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 Great deals |
556 Seymour St Vancouver, BC V6B 3J5 Canada +1 604 687 5837 http://www.absound.ca/ |
Rumored to be the cheapest place in North America to buy music, this large Western Canadian store carries music, home audio equipment and computers. Whether you're looking for Marilyn Manson or Zamfir, you'll probably find it cheapest here. Browse the busy downtown location and pick up that album you've been meaning to get. There are a number of locations in and around the city that can be found through their website: they include 732 SW Marine Drive (+1 604 321 5112) and 6433 East Hastings St (+1 604 298 0464). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Cheese, please! |
1752 West 2nd Avenue 1/4 block East of Burrard Street Vancouver, BC V6J 1H6 Canada +1 604 732 4218 / +1 877 676 1166 http://www.buycheese.com/ |
This store, run by a mother-daughter team, provides foodstuff to some of the biggest restaurants in Vancouver. Don't be misguided – there is nothing cheesy about this place! Rows of shelves display foie gras, pâtés, crackers, biscuits, olive oils, vinegars and, of course - cheese! Cheeses range from low-fat to the local variety, while platters may be ordered with fresh and dry fruit to match. If that's not enough, the store has a full blown kitchen, which prepares quick, take-out meals that are a must-buy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Original and unique creations |
1010 Homer St Vancouver, BC V6B 2X1 Canada +1 604 688 8555 |
This modern and stylish furniture and home accessory store is fully stocked with highly coveted design items that are created by local artisans and designers. The artistically created inventory offers decorating luxuries for any home. You will find wedding and housewarming gifts, bedroom sets, textiles and light fixtures, as well as a variety of fine household finishes. Located in trendy Yaletown, it also carries designs from Europe and North America. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A cinematic cure |
1470 Commercial Drive Vancouver, BC V5L 3X9 Canada +1 604 253 3305 |
Decked out like a turn-of-the-century apothecary, this videostore's walls are lined with white shelves, glass bottles, and videocassettes. "Pharmacists" in white lab coats dole out prescriptions to film lovers. Enter with an ailment (recent break-up, family strife, death of a pet) and you'll be set up with an antidote that will be marked down on your personal chart. Staffed with film school grads, the revolving categories in this place are unusual: "Girls Who Kick Butt", "Films That No One Saw But Are Actually Pretty Good". Select from foreign, alternative, local, and premium new releases. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Unique and eclectic |
1075 Robson St Vancouver, BC V6E 1A9 Canada +1 604 688 6417 |
Is this the only place in the world where you can buy an odd-looking vase shaped like a t-shirt? Perhaps not, but you certainly won't find typical gifts and souvenirs here. Located smack in the middle of the bustle of Robson Street, this gift shop is filled with unusual and funky chachkas (meaning "things" in Russian). Find interesting jewelery, art glass, and weird and wonderful versions of other familiar items like watches and pens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Dreamy, luxurious and eclectic |
950 Homer St Vancouver, BC V6B 2W7 Canada +1 604 689 2022 http://www.chintz.com |
This store is an interior designer and home accessory connoisseur's dream. A large Yaletown store, it offers some of the most original and creative household items in the city. Whether it's furniture, fabric, carpets, china or stationery, you will find it here in a beautiful form. The store also has a custom sewing service for items such as slipcovers, curtains and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brenda Pederson |
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Beautiful bouquets and arrangements |
402 West 8th Ave Vancouver, BC V5Y 1N9 Canada +1 604 877 0100 / +1 800 585 3388 http://www.canadaflorists.com/ |
Cracked up your mom's car and she won't return your calls? Really want to butter up your new girlfriend? Send them a big, bright bouquet and keep your guilty fingers crossed. Whether it's carnations, roses, or something more exotic, flowers are a nice gift. This local florist delivers free to anywhere in the city, and anywhere in the world for a fee. Create special arrangements for special holidays and other occasions. Ask to see some of the most popular arrangements, like the flowers and champagne gift basket. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fine cigars and accessories |
888 West 6th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5Z 1A6 Canada +1 604 897 0208 |
