YALETOWN, Vancouver

THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER-
YALETOWN
Yaletown is an area which makes up part of downtown Vancouver with the north looking out over False Creek. Formerly a heavy industrial area dominated by warehouses and rail yards. Since the 1986 World's Fair it has been transformed into one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods of the city. The marinas, parks, high rise apartment blocks, and converted heritage buildings constitute one of the most successful and significant urban regeneration projects in North America.

As with much of Vancouver, the Canadian Pacific Railway had a huge influence on the shaping of Yaletown. By the 1880's the line had reached Yale, a small gold rush town 150 or so miles to the east which served as the location of the company repair shops, and housed a sizeable rail worker population. As the line was extended to Vancouver, these Yale residents followed it to the city, and settled in modest housing close to the yards which was soon named Yaletown. At the time it had more saloons per acre than anywhere in the world, and was considered one of North America's most lawless enclaves.

As the years progressed, the proximity of False Creek and the railway meant that Yaletown became heavily industrial. Many factories, rail buildings and warehouses were built, many of which survive to this day. Then after the real estate boom and bust cycles of the 20th century, the area became shoddy and contaminated, and was bought up by the city. After the 1986 World's Fair (Expo 86), held on neighbouring former industrial land, the whole area became ripe for development.

The site was sold to a Hong Kong based developer and began the dramatic redevelopment process which continues to this day. This Hong Kong billionaire property developer called Li Ka Shing is ensuring that many luxury and modern high rise condominiums are being built and are going up at a rate of two to three a year. Many of which are running along the now very popular waterfront at False Creek. To get a taste of Yaletown take a walk along the waterfront and through the town which seems to be full of funky media and interior offices, trendy loft apartments, modern cafes and plenty of popular Yaletown restaurants.