Vancouver, the Ultimate Guide

Ann Turner is the financial and budget manager of the University of
British Columbia Library.

The first edition of this popular guide was produced in 1985, just in
time for Expo ’86, when Vancouver invited the world to visit and
enjoy. In its fifth edition, the guide is still serving visitors and
native Vancouverites well. It is an exceptionally comprehensive
reference source for its size, which fits easily into a large handbag or
backpack. “Totability” is an important factor, because the street
maps (such as those of downtown, the West End, Stanley Park, and
Granville Island) are so handy for getting around confidently on foot.

The amount of information packed into this little volume is truly
amazing. Essential services, travel accommodations, restaurants, public
transit facilities, sightseeing, cultural events, sports, shopping, and
activities for children are all covered, complete with addresses,
telephone numbers, and in many cases current rate schedules and hours of
service. Whether you are seeking a jogging path or a jazz club, a
currency exchange or a babysitter, you will find a selection of them via
the book’s detailed index. The authors’ annotations are helpful in
making choices, and in establishing realistic expectations. Readers will
enjoy the many black-and-white photographs, background information, and
lively descriptive patter throughout. One small and obvious cautionary
note: times change, and so do prices, telephone numbers, and hours of
opening. This guide was up-to-date when it went to press in 1996, but
some of its details are already out of date. Nevertheless, it continues
to deliver excellent value for Vancouver’s tourists and residents
alike.