Vancouver gets an average, irrefutable forty-six inches of rain a year. We adjust. And there are ways to deal with a downpour. A no-brainer is to carry an umbrella (you’d be surprised how many Vancouverites reject this option on the basis of some kind of enforced hardiness or other obscure principle). Another idea is to plan your urban walks with shelter in mind. You’ll be glad to know that city bureaucrats intend to keep you somewhat dry. Builders and proprietors of sidewalk businesses are required or urged to include overhangs and awnings on their premises to provide a bit of cover during a heavy rainfall. Some of the newer city parks and pathways include roofed areas where walkers or cyclists can stop in a downpour. An example is the Coal Harbour area. There’s a modern roofed refuge on the seawall just west of the Westin Bayshore hotel. Another has been built on the park that sits on top — yes, on the roof— of the Coal Harbour Community Centre.
Also, check out a longtime Vancouver institution, The Umbrella Shop (1106 West Broadway, Central Vancouver, 604-669-9444, www.umbrellashop.com). To custom order an umbrella in advance of a visit to the city (not a bad idea, and they make gorgeous ones), visit the store’s Web site.
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