The cigar's strong-smelling smoke lays in a thick cloud over certain crowds in many cities, including Vancouver. When trend-followers and die-hard traditionalists want to stock up on some fine smoke, they stop by stores like this one that cater to cigar smoking needs. This is the source for some of the world's finest cigars and cigar accessories. It has ashtrays, books, cutters, humidors, humidity bricks and everything else the connoisseur requires. Its fine selection of cigars hails from such countries as Brazil, Cuba, Holland, Indonesia and Mexico. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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DIY beauty goods |
2710 Barnet Highway (Unit 65) Vancouver, BC V3B 1B8 Canada +1 604 944 1488 http://www.cranberrylane.com/ |
Whip up a few bars of ginger and grapefruit soap for stocking-stuffers or mix some Lavender Lust bath softeners into a treat for yourself. If you want to avoid all the chemicals and animal testing that go into some drugstore soaps and cosmetics, you have hit pay dirt. Find cleansers, soaps, lotions, creams and more. The products here make original housewarming gifts and cut down on your cosmetics bill. If you need help creating the bathroom concoctions, the store provides classes where you can mix and mingle with fellow soapaholics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gift shop brimming with treasures |
3600 West 4th Avenue Vancouver, BC V6R 1P1 Canada +1 604 739 6887 |
This gift store in Point Grey has a large selection of gift cards, toys, special jewelry, art, stationery, picture frames, home accessories, journals, books, candles, scents, and more. The large boutique also carries special imported items like handcrafted metal boxes from India and hand bound leather journals from Venice. You'll have no trouble finding a gift for anyone on your list. The prices are reasonable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Magazines aplenty |
2139 West 4th Ave Vancouver, BC V6K 1N7 Canada +1 604 730 1110 |
Magazine lovers and media junkies will revel in the rows uof shelves stacked with glossy periodicals of every variety in this Kitsilano magazine store. The store offers a good selection of local and international rags and newspapers. Fashion, media, electronics, sports, nature, politics, design, arts, home and garden, crafts, and dozens of other subjects can be found. If you have trouble locating what you need, ask the owner and he'll give you the low-down. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Diverse Downtown Neighbourhood |
Denman and Davie Streets Vancouver, BC V6G 1Y9 Canada http://www.englishbay.com |
English Bay is one of Vancouver's most diverse neighbourhoods. Located in downtown's West End, it's where the energetic action of Denman and Davie streets converges. The area is a popular venue for outdoor activities like in-line skating, cycling, walking the seawall, running, and jogging. There are bookstores, gift shops, fashion and cosmetic retailers and other specialty shops; and an eclectic fusion of culinary arts and eateries with clientele to match. Some of the city's best dine-with-a-view restaurants can be found here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Elegant floral design |
880 West Cordova St (Terminal City Building) Vancouver, BC V6C 3N8 Canada +1 604 681 7285 http://www.firstblossom.com/ |
If you appreciate the whimsical statement that flowers can make for a special occasion, this downtown florist can fulfill your floral fantasies. Using premium fresh blooms, exotic tropicals and natural accents like twigs and foliage, this florist's creations are unique. The arrangements are placed in special holders as an important finishing touch. The designers take pride in what they create, whether it's to spruce up your office, or decorate an entire event. Free consultations are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Quality cigars from around the world |
108 Water St Vancouver, BC V6B 1B2 Canada +1 604 683 0444 / +1 877 722 4427 http://www.habanocigar.com/ |
If you're a cigar lover, you will definitely find something in this store to satisfy your tastes. The cigar destination carries a wide range of cigars and cigarillos from around the world, including Cuban, Dominican, Nicaraguan and Dutch varieties. The smoking sticks are constantly monitored for freshness, so you are guaranteed a first-class product. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, the store will refund your money. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Victoria Potter |
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For cigar aficionados |
980 Robson St Vancouver, BC V6Z 2E7 Canada +1 604 609 0511 http://www.havanahouse.com/ |
