Place to see: Chinatown, Vancouver, Canada

About this place:

This is North America's second biggest Chinatown, after San Francisco's. Mandarin and Cantonese are the mother tongues in 30 per cent of Vancouver homes, which makes Chinese the largest "minority" ethnic group. There are lots of interesting markets with many varieties of fresh and dried seafood and mushrooms. You'll also find inexpensive houseware and traditional Chinese medicine.

During the summer, on weekend evenings, Keefer and Pender Streets become a busy open-air night market. If you have time for a leisurely meal, try dim sum at one of the many small restaurants. It is an inexpensive, multi-course culinary adventure. Relax in the peaceful Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, or marvel at the ornate Millennium Gate - just steps away on Pender Street. Visit the Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, or participate in one of its many activities.