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MAGAZINE
2018 • ISSUE 1 • VOLUME 10 • TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features 3. TalkTravel Magazine Launches Consumer Edition 4. Letter From Publisher - A New Way to Explore China 6. 2018 Canada-China Year of Tourism 12. Top 10 Places to Retire in 2018 14. Osoyoos - A town of many faces 18. Spirit Ridge Hyatt 21. The Cottages - Year-round Resort Style Living 22. Singapore Airline’s Hub 23. Enjoy a Stopover in Singapore 24. Off-Grid Travel Fun in Las Vegas 26. Travel News 28. Castles & Lochs 30. Travel News 31. Wild Food Gastronomy in Marana, Arizona 32. What’s Cooking in Cuba 34. Cuba Tries Its Hand At Wine Making
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Magazine Launches Consumer Edition With over 10 years of rich publishing history and a steadfast dedication to keeping the travel industry in Canada and the United States informed, Talk Travel is pleased to be launching a consumer edition, distributed as an insert in the Globe and Mail, and available in Plaza Premium airport lounges across Canada. Each month we will showcase the hottest new destinations, keep you up-todate with the latest travel news, and bring you food, wine and lifestyle features. We hope you enjoy Talk Travel, and welcome your feedback. Connect with us at
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letter from the publisher Gina Hansen, CTC, ECC, Publisher Executive Editor
A NEW WAY TO EXPLORE CHINA For many western travellers, arriving in China for the first time is akin to stepping into another world. Although the country boasts the world’s oldest civilization and retains many ancient customs and traditions, China’s major cities are dazzlingly futuristic, teeming with colour and life. Nevertheless, historical and cultural highlights from earlier eras are abundant, and whilst westerners may have learned about landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and the Terracotta Warriors from guide books or the internet, nothing can compare with the extraordinary experience of seeing them at first hand. The third-largest country in the world, it seems every inch of China is packed with unforgettable sights, from exquisite ancient temples and pagodas to crowded, neon-lit cityscapes, snow-capped mountain ranges to endless rice-paddies. Yet China’s remarkable urban and rural beauty is only part of the country’s endless allure; there’s also a rich cultural and artistic legacy to explore, sumptuous cuisine to be sampled and a seemingly limitless fund of unique attractions, experiences and activities to enjoy.
try, rail travel is a great way to explore China. In recent years China has invested heavily in its high speed rail network, making it quicker and more convenient to travel between city centres like Beijing and Shanghai by train (just under 5 hours) than it is to fly. The bullet train network also links important tourist destinations such as Beijing and Xi’an. Trains are safe, comfortable and cheap allowing you to see more of the scenery, people and culture of this fascinating country.
tween Beijing and Tianjin is one of the busiest line in China. Also the speed train to Xi’an is chosen by many travelers. If you want to go to north China, such as Harbin, Shenyang, or Dalian, you can also find a fast train from Beijing, which just takes 8 hours at a cheaper price than taking a flight.
talk travel MEDIA
Gina Hansen, CTC, ECC Publisher, Executive Editor
[email protected]
Here are some of the most popular routes requested by travellers.
Wayne Hansen, Publisher, Senior Editor
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Beijing Shanghai High Speed Rail has been on service since June 30th, 2011. The whole length of this line is 1318 km, and it is only takes 5 hours by the fastest G trains, and about 11 hours by D trains. Every day, there are several scheduled speed trains running between Beijing and Shanghai, transferring thousands of travellers.
Daryl Cooper, Asst. Editor
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Some people may look at China as a “rising destination,” but that is a misnomer. China emerged as a tourist destination a long time ago, and grows more and more accessible by the minute. Even so, the country is in a constant state of development and expansion, causing new interior and “hidden” destinations to spring up regularly.
High Speed Rail from Shanghai to Hangzhou, Nanjing and surrounding cities - Shanghai, the traffic hub of east China, operates a convenient high speed rail network with the nearby cities in the Yangtze River Delta. For visitors who want a deep exploration among the east part of China, taking a high speed train from Shanghai is much safer and more convenient than taking a long distance coach.
