May-June Issue #40 4Guys | Page 186

VANCOUVER

10 . Dr . Sun Yat-Sen Classical

Located in Chinatown in Vancouver , Dr . Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the first Chinese garden built outside of China . It consists of a public park and the garden designed with the four elements in mind ( rock , water , plants and architecture ). The goal of the garden is to “ maintain and enhance the bridge of understanding between Chinese and western cultures , promote Chinese culture and be an integral part of the local community ”. It is meant to provide insight into Chinese culture , life during the Ming Dynasty , architecture and horticulture while providing a unique cultural experience . You will see weathered rocks , jade green water , native Chinese plants like bamboo , winter-flowering plum as well as local plants from B . C . as well . The architecture is stunning to say the least built with the intent to blend in with the garden rather than stand out from it . You will be awestruck by the beauty .
The Canadian Rockies is a mountain range filled with breathtaking scenery , a wide array of abundant wildlife , a myriad of outdoor recreational activities for all ages and a photographic wonderland . The mountain range itself , is impressive and awe-inspiring , but the area offers much more than just a view of mountains . There are numerous hiking trails , the opportunity to whitewater raft on one of the area rivers , mountaineering for the more daring and physically fit , rock climbing , and in the winter months , back country skiing , downhill skiing and ice climbing . Don ’ t forget mountain biking as well and since this is a great tourist attraction , there are all kinds of programs , training , tours and accommodations available . The Canadian Rockies stretch over a vast area , so this alone can be a total vacation destination lasting many days over many miles and in many parks and cities .

9 . Canadian Rockies

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