Vancouver and Victoria: Colourguide. 4th ed.

Ann Turner is Financial and Budget Manager at the University of British
Columbia Library.

The fourth edition of this colourful tourist guide is packed with up-to-date information and more than 300 colour photographs “to help you get the most out of your stay in Canada’s favourite West Coast destinations.” It is organized into five major sections, the pages of each conveniently identified by distinctively coloured sidebars: “Vancouver Maps”; “Vancouver”; “Vancouver Neighbourhoods”; “Victoria”; and “Excursions” (covering Whistler, the Gulf Islands, and the Sunshine Coast). The information about Vancouver occupies three-quarters of the guide.

Two dozen independent writers with local expertise contributed historical introductions, detailed descriptions of the neighbourhoods and attractions, and the specialty dining and shopping guides.

The final section, “Listings,” gives essential information for the traveller on how to get there, currency and banking, customs requirements, the average climate, tourist services, and how to get around by public transit, tours, and car. It also presents a selection of accommodations, restaurants, attractions, entertainments, children’s activities, and shops, with brief annotations, addresses, phone/fax numbers, and websites. Restaurant listings are grouped by cuisine and include price ranges and credit cards accepted.

Sized to fit comfortably into backpacks and glove compartments, this handy souvenir guide offers visitors a concise and practical introduction to the West Coast’s two major cities.