With one of the world’s biggest rail networks linking almost every town and city in the coun-
High Speed Rail from Beijing to Xi’an, Tianjin and northern cities - The inter-city high speed rail be-
Jana Schweitzer Graphic Design
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Video Editing/Production
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Associate Editor/Director Business Development
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Business Development
[email protected] Suite 205 – 475 Main Street Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2T7 Tel: 604-629-0877 Fax: 604-629-0878 Talk Travel Magazine is published monthly. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 4213851 Copyright 2013 ISSN 1925-7449
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2018 Canada-Ch A year to remember
Although nearly 10,000 km separate Canada from China, both countries are friends and family. Today, more than 1.8 million Canadians have some Chinese ancestry—about 5% of Canada’s population. Mandarin and Cantonese are the most spoken languages in Canada after English and French. To celebrate the deep ties between the two countries, the governments of Canada and China have officially named 2018 the CanadaChina Year of Tourism. It’s an incredible opportunity for citizens of each country to visit and learn about their common history and what makes each country so unique. There has never been a better reason to visit and explore everything China has to offer. Chinese tour operators are ready to welcome record numbers of Canadian visitors and Canadian tourism operators are also ready to show off all the excitement and adventure that Canada has to offer Chinese visitors. In 2016, more than 610,000 Chinese tourists visited Canada. 6
“The Canada-China Year of Tourism is an exceptional opportunity to strengthen the people-to-people connections between our two countries and celebrate the best that Canada and China offer the world. It will grow our tourism sector, which means more middle class jobs for Canadians and better economic growth for communities across the country.” — The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
hina Year of Tourism How to Plan a First Trip to China
Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an – the Choice of Most First Timers For a first trip to China, most tourists visit Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, as these three destinations show travellers an overall view of China, from its history and culture to its development and prosperity today. Beijing – If you only go to one city, go to Beijing. The capital has it all: history, culture, prestige and beautiful scenery to the north around the Great Wall. If you have a stop over and only have one day make sure to set foot on the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City and Tienanmen Square and then eat roast duck at one of the famous speciality restaurants in Beijing.
The Forbidden City – Constructed in the early 15th century, Beijing’s Forbidden City now welcomes everyone. Today the Emperor’s palace sands virtually intact for you to explore – a gem in the middle of the city – stands as a reminder of the Ming and Qing Dynasties when it acted as the Chinese imperial palace. Summer Palace – Once an opulent haven for China’s most influential Emperors, a quick 15-kilometre drive will whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of the city to the (new) Summer Palace, Yiheyuan, which was rebuilt in all its glory in the 1880’s after the previous Summer Palace was raided and destroyed by the British and French during the opium wars. 7
ing on the ancient Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square is a romantic experience by itself. Here, one can also sing in the KTV or hang out in a bar if not dancing in a disco. The next day one can then savour the beauty of China’s greatest archeological excavation, the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses.
The Terra Cotta Warriors is an amazing
The Lama Temple – Vibrant in history and religion, the Lama Temple acted as a cloister for imperial court eunuchs. Today the temple sits amid a collection of golden-crowned buildings that are open tot he historical explorer.
7,000-man army of life-sized foot soldiers, officers, war chariots and kneeling archer spreads out four abreast in row after row in pits that lay buried for more than 2,000 years under farm fields until discovered in the early 1970’s by peasants digging a well. Three pits, the largest covering an area the size of a football field and a half, have been roofed and airconditioned and have become one of the most visited tourism sites in China.
Tiananmen Square – Located in the heart of Beijing is one of the largest and most visited landmarks in China. Constructed in 1949 by Chairman Mao, the seeping Tienanmen Square is circled by the Gate of Heaven Peace to the north, the Great Hall of the People to the west, the National Museum of China to the east, and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum to the south. Plan to arrive 30-minutes before sunrise or pre-dusk to catch the choreographed raising or lowering flag ceremony, completed every day by young Chinese troops. The Beijing Zoo – For over 100 years, the city zoo hosts 600 different species of animals – including young panda cubs in a panda enclosure, and more! Arrive early and get a jump on the day. The park opens each day at 7:30am and closes at 6pm.
The Great Wall – Is far more than a triumph of engineering. It is a direct link with the legendary emperors of China’s past, and seems to embody our sense of China as a nation separate from the rest of the world. To see the wall – made from brick, stone, tamped earth and wood – snaking away over the parched mountainsides of northern China – is to imagine more than two millennia of cultural isolation and political resistance.
