Canada has many unique and intriguing products to tempt the avid shopper. For example, in the heritage shops found on Vancouver Island, many products can be seen which come from all parts of the world. British heritage is reflected in the specialty teas and coffees. You can purchase hand loomed woolen fabrics as well as tartans from the Scottish Isles. Beautiful and delicate examples of Irish lace can be found in many of the small specialty shops on the Island.
Other parts of Canada provide shoppers delights such as chocolates. In the eastern of the country, where the French influence is much stronger, one can find the delicate pastries and tortes that are so typical of France. The Quartier Petit Champlain, for example is a wonderful shopping district, which makes one wonder why malls exist when you could be shopping in the remarkable ambiance of the winter Carnival when the merchants prepare and display ice sculptures at the entry to their businesses. Chocolate is a big item, but you can also buy local art and wood carvings, fashion clothing worthy of the French label and other items which bring to mind the richness of the history and culture of the area.
The...