A visit to Richmond's Asia West district is an experience unique in North America. The malls here sprang up along a stretch of No. 3 Road in the mid-1990s to service a newly settled community of mostly Hong Kong expatriates. They now house Chinese herbalists, Japanese housewares, designer luggage, and plenty of fashion-forward clothes and shoes for petite women. There are also huge Asian supermarkets such as the T&T, where you can select a fish from the tanks and the staff will deep-fry it while you shop (1000-8181 Cambie Rd.; 604-279-1818). Alexander Road, unofficially known as "Food Street," contains more than 50 Asian restaurants within two blocks; throughout Richmond you'll find more than 500 restaurants serving authentic cuisine by professional Asian chefs.—Kasey Wilson

South Granville, which runs from Granville Bridge toward 16th Avenue, bordering the prestigious Shaughnessy neighborhood, is also known as Gallery Row. Internationally known painters are on display in the galleries here. Also impressive are the 18 Karat, an Asian design emporium for those who want modern, organic furniture and housewares, and the avant-garde designer clothing and gifts at Bacci's and Misch. South Main Street from Eighth Avenue to 24th Avenue is known as SoMa and houses the best selection of local designers in the city.—Kasey Wilson