Isabelle Vauclair

Isabelle Vauclair

Multimedia journalist, writer, and nature-lover. Well-versed in writing for the lifestyle beat across a variety of topics, from local travel to food and drink, to historical features.

My ~four-year coverage of local lifestyle topics in Vancouver (and beyond) can be found at Curiocity Vancouver, and occasionally Curiocity Seattle.

Curiocity • 12/11/2025

Here are all the spots with photo booths in Vancouver

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a moment captured in a photo booth is worth that several times over. There's nothing more nostalgic than taking out your strip of photos from a machine. Here's where you can find both analog and digital photo booths in Vancouver.

Curiocity • 11/28/2025

Over 20 Indigenous-owned businesses to shop across Canada over the holidays and beyond

The season of giving has arrived, and what better way to support local than by picking out a few gifts from some Indigenous-owned businesses? Not only will you find all kinds of creative, ethically made gifts for your loved ones, but you’ll have the chance to learn more about the local Indigenous cultures in your area.

Curiocity • 11/21/2025

Vancouver is getting a floating sauna experience on a restored barge from the 1940s

A few months into its inception, HAVN took a restored naval barge from the 1940s — once a place of urgency and emergency — and turned it into a transformative, relaxing experience where people could find a moment of stillness. The 150-foot barge came from an old mar...

Curiocity • 11/19/2025

New Aritzia flagship boutique to take over former Nordstrom location in Vancouver

Vancouver-born fashion retailer Aritzia just revealed its plans for a new flagship boutique in downtown Vancouver, and although it’ll be a little while before it officially opens, it’s going to be major, and it’s located in a familiar spot. Spanning approximately 40,000 square feet and four floors, the new flagship will sit at the intersection of Robson and Howe, in the spot formerly occupied by Nordstrom at Pacific Centre.

Curiocity • 11/13/2025

Vancouver's rent prices drop for a 13th month in a row

The new Canadian Rent Report is out, and November marks the 13th month in a row that the average rent has fallen in Vancouver. According to Zumper, average rent prices are experiencing a “continued downward trend,” a pattern that extends to many of the country’s most expensive housing markets.

Curiocity • 11/10/2025

Canada's top luxury resale brand is having its biggest sale of the year with up to 80% off

With stores in Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, Mine & Yours is known as Canada’s leading luxury resale brand, and they’re about to have their biggest sale of the year. So if you’ve been eyeing an LV bag or statement piece for a while now, there’s never been a better time to pop into one of their boutiques.

Curiocity • 11/07/2025

One of the oldest houses in B.C. is this one-storey log house that predates the creation of Canada

Helmcken House is one of the oldest houses in the province remaining on its original property, and it preserves an important era of Canadian history.

Curiocity • 11/05/2025

Vancouver is getting its own 'North Pole' with a magical mountaintop ice skating pond

The Peak of Christmas is a beloved annual tradition atop Grouse Mountain that transforms the peak into a winter wonderland, complete with an illuminated Light Walk around the lake and an ice skating pond.

Curiocity • 11/04/2025

These 'dark sky preserves' across Canada are your best chance of viewing this week's supermoon

Heads up, stargazers. You might know that this week’s supermoon is on the way, but there may be a dark sky preserve near you that will offer a front row seat to this spectacular phenomenon.

Curiocity • 10/29/2025

Cozy fall date ideas to try in and around Vancouver that aren't grabbing coffee

Let’s face it, the “let’s grab coffee” line is overused and not always an effective way to get to know a person. Sure, you have a chance to flex your coffee aficionado muscles if that’s your thing, but there are only so many coffee dates you can go on before they all start blending together — and before your body starts rejecting caffeine altogether. So this fall, we challenge you to mix it up, be daring, and come up with some date ideas that push you out of your comfort zone.

Curiocity • 10/29/2025

Vancouver International Airport is hiring right now with world-class benefits

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is hiring for over 20 jobs across its departments right now, and one of them might just have your name on it.

Curiocity • 10/28/2025

Vancouver's signature four-day art crawl opens the studios of over 500 artists this fall

Now in its 29th year, the beloved Eastside Culture Crawl is a staple fall tradition that opens the studios of over 500 artists on Vancouver's Eastside. Showcasing the work of local and international artists alike, the four-day crawl is a great way to experience the city’s art scene in all of its glory.

Curiocity • 10/23/2025

Vancouver's last 6 p.m. sunset of the year is coming up this weekend

October has blessed Vancouver with some gorgeous fall weather, at least in the first half of the month. As it comes to a close, however, we’re in for far wetter, colder days ahead. It’s hard to believe, but the last 6 p.m. sunset of the year is already coming up this weekend, which means it won’t be long before daylight saving time ends.

