Rooftop Purification and Indigenous Rose: 48 Hours in Vancouver

Experience the art, culture, food, and natural wonder of Vancouver from an Indigenous perspective as a guest on the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations.

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Experience the art, culture, food, and natural wonder of Vancouver from an Indigenous perspective as a guest on the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations.

Explore Vancouver on your own and discover the dynamic cultures of these First Nations through interpretive attractions, museums, galleries, Indigenous cuisine and guided First Nations interpretive tours.

Responsible tourism means that the experience creates a positive impact for all involved–not just the traveller. Responsible Indigenous tourism in BC means that travel includes consideration of all which is of value to Indigenous Peoples–their communities, languages, and cultures; water, animals, and lands.

How to Travel Responsibly

Day 1: 11 am – Check-in at the Skwachays Lodge

Lay the foundation for your Indigenous experience in Vancouver at this Indigenous-owned boutique art hotel for socially responsible travellers. There are 18 unique and modern suites that tell timeless stories, including the Longhouse Suite, Forest Spirits Suite, and Drum Circle Suite. These spaces are thoughtful combinations of colour, light, and texture that have been woven together in contemporary Indigenous interpretations of traditional mythology. Arrange in advance to meet with artists-in-residence or participate in a rooftop sweat lodge or smudging ceremony led by an Elder. Fairtrade Indigenous art gallery, luxurious beds, and a modern mix of Victorian and Indigenous heritage in the heart of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

During COVID-19  some of these services listed may not be offered. Please check with the hotel prior to booking.

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12 pm - Connect with Indigenous Cultures at Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC

Spend the afternoon in MOA’s ground-breaking new gallery, the Elspeth McConnell Gallery of Northwest Coast Masterworks. See magnificent carvings, weavings and contemporary artworks inside the soaring glass and concrete structure of the Museum’s Great Hall, and stroll the Museum’s grounds, where monumental Haida houses, poles and Musqueam house posts capture the dramatic beauty of traditional Northwest Coast architecture and design. MOA offers a wide range of special exhibitions and public programs, including free guided gallery walks, visit the MOA Shop and relax in Café MOA.

During COVID-19  some of these services listed may not be offered. Please check with the museum prior to arriving.

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Salmon n Bannock

6pm - Enjoy dinner at Indigenous restaurant, Salmon n’ Bannock

Wrap up your first day on the land with an Indigenous dining experience. Salmon n’ Bannock serves free-range game meat, wild seafood, and daily features that bring the changing seasons to your plate. Sample the Indigenous wine list at this comfortable bistro where people and food matter most.

Reservations are recommended.  

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Day 2: 10 am - Experience the Talking Trees Tour with Talaysay Tours

Meet one of Talaysay’s Indigenous cultural guides at the Stanley Park bus loop for a walking tour of Vancouver’s iconic Stanley Park. Hear Indigenous perspectives on trees and plants of the Northwest Coast. Experience Indigenous ways of knowing as time on the land and engaging, authentic storytelling are used to share lessons on traditional use, preservation, and harvest of local plant life, including red cedar and licorice root.

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Talaysay Tours