Discover Vancouver

Your Gateway to Academic and Career Opportunities

Welcome to Vancouver — a vibrant city in beautiful British Columbia, globally recognized for its high quality of life and cultural diversity. Vancouver is the perfect destination for students who seek to expand their horizons and experience an urban and outdoor lifestyle.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and explore Vancouver, and all the fantastic opportunities it has to offer!

Dynamism and modernity in a
privileged natural environment

High Quality
of Life

The city offers a welcoming atmosphere, a mild climate, and plenty of outdoor activities, earning it a sit among the world most´s livable cities

Vibrant and Diverse Population

Vancouver multicultural identity is a defining feature of its national character. The city’s history of immigration has led to a rich mosaic of cultures, languages, and traditions.

Country´s Leading Port

The country’s top port attracts many visitors and ships due to its prime location and excellent facilities, reflecting Canada’s ongoing growth in trade

Strong Economic Opportunities

British Columbia boasts a diverse economy and a thriving business environment, offering opportunities across various industries

Accommodation
in Vancouver

Finding affordable long-term accommodation in both suburban and central Vancouver can be a challenge due to high rental costs. For this reason, many students opt for homestays or shared rentals during their studies.

Shared renting is a popular and cost-effective option, where students live together and split the expenses of suites or apartments.

These rentals typically include a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, but may not always come with furniture, meals, or utilities. It’s important to remember that students, like all tenants, have rights and responsibilities when renting in British Columbia.

To learn more, visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website.

Homestay Providers in Vancouver

The homestay providers listed below operate independently from Arbutus College but are well-established and trusted sources for homestay-style accommodations in Vancouver and surrounding areas. While Arbutus is not directly affiliated with these organizations, they offer reliable and student-friendly housing options.

We encourage you to explore each provider to find the one that best suits your preferences and needs.


  • Langara Homestay Program
  • Northwest Homestay

Recreation
in Vancouver

Vancouver offers a vibrant lifestyle filled with cultural, artistic, and outdoor experiences that appeal to a wide range of interests.

The city is home to renowned venues such as the Orpheum, Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver Playhouse, and the Annex, which regularly host theatre productions, concerts, and art events. Annual festivals like the Vancouver International Film Festival and the Vancouver Fringe Festival further showcase the city’s creative spirit.

For nature lovers, Vancouver’s breathtaking landscape encourages an active lifestyle with opportunities for biking, walking, sailing, skiing, hiking, and more. With over 3,200 acres of parkland — including the iconic Stanley Park — residents and visitors alike enjoy year-round outdoor recreation.

Neighborhoods like Kitsilano and the West End offer even more to explore, from sunny beaches and organic eateries to vibrant shopping and dining scenes.

For those interested in history and culture, the Museum of Vancouver and the Vancouver Art Gallery house remarkable collections and exhibits that reflect the city’s rich heritage.