Having grown up in the suburbs, I now fully appreciate what the West side has to offer singles, couples, and families. Simply put, there is no place quite like it.
And here's why:
Central location - Being in the heart of the city makes it a breeze to get anywhere.
Excellent schools - The west side is home to the best elementary and secondary schools in the province. The University of British Columbia attracts some of the brightest minds in the world.
Lots of space - Lots on the west side are generally bigger than other areas of Vancouver-good news for families or those with pets.
Variety of accommodation - whether you're a single, couple, or family, there's a wide range of real estate in almost every price range.
Shopping - Kitsilano, Kerrisdale, and Dunbar have some of the finest shopping in the city, with specialty food and fashion stores, and a wide range of funky shops.
Good restaurants - With some of the best specialty grocers and wine merchants in the city standing alongside some of the best restaurants, your taste buds will thank you for living here.
The great outdoors - Many west side neighbourhoods have parks, beaches, trails and other recreational opportunities within easy reach.
Perhaps the best reason to live on the west side: the tremendous sense of community. Simply put, the people living here feel like extended family. You can see it on the faces of your neighbours, wherever you go.