The army is very likely only a small part of what still lies under a vast expanse of farmlands and several villages that makes up the huge necropolis surrounding the still excavated mound under which is known to the actual tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi. All of this is testament to the idiosyncrasies of this man who united ancient China, established its first dynasty, began construction of the Great Wall, and was so powerful that he could order up a burial necropolis for himself that took 700,000 men many decades to complete. Reportedly, everyone involved in the construction was killed in order to preserve the secrets of the site. It has often been said that “if you have not been to
Xi’an – An amazing city you can’t miss – Xi’an is Xi’an, you have not been to China!” famous as a tourist city whose constant history has been responsible for its magnificent culture. It’s treasure house of cultural relics is inexhaustible. Xi’an has a uniquely glamourous night life. Visitors will surely enjoy the night scenery around the Bell Tower and participate in a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show. To watch the music fountain performance while stroll-
Shanghai - The largest city in China and eighth largest in the world, with a recorded population of 24 million (as of 2016) plus a huge unregistered temporary floating populace, Shanghai is located on the Yangtze River Delta by the East China Sea and is the busiest container seaport in the world. 8
The name Shanghai is literally translated as On the Ocean or City on the Ocean; however, Shanghai, having a prosperous and international history, has also been known as “The Paris of The East.” Shanghai is a massive metropolis and widely accepted as China’s most important economic hub and financial centre. Actually, the city only rose to prominence in China after it was forcefully opened as a trading port by Western powers after the Opium Wars of the mid-19th century. Today, Shanghai is one of the world’s most dynamic and vibrant megalopolises, attracting business people, travellers, and all those wishing to experience one of China’s most unique destinations.
Take in the view – The skyline is one of Shanghai’s highlights, with developers seemingly looking to outdo each other with the tallest, most extravagant
a taste of street life, Tianzifang is worth a visit, an old neighbourhood characterized by its bohemian vibe and maze of small alleyways.
Indulge in the city’s nightlife – Shanghai nightlife is iconic, and in the summer with the heady evening heat, it’s easy to see why the city comes alive at night. There are many famous grand bars on the Bund that hark back to the decadence of Shanghai in the 1920s, for those who want a bit of historical significance with their cocktail – from the Long Bar in the Waldorf Astoria, first opened in 1911 and restored in 2010 with a 34m-long bar and the feeling of an old gentleman’s club, to the Jazz Bar in the iconic Peace Hotel (now officially known as the Fairmont Peace Hotel). Still worth a visit, with the Old Jazz Band performing each evening – six musicians with an average age of 78.
Shop the bric-a-brac at the Dong Tai Lu Antique Markets – The famous Shanghai market where, if you’re patient and lucky, genuine antiques can be discovered amongst the “modern” antiques. Go for the experience, and practice your haggling skills before you visit.
building. Contemporary architecture and countless beautiful skyscrapers compete with art deco buildings of “old Shanghai” for glory. It’s a tourist mecca, but the Oriental Pearl Tower, actually a TV tower, is worth a visit, or at least a viewing from across the river – the mind-blowing, futuristic Pudong view is best seen from the famous Bund at night. Flex the credit card at Plaza 66 – Luxury brands are falling over themselves to woo Chinese customers, with the country reportedly set to overtake Japan and the US as the leading luxury market. Shopping mall Plaza 66 is a mecca for those high-end shoppers, with boutiques from every luxury designer brand you can imagine: Balenciaga, Celine, Dior, Chanel, Hermes, Lanvin, Marni, Prada, Valentino and more.
Take in city life – The awe-inducing skyline is a feature of Shanghai, but the bustle at street level is a major highlight too – you can easily spend hours wandering the street watching locals live their lives among the frenetic pace of the city. For shopping and 9
CHINA AT A GLANCE
Geography:
China is in the east of Asia and on the west coast of the Pacific Ocean.
Climate: China has a continental monsoon climate in general. Most parts of China are in the temperate zone. Southern China is partly in the tropical or subtropical zone. Northern China is close to the frigid zone.
Territory: China has a territorial area of 9.6 million square kilometres, roughly a quarter of Asia’s land area and one-fifteenth of the world’s land area behind Russia and Canada only.
