Support the Local

When it comes to shopping online regularly at US and UK based websites, I'm pretty much guilty as charged. The options are plentiful and the prices can be very reasonable, depending on the particulars. That is not to say however that we don't have a bevy of very cool shops right in our own backyard in Vancouver. These unique & indepedent retailers serve as helpful tastemakers; assisting those who are looking for something slightly off the beaten path from what you might find at the local mega-mall.

The best way to get a list of many of these cool and funky stores is to pick up a Modern Urban Guide for the neighbourhood you are interested in (Vancouver East, Vancouver West, Vancouver Downtown, etc.) If you've never come across these very useful, full-color guides before, then check out the Modern Urban Guides website for online versions of the listings.

You're more than likely to find some interesting local businesses that you didn't previously know about. Happy hunting!