The skyline of Vancouver, as seen from Granville Street bridge.

image credit: Wikimedia Commons (author FlickrLickr)

Vancouver was named the second-best travel destination in the world by readers of British newspaper the Telegraph, in the publication's 2014 Travel Awards.

The winners over several categories, including best Rail Operator, best Airlines, and others were compiled from the votes of some 90,000 people and the award's ceremony was held in London, England.

Cape Town, South Africa was voted the world's top travel city, and New Zealand its top country. TrailFinders, an English travel company, was named the world's top tour operator a nice thing to know if you're in any of their chosen destinations.

In September, the Telegraph published its travel guide for Vancouver, and said it was "poised to become the world's greenest city".

It also identified the Pacific Rim and The Loden as the two hotels to stay in, and recommended both the Grouse Grind and a day-trip to Victoria as worthwhile activities.

The Telegraph's Rachel Dove also recommended restaurants Wildebeest, The Parker, Blue Water Cafe, Hawksworth, and Medina as desirable foodie attractions.

And in November, British personality Steve Backshall raved about Vancouver to Telegraph reporter Nick McGrath:

"Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and offers easy escapes to incredibly wild places. The North Shore has one of the world's best mountain biking areas about half an hour from the city centre and the Whistler ski resort is also nearby. You can go across to Vancouver Island, which is great for spotting orcas and bears. It's a stunning city. My sister has lived there for about four years, so I visit her a lot. I've also been there filming wildlife in the surrounding area. I'm not a city person, but if I had to live in a city, this is the one I'd choose."

See the article here:

Travel Awards: Vancouver named world's 2nd best city to visit