Population: With a population of 1.38 billion, roughly accounting for 20 percent of the world’s total, China is the most populous country in the world.
Nationalities: China is a united multi-nationality country comprising 56 nationalities, such as Han, Mongolian, Hu, Tibetan, Uygur, Miao, Yi, Zhuang, Buyi, Korean, Man, Dong and Yao.
Religion: China is a multi-religious country. It is home to the followers of Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism and Christianity.
History: With a history of more than 5,000 years, China is one of the four great civilizations of the world. The long history has left China with profound cultural treasures as well as brilliant historical sites and relics.
Capital: As the capital city, Beijing is the political, cultural and international exchange centre of China. Beijing boasts a long history and is one of the most famous historical and cultural cities and ancient capitals of the world. It is also a world-renowned modern international metropolis.
Official Language: Chinese is the official language of China. It is also one of the six working languages designated by the United Nations.
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CHINA BEYOND YOUR IMAGINATION China National Tourist Office, Toronto www.tourismchina.org Tel: 416-599-6636 • Toll Free: 1-866-599-6636
In this 2 part series we will highlight the top 10 places for expats to live. Author, Retirement and Real Estate Expert Kathleen Peddicord says, ‘These are simply the best places to be, regardless of your age or any other circumstances’
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Ten. Da Nang, Vietnam – Women ride sidesaddle on the backs of motorbikes, even when wearing pants or jeans, legs dangling over the side, chauffeured by their colleagues or family. Some don the traditional Vietnamese ao dai, the colorful twopiece outfit with the top extending all the way to the ankles, a long slit down one side, and long white pants underneath. All the retro-style class and sophistication lends an aura of yesteryear. Sometimes I feel like an old movie is playing in front of me. The roads and architecture are modern, but most of the businesses are still family run, with almost no big international brand names, fast food joints, or coffee shop chains present. You can feel the entrepreneurial spirit, energy, and enthusiasm. It’s everywhere.
Top 10 Best Places to baskets balanced on long poles over their shoulders. They’re nearly all lean, almost scrawny from all that walking around, faces creased from the sun and wind. Men linger on street corners beside their motorbikes, ready for customers needing a short, quick ride. Others work as bicycle taxi “cyclo” drivers pedaling tourists around the streets. They live hand to mouth, as their parents and grandparents did. They have no longterm view; today is the only day. But that perspective is changing in real time. Da Nang is equidistant between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the former to the north, the latter to the south, both about 800 kilometers away. Migrants from the countryside are streaming into Da Nang because it’s the closest big destination for those in largely impoverished central Vietnam. To many in the West, Vietnam conjures up images of a backward communist country, top heavy with red tape, clogged with inefficiencies. This stereotype couldn’t be further from the truth in today’s Vietnam. The result is an economy on fire, led by forwardthinking executives, many educated overseas, with an entrepreneurial spirit unparalleled in the region.
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There are vendors all along the streets, mostly elderly women offering fruit, vegetables, sandwiches, and snacks. Some wear the stereotypical coneshaped Vietnamese hat and carry their wares the old-fashioned way, in
Vietnam has everything going for it and is catching up quickly to its neighbours.
Nine. Bali, Indonesia – Bali enjoys a well-deserved reputation as one of
the most beautiful tropical islands in the world. The jungle is lush, with an immense variety of ferns, palms, flowering plants, and trees in a thousand shades of green. Volcanoes raise their heads above the clouds, and terraced rice fields cascade into the valleys. Multi-tiered Balinese temples adorn even the smallest villages. The locals are unfailingly friendly and some of the most serene and pleasant people you are likely to find anywhere. The coastline is a picture postcard, and the ocean, which is never far away, offers world-class diving, surfing, snorkeling, parasailing, and all other manner of water sports. Bars, dancing, and discotheques are all convenient. Festivals and cultural events are staged almost weekly. Dining options range from excellent street food (for a pittance) to whiteglove and five-star. Golf, climb a mountain, go to the zoo, visit galleries, talk with artists, commune with monkeys, study yoga or meditation, take a cruise… there are always many interesting options for how to fill your days. Honest and respectful curiosity will serve as your passport into Balinese culture. Sincere and interested foreigners are frequently welcomed into tiny villages, private homes, and local gatherings. Bali can be an easy place to make friends and, for all the reasons I’ve mentioned, a difficult place to leave. 12
Live Overseas in 2018
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On the southwest side of Bali is the small town of Sanur, an unpretentious suburb of the larger city of Denpasar. Sanur can be an affordable place to live, but it’s also possible to indulge in a five-star, luxury lifestyle. Whatever your budget, you’ll find that you can live substantially better for less money in Sanur.
