KITSILANO

Named after Squamish Chief August Jack Khatsalano, Kitsilano (or 'Kits') was home to the Squamish people unit it was surrendered to the federal government in 1946. By the 1960s, Kits was a relatively inexpensive place to live compared to other neighbourhoods in Vancouver, attracting the hippies from across Canada and the United States.

Kits has since gentrified due to its proximity to downtown and Granville Island. It is now known for the shopping and restaurants on 4th Avenue and West Broadway, the nearby beaches, and the bike lanes. The neighbourhood has retained some of its earlier 'counterculture' roots, though, with health food stores on every corner.

In the summer, Kits is the place to tan or go for a swim in the ocean. The waterfront is taken over by bicyclists, roller bladers, and dog walkers. On a clear evening, Kits provides a great view of the sunset over the ocean.