Everything you need to know about living, working or studying in Vancouver

Furniture and accessories for your home

Vancouver does have Ikea (in Richmond or on the New Westminster side) but they are out of the way of the city centre, like most furniture stores!

For those who want to buy second-hand, there are many garage and yard sales, where individuals get rid of furniture and objects they no longer want.

There are also many “charity” or “thrift” stores, such as the Salvation Army and the SPCA, where you can find items at a low price.

Food

You will be able to find what you need in supermarkets, grocery stores or local markets.

The cheapest option is usually No Frills (owned by Loblaws). Other popular choices include:

• Walmart
• Real Canadian Superstore
• Save-On Foods
• IGA
• Costco (if you have a membership).

Chinatown is a good option if you prefer to buy your produce from a market. Granville Island Public Market is a popular market but is unlikely to be the cheapest option, as it is a tourist hotspot.

Alcohol

Like everywhere in Canada, it is impossible to buy alcohol in supermarkets or grocery stores. You have to go to “liquor stores,” where prices are regulated by the government. You must be at least 19 years old (and be able to prove it with an ID) to buy alcohol and be able to consume it in bars and nightclubs.

Clothes

Vancouver has many well-known clothes stores, such as H&M, Zara, Banana Republic, etc. For more unique finds, try the local vintage stores. To save on costs or to avoid fast-fashion, you can buy second-hand at thrift stores.

Some of the main shopping districts include:

• Commercial Drive for bohemian local fashion
• CF Pacific Centre for a big shopping mall
• Gastown for designer fashion and hipster boutiques
• Kitsilano for sportswear (think Lululemon) and outdoor gear
• Robson Street for major North American brands.

It might also be more affordable to cross the border into Seattle, WA or go as far as Portland, OR. Shopping in the US (especially in the sales tax-free state of Oregon!) can often work out cheaper, even with the cost of travel.