By JILL VON SPRECKEN
Apr. 2019

The Hawaiian Coconut Lomi Lomi massage soothes muscles

Vancouver’s soggy reputation holds water—even in springtime, the sunshine here is often of the liquid variety. But at Absolute Spa, the forecast is downright beachy thanks to the Sunny Citrus Vacation Package. The four-step pampering experience includes a body buff and wrap to keep skin radiant and glowy, topped off with a sandal-worthy pedicure. The cherry on top is the Hawaiian Coconut Lomi Lomi massage, which soothes muscles with pressure that mimics rolling waves. The best part? No sand in your suit.

By JILL VON SPRECKEN

The Nurse Jamie UpLift Massaging Beauty Roller

Fairy tales can come true. For proof, look no further than the Nurse Jamie UpLift Massaging Beauty Roller. This—dare we say it—magic wand has a hexagonal shape and 24 massaging stones designed to mimic a facial, for improved skin tone and a radiance boost. Plus, it doesn’t require any batteries, cords or outlets, making it perfectly portable. No wonder it’s loved by beauty editors and celebrities alike. This is one fairy tale with a happy ending. Start your own beauty-roller story at Sephora. 

By JILL VON SPRECKEN
Mar. 2019

Litchfield (Photo by KK Law)

Have home-decor hankerings? On the lookout for luxury goods? Then head to concrete-and-wood-trimmed Litchfield, a carefully curated Gastown boutique that has everything you want—plus a few things you didn’t know you needed (but really, really do). Most of the thoughtful decor, housewares and personal accessories are by emerging or unheard-of designers, while others are influenced by owner Jonathon Litchfield’s childhood in Japan. But everything is as functional as it is fashionable. On our just-gotta-have-it list: Hasami Japanese porcelain, WANT Les Essentiels bags, locally made Vitruvi fragrances, and Patchology’s On the Fly travel skincare kit. Guaranteed to satisfy any and all shopping desires.

By JILL VON SPRECKEN
Feb. 2019

Chinese-takeout-themed mug by Main and Local

Because you can’t bring the Steam Clock or Granville Island with you, there are Canadian-inspired souvenirs by Main and Local. The Montreal-based company specializes in Canadian and city-centric—from Toronto to Vancouver—keepsakes, with the encouraging tagline “souvenirs that don’t suck.” Fun, displayable take-home tokens include a poutine snow globe, sushi air freshener and Chinese-takeout–themed mug. After all, nobody really needs another souvenir that sucks. Stock up at Make or at www.mainandlocal.com.