vancouver skyline
Destinations May 2, 2023 by

St Giles

Reasons to Study English in Vancouver

Location is an important factor when choosing a place to study any subject, as you’d want to make the most out of your student life. So, it’s very important to choose a city with lots of things to do outside of just your educational curriculum.

Vancouver is one of the largest cities on the West Coast of Canada, with the city surrounded by nature ranging from the Pacific Ocean and the British Columbia Mountain range. Therefore, giving the city a soothing temperature climate.

The city itself is rich with culture with influences from Europe, Asia, and First Nation individuals.

Here are more reasons to choose Vancouver as the city to study the English Language:

6 Reasons to Study English in Vancouver:

1. Study in a City with Gorgeous Landscapes and Cityscapes

Vancouver is a great mix of urban and natural landscapes, ranging from Mount St. Helens, the Renaissance Trail, the Pacific coast, and the Columbia River. Each of these locations provides a beautiful and unique attraction such as local restaurants, galleries, festivals, and historic events.

We recommend exploring the great public market at Granville Island – It’s just 9 minutes away from Vancouver and is well worth the trip! This dynamic market is filled with fresh baked goods, local produce, flowers, and freshly caught local seafood. The food is delicious with so much to feast on with your eyes alone. Additionally, the overall shopping experience is incredible.

Vancouver natural and urban landscape

2. Safe and Relaxed Atmosphere

Vancouver is one of the most liveable cities in the world. The Global Liveability Index ranked it as the fifth best city to live in for 2022. Factors considered in this ranking are stability/safety, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and environment. This shows that Vancouver ensures that the needs of those living there are catered for.

The combination of the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains has created a milder climate in comparison to the rest of the country. The surrounding mountains block out the cold arctic air and the warmth of the Pacific Ocean.

3. One of the Best Student Cities

Vancouver is ranked in the Top 20 in the best student city in the world by the recent QS World University Rankings for 2022. With two universities within the city itself, it won’t take long for you to find like-minded fellow students all over the city.

As mentioned, Vancouver is proud of its influence from many cultures meaning that it celebrates a multitude of events from them. Find vibrant celebrations every year for festivals such as Lunar New Year, Italian Day, German Christmas, Sikh Vaisakhi, Persia’s Nowruz and more! Students will find local restaurants that serve cuisine from their native countries, which is especially helpful for those experiencing homesickness.

Vancouver also has a brilliant nightlight, students can enjoy clubs and bars, or the theatre. There is plenty for the students to discover and enjoy after class and during the weekends.

4. Haven for Skiers

Skiing in Vancouver's Grouse Mountain Slopes

Snowboarding enthusiasts will have a blast as Vancouver is privy to some of the best cross-country and downhill skiing facilities. The international mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb are regarded for the quality of their slopes. Other local ski mountains such as Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain, and Mount Seymore also available.

With hours as late as 10 pm, there is plenty of time for students to schedule time in the great outdoors while studying.

5. Vancouver’s Art and Music Scene

There is plenty of art and music to enjoy in Vancouver. Visit the Contemporary Art Gallery, the UBC Museum of Anthropology and the Vancouver Art Gallery for a bit of artistic inspiration.

Enjoy the opera, symphony, and ballet. Or, experience the international, and local DJs at dance clubs throughout the city.

6. Safe and Sustainable Future

Capilano Reservoir Lake Dam Green Mountains Vancouver

The Vancouver Municipal Government’s 2020 Green City initiative aimed to reduce the amount of waste and emissions throughout the city. This will grant greater access to greenspaces and clean water.

Today, Vancouver is the fourth green city in the world and has the lowest greenhouse gas emission in North America. Running on over 90% renewable energy thanks to its large hydroelectricity supply, the city also mandates the retrofitting of all buildings to increase energy efficiency. It looks to build on this by aiming to be completely carbon neutral by 2050.

St Giles Vancouver

St Giles Vancouver students enjoying the sunshine

The St Giles Vancouver English School occupies one floor of a modern office building in a popular area of the business district of downtown Vancouver. The school is within walking distance of the main shopping, entertainment, and harbour areas.

With many international students going to Vancouver to learn English, St Giles is ideal for students looking for high levels of personal attention and support. The fantastic Platinum Centre for business-focused students is also available. Learn more about St Giles Vancouver here.