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Eight. Playa del Carmen, Mexico – Playa del Carmen is a little beach town that sits about an hour south of Cancún on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Once a sleepy fishing town, the port was inadvertently put on the map by Jacques Cousteau in 1954 when he filmed an underwater documentary of the Great Mayan Reef just offshore of Cozumel Island—which lies about 12 miles offshore of Playa del Carmen. These days Playa is thought to be home to over 10,000 foreigners— expats make up 7% of its total population—including many Europeans, Americans, Canadians, Argentinians, Venezuelans, and many more nationalities. Playa’s population is incredibly eclectic for such a small town. Tourists, but also residents, are of all ethnicities and represent all parts of society. From young couples to retired couples, from families to groups of students, it seems to appeal everyone alike. It’s also a welcoming destination for the LGBT community, with several gay bars around town. Plus, nearly everyone in Playa seems to speak English. 13
Seven. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Slovenia, the second richest of the 13 Slavic countries, is nestled among Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia in the heart of Central Europe.
frastructure? A couple could live comfortably in Ljubljana for less than US$1,500 a month. Yet, despite having so much to offer, this country remains off the world’s radar.
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This is a mountainous country, with 47 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline and a rich aquifer system, much of it underground, that cuts through the limestone in subterranean rivers, and impressively bio-diverse, occupying an enviable position at the center of four major geographic points: the Alps, the Dinaric Alps, the Pannonian Plain, and the Mediterranean Sea. Charming, Old World capital-city Ljubljana is the heart of the country, both literally and figuratively. It’s a small city of 272,000 people, but, with easy access to both beaches and ski resorts, it offers the best of all worlds in terms of lifestyle options.
Ljubljana is also a modern city with all the amenities of 21st-century living that manages to retain a small-town charm. Local farmers bring their produce to market in wooden carts each day. From Ljubljana, the coast is only an hour away. Head south to enjoy the olive groves, the breathtaking ocean views, and clean, clear water of the Adriatic... or head 45 minutes north of the city to experience Lake Bled, its small island (Bled Island), the pristine mountains and forests that surround the area, and medieval Bled Castle. What is the cost for all this Old World charm and top-notch, real-world in-
Six. Citta Sant’ Angelo, Italy – As you ski lazily down a gentle slope, a ray of sunshine hits your face, and you look down to the coastline. The sun is glittering on the Adriatic. Between you and the sea is an expanse of vineyards and olive groves that leads down from the mountains to the beaches. Abruzzo, historically one of the poorest regions in the country, had fallen off the national map until just a few decade ago. Since the 1950s, however, Abruzzo has seen steady economic growth. In the 1990s, its growth surpassed that of any other region; its per-capita GDP expanded to become the highest in the country. New development is taking place, especially in Pescara, where a new bridge is under construction and large-scale housing communities are underway along the seaside, and small, historic towns are working hard to attract investment to save their historically significant but nearly deserted streets. Nowhere is this more true than in Città Sant’Angelo, our favorite spot in this welcoming region. Right now, you could say that Abruzzo is Italy’s best-kept secret. Abruzzo has everything Tuscany offers and more—at a fraction the cost.
For the top 5, watch for the February issue of Talk Travel.
