Olympic shoppers have a variety of choices in Vancouver
2010-01-15
For many travelers making the journey to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympics,
this could be their first trip abroad. Fortunately for those spectators who are
hoping to pick up some souvenirs from their excursion north, Vancouver has a
wealth of shopping options for tourists of all shapes and sizes.
Most
shoppers will find their way towards the city's largest shopping area, Burnaby.
Boasting 470 shops from designer boutiques to outlet stores in addition to world
class restaurants, theaters and palatial in-door courtyards, Burnaby has emerged
as a destination in and of itself.
Travelers seeking to catch a glimpse
of the city's unique mix of cultures might enjoy an afternoon spent on
Commercial Drive. The Drive, as it is called by the locals, is home to the
lively and unique side of Vancouver with locally owned shops, an eclectic mix of
cultural groups and a pair of converted, classical theaters.
Shoppers
who may be interested in returning home with some culinary and confectionary
delights might want to spend a day at Granville Island, where the local fresh
market offers up fresh produce, fish, meats and baked goods alongside a row of
stalls, galleries and shops peddling local and international wares.