For some, souvenir shopping is the less enjoyable by-product of a vacation. After all, how many t-shirts, figurines, and magnets do your friends really need? If you’re looking for some outside-the-box ideas for a BC-based gift that (heaven forbid) people might actually use, the staff at the Victorian Hotel has a few suggestions.
With the shopping meccas of Gastown, Robson, and Yaletown just minutes away, the Victorian Hotel is perfectly positioned for those who need to grab some gifts to go. Gastown and Yaletown, in particular, have emerged as the twin hubs of urban coolness, and there are plenty of snazzy stores featuring hip, handmade merchandise guaranteed to make people go oooh.
Seaweed Body Polish
Who doesn’t love a little indulgence? Perfect for the diva in your life, Seaflora’s Seaweed Body Polish can smooth and revitalize any skin type. Remove dead skin with an oil-free polish that exfoliates, clarifies, and restores elasticity to the skin. Snag a jar at Spruce Body Lab in Yaletown located at 1128 Richards Street.
Lavender Eye Pillow
While Kelowna’s lavender and herb farm is a bit further afield, their lavender eye pillow is sure to be a hit with just about anyone. Known for its soothing effects, this little indulgence is great for soothing frazzled nerves, relieving tired eyes, and promoting a good sleep. Best of all, you can order your eye pillow online and have it shipped directly to the lucky recipient: https://shop.okanaganlavender.com/collections/comfort/products/eye-pillow
Bacon Sea Salt
If you plan to visit Granville Island, you’ve got a one of a kind opportunity to impress your foodie friends. Bacon Sea Salt by Sea-to-Sky Seasonings is a natural, hand-harvested sea salt featuring the smoky flavour of ethically-raised and harvested Oyama bacon. A pinch will add a distinct finish to just about anything, including eggs, popcorn, or even vegetables.
Accent Scroll Pillows
Just 10 minutes away on Robson Street, the Museum of Vancouver has created a series of vintage-inspired scroll pillows made of 100% linen. Each pillow is digitally printed with a photo of the different bus scrolls that were displayed on Vancouver’s trolley buses in the early 1950s. Proceeds help support the museum, so you get to impress your design-obsessed friends and do a good deed, all in a one go!
Of course, if you’re targeting more traditional souvenirs shops for Canadians staples like smoked salmon, maple syrup, and travel-friendly confectionaries, there are plenty to choose from in Gastown. The area is filled with stunning souvenir shops like the Hudson House Trading Co. and Hill’s Native Art. Ask our staff for their recommendations!