Blog
5 Things Vancouver: Monica Lippingwell
by Dan
Travel + Vancouver / February 16, 2010
The second of today's 5 Things Vancouver segments is from Raincoast reader Monica Lippingwell, who has been enthusiastically tweeting and re-tweeting about the series on Twitter.
Monica is a recent graduate with a master’s degree in counselling psychology. Sadly, she's currently unemployed, but is volunteering with children and people with life-threatening illnesses.
Because of the current economic environment she's trying to decide whether to return to school or start her own business.
She says, "I am a life-long journaller (currently trying out a new iPhone journalling app…), I love books and I love
You can find Monica on Twitter @monicamaple.
How long have you lived in Vancouver?
I am Vancouver born and raised. When I meet new people the inevitable response is, “I’ve never met anyone from here. People in Vancouver are usually from somewhere else.” I grew up in the South Vancouver neighbourhood of Marpole and loved it.
Where do you look for books in Vancouver?
Characters Books on Granville at W 68th Ave. I think the correct term is “gently used” books and they have everything. They are organized, knowledgeable, and have a steady turnover so it’s easy to find new titles, as well as old. Cozy coffee shop, too.
What is the single best thing about living in Vancouver?
Smiles. The first thing I notice when I return home from whatever trip I’ve been on is that people are smiling. They are smiling at me and they are smiling at each other. It’s something we do here and it tells me that I am home.
Where’s the best place for coffee?
My friends and I call it “the pie place” but I think it’s called A la Mode. It’s a pie shop at Granville Island and they have a wonderful latte served in a glass mug. It’s delicious coffee and the mug is great for keeping you warm outside.
What’s your favourite free thing to do in Vancouver?
Granville Island. It’s always the first place I take out of town guests. Food displays, window shopping, activities for kids, artists, houseboats; it has everything. It’s also one of my relaxation spots. I look for harbour seals in the waters of False Creek; watch the rowers, the kayakers, the diving Cormorants, and the wandering people. Whatever the weather you can find me on a bench by the Market.
Thanks Monica!
(photo courtesy of Monica)