Photos credit: Andrew Stuckey, Osoyoos Today
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Osoyoos A town of many faces There’s more to Osoyoos than just bright skies and wineries set against gentle sloping hills. While these are an important part of the community, Osoyoos is also sophisticated resorts, championship golf courses, a lake full of activities, and a wide range of cultural, intellectual and artistic experiences. The name Osoyoos is derived from swiws (approximate pronunciation: “s-wee-yous”) and means a place where it is shallow or narrow in the middle of the lake. The shallowness of Osoyoos Lake is why it is the warmest lake in Canada. First Nations culture and contemporary lifestyles exist side by side and here, ancient traditions and modern life have each carved out their place within a dramatic and welcoming environment. Framed by desert hills, lakes, vineyards and 15
orchards, Osoyoos is the ultimate year-round desert destination. Winter, spring, summer and fall, there is an endless variety of things to do in the pleasant climate of Canada’s only desert. Osoyoos is located at the northernmost tip of the Sonoran Desert. Average winter daytime temperatures remain above freezing under mostly sunny skies and nighttime temperatures seldom dip below minus 5 degrees C. Average annual snowfall is only 5.4 cm, about the same as Arizona. Summer has the ideal vacation temperatures, hot days and cool nights. Spring comes early and autumn lasts longer. All year-round Osoyoos features events and entertainment, and the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Cen-
tre, an exceptional state-of-theart interpretive centre can teach you about the history and culture of local First Nations peoples. Find out more at http://www.nkmipdesert.com/
Winter
Osoyoos has become the place for Canadians to winter in Canada. The dry, mild climate offers an escape from the normal Canadian winter, without the need to cross borders. There’s no time limit on your stay, you have access to the Canadian medical system, there’s no costly travel medical insurance to buy, and no currency exchange rates to worry about. World class golf courses in the area, many closed only a few days each year, offer one of the longest golf seasons in Canada. Hiking
and bird-watching are year-round activities on the many trails located within a short drive. On rare cold days there are lots of indoor activities. Winter sports like curling and hockey are popular. Squash, bowling and pickleball are also available. Yoga, fitness and crafts classes are offered and several hotel indoor pools are open for public swimming as well. There is a library for all ages, and for the younger crowd a BMX track, a skateboard park, and the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad. For those who enjoy the snow, cross country skiing and snowshoe trails are available not far from town, and there is excellent downhill skiing less than an hour’s drive away. Penticton’s Apex Mountain is only 95km away and Mt. Baldy is less than 50 km away. Baldy Mountain Resort is known for its powder. It is among the top ten of the highest elevation ski resorts in Canada. It has a large amount of skiable terrain so it is often possible to find untracked powder several days after a snowfall. Baldy offers opportunities to ski or snowboard, snowshoe, continued on page 20
cross-country ski, toboggan, snowmobile or play disc golf. There is terrain for all skill levels, lessons and equipment rentals. Apres-ski, enjoy some great food and entertainment in the Baldy Resort Bar. Many Osoyoos hotels and motels offer special winter packages in conjunction with Baldy Mountain Resort. Ski & Stay packages include accommodations and lift tickets, and in some cases breakfast. Participating hotels include Coast Osoyoos Beach Hotel, Walnut Beach Resort, Holiday Inn & Suites, Sandy Beach Motel, Spirit Ridge Lake Resort, Best Western Plus, and Watermark Beach Resort. Rates vary. For details check out http://www. destinationosoyoos.com/skibaldystayosoyoos/ or go to the individual hotel websites.
Spring
Spring is blossom time. It’s difficult to find a more beautiful sight than row upon row of fruit trees in bloom. Osoyoos is surrounded by orchards and throughout the month of April, something will be in bloom. Apricots, peaches, pears, plums, cherries and apples all take their turn on stage, providing a show like no other.
Winter activities that rely on snow continue through early spring in the high country nearby. Daytime temperatures encourage you to take to the bike or hiking trails. Birds and wildlife become more abundant. The vineyards begin to green, a perfect time to tour some of the 28 wineries in the area. Golf, which for the more enthusiastic players never really shut down, is back in full swing. Sonora Dunes Golf Course at Nk’Mip Resort, Osoyoos Golf Club in Osoyoos, and Fairview Mountain Golf Club and Nk’Mip Canyon Desert nearby, all offer great golf for players of all abilities. Check out their websites for green fees and tee times. As spring advances, more and more days offer the opportunity for a shirt-sleeves stroll from shop to shop and a cup of coffee on an outdoor patio. Special events like Osoyoos Oyster Festival, Cactus Jalopies, and Medieval Faire take place in April, May and June. S` wi`ws Spirit Tours offers many winery and cultural tour options. Discover the fascinating stories of 16
HYATT HAS ARRIVED IN OSOYOOS The first Canadian resort to join the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Spirit Ridge has begun its exciting transformation to become a unique, luxury destination offering a true getaway experience. As a member of the World of Hyatt loyalty program, Spirit Ridge guests will earn points they can redeem globally as part of the Hyatt portfolio of over 750 properties worldwide. A migratory destination and home of the Osoyoos Indian Band, the sacred land of Spirit Ridge has provided both physical and spiritual bounty for thousands of years. A breathtaking destination in Canada’s only desert, guests now travel here seeking an escape from the rigors of contemporary life. Hike along plentiful trails, wander through the award-winning Nk’Mip Cellars vineyard, golf, stargaze, or simply close your eyes and breathe in the tranquilizing fragrance of desert sage. For whatever you wish to find here, you will most certainly leave having found something most important – yourself.
