As host city for the 2010 Winter Olympics, Vancouver's enjoying the spotlight now, but savvy travelers would tell you this city's been an under-the-radar treasure for a long time. Beyond Cypress Mountain and Olympic and Paralympic Village, the city has a whole spectrum of perennial attractions. This is an all-season destination, and many of its main landmark attractions are outside, including Stanley Park, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Granville Public Market.

Vancouver is a fun and vibrant city whether you're twenty-something and single or forty-something with a family. Younger, unencumbered travelers are impressed by its restaurants and nightlife, as well as cool neighborhoods like Gastown and Chinatown. Families love attractions like Grouse Mountain and the Vancouver Aquarium. While temperatures get undeniably chilly in the winter, Vancouver doesn't go into hibernation like some Canadian cities—instead, people just bundle up and venture out to see the holiday lights and enjoy the snow sports.