Population
Based on 2001 Canadian Census reports, the population of the City of Vancouver is estimated at 582,045. The largest group (35%) is between ages 25 and 45 years.
Greater Vancouver's estimated total population for 2001 is 2 million, 49.5% of BC's population of 4.1 million.
Climate
Warmed by Pacific Ocean currents and protected by a range of mountains, Vancouver enjoys mild temperatures year-round. From high 70's Fahrenheit (low 20's Celsius) in summer to a mild mid 40's Fahrenheit (0º to 5º Celsius) in winter, the climate is always hospitable. Our winters are wet, but it rarely snows, except on our local ski hills.
East Vancouver
From the multi-cultured artisan flavour of Commercial Drive to modern living in style at Collingwood East Vancouver has many unique neighborhoods. The 2006 census found that 42 per cent of the riding's residents are immigrants. Thirty per cent listed Chinese as their ethnic origin and just 51 per cent called English their first language. Twenty-five per cent listed Chinese. With short driving distances to downtown, Richmond and easy access to major commuter routes living in East Van is living at the heart of the lower mainland. Housing styles to suit any taste and renowned schools make this area a popular one in which to sell or buy.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canadavotes/riding/299/
Burnaby
While Burnaby occupies about 4 percent of the land area of the Greater Vancouver Regional District, it accounted for about 10% of the Region's population in 2006. It is the third most populated urban centre in British Columbia with an estimated population of 202,799. The elevation of Burnaby ranges from sea level to a maximum of 1,200 feet atop Burnaby Mountain. Burnaby's characteristic has shifted from rural to suburban to largely urban. The City features high density residential areas, major commercial town centres, rapid transit, high technology research and business parks, comprehensive industrial estates and major post-secondary institutions. It's where you'll find North America's only mountain top university, the largest retail and entertainment complex in British Columbia and outstanding sports and recreation facilities. The city's diverse sights and attractions are yours to discover.
The Metrotown area, a 15 minute SkyTrain ride from downtown Vancouver, is where you'll find over 500 stores and an equally impressive entertainment complex. Enough to keep even the most dedicated shopper (and the rest of the family) happy. Staying near the action has never been easier with the November 1999 opening of the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown a perfect complement to the on-site Holiday Inn Metrotown. All this is only a few minutes walk to Central Park, an immense urban forest, with its wide pathways, pitch & putt golf, tennis courts and an outdoor pool.
http://www.city.burnaby.bc.ca/burnaby.html
Coquitlam/Port Moody/Port Coquitlam
The Tri-Cities area encompasses three of the region's oldest, yet fastest growing communities. Port Moody's railway heritage, Coquitlam's golf and wilderness recreation along with Port Coquitlam's revitalized city centre and riverside trails provide you with an interesting getaway close to Vancouver.
Port Moody, once touted as the western terminus of Canada's transcontinental railway, is today, a popular residential area tucked up against the hills at the top of Burrard Inlet. An easy 30 minutes or so by car from downtown Vancouver, the last section along the scenic and winding Barnet Highway.
The city's compact business district unfolds as you travel east on St. Johns Street, where you'll find a variety of quaint shops and convenient services. Finding a bite to eat is easy, with options ranging from pub fare to family dining in some of Port Moody's heritage homes. A great finish to any meal is a leisurely stroll along shoreline trails starting at nearby Rocky Point Park. The surrounding area offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. To the north along Ioco Road, is Belcarra Regional Park. Home to great beaches, hiking trails, picnic areas and a host of water activities. In the park you'll want to visit the Buntzen Lake Reservoir Recreation Area, a perfect day trip destination for families.
Coquitlam, immediately to the east on Highway 7 (also easily accessible from Highway 1), derives its name from the annual ritual of the salmon spawning in local rivers and creeks. It comes from the Coast Salish word "kwaynquitlum" meaning red fish. Getting out and into nature is easy here with over 70 local parks including the 435 acre Mundy Park Forest.
The area's arts and culture are celebrated with modern, purpose built facilities and the past is evident with the preservation of a number of historic homes in the area. Maillardville, home to British Columbia's oldest francophone community embraces its roots with a museum, art gallery and an annual arts festival.
Port Coquitlam "the city of rivers and mountains" right next door has been destroyed by floods and burnt to the ground twice, but today, it's a thriving community between the Pitt and Coquitlam Rivers. Both rivers provide aspiring anglers with a chance to drop a line and try their luck. A revitalized downtown maintains a village like atmosphere. Anchored in history by its original 1913 city hall, a new plaza offers you an interesting range of shops, restaurants, cafes and craft stores.