Canada, British Columbia

HOTELS

SAMPLE TOURS

3.3.2.1: DAY- TO- DAY PROGRAM

Incentive highlights

Grouse Mountain

When you arrive at Grouse Mountain, the Skyride is the first thing you'll see, rising 1200 m. It is North America's largest aerial tramway, so step aboard and it will lift you above the lush forest canopy to a vista of mountain slopes, distant lakes, the metropolis of Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the breathtaking view on the way up to the top of the mountain, and once there watch the informative Theatre in the Sky Show.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge on the North Shore has for years been Vancouver's number one attraction. And it keeps getting better. It is one of Vancouver's most iconic and thrilling sites. Cross the famous swaying planks, which hang more than 70 m above the Capilano River, and breathe the pure forest air. Crossing the bridge is not the only excitement one can expect here. The Treetops Adventure lead visitors through the evergreens on seven elevated suspension bridges that connect the trees, providing a bird's eye view and a peek at tree-dwelling animals. The Story Centre recounts the

bridge's early history and the Totem Park pays homage to the area's First Nations.

Qu'wutsun' Cultural Centre

The Qu'wutsun' Cultural Centre in Duncan showcases the history and traditions of the Qu'wutsun' people. The Cowichan are the largest native tribe in British Columbia. Knowledgeable guides explain the significance of the Cowichan River, the stories of the poles, age-old uses of local plants and roots, and the history of the Cowichan Tribes. Following the tour of the cultural center, the salmon barbeque features fresh salmon cooked on cedar stakes over an open fire in traditional native style as well as other native dishes.

Whistler Mountaineer

The Whistler Mountaineer is a three-hour, premier train journey from North Vancouver to Whistler. It delivers a unique blend of contrasts the Sea to Sky region is famous for: cities and old-growth forests, bustling action and natural serenity, deep valleys and snow-capped peaks, seascapes and mountain views, all delivered with world-class Western Canadian hospitality.

Departing North Vancouver Rail Station pass under the Lion's Gate Bridge and enjoy the early morning views of downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park as the train hugs the scenic waterfront of West Vancouver's exclusive residential area. After passing through the Horseshoe Bay Tunnel, follow the eastern shores of Howe Sound with the Coast Mountains rising steeply to the right and stunning views of ocean and mountain to the left. As you near the town of Squamish, look out for the impressive cascade of Shannon Falls and the spectacular dome peak of Mount Garibaldi, rising 2,672 meters above sea level.

Pass through the yards of the West Coast Rail Association, home of the Royal Hudson steam train, before climbing a steep grade through the Cheakamus Canyon, where the river below tumbles through a craggy gorge and the rail tracks seem to be hanging from the cliffside. Cross over the pinnacle of Brandywine Falls before arriving into Whistler, year-round resort renowned for skiing and outdoor activities, and the end of today's scenic rail journey.

Granville Island

Vancouver's Granville Island was named North America's best neighborhood by a New York-based community development organization. It is a must for anyone visiting Vancouver. Here one can enjoy a multitude of vendors selling everything from crafts to produce to baked goods. Or simply view the outdoor performers when they sing or juggle or play a joke on non-suspecting onlookers. Why not visit some of the specialty shops for boating, arts and crafts found here.

Vancouver Aquarium

Through visionary, responsible growth, the Vancouver Aquarium has become the largest in Canada and one of the five largest in North America. The Aquarium is internationally recognized for display and interpretation excellence, and was the first facility to incorporate professional Naturalists into the galleries to interpret animal behaviors. Aquarium research projects extend worldwide and are internationally recognized for the successful Marine Mammal Rescue and Rehabilitation Program.

Voted one of Canada's best-loved attractions, the Aquarium is an intriguing and unforgettable venue for a private event. Come discover a world of fascinating animals in breathtaking settings. For example, the intimate underwater Viewing Gallery looks into the million-gallon Wild Coast pool, which is an ideal setting for a truly unique breakfast.