Issue link: http://read.canadatravelguides.ca/i/809166
As for what to buy, the choices range from maple syrup and saskatoon berry jam to Inuit soapstone carvings and high-end fashion. Perhaps a second suitcase would be wise. HIT THE MALL Many urban malls aim themselves squarely at fashion-conscious shoppers. In Ottawa, the CF Rideau Centre recently completed a three-year, $360-million expansion and welcomed Nordstrom and Québec fashion retailer Simons, among others. At the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in northwest Toronto, a $331-million expansion in late 2016 brought the mall's total size to 185,806 sq. m (2 million sq. ft.). Downtown, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre off ers more than 250 stores and services in a multi-storey atrium; the complex is so big that it stretches across two subway stops Even larger is the West Edmonton Mall —with more than 800 shops and services, it is Alberta's top tourist attraction and Canada's largest shopping centre. More than a mall, it also off ers a National Hockey League- sized ice rink, the world's largest indoor amusement park and indoor wave pool, a zip-line, and an aquarium. One of Canada's most unusual malls is the Aberdeen Centre in Richmond, a Vancouver suburb. Customers can shop for Asian herbs and Korean cosmetics, browse through a branch of Japan's Daiso bargain and novelty chain, enjoy Asian cultural performances, and sample treats such as congee, bubble tea and noodles in the 800-seat food court. SEEK AN OUTLET Outlet malls—featuring a huge range of retailers, as well as restaurants and services —are excellent options for visitors who want to spend the whole day shopping. Vaughan Mills on Toronto's northern outskirts—one of 28 Ivanhoé Cambridge retail centres across the country—off ers a complimentary shopping shuttle service Savvy travellers should arrive in Canada with a bit of empty space in their luggage, since the country is full of shopping opportunities—whether one's taste runs to historic farmers' markets, deal- packed fashion outlets, lively neighbourhoods, spacious malls or sleek museum shops. SHOPPING: MORE THAN SOUVENIRS BY LAURA BYRNE PAQUET VAUGHAN MILLS, ON • IVANHOÉ CAMBRIDGE 57