Overview
Surrey is Vancouver's largest suburb (518,000 people in 2016) and one of BC's fastest-growing cities, with a strong multicultural character: 30.9% South Asian (mostly Punjabi from India's Punjab province) and 16.9% other Asian heritage. Unlike glossy tourist Vancouver, Surrey offers working-class authenticity, excellent South Asian food along King George Blvd and 128 St, and quick SkyTrain access to the city.
Culture · Day Trips · Festivals · Food · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
All major Canadian carriers (Bell, Rogers, Telus, Freedom Mobile) cover Surrey. Power plugs are Type A/B (120V/60Hz, North American standard). English is primary; Punjabi signage is common in South Asian commercial areas.
Culture
Surrey is exceptionally diverse: 30.9% South Asian (mostly Punjabi), 16.9% other Asian. The city has the largest concentration of South Asian restaurants and shops in British Columbia, particularly around Newton (King George Blvd between 68-78 Ave) and 128 St.
Food
Punjabi cuisine is Surrey's specialty—Newton and Scott Road corridors are packed with Indian restaurants, sweet shops, and banquet halls. Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Mexican, and Afghan options are also widely available. Upscale dining clusters in South Surrey.
Money
Prices in CAD. Surrey is notably cheaper than central Vancouver for accommodation and food. South Surrey (near White Rock) is more affluent with pricier dining. BC has high liquor taxes—expect $12-18 for a jug of beer at pubs.
Safety
Crime concentrates near King George Boulevard in Whalley and Newton. Surrey City Centre is undergoing gentrification but still has visible homelessness and drug activity. Other areas are relatively safe with normal urban precautions.
Transport
Surrey is on Vancouver's SkyTrain Expo Line with stations at Surrey Central, King George, Gateway, and Scott Road. Single bus fares are $2.50-3.20 CAD; SkyTrain fares range $2.50-6.20 CAD by zone. Compass cards work across the entire TransLink network.