Curiocity • 10/22/2025

B.C. film studio to transform into a magical holiday town straight out of a Christmas movie

Langley’s Martini Film Studios is known for its world-class production and prime West Coast location, and once a year, it opens its backlot to the public for a magical holiday experience like no other. The outdoor film set transforms into Merry & Bright at Martini Town, an enchanting holiday town straight out of a Hallmark movie.

Curiocity • 10/22/2025

These ancient trees might just be the oldest in Canada

From B.C.’s towering old-growth forests to the knarled burls of the prairies, Canada is home to some seriously spectacular trees that have been around for hundreds of years, if not millennia. The fact that these ancient trees are still standing today is a testament to nature’s resilience as well as the environmental stewardship efforts on a provincial level and by grassroots organizations like Ancient Forest Alliance.

Curiocity • 10/21/2025

Vancouver museums and art galleries that are completely free to visit

Vancouver is not an easy place to afford the basics, much less to splurge on fancy meals or daytime excursions. The good news is that there are a handful of museums and art galleries that are completely free to visit, which means you can support your local arts scene without breaking the bank.

Curiocity • 10/20/2025

This B.C. village was named a top global travel destination for 2026 and it's the only Canadian spot

There’s no place like Ucluelet to experience the wild West Coast in all of its glory. Secluded beaches, a temperate rainforest, and lively storm-watching during the colder months. What more can you ask for? The vibrant coastal village is already world-renowned for its sustainable tourism opportunities, and it looks like it’s gaining traction on Expedia.

Curiocity • 10/17/2025

Camels were once brought to B.C. over 150 years ago and it's a wild story

Canada feels like the last place you’d expect to see camels roaming around, but despite their popular association with the deserts of southwestern Asia and parts of Africa, they’re actually native to North America, though the first camels to walk the Earth are a far cry from their descendants today.

Curiocity • 10/09/2025

Here's when daylight saving time ends and Canadians 'fall back' in 2025

Soak up those gorgeous fall days while you can, because it won’t be long before the trees are bare and daylight saving time ends once again. As sunset times get earlier and earlier across the country, we inch toward the inevitable point when we “fall back.”

Curiocity • 10/07/2025

You can buy a tree for $15 or less from the City and contribute to Vancouver's urban forest

Part of Vancouver’s allure as a city and destination for nature lovers is its dedication to growing its urban forest canopy. It’s what makes every stroll memorable and every lungful of air fresh, whether it’s on a shaded trail in the summer, a coffee run in the fall, or a cherry blossom picnic in the spring. None of it would be possible without the urban forest, and the Vancouver Park Board is offering residents the chance to help make it flourish. The annual fall tree sale is a chance for Vancouver resid...

Curiocity • 10/04/2025

These enchanting B.C. parks have vibrant fall colours without the crowds

Fall is officially underway, and Raincouver is back in full swing. But it won’t be long before sunnier days are back in the forecast, which means it's an opportune time to visit some of the most vibrant provincial parks for fall colours. We talked to a representative from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and BC Parks to uncover where to find the most striking autumn colours, from the most popular destinations to the hidden gems.

Curiocity • 10/02/2025

The world's largest gathering of bald eagles takes place in B.C. every fall

Every fall, tens of thousands of bald eagles migrate to the Harrison River and Harrison Mills, where they’ll feast on even more spawning salmon, which later make their own journey back to the ocean. All the while, ancient white sturgeon glide beneath the freshwater, which means visitors can witness three spectacular natural phenomena this time of year in just this area alone.

Curiocity • 09/30/2025

Daniel Caesar performs to hundreds of fans in Vancouver in the rain at a surprise concert

Hundreds of Daniel Caesar fans gathered at John Hendry Park on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation for a surprise performance announced on Instagram with just over an hour to spare.

Curiocity • 09/27/2025

Spruce up your fall wardrobe at these Vancouver thrift and consignment stores

Fall is here, and now is a great time to see what cozy layers, leather jackets, and vintage pieces await at Vancouver’s many thrift and consignment stores. So after you downsize and stow away your summer tanks, it might be time to show your closet a little love. Here are some of the best places to thrift secondhand gems in Vancouver.

Curiocity • 09/03/2025

Here's when the next jaw-dropping season of 'Yellowjackets' starts filming in Vancouver

Mark your calendars, Yellowjackets fans, because your favourite series is set to film its next season in the Vancouver area once again. We hear the wilderness, and it hears us, and “it” has chosen to film in early 2026.

