Thanks Aviator - do you have to use a broker to get insurance?

In BC you have to go through an Autoplan broker for ICBC. For add on insurance there are some direct insurers, however you then may end up dealing with two adjusters if you make a claim. The difference was not that great for us and we stuck with ICBC for all. Watch out for liability, the basic minimum is $200,000, nothing like enough in my opinion, we get $5m, although you can choose less.

http://www.icbc.com/insurance/

It depends on where you work, but public transit is pretty good around Commercial Drive. Getting a car isn't the necessity it is in some places. You could try living car free for a while and just rent one as you need it.

may well do Jonboy! may just join a car club

How about this. They'll even help you to set it up whilst you're still in the UK according to this page.

Zipcar Vancouver
www.zipcar.com

201-601 west cordova Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 1G1
(604) 697-0550

Here is a map showing vehicles they currently have available regularly near the Commercial Dr / 11th Ave intersection. Play around with the map to find others in Vancouver.

thanks Hooky (hey getting a bit over friendly sorry!)

OH helped set up urbigo in london - so suppose we better support Zip

No problem. Friendly is better than a kick in the kneecacps, anyday.