Vancouver’s West End has been recognized as Canada’s greatest neighbourhood, something that no doubt comes as no surprise to the people who live there.

The West End took first place in the annual Great Places in Canada contest, hosted by the Canadian Institute of Planners and now in its fifth year.

“We couldn’t be more delighted,” stated the West End BIA on their website of the win. “[We’d] like to thank all of the amazing citizens, community groups, businesses, and event organizers that make the West End such a fantastic place to live, work and play.”

The neighbourhood was recognized by Great Places in Canada for its natural beauty, culture, and liveability, including “spectacular English Bay beach, a backdrop of majestic North Shore mountains, tree lined and foliage rich streets, an elegant blend of heritage and modern buildings, lively commercial areas, parklets and roundabouts, [and] dedicated cycling lanes.”

Every morning when I wake up and realize that *I’m still living, and living here* … I thank the heavens. I really do.