Studying in Richmond
Richmond is an awarding winning, upper-middle-class city of 220,000 people located in Metro Vancouver between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Richmond is known for its multicultural community, being home to the Vancouver International Airport and for co-hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Richmond Quick Facts
- Population – Approximately 220,000
- Located 22 minutes from downtown Vancouver and 40 minutes to ski hills
- Enjoys a mild, west-coast climate
- Home to the Vancouver International Airport
- Upper middle class community with the lowest crime rate in Metro-Vancouver
- Vibrant multicultural population
- Boasts multiple community centres, pools, libraries and parks
- Richmond is home to 14 of the top 100 high technology companies in the province of British Columbia including Microsoft and Nintendo
Information on Richmond is available from www.richmond.ca
Richmond Activities and Lifestyle
Students who choose to study in Richmond can easily access a wide variety of cultural events, fine arts and professional sporting activities. With the ocean and mountains close by, activities like skiing, sailing, cycling, swimming, fishing and golf are all very popular. In addition, many of Richmond’s different ethnic and cultural organizations host celebrations and cultural events throughout the year. Richmond’s many cultural centres, community centres and places of worship offer a warm welcome to students from abroad.
Community Centres
Many schools in Richmond are located near a community centre that offers diverse programming for the community and school. In some cases, these centres are physically attached to schools, making it easy for students to participate in any activity that suits them. Classes range from hip hop dance to origami. Visit the Parks, Recreation and Culture guide on the Richmond city website to learn more about what’s available. https://www.richmond.ca/parksrec/overview.htm
Transportation
Richmond is well serviced by public buses and the new Skytrain transportation system. Public transit is widely used in Canada as a main transportation option and offers a clean, safe and efficient way to get around Richmond and Vancouver. International Students may obtain a Compass Card through their school that will allow them to get around easily and cheaply. This pass entitles them to unlimited local travel by public transit at a reduced rate.
