Vancouver is really great to visit - for shopping I would recommend granville island - lots of boutiques and just about everything you can imagine - they have a great bead store if you know people who are interested in making jewelry. Re restaurants - Tojo's is the place to go if you like Japanese - sit at the sushi bar - it is pricey but worth it. On granville island, there is a place called the Sandbar ( I think) sat on the patio and watched the boats in the harbour. As well Rob Feenie from the Canadian Cooking channel has two restaurants - Fennie's less expensive - great for lunch do need reservations and La Lumiere - very pricey - I did not go but heard it is wonderful. You need reservations at the other two I mentioned as well.

Do enjoy! Carol Toronto