Image of BC Place in Vancouver shows what Australia is missing

News.com.au

3 days ago

Down Under we're incredibly blessed with world class restaurants, arguably the best coffee on the planet and beaches that tourists come for miles to catch a glimpse of.
Outside of our love of sitting on the sand and soaking up the sun along with enjoying a nice cold drink on a Friday afternoon, Australians love nothing more than watching and heading to sporting events.
We seemingly have everything we could need and more, but despite everything on offer … we're missing one thing.
While we have some phenomenal stadiums on offer, none sit right in the heart of the city like they do overseas.
The walk to and from a sporting event Down Under can still be a euphoric experience, but it all depends on the teams and in turn, the fan bases in attendance.
In Vancouver it doesn't matter who is playing as the proximity of the stadium means the vibe of any sporting contest is felt across the entire city.
The difference between BC Place and stadiums in Australia is abundantly evident when you're in the thick of the action.
As soon as you walk out the door of your hotel in Vancouver you feel like you're a part of the action as fans stream past on their way to an event.
In Melbourne or Sydney, unless you're in the general vicinity of the stadium you wouldn't know a sporting event is unfolding.
Now this isn't me taking a shot at Australian sporting events, we Aussies are about as diehard as it comes … but the difference in having a stadium effectively on the city's doorstep is such a major plus to any event.
It makes it clear that with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Vancouver set to play host to seven matches, the vibe around the entire city over the course of multiple weeks will be akin to what we experience for a few days in the lead up to a Grand Final.
While all eyes during the tournament will be focused on BC Place, it's around the city where the real experiences lie.
And in one truly surprising twist, Vancouver may be the destination hotspot for foodie loving travellers.
When you think about the places to visit for world class food experiences, the city of Vancouver rarely enters the conversation. When in reality it deserves a seat at the table.
The spots foodies simply must go to
Como Taperia
A Spanish tapas restaurant that is a football lovers heaven.
The food on offer is potentially some of the best Spanish food you'll ingest while the drinks match that level.
But the real hidden treat for sports fans or card collectors … the toilets. The walls within the toilets are decorated from floor to ceiling in old school player cards. It's a dangerous decoration that you could sit and stare at for a bit too long.
Anh and Chi
If you want a feed that feels like a home cooked meal, head to Anh and Chi. A family run Vietnamese restaurant that delivers food that packs a punch.
You won't be disappointed with anything you order, but the one thing you simply have to try is Grandma's Crab Tomato Noodle Soup.
With a recipe that has remained unchanged for countless years, the taste will leave you salivating for months after.
L'Abattoir
Arguably the best spot in the city, the food is truly something else and the cocktails are what you'd expect at a world class bar.
The old saying is don't fill up on bread, but at L'Abattoir that rule is out the window because I could've eaten my body weight in it.
Places you have to visit in Vancouver
Granville Island
Another one for foodie lovers but also one for everyone. The markets have everything imaginable on offer with the island also home to a brewery and even a spa.
The Granville Island foodie tour gives you an insight into all the mouth-wateringly good local food on offer.
Those looking for a bit more relaxation need to give Circle Wellness a visit, the experience is unlike any other spa you may have visited.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Only 20 minutes out of the city, the historic suspension bridge is a must see for visitors. Quick little hint if you're afraid of heights, don't look down.
The 140m long bridge spans over the river and while it bounces around under all the foot traffic, the views are breathless.
Where to stay
If you're considering adding Vancouver to your travel list, and I highly recommend it should be high on any list, you want to be in the heart of it all.
With that in mind the Opus Vancouver is the perfect spot. Situated in Yaletown, the boutique hotel is barely a 10-minute walk to BC Place and is surrounding by restaurants and bars.
Don't feel like walking? The restaurant attached to the hotel, Capo & Spritz, offers up delicious food and drinks that can be enjoyed in doors out streetside in the sun.