OUR Spotlight On column takes an in-depth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on some of the lesser-known spots.
This week, we are highlighting Vancouver in Canada, which will be hosting World Cup matches.
The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski said: “Vancouver is possibly the best spot in the world for holidaymakers that want to blend nature with a city break.
“The glorious Grouse Mountain is around a 15-minute from Downtown and offers nighttime skiing or glorious hikes in summer, while its main park borders the ocean and is a great place for spotting wildlife, including whales if you’re lucky!
“When you’re not soaking up the great outdoors, the shopping and restaurant scene is absolutely pumping with new trendy spots cropping up on a monthly basis.”
MUST SEE/DO
Granville Island is a popular spot, for a very good reason.
The former industrial hub is littered with quirky crafts shops selling handmade goods that you won’t find anywhere else.
There are food markets too, selling the freshest of fish caught in local waters, as well as warm doughnuts and artisan pickles.
Harry Styles is reportedly a big fan of Hobbs Pickles.
HIDDEN GEM
While wellness may not be at the forefront of your visit to Vancouver, it has become huge on the local scene. Circle Wellness is a unique spa experience that will leave you feeling refreshed.
Visitors will get access to their own converted shipping container to undergo a therapy circuit of hot stones, a cold plunge pool and Himalayan salt chamber.
BEST VIEW
Many associate Vancouver’s mountains with skiing, but while it may be a popular sport in winter, that is not all there is to do.
Grouse Mountain is just as gorgeous in the spring and summer months.
It is celebrating its 100th commercial birthday this year and you can join in the celebrations by soaking up its beauty on one of many hiking trails or by mountain biking along its craggy paths. The views will blow your socks off.
Or take a stroll around Stanley Park, which is larger than New York‘s Central Park and has a sea-wall walk from which you might be able to spot whales.
RATED RESTAURANT
There’s no shortage of excellent sushi restaurants, thanks to Vancouver’s waterside location.
Some of the best sushi can be found at Miku Restaurant, which does an excellent deal with ten pieces of sushi, rolls and nigiri, plus appetisers and miso soup.
But you can pretty much sample any cuisine you wish in this city.
For cracking Vietnamese food, head to Anh and Chi, or for tapas, Como Taperia.
BEST BAR
Stanley Park Brewing occupies a prime spot in the park and is a great spot for ale lovers.
It brews its own tipples inhouse and you can sample a selection by ordering the beer flight or paddle.
If you are after something sophisticated, The Keefer has been voted the best bar in Canada and serves punchy cocktails.
Boozy drinks are described as “prescriptions” on the menu, with a section dedicated to concoctions inspired by sound.
HOTEL PICK
The 4H Westin Bayshore is well located by Stanley Park and near the main shopping hub.
There is a decent cocktail bar downstairs where mixologists like to get creative, incorporating theatrical props into the drinks.
There is an on-site spa and gym too.
Rooms cost from $224 per night (around £120). See marriott.com.