Vancouver, Canada – a cosmopolitan city filled with five star restaurants, designer shopping and awe-inspiring scenery. But on your next trip to Vancouver, don’t just stay in the downtown core. There are many other neighborhoods around Vancouver worthy of your time and money. While some are still located within the city, others may require a short bus or ferry trip. Wherever you end up though, I can guarantee you’ll find more of what makes Vancouver such a wonderful place - beautiful surroundings, a laid back pace and friendly people.
Fourth Avenue
In the 1970’s, Fourth Avenue was known primarily for its hippie population, organic groceries and metaphysical bookstores. It still retains that bohemian feel to this day despite the presence of some very up-scale establishments. If you’re looking for something to read, Duthies at 2239 West Fourth is a must. In business since 1957, Duthies has always been known for its vast and eclectic selection of reading material.
Need something for Rover back home? Head to the Three Dog Bakery (2186 West Fourth) and pick up some Beagle Bagels or Drooly Dream Bars to go.
Is classical music one of your interests? Then pop into the Magic Flute at 2203 West Fourth. With listening stations located around the store you can decide before you buy if Dvorak’s Symphony #9 is really what you’re looking for.
If all this walking has made you hungry, check out Sophie’s Cosmic Café. Located at 2095 West Fourth, they’ve been serving fantastic food since 1988. Be sure and come hungry, because the portions are huge. Personal favorites include the “Arbutus Burger” (named for the cross street that Sophie’s is located at) and the “Belgian Chocolate Cheesecake.” A very popular place for Sunday breakfast, the restaurant takes reservations for parties of six or more.
And finally, one of the best places to take in a Vancouver sunset is Kitsilano beach. Head north along either Cypress or Yew Street for five blocks and you’re there. Bus service runs frequently along Cornwall Street (directly across from the beach) so you’ll be back downtown in no time once the sun's gone down.