If you are a student living in Vancouver, this is the best guide you need. This blog post will show you all about the complete city guide, things to do in Vancouver as a student, and a lot of other information that will make your life in Vancouver easier.
If you are interested in studying at one of Vancouver’s many universities or colleges or want to explore the city, this guide is perfect for you.
What is a student-friendly city?
A city is usually a place where people live, work, and play. Despite this, many cities go far beyond these definitions. Some of the most amazing cities on earth are not only home to thousands of residents but also host some of the top universities in the world. In addition, they are full of incredible attractions, cultural activities, and events that make them truly unique.
The city of Vancouver is one of these places where students can study at the University of British Columbia (UBC), ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide.
So how does Vancouver compare with other cities as a student-friendly city? What can you do in Vancouver to enjoy your time there?
Vancouver at a glance
Vancouver has been ranked one of the best cities in the world, scoring well in categories such as quality of life, education, and housing. The city is a hub for business and finance, with high-tech companies such as Electronic Arts, Sony, and Microsoft operating out of Vancouver. It has some of the best affordable public schools in Canada. The QS Best Student Cities ranking placed Vancouver as the top student city in Canada and the 20th best student city in the world.
The city’s cost of living is one of the lowest in Canada. With a population of just over 678,000 residents, Vancouver is one of the smallest cities in the country. With its relatively low crime rate and good public transport system, Vancouver has also been ranked the safest city in Canada and among the safest major cities in the world.
Vancouver is one of the world’s most ethnically diverse cities, with residents of more than 30 different nationalities. However, the city has one of the most homogenous student populations, with more than 90 percent coming from the same school district.
Must-see attractions in Vancouver
Vancouver has many attractions, from the best natural wonders in the world to famous cities, great beaches, fantastic food, and art. Among the city’s most breathtaking natural landmarks are the Capilano Suspension Bridge, the iconic Stanley Park, and Grouse Mountain, one of Canada’s highest mountain peaks.
One of the most iconic places in Vancouver is Stanley Park. The aquarium, the renowned Lost Lagoon, the Seawall, and the zoo are just a few attractions that make this one of Canada’s most popular parks. Stanley Park also has an open-air stage where people can enjoy live music or performances.
The Gastown district is also a great place to explore, as it is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Vancouver. It was established in 1875 and is located in the heart of the city. Its main attraction is the Steam Clock. Gastown Steam Clock is one of the last remaining steam clocks in the world.
Another popular place in Vancouver is Granville Island, where people go to enjoy their lunch or dinner, shop for souvenirs and eat some good ice cream!
Vancouver has many other attractions, such as Robson Street, Downtown, Chinatown, Little Italy, and Kitsilano Beach. There are also many museums to visit, like the Museum of Anthropology and the Pacific National Exhibition.
Top universities in Vancouver
Vancouver is home to a wide variety of top-tier universities. Among its top universities are the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University, each offering an exceptional study environment.
The University of British Columbia is Canada’s most prestigious university, while Simon Fraser University, situated in North Burnaby, has a very good reputation as well. These two universities alone make it a central hub for research.
Accommodation options for students in Vancouver
Vancouver is an excellent choice for international students, as it offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from student housing and homestay programs to private apartments and shared residences. Student housing provides an excellent opportunity for students to live and interact with their fellow students in a safe and comfortable environment.
Private apartments and shared residences are also available for students, although these tend to be more expensive than student housing and homestays. However, they offer students more privacy and the opportunity to customise their living space to suit their needs. These different accommodation options provide international students in Vancouver with various choices, allowing them to find an option that best suits their individual needs and preferences.