Vancouver

US citizens can enter with a passport. Most other nationals need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for visa-free entry up to 6 months. Some countries require a visa. Check requirements at cic.gc.ca.

By Air: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the main gateway, located 12km south of downtown.

By Train: Pacific Central Station has VIA Rail connections to other Canadian cities and Amtrak service to Seattle (4 hours).

By Ferry: BC Ferries connect to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

English is the primary language. Vancouver is very multicultural with many languages spoken, but English is universal. Mandarin and Cantonese are also widely spoken due to large Asian communities.

Canadian Dollar (CAD). Exchange rate roughly 1.3-1.4 CAD per USD. Cards accepted everywhere. Tipping is customary: 15-18% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 for rideshare drivers.

SkyTrain: Automated light rail system with three lines covering the metro area. Get a Compass Card. Clean and efficient.

Buses: Comprehensive network, same Compass Card works.

SeaBus: Passenger ferry connecting downtown to North Vancouver.

Uber/Lyft: Available.

Walking: Downtown, Gastown, and waterfront areas are very walkable.

Canada Line: Direct SkyTrain to downtown (25 min, $4.25-5.75 CAD depending on zone).

Shuttle: Door-to-door services ($15-25 per person, 30-45 min).

Taxi/Uber: $35-50 CAD to downtown (20-30 min).

Rental Car: Multiple agencies at airport.