Q: we want to go to Toronto we are from Australia. But the flight is just too expensive to save up by December/January and Vancouver is much much cheaper. WE are both 19/20 so we want to have a good cheap time. We will stay at backpackers/hostels for cheap accomodation. But i need to convince my friend Vancouver is good place for young people and i need convincing myself. Is it a good place for young people? we really just want to have a good time and go out drinking alot to and party. Is Vancouver a good place for this and why? and is there any other places?
A: Yes, I find Vancouver youth friendly. Lots of Canadian cities close to the boarder have significant Americans coming in weekends from their US home drinking age of 21 to Canadian drinking ages of 18/19. Vancouver is a further drive say from Seattle, but it is the main option, so you notice it more. Vancouver bars are open until 3am on weekends and 2am weekdays. Toronto is 2am. The bars in Vancouver are located close to each other in the Downtown area. Like all along Granville, and in Gas Town. Granville Street on a weekend night can be pretty festive. Make sure to double check the reputation of hostels you are considering in Vancouver. Affordable housing is tight in Vancouver, and their is a spillover into such places from low income people. So try to double check to make sure you aren't in drug problem areas.