Main Street, Vancouver

Honestly the punjabi market is a huge let down. I remember taking my parents there when we first moved to vanc. There are very few stores, especially Fabric and clothes stores, the food stores aren't great and the restaurants are all geared up for local taste buds and taste nothing like you're probably used to. I only go these days to get my fix of Indian sweets, I give everything else a miss. Scott road has a lot more to offer though you will need a car. The Indian community here is mainly Sikh punjabi, but I like southern Indian or pakistani punjabi food. Also none of these Indian restaurants are halal! That was the biggest issue for my folks as they wouldn't Eat anything there anyway.

Az...

What to buy: Nothing, your mother makes it better at home.

Skate decks line the right wall of the store and shoes line the left wall of the store. In the middle is a display case of skate vids, trucks, wheels, nuts&bolts, watches, and wallets.

Clothes (mainly tees) are sporatically placed.

BUT! This is not just a skate shop, my friend, this is a art gallery as well. In the back of the store hosts exhibits from local (and not so local) artists. Anti-social also sells 'zines and comics by independent/underground artists.

Anti-social also has a school-theme to it's establishment. There's two large display cases (much like in school where they have classes display their art) that displays art. A little desk with piles and piles of skate magazines on it and underneath it. And a row of lockers in the back.

If you're not much of a skater, just go and admire the art 3

What to buy: Skate decks - they offer a vast and unique selection.

'Zines - so artsy 3

What to pay: $5-200+

This is probably the most amazing antique shop in Vancouver. Don't bring a big bag - the shop's a little cluttered. There is SO much to see here.

They have contemporary gifts and lots of antique goods.

There are even anitque fishing rods.

And don't forget to take a look at the vintage Christmas decorations.

What to buy: Wind-up robots or a vintage collection of historic Vancouver post cards (a pack is $10).

What to pay: $5+

Pulp Fiction is *the* best used book store in Vancouver - even the Georgia Straight says so. It has an excellent selection of used books (from fiction to art).

The staff is friendly and informative.

There are 'zines and comics, packaged pulp fiction (haha - hence the name), used records and a record-player for sampling.

There are even DUNGEONS & DRAGONS game books. And a huge selection of science fiction - for the science-fiction nerds in all of us (okay, maybe not).

What to buy: Books! Or just browse through the store on a rainy afternoon --- it's fun!

What to pay: $4+