Convening Leaders 2016 will deliver high-level content and high-octane networking on Jan. 10–13. What can live up to that when it’s all over? Or before it even gets started? Funny you should ask.
For starters, there’s plenty to see and do in gorgeous Vancouver. But you’ll also want to carve out time to explore farther afield in beautiful British Columbia and beyond. PCMA’s pre- and post-trips encourage you to strap on your skis in Whistler, North America’s top ski resort; experience the unique blend of old-world-meets-new in Victoria, the provincial capital; journey by rail past some of the world’s most stunning scenery aboard Rocky Mountaineer; and cross the border to party in exciting Seattle.
It’s a lot to take in, but to help narrow down your choices, Tourism Vancouver has partnered with Venue West to create six unique experiences for Convening Leaders attendees to choose from on Wednesday, Jan. 13, from 2 to 5 p.m.:
1. Kitsilano Beach Area; University of British Columbia’s Museum of Anthropology; Beaty Biodiversity Museum
2. Stanley Park, including totem poles and Prospect Point; Vancouver Aquarium; Robson Street Shopping District
3. Grouse Mountain; Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
4. Beer- and wine-tasting walking tour of Gastown
5. Seawall cycling tour of Stanley Park and more
6. Granville Island Public Market Tour; Granville Island Brewery; Liberty Distillery
10 Reasons to Stay an Extra Day
1. 400-plus kilometers of bike lanes.
2. Zen-inducing ocean, mountains, and rainforest.
3. Attractions like FlyOver Canada, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Vancouver Biennale’s public art installations.
4. North Vancouver, featuring Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain.
5. Scenic floatplane rides over the city.
6. The stunningly picturesque ride along the Sea to Sky Highway to neighboring Squamish and Whistler, British Columbia.
7. Locally sourced, sustainably influenced culinary, featuring fresh seafood, organic meat, fresh-pressed juices, craft beer, and cocktails.
8. Unique meeting venues, including the Vancouver Aquarium’s newly expanded space, BC Place Stadium, and intimate Gastown restaurants.
9. An amazing array of interactive, creative group activities — such as escape-gaming rooms, sailing lessons, snorkeling with seals, and helicopter tours.
1o. Experiences that attract locals and tourists alike, including cruising to Granville Island aboard an Aquabus, settling in at a Gastown cocktail bar, exploring Yaletown’s boutiques, or enjoying a leisurely brunch on Main Street.