ence and learn about the Osoyoos Indian Band at the Cultural Centre which is adjacent to the resort. The resort’s all-suite accommodations make for great family time and provide convenient central points for family gatherings, games, and meals. It has been said that a stay at Spirit Ridge is a true spiritual awakening. Unprecedented natural beauty, multisensory engagement, thoughtful design and the omnipresent awareness of the spiritual journey of the Osoyoos Indian Band all make Spirit Ridge a destination of total mindfulness. You may leave Spirit Ridge, but Spirit Ridge will never leave you.
DISCOVER YOUR INNER GENIUS The most powerful tool we possess is our mind. However, the constant distractions of contemporary life often shift our time into a reactive, task management mode – thereby disallowing us from fully engage.
Spirit Ridge provides an engaging environment perfect for connecting on a more traditional level – with each other. Here guests are free to enjoy the environment and participate in physical and creative activities like hikes, swimming in the heated outdoor pool, drawing, painting, or writing.
At Spirit Ridge – part by design and part nature – the environment is highly tranquil, smartly organized, and most conducive to thoughtful exchange. The resort offers teams and small to midsize groups the ability to disconnect and refocus on the task at hand – whatever that may be.
Rich in culture and spiritual significance, guests of all ages can experi-
A group hike, a smudging session performed by an Osoyoos Indian
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Band member, or a private meeting in Nk’Mip Cellars wine vault, Spirit Ridge has what you need to take your meeting needs to a new, spiritual level and help you accomplish beyond your expectations.
DISCOVER YOUR INNER PRINCESS There are a few places on this earth that are more perfectly situated to celebrate a bride and her family and friends as she embarks on a wonderful new life. Under the spectacular southern Okanagan Valley sun, overlooking the meticulously aligned vineyard with Osoyoos Lake and the majestic Coastal Mountains framing the view – it is pure storybook. For her, a distraction free environment where all attention can be focused on her and making the day perfect. The all-suite accommodations allow for spacious preparation and celebration. With activities galore, her guests will fill their time with wonderful memories of this special celebration. For him, a dream come true. Golf, hiking, Nk’Mip Cellars winery, fishing, lake activities or whatever else the resort can accommodate, Spirit Ridge is truly a place for everyone to enjoy.
caontinued from page 16
Canada’s only desert and share in the rich living culture of the Okanagan people. Visit the protected ecological wonder of Spotted Lake with a local Syilx (Okanagan) guide. Learn about the area through traditional Syilx history of the lake and surrounding area. View Osoyoos from the Anarchist Mountain Lookout to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Osoyoos Lake in the traditional land of the Osoyoos Indian Band. The last stop is at Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre which includes both indoor and outdoor exhibits and trails. You’ll also experience the recreated examples of Sylix architecture structures: a Tipi, Pit-house, and Sweat lodge. The McIntyre Bluff tour is a 6-hour day tour with a 2-4 hour hike showing traditional areas along the countryside in the McIntyre Bluff area that will also include a visit to an organic farm. Learn about the area through Syilx traditional stories and how the settlers cohabitated with the First Nations people. For more details go to: http://www.swiwsspirittours.com.
