Spend a perfect Vancouver weekend with local guide Talaysay Campo

There’s nothing like summer in Vancouver — from idyllic hiking paths to easy beach access, and incredible food.

Local guide Talaysay Campo, founder of Talaysay Tours, knows Vancouver’s best local gems and how to earn rewards while you’re at it.

She’s teamed up with American Express to show how she explores some of the best spots in Vancouver, with her Amex Cobalt Card in hand.

Fuel your day with local eats

49th Parallel/Amex

Start your day right at some of Vancouver’s best spots.

Body Energy Club is a health food store that sells some incredible smoothies, acai bowls, cold-pressed juices, and healthy grab-and-go snacks. If you’re looking for that morning cup of joe, 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters is a sustainably sourced brand, roasted in Canada, that offers rich coffee and delicious donuts.

Local flavours are all part of the Vancouver experience, and Talaysay loves Vicinity Mart — a Persian grocery store packed with unique ingredients and tasty treats. Better yet, she earns five times the points on eligible eats and drinks with Amex Cobalt, helping her save up rewards for travel — including flights and hotels for her family’s Maui getaway.

Explore Vancouver’s lush landscape

Talaysay Campo/Amex

Connecting with nature in the lush forests that surround Metro Vancouver is a must, and they’re a pretty easy escape to make from the bustling city.

Talaysay recommends Lynn Valley Loop for peaceful forest trails or Mamquam Falls, which is just a short drive into Squamish. You can gas up for your adventure while earning two-times the points on gas, taking your exploration even further.

Heading around the city without a vehicle? The SkyTrain and Amex Cobalt make it easy to get around — just use your card for quick, contactless payment and you get two-times the points!

Nights out in Vancouver 

Mike/Amex

Dinnertime couldn’t come sooner, and Talaysay’s favourite spots let her earn five-times the points on eligible restaurants with her Amex Cobalt Card all while reminiscing over fond memories.

Sushi by the ocean is an obvious choice, and Talaysay’s go-to spot is Miku. But for a special night out, she often chooses Anna Lena, where she and her boyfriend had their first date and have since become regulars.

For your evening entertainment, Talaysay suggests checking out concerts around Vancouver. Thanks to Amex’s Front of the Line access, Cardmembers get exclusive early ticket access to some of the best concerts, theatre productions, and other special events — which unlocks a block of great seats reserved exclusively for American Express members.

Supporting small businesses coast to coast

From local cafés and markets to restaurants and adventure spots, Talaysay’s Vancouver summer itinerary is a love letter to the city’s small businesses. Many of the businesses here are proudly featured on Amex Maps, labelled with the Shop Small icon. American Express continues to champion Canadian businesses, encouraging visitors and locals alike to support these vibrant, local businesses.

Ready to explore Vancouver like Talaysay? Just don’t forget to pack your Amex Cobalt Card and get ready to earn points, support local, and experience the best of the city this summer.