The City of Langley, “The Country Side of Vancouver”, is set on the lush Nicomekl River nature preserve. The downtown is made for walkers, with fountains, public seating, greenways ­ and lots of shops for browsing. The city also offers live theatre, art galleries and concerts. The District Municipality of Langley surrounds and includes the city. Berry, flower and produce farms, woodlands and parks make Langley a desirable residential area. It’s also the “Horse Capital of B.C.” with many trail rides and international equestrian events. (604) 530-6656

• Canadian Museum of Flight. At the Langley Airport. Aviation photos, artifacts, memorabilia and vintage aircraft, including a DeHavilland Vampire, a Handley Page and one of the world’s two remaining Bowlus gliders. Aldergrove. East and south of Langley, Aldergrove was named for a dense second growth of alder trees. Take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the area. Known for its raspberry and strawberry farms, Aldergrove also offers bargains at a duty free shop for tourists leaving Canada for the U.S. via a local border crossing.
• Greater Vancouver Zoo. 126 species of wildlife housed in open exhibit areas on 49 hectares (120 acres).