PICKS OF THE MONTH: VANCOUVER

Restaurant: The Lift Bar & Grill

333 Menchion Mews, off Bayshore Drive, http://www.liftbarandgrill.com/
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When dining in Vancouver why not eat at a restaurant that allows you to take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, mountains and city all at the same time. Breathtaking views, fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere = the Lift. The food here is delicious and fresh (which justifies its slightly higher price tag), the staff is friendly (and easy on the eyes) and even the architecture of the building eye-catching. The Lift is located on the Coal Harbour waterfront just minutes from Stanley Park.


Café: Marble Slab

103-1184 Denman Street, www.marbleslab.com/
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I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! When you can't decide between ice cream, fruit and chocolate for dessert, Marble Slab may just be the answer to all your problems. Step 1: choose an ice cream flavour or 2. Let's say a scoop of cheesecake and another of cookie dough. Step 2: Select your toppings. They range from fruit, bits of chocolate bars, gummy bears and nuts. You pick the strawberries. Next, your server places your ice cream on a frozen marble slab (so it doesn't melt) and mix your toppings completely together. Step 3: Choose your cone. They come in traditional cone as well as cup shapes, and their tops are dipped in various types of chocolate. The butterfinger waffle cone is absolutely delish! Step 4: eat your heart out! The mixture of flavors is worth the wait - there is the occasional lineup at peak times. Bon appétit!


Shop: Aritzia

1110 Robson Street, several locations around the city, www.aritzia.com
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Follow any Vancouver fashionista about town and she will eventually lead you to Aritzia - the Vancouver based clothing store that carries all the youthful, popular clothing brands, such as Juicy Couture, Rock & Republic, UGG, Triple5 Soul and 7 for all Mankind. Its own labels, Talulah Babaton and TNA, offer sporty West Coast styles and chic citywear. This store has taken Canada by storm since it recently expanded from coast to coast. It is the it-store of the moment. For a taste of the Vancouver gal's style, Aritzia is a must.


Culture: Theatre Under the Stars

Stanley Park, http://www.tuts.ca/

For those of you who like a good musical, I recommend Theatre Under the Stars. Located in Stanley Park, TUTS is an open air theatre puts on hits musical productions outdoors during the summer months. Come early with friends to get a good seat and bring a picnic to eat while waiting for the show to begin. Dress warmly as it can get cool at night, or even better, cuddle with your love under a cosy blanket while you enjoy a romantic night out.