This Robson Street cigar shop is a replica of a century-old Cuban villa, complete with antiques and detailed mementos. It features a walk-in humidor and a smoking lounge where you can try the latest Habanos like Cuaba, Robaina and Vegueros. It's also a perfect setting to relax and converse with other cigar lovers. The store carries the more popular Cuban brands such as Cohiba, Monte Cristo, Trinidad and Romeo y Juliet. But be advised: the trendy smoking sticks sell out almost as soon as they hit the shelves. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fresh and smelly goodness |
1020 Robson Street Vancouver, BC V6G2M8 Canada +1 604 687 5874 http://www.lushcanada.com |
This stuff looks and smells good enough to take a big bite out of. Beware, though, because you'll end up washing your mouth out with soap without even having said one bad word. Delicious looking and fresh, all of the cosmetics are handmade, packaged fresh and dated. There are bath bombs, shower gels, soaps, fragrances, shampoos, moisturizers, cleansers and more. With names like Dream Cream, Gumbo Express Smoothie and Into Thin Air, it is fun to browse here. There are two downtown locations and more in other parts of the city, including South Granville and Kitsilano. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Travis Nep Smith |
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Eclectic music selection |
2203 West 4th Ave Vancouver, BC V6N 1N9 Canada +1 604 736 2727 http://www.magicflute.com |
Eclectic music lovers and enthusiasts make this Kitsilano music store a regular shopping stop. Find compact discs and VHS videos of classical, jazz, film soundtracks, musical shows, gospel, blues, and various international styles. This is the place to find your favorite artist's box set or that obscure Italian singer's first album. The knowledgeable staff writes music reviews on the Web site and further demonstrates their aural savvy with in-store assistance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Uncommon arts |
235 Cambie Street Vancouver, BC V6B 1E5 Canada +1 604 685 9575 http://www.mooncruisegallery.com/ |
Mooncruise, personifies the uniqueness in everything that they have to offer to the buyers. A fashion store and an art gallery that displays the works of local as well as international artists and designers. Visual arts include paintings and photography from around the world. The fashion section has shoes, caps, belts, handbags, wrist bands, furniture, jewelery. A completely unique shopping experience altogether at Mooncruise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Most exclusive and popular shopping |
700 West Georgia St Vancouver, BC V7Y 1A1 Canada +1 604 688 7236 http://www.pacificcentre.com/ |
Spanning three city blocks above and under ground, this shopping centre will leave mall lovers reeling with consumption-induced joy. Located in the centre of the downtown action, this popular place has nearly every store and service. From cosmetics, gifts and souvenirs to kids clothing, flowers and furniture, it's here. Some of the notable stores include Ralph Lauren, Mexx, Holt Renfrew, Banana Republic and the ubiquitous Gap. The upscale Holt Renfrew department store is on site, and the large food fair offers everything from tacos to sushi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henry Faber |
 Photo: Andrew Lee |
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I Can Haz New & Used Music? |
4307 Main Street Vancouver, BC V5V 3R1 Canada +1 604 708 9422 http://www.redcat.ca/ |
Record lovers rejoice! This humble neighborhood shop stocks both new and used CDs and vinyl, specializing in rarities and local stuff like the masterful "Rock is Hard" by Vancouver's own Rodney Graham. In addition to the compelling music selection, Red Cat also plays host to gallery openings by local artists and in-store concert performances by local acts and even international superstars such as the Black Lips. Perhaps most important, the staff is eminently helpful, and gracious as can be. See websites for newsletter, event announcements, ticket sales, online shopping, and adorable photos of Buddy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Happy days for keeps |
3934 Main Street Vancouver, BC V5V 3P2 Canada +1 604 877 2247 http://www.assemblyoftext.com/ |
The '50s decor makes you wonder about the contents of this store. But once in, you will not fail to gush about the paraphernalia on offer. Ancient filing cabinets, old school books, stationary items, vintage greeting cards, and more are on display. Check out the alphabet patches, which you can iron onto your tees. Log on to the website for information on events and workshops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cori Kindred |
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 Full dive and snorkel centre |
1512 Duranleau Street (Granville Island) Vancouver, BC V6H 3S4 Canada +1 604 669 3483 http://www.rowandsreef.com/ |
