By Meghan Roberts
Malls
Metrotown (4700 Kingsway) – Metrotown is the biggest mall in B.C. As such, it is a constant shit show. I was much more impressed by Metrotown when I has 17 and had just moved from Victoria. I avoid it like the plague now, but it has its uses. Namely the only Forever 21 in B.C. and a huge array of stores. If malls are for you, this will be a haven.

Crystal Mall (4500 Kingsway) – Fancy browsing cheap jewelry, DVDs, and car accessories? Head over to Metrotown’s Asian cousin, Crystal Mall. Round out your visit with trip to the food court for some affordable eats.

Food
Little Korea – Burnaby turns into Coquitlam when you cross North Road. Consequently, half of the Lower Mainland’s Little Korea is in Burnaby on the west side of North Road, and half is in Coquitlam on the east. The area boasts Korean grocery stores, the Korean newspaper, and many Korean restaurants. For authentic Korean food try House of Tofu Soup (4563 North Road). Their specialty is, of course, tofu soup, but you should also try the spicy pork. If you feel like crossing the street and venturing into Coquitlam, give Insadong (301-403 North Road) a try for Korean bbq and lemon soju.

Cockney Kings (6500 Hastings St) – Challenge yourself with the Cockney’s all-you-can-eat fish and chips special. The record amongst our friends is 12 pieces. See if you can beat it!

Sushi Garden (4635 Kingsway) – Sushi Garden is known for its high quality, inexpensive sushi. Mounds of sashimi come cheap and the fish is always fresh.

Anton’s (4260 East Hastings St) – Famous for HUGE portions of fresh pasta for around $15. This meal will last you days. It’s best to go Monday through Wednesday before 7pm, as there are lines there that rival those at the Roxy.

X-Site (4625 Hastings St) – Despite its cheesy name, X-site is a favourite among locals. Food and drink specials are often under $10. The décor doesn’t betray the value, which makes it a good place to hang out.

Saffron Indian Cuisine (4300 Kingsway) – This high quality Indian buffet is by Metrotown, which makes it a perfect end to a day of shopping. There are lots of amazing meat, seafood, and vegetarian options.

Bars
Lougheed Village Inn (9532 Erickson Drive) – A favourite Burnaby dive bar, the Lougheed Village Inn is in the basement of a seventies apartment building. Cheap beer and pool tables make this a classic hang out.

Mountain Shadow Pub (7174 Barnet Road) – The inside of this pub is wooden, and has been described as resembling a “Viking dining hall”. It’s right at the bottom of Burnaby mountain, so SFU students will often make appearances. Great ambiance makes the Mountain Shadow a place to whet your whistle.

Outdoors
Burnaby Mountain/SFU- Take a hike up Burnaby Mountain and picnic at SFU for an awesome summer day trip. There are trails for all levels of experience, so you can choose something easier after that indulgent Friday night or test yourself on a productive Sunday afternoon. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on the Arthur Erickson designed SFU campus. There are tons of outdoor spaces suitable for lounging, with strategically placed water features creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Discovery Park – If SFU reminds you of your traumatic college days, try Discovery Park for a less scholastic experience. Also at the top of Burnaby Mountain, this park features unique sculptures that infuse traditional B.C. totem poles with Japanese style. The view of this park is unmatched, spanning all of Downtown Vancouver and most of the Lower Mainland. Grab a seat here for fireworks if you don’t feel like navigating Kits Beach or English Bay.

Burnaby and Deer Lakes – Burnaby and Deer Lakes are the biggest in the Lower Mainland. Hidden amongst forest, these lakes are ideal for biking and jogging due to their flat terrain. Don’t forget to check out the concert venue at Deer Lake Park. A beautiful outdoor venue, previous performers have included Feist and the White Stripes.

Barnet Beach – Tucked behind Burnaby Mountain lies Barnet Beach, a secluded oasis. With great views of the North Shore, building ruins to explore, and lots of bbq pits, Barnet is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the summer.