Vancouver Christmas - European Delicatessen Warehouse

For me the tastes and smells of Christmas originated with my mom busily baking and cooking for our family and guests. That was a long time ago and traditions are hard to keep up.

Vancouver has lost much of its European flair and Christmas traditions. Many stores that used to cater to the European population have gone the way of the Dodo bird.

One business which still provides European delicacies is the European Delicatessen Warehouse on 220 Prior St. Here you'll find wonderful Christmas Stollen, Marzipan and chocolate. Their Baby Belle cheeses are going for song! We're making this place a Christmas tradition.

Vancouver Christmas - Metrotown Mall

Metrotown mall is located in Burnaby but is part of the Metro Vancouver district. This huge mall could put a little more effort into decorating for the Christmas Season. Although, the main glass covered wing has beautiful hanging decorations, the rest of the mall is somewhat parse.

I'm finding myself drawn more to traditional Christmas displays than the sterile commercial ones. At this time of year I'm missing the beautiful festive old Woodward's Christmas displays.

Vancouver Christmas - International Village

The International Village was once also known as Tinseltown. Since Cineplex Odeon took over the cinemas the Tinseltown logo has been dropped.

Personally I miss the beautiful neon Tinseltown signage. The boring Cineplex Odeon sign now dominates the outside.

The main floor lobby has a nice colourful Christmas display. Be wary of the security guards...they will make sure you only take pictures of the display and NOT the rest of the mall.

Libby's Cafe is a Great Secret in Vancouver

Just yesterday my wife and I went to Libby's Cafe for brunch. Yet again we weren't disappointed. The coffee, panini and soup were excellent. I personally enjoy the eclectic feel of the cafe.

Libby's has expanded to another location just across the street in the new Trout Lake Community Centre. This location is similar in style to a regular coffee shop but with the same great food.

Libby's gets a solid 8.5 out of 10.