Beautiful Surrey, B.C.: a visitor's guide
Surrey is a tight-knit and vibrant community, a haven for the people who call the area home. Many Vancouverites, not being familiar with the area, rarely venture into Surrey. And they're missing out -- with its endless range of top-quality restaurants, dazzling clothing boutiques and a state-of-the-art library, Surrey has many offerings that make it an ideal area to live and to visit.
"It's a great place to raise your family," said Jas Cheema, leader of diversity services for Fraser Health. Born in India, Cheema has lived in Surrey for 25 years and has raised her own family there. "There are lots of recreational opportunities and programs for young kids. It's home."
Jas Cheema
With Cheema as a guide, VO took to the streets of Surrey to find out the
best places to eat, shop and find entertainment in its South Asian neighbourhoods.
Almost immediately, she introduced me to 128 Street, which seemed to have it all – from high-end clothing shops to budget grocery stores. "It's Little India, all in one block," Cheema laughed. She said that she often goes to the textile shop to get fabrics, and near by, you can get your eyebrows done for just $2.
"Most of the businesses here are South Asian owned," Cheema said, gesturing towards the surrounding glass buildings.
Here is the VO pick of the top places to visit while in Surrey:
1. Made In India
From sarees to lehengas (long skirt), new brides can find all sorts of fabulous dresses for their big day. Mini crystals handstiched on the fabric, known as "zircons", border the sarees, while tiny ornaments hang from the sleeves of lehengas of all colours. But this ladies store isn't only about bridal wear. It's an extensive selection of dresses for any event. And the pieces are shipped all the way from India. While some are affordable at $299, others are on the pricy side, at $1,399. If you want to pick up something pretty on the cheap, a fancy bangle set is only $10.
Rajesh and Simmi Sharma
#104-8312 128 Street
604-501-2577
Hours: Mon/Wed, Thurs-Sun: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Luckey Shokar, sales associate at Made In India, displays the store's sumptuous offerings