a charming one-kilometre snowshoe trek to the historic Hollyburn Lodge, adding a magical touch to your visit.

If you’re seeking thrills, Whistler Blackcomb is the ultimate destination just an hour and a half from downtown Vancouver. This world-renowned ski resort transcends the seasons, offering a plethora of activities for leisure travellers year-round. In winter, families can delve into skiing and snowboarding, with lessons tailored for all skill levels, making it perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. The vast resort boasts over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, providing ample space to explore and revel in the fantastic slopes. As winter gives way to spring and summer, Whistler transforms into an adventure hub. Experience the exhilaration of mountain biking on well-groomed trails that cater to riders of all abilities, whether you're a novice or an expert seeking a challenge.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the best hotels. For those seeking a waterfront stay, the Pan Pacific Vancouver is an exquisite retreat for leisure travellers. With its contemporary design and breathtaking views of the North Shore mountains and the harbour, this hotel offers an elegant ambience that makes it a perfect base for exploration. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as strolling through the scenic Stanley Park, visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, or exploring the vibrant shops and restaurants at Granville Island. The iconic Canada Place is just steps away, hosting events and activities while offering direct access to the waterfront. For those interested in cultural experiences, the nearby Art Gallery and the Museum of Anthropology at UBC are must-visit spots. If you prefer a stay closer to downtown Vancouver, Paradox Hotel Vancouver is an exceptional destination for those seeking a blend of luxury and personalised service in the heart of the city. Located on the iconic Golden Mile, this boutique hotel is just steps away from popular attractions like Robson Street, known for its premier shopping and diverse dining options, making it a haven for retail enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Guests can unwind with a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront, where breathtaking views of the harbour and majestic mountains await. The hotel's thoughtfully designed rooms boast modern amenities, ensuring a restful and opulent stay. With a commitment to exceptional service, Paradox Hotel Vancouver makes each visitor feel like a VIP, enhancing their overall experience. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

For food enthusiasts, Vancouver is a haven of flavours, boasting a diverse dining scene that harmoniously blends global cuisines into a tapestry of culinary delights. Nestled in Railtown, St. Lawrence celebrates the rich traditions of French cooking while embracing the gastronomic identity of Quebec. The menu features an evolving 4-Course Table d'Hôte that highlights seasonal ingredients. Start your meal with the Hokkaido Scallops, paired with a rich sunchoke and vichyssoise sauce, or the savoury Venison & Beet Terrine complemented by hazelnut and horseradish ice cream. For the main course, the Wagyu Beef Cheek Bourguignon, served with spaetzle and winter greens, is a crowd favourite, rich in flavour and expertly prepared. Alternatively, the Roasted Sablefish with scallop mousse and mustard cream sauce showcases the restaurant’s commitment to seafood excellence. If you’re looking to try contemporary flavours, Published on Main offers an exciting culinary adventure with its commitment to sustainability as well as its diverse menu. One of the highlights of the menu is the Chicken Fried Maitake, featuring crispy maitake mushrooms served with a savoury garlic scape ranch, perfectly blending texture and flavour. Seafood lovers should try the Candied Steelhead, accompanied by stinging nettle and bok choy, offering a delightful balance of freshness and flavour. Vegetarian guests will enjoy the Winter Squash dish, enhanced with koji butter sauce and pepita miso, bringing warmth and depth to the palate. For dessert, the Valrhona Chocolate Panna Cotta is a must-try, elegantly paired with a peanut butter semifreddo and banana sorbet, creating a luxurious finish to a memorable meal.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Vancouver.

• Currency: Canadian Dollar ($, CAD). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 120V Types A and B
• Time zone: GMT-8
• Language: English