Curiocity • 09/02/2025

There's a preserved gold rush-era town in B.C. with over 125 original buildings to explore

The historic town and park of Barkerville is a treasure trove of B.C.’s golden beginnings. The legendary gold rush town was established on Williams Creek after the discovery of gold in the hills that surrounded what was optimistically called “Richfield” at the time, and the rest is history.

Curiocity • 08/18/2025

I stayed at the only resort with a private beach in Osoyoos and here's how it went

Considered one of the most underrated wine regions in the world, B.C.’s Okanagan is a truly special place for locals and visitors alike. No summer feels complete without a visit here, so that’s exactly why we ventured there earlier this month.

Curiocity • 08/15/2025

The Aritzia Warehouse Sale is coming up in Vancouver and you can shop up to 90% off

The Aritzia Warehouse Sale is a time-honoured tradition that rewards those who aren’t afraid of a (very) long line with some steep discounts on Aritzia clothing and accessories, as the Vancouver brand makes way for its fall and winter collections. That means it won’t be long before you can see discounts up to 90 per cent on some of the brand’s most popular styles.

Curiocity • 08/15/2025

Canada's largest Brazilian cultural festival will bring a taste of Carnaval to Vancouver

For two days this month, Vancouver is transforming into the largest Brazilian cultural festival in Canada. On the night of Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, BC Place will light up in green, blue, and yellow to celebrate the opening of the festival, which will bring two days of amazing food and drink, live music, and immersive experiences to the city.

Curiocity • 08/14/2025

The ocean's 'sparkly glow': Here's where to witness bioluminescence in B.C.

All that glitters isn’t gold — sometimes it’s bioluminescence. The breathtaking natural phenomenon behind the ocean’s bright blue glow is as fascinating as it is alluring, and its peak period is coming up.

Curiocity • 08/13/2025

A complete guide to Vancouver's Strathcona neighbourhood

Strathcona is one of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhoods, known for its rows of restored Victorian and Queen Anne-style homes, overflowing patches of flowers, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming corner stores that have stood the test of time.

Curiocity • 08/08/2025

Beloved Vancouver brand to have a four-day warehouse sale with up to 70% off

The Latest Scoop’s biggest warehouse sale yet is coming to Vancouver in August 2025, and shoppers will find more than just racks upon racks of clothing. In addition to apparel, the sale will feature discounted home decor and furniture, so if you’re on the hunt for a new loveseat, a pair of wine glasses, or something to wear to a wedding before the end of the summer, now is your opportunity.

Curiocity • 07/23/2025

B.C.'s last drive-in movie theatre is the largest of its kind in North America

The era of drive-in movie theatres might feel like yesteryear, but did you know that there’s one left in B.C. that encapsulates the timeless experience — and it’s the largest of its kind in North America? Situated in the riverside city of Enderby is Starlight Drive-In Theatre, a nostalgic landmark for movie lovers, and the last of its kind in the province.

Curiocity • 07/16/2025

A complete guide to Vancouver's South Cambie neighbourhood

Don’t let its size or proximity to Main Street fool you — South Cambie is a gem of a neighbourhood with its own fair share of local dining, shopping, patio lounging, and green spaces to explore.

Curiocity • 06/18/2025

A complete guide to Vancouver's Gastown neighbourhood

Gastown is more than just cobblestone streets and a landmark steam clock. It’s Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, lined with historic pubs, hidden galleries, trinket shops, cafes, boutiques, and sprawling patios that are perfect for the upcoming season. So if your goal is to roam the city and discover some new spots, consider hitting up Gastown first.The origins of the neighbourhood as we know it can be traced back to the days of “Gassy Jack” and a single tavern, in what was then known as the Cit...

Curiocity • 06/11/2025

I went to Vancouver Island for the first time after 10 years of living on the mainland

I’ve lived in Vancouver for nearly a decade, and I’m ashamed to say that I didn’t set foot on Vancouver Island until May 2025 — though not for a lack of trying! Nonetheless, here's how the trip went, my first impressions, and more.

Curiocity • 06/10/2025

You can book a backyard to host friends in Vancouver this summer and it's FREE

The downside for most city dwellers is that sizeable backyards are few and far between — if you’re lucky to have any outdoor space at all. The good news is that President’s Choice has a cool new summer initiative that lets you book a backyard for a day, and it’s completely free.

