ImmigrationUnderstanding Canadian Taxes for Newcomers
Taxes in Canada can feel overwhelming when you first arrive. The system is different from what most newcomers are used to back home, and the rules around who pays what, when, and…
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City guide · British Columbia
Discover Vancouver – Your Guide to Local Businesses, Culture & Community
Discover Desi Vancouver, from the sweet shops and sari boutiques of the Punjabi Market to temples, gurdwaras and community events across the Lower Mainland. Find trusted South Asian businesses and services, all in one place.
About the city
Everything You Need to Know About Vancouver
Vancouver sits between the North Shore Mountains and the Pacific, with one of the mildest climates in Canada. It is the country's largest port and a centre for film and television, technology, trade and tourism, with the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University drawing students from around the world.
South Asians have been part of Vancouver for more than a century: the city's first gurdwara opened in 1908. Today the Punjabi Market on Main Street, around 49th Avenue, is known for its sweet shops, jewellers, fabric stores and restaurants, and the Vaisakhi parade fills the streets of South Vancouver every April. Much of the community also lives across the region in Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond and Delta.
SkyTrain links the city with its suburbs, and mountains, beaches and the seawall are never far away. Housing is among the most expensive in Canada, so many families weigh city living against more space a short ride away.
Directory
Browse Vancouver
Every category with businesses in the city, and how many there are.
City guide
Discover Vancouver – Your Guide to the City
Get to know Vancouver like never before! From its stunning landscapes to vibrant neighborhoods, our blogs cover everything you need to know about this dynamic city.
- Immigration
ImmigrationHow to Build a Strong Credit Score in Canada
Building a strong credit score in Canada is one of the smartest financial moves you can make — whether you are a newcomer just finding your footing or someone who has been…
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EducationBalancing Work, Education, and Family Life as an Immigrant
Moving to a new country brings hope, opportunity, and the chance to build a better future. However, for many immigrants in Canada, life quickly becomes a balancing act. Between working long hours,…
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ImmigrationCommon Mistakes New Immigrants Make and How to Avoid Them
Canada is an excellent choice for a better life, as it offers a broad range of new opportunities, career growth, and a better future. But getting accustomed to a new country has…
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ImmigrationFirst 90 Days in Canada: A Newcomer's Survival Guide
Canada is very exciting to land in, but the first few months could be confusing as well. There is so much to navigate in a short period of time, from finding somewhere…
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EducationProfessional Certifications That Can Boost Your Career in Canada
Canada is a great place to build your career as a skilled worker. However, jobs are scarce now, and education or work experience may no longer be enough in the current job…
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For families
Vancouver for Desi Families – Explore, Connect & Thrive
Whether you have just landed at YVR or have lived here for years, this guide helps Desi families in Vancouver find the businesses and services they trust.
- Indian and Pakistani grocers, sweet shops, restaurants and clothing boutiques, on Main Street, Fraser Street and beyond
- South Asian real estate agents, mortgage brokers, accountants, lawyers and immigration consultants
- Gurdwaras, mandirs, mosques and community associations across the city
- Neighbourhoods families favour, from South Vancouver and Sunset to Burnaby and nearby Surrey
- Festivals and events, from Vaisakhi in April to Diwali and Eid celebrations
Start exploring Desi Vancouver today and find what feels like home.
Run a business in Vancouver?
List it free and reach the South Asian community across the city.