This shop offers scuba sales, service and rentals. Located on Granville Island, this company has been offering full scuba services to its customers since 1971. The centre services and sells a large selection of equipment such as tanks, wet and dry suits, flippers and masks, including Mares and O'Neill wetsuits. It also provides diving courses for beginners to instructors. The company manufactures and repairs wet and dry suits, and organizes full dive holidays. Some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving areas in the world are in the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classical and neo-classical music scene |
432 West Hastings St Vancouver, BC V6B 1L1 Canada +1 604 685 0625 |
This store is a great resource for the classical music buff. It sells both new and used vinyl and cds of the best classical and jazz music. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and the selection diverse. Ask the staff to preview your CD on the store's speakers. You can also find out about and purchase tickets for many related musical events happening in and around the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sound advice |
1599 West 4th Ave (Near Granville Island) Vancouver, BC V6J 1L6 Canada +1 604 736 2077 http://www.speakercity.ca/ |
This is the city's premiere audio specialty store, offering complete home theatre and stereo systems from top names in the audio and video business (Angstrom, Axiom, Sound Dynamics, Cerwin Vega, THX, Dolby, Toshiba, Kenwood). Complete repair services are also provided. Replacement parts, woofers, tweeters, capacitors and coils, and build-your-own speaker kits are available, as is a complete selection of car audio components. It is located near Granville Island, and it can't be missed—just look for the huge painted mural. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Surveillance, counter-surveillance equipment |
414 West Pender St Vancouver, BC V6B 1V2 Canada +1 604 683 3283 http://www.spycityonline.com/ |
With a staff that seriously knows its stuff, this downtown store specializes in Bond-like gizmos and serious surveillance and counter-surveillance equipment. What kind of equipment does a spy use? Well, how about radio scanners, frequency counters, audio monitoring, phone recorders and scramblers, pinhole cameras, hidden video cameras, night vision equipment, body armour, digital tracking systems, intelligence books and videos, and wireless transmitters? It's safe to say you won't find most of this stuff anywhere else! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Famous jewelers |
723 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC V6Z 2P1 Canada +1 604 630 1300 http://www.tiffany.ca/Location... |
This legendary store features some of the finest jewelry in the world. You will also find breathtaking crystal, flatware, chinaware, silverware, and timepieces for sale. Shop for engagement rings and anniversary presents, or something special for a newborn baby. Anything wrapped in Tiffany's signature blue box is sure to be considered an heirloom that the recipient will treasure for generations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Purveyors of fine cigars |
1093 Hamilton St Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4 Canada +1 604 685 0445 / +1 888 942 4427 http://www.vancouvercigar.com/ |
The cigar has always been synonymous with taste and refinement. It has become a trendy accessory for fashion followers of Yaletown, Vancouver's high-end warehouse district. This company boasts a large selection of fine Cuban and non-Cuban cigars. Along with its chic location, it has stores in Whistler and other parts of downtown, and it recently set up an online ordering option. It stays open later on the weekends, so those who wish to savor a Cohiba or Montecristo late into the night can do so at their leisure. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Possibly the best in the city |
1855 West 4th Ave Vancouver, BC V6J 1M4 Canada +1 604 734 5752 http://www.videomatica.com/ |
Looking for that obscure German Gothic film from 1939 that you've been dying to see? There is hope, and it comes in the form of this video store. Whether you want to rent or buy, this Kitsilano spot has the best selection in the city. From animation, film noir and cult favorites to sci-fi, foreign gems and classics, the store will stock it, or try to get it in for you. Thorough and specialized service and selection makes this place a film lover's utopia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Musician and music lover's store |
412 West Hastings St Vancouver, BC V6B 1L3 Canada +1 604 682 5288 / +1 800 661 3761 http://www.long-mcquade.com/in... |
Since 1915, this store has been catering to the musical needs of British Columbians. Whether it's sheet music, books, instruments or instrument repair, the store is equipped to satisfy. Music teachers and students are specially catered to, as well as professional musicians in need of accessories and music-related computer hardware and software. Review © 2007, Wcities |