Daily Hive • 05/29/2025

Where to get the best iced strawberry matcha in Vancouver | Food & Drink

Sunnier days are on the horizon, and no beverage has a stronger chokehold on the city during the warmer months than the coveted iced strawberry matcha — and for good reason. Refreshing, dark green matcha atop a delicious layer of milk and fresh strawberry purée. What’s not to love?
These Vancouver spots not only offer some of the most eye-catching iced matcha lattes we’ve seen, but also incorporate high-quality matcha powder, some imported directly from Japan. So while some of these menus might...

Curiocity • 05/26/2025

A family of owls now resides at this Vancouver park & here are the best viewing tips and etiquette

The nesting Barred owls at Vancouver’s Douglas Park (801 W. 22nd Ave.) have been making headlines over the past couple of weeks for drawing dozens upon dozens of visitors to the neighbourhood park, situated in the heart of Cambie Village. What started as a couple of neighbours and birders stopping to admire the birds in mid-April has turned into an outpouring of spectators over a month later. In fact, the City of Vancouver has put up cautionary signs due to the influx of park-goers.“Shhhh… owls...

Curiocity • 05/21/2025

The world’s largest island-in-a-lake-on-an-island-in-a-lake-on-an-island is in Canada

Here’s a wild, fun fact to pull out of your pocket during your next social event. The world’s largest island-in-a-lake-on-an-island-in-a-lake-on-an-island is a real place, and it’s located in Canada. With a population of just over 41,000 people, Nunavut has the smallest population of any province or territory, and it’s home to this fascinating geological marvel — sometimes referred to on the internet as “Inception Island.”

Curiocity • 05/15/2025

There's a 'hidden' Vancouver Island gem with rich tide pools less than 20 minutes from Nanaimo

Nanoose Bay is a true hidden gem in B.C. that perfectly encapsulates the “island life.” Tucked between Nanaimo and the Parksville Qualicum Beach area, the small but vibrant community strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure.

Curiocity • 04/17/2025

Vancouver's rarest and most popular cherry blossoms were cultivated over hundreds of years

There’s still time to enjoy Vancouver’s stunning cherry blossom season – undoubtedly one of the most beautiful times of year – and one we always wish lasted longer. Hailing from Japan and symbolizing spring renewal, flowering cherry trees (also known as cherry blossoms) are considered the ornamental versions of the fruit-bearing trees, cultivated by humans over hundreds of years.We spoke with naturalist, author, and local cherry blossom guide Nina Shoroplova about the logistics of cultivating Va...

Curiocity • 04/14/2025

The next Canadians in space include the first crewed mission to the moon since 1972

Pop singer Katy Perry was one of six people launched into space on Monday, April 14, 2025, via Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. The all-female crew went to space for 11 minutes aboard the fully automated New Shepard rocket, “Blue Origin’s fully reusable, suborbital rocket system built for human flight.” According to its website, the experience included several minutes of weightlessness and “life-changing views of Earth,” marking a new chapter in space tourism...

Curiocity • 04/11/2025

Vancouver could see a sky full of 'shooting stars' and a Northern Lights display in a few weeks

Due to “high” aurora activity, the mesmerizing northern lights may be visible in Vancouver in just a few short weeks. And it’s not the only noteworthy celestial event on our radar.

Curiocity • 04/08/2025

Scientists bring back the long-extinct dire wolf that once made its way to Canada

It seems that the legendary, long-lost dire wolf has come out of its 10,000-some years of extinction to make a few headlines, thanks to Colossal Biosciences, a company that claims to be “the world’s only de-extinction company.” While some experts dispute this “scientific breakthrough” with claims that ancient DNA is too fragile to clone, the story has already captured the world’s attention.

Curiocity • 03/19/2025

Vancouver boutique gets a new storefront and offers a selection of brands from across the globe

While it’s true that many top Vancouver-born brands like MEC and Lululemon are outdoor-focused, there are plenty of local streetwear brands, sustainable fashion, and high-end boutiques that cater to a wide range of tastes if you’re down to comb the racks. Siista Boutique in Gastown is one of them.

Curiocity • 03/05/2025

Vancouver businesses where you can shop Canadian for all your essentials

There’s never been a better time to support local and shop Canadian, and there are plenty of Vancouver businesses that make it easy, whether you’re shopping for essentials, gifts, or something in between.

Curiocity • 01/31/2025

This tiny Vancouver park is at the site of a former chocolate factory & its views are as sweet as its name

One of the best views in the city is tucked away in Fairview Slopes on a neighbourhood street once occupied by Vancouver’s own Purdys Chocolatier, which dates back more than a century. Today, it’s home to a tiny city park with a delicious name and origin story: Choklit Park.

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