Vancouver is one of the most multi-cultural and ethnically diverse cities in North America. Nearly 45% of the metropolitan area of the city’s residents are of Asian decent, due to its geographic position as Canada’s primary western port on the Pacific Ocean, making it the shortest and most direct travel and trade route from East and South Asia. Plus waves of migration from Hong Kong, mainland China, India and the Philippines.

The region also happens to have the mildest winter weather in Canada, which has historically attracted immigrants looking for a more temperate environment than the country’s interior and eastern provinces.

A final view of Stanley Park as we head for Alaska. Other than the water it reminds me of Manhattan and Central Park!

Welcome aboard to our ship – Holland America’s The Westerdam!