Alison Cairns has been working in writing and publishing for over a decade. A devoted Vancouverite, she loves exploring the hidden gems and new happenings — both cultural and culinary — in the city. She is also a lover of coffee, wine, craft beer and pretty much all food except sea urchin. She staves off the results of these loves by running the seawall, cycling the city and hiking the mountains.
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From barrel-aging spirits to foraging local herbs, Vancouver's cocktail bars are as adventurous as they are creative. Here are Vancouver's best cocktail bars, straight up. [Photo © Yellow Pages / Pages Jaunes]
Raincouver, the Wet Coast — there’s no denying that our beautiful city sees its share of rain in the winter. When it’s been pouring for days and you’re damp down to you bones, consider an afternoon at one of these escapes that will leave winter as a distant memory – if only for a few hours. [Photo © Yellow Pages / Pages Jaunes]
When it comes to cooking at home, it helps to have the right tools for the job. From the basics like a frying pan, wooden spoon, sharp knife and cutting board to the more obscure, like a cherry pitter, pizza peel or tortilla press, these stores have you covered. [Photo courtesy of Yellow Pages]
Ice cream: what more needs to be said? We've got the scoop on some of the city’s best. From taco-style waffle cones to virtuous vegan treats, here are a few of our fave Vancouver ice cream joints. [Photo courtesy of Rain or Shine Ice Cream]
No longer just the domain of bachelorette parties and late-night shots, tequila has been elevated to the sophisticated liquor it should be. With high-end, artisanal varieties finding their way to bars and into cocktails across Vancouver, you’ll see why this is the nectar of the Aztec gods.
Cambie Village is bustling with locals looking for good eats and strong coffee. These five cafés have heeded the call, all of them serving great food and drink in warm atmospheres. [Photo credit: Suzanne Rushton]
Brought out as they are only once a year, Christmas decorations are inherently nostalgic, each bringing with it a story of its origin and proudly displayed on a table or tree. Keep adding to this history and ritual with a few new ornaments a year — here are great places to get you started. [Image of The Cross courtesy of Jessica Napier]
Rain or shine, Vancouver is an active city year-round. There’s no better way to get motivated than to look good while you’re working out. These stores — all but one Vancouver-founded — will get you in gear. Literally. [Photo credit: iStock.com/BraunS]
We’re all aware that, physically, this city is a stunner. Its mountains, forests, waters, even its sparkling glass towers win it beauty contests around the world. Why not take in some of those views while enjoying a delicious meal? Any of these restaurants with views will take your breath away. [Image courtesy of Cardero's]
There's never been a better time to be vegetarian on Main Street. From easy take-out, deli-style meals to fine-dining date nights, the hipster neighbourhood has heard the call of its veggie-loving locals. Here is a sample of some of the best vegetarian dining options in Mount Pleasant.
The fashion designers, restaurant and bar staff, locals out for a day of shopping and sightseeing tourists alike all need a place to get their quick caffeine fix or to rest their weary legs after being on their feet all day. Gorgeous Gastown cafés to the rescue.
You’ve booked the tickets and the time off work but the real planning is just beginning. Make sure you have everything you’ll need — whether you’re headed to the Great Wall of China, the Great Lakes or the great outdoors. These five stores should be the first stop on your travel itinerary.