Summer
Summers in Osoyoos revolve around the lake. Days are hot so strenuous activities should be carried out before mid morning. Then it’s beach time. Relax with a good book in the shade of a beach umbrella, or take a lazy paddle along the lakeshore. Try your hand at stand up paddle boarding, go kayaking, or just get a suntan. Spend the day out on the boat and go wakeboarding, tubing or waterskiing. Go for a refreshing swim in water as warm as the tropical oceans. Wander into town for an ice cream sundae or a cool drink. Just don’t forget the sunscreen sunglasses and a hat. Take a wine tour in an air-conditioned coach. Let someone drive you so that you can taste and sample as much as you like.
Summer is the time for fresh picked fruit and vegetables. Nothing tastes better than just picked cherries still warm from the sun, or vegetables left to grow to the peak of ripeness. Fruit and vegetable stands can be found throughout the area. Osoyoos Lake offers excellent fishing for smallmouth bass. The best fishing times are early in the morning, or early evening as the sun goes below the hills. Watch where the locals go to find the best spots. Play another round of golf. For motorsport enthusiasts, during some summer and fall weekends the Osoyoos airport becomes Richter Pass Motorplex. Wine Country Drag Racing takes over the runway for side-by-side, 1/8-mile races. For a schedule and more details go to www.winecountryracing.ca.
Autumn
In Osoyoos, summer goes on. While the rest of Canada is transitioning into fall, Osoyoos still sees warm sunny days. Many of the summer activities continue through September. Temperatures are more comfortable for long hikes or bike rides that extend well into the day.
The autumn is also ideal for fishing, bird watching and star gazing on the clear, fall nights. Osoyoos is truly a four season destination. Years ago many businesses relied only on summer vacationers and therefore closed up shop for the winter. More recently Osoyoos has become the choice of Canadian snowbirds who are looking for warm winter weather without the expense of travelling to the United States. Osoyoos is located at the junction of highways 3 and 97, with easy access to the Okanagan Valley, the Kootenays, and the United States. It is a comfortable drive from anywhere between Vancouver and Calgary. Shuttle service from Penticton and Kelowna airports provide easy access from virtually anywhere. For more about Osoyoos, where to stay and what to do, call Destination Osoyoos at 250-495-5070, or go to www.destinationosoyoos.com.
When autumn finally arrives the fruit stands are overflowing with apples, pears and prunes. Farm fresh vegetables are available everywhere. The trees put on their second show of the year as they take on fall colors. The vines are heavy with clusters of grapes. The grape harvest and crush make an ideal time for wine tours. Many of the previous year’s efforts have matured and are available for tasting. Private and small group wine tours are offered through October, an option that doesn’t require one of your party to be a designated driver. 20
The Cottages Year-round Resort Style Living
On 70 acres bordering a quiet cove on Canada’s warmest lake is a gated community, The Cottages on Osoyoos Lake. Situated at the north end of the lake, half way between Osoyoos and Oliver, it’s just a 12 minute drive to either town. The Cottages is surrounded by open meadows and hillside vineyards in Canada’s only official desert region. The area receives less than 30 centimeters of rain each year. Winter brings little more than a dusting of snow and winter temperatures seldom drop below -5 C. Phase 1 of the popular development includes 285 detached homes (200 already sold), ranging from 1300 square foot to more than 3000 square foot. The 9 currently available floor plans range from 2 bed, 2 bath up to 5 bed, 3.5 bath, at prices from just over $500,000 to $1.3 million. A clubhouse with fully equipped gym, outdoor pools and hot tubs is available to owners. There are 160 boat slips (for purchase while supply lasts) and of the 1800 feet of waterfront, 500 is sandy beach. There is also plenty of green space. Some is landscaped, manicured lawn, and some is wildlife corridors to give lake access to local wildlife. Several thousand feet of paved walkways give lots of space for a sunset stroll or an early morning jog. 21
The Osoyoos area is a vacation paradise. Osoyoos is the southernmost town in BC and has long been a popular beach destination for Western Canadian sun seekers. You can golf almost all year. Many award winning wineries are within a short drive. Almost any imaginable water sport is available. Top caliber restaurants in the area use local ingredients. Hiking and biking are spectacular in spring and fall or on summer mornings. In winter there is excellent skiing nearby. With all this in mind, The Cottages was originally planned as a vacation home development. It soon became apparent that the bulk of the interest was coming from active baby boomers, retired or approaching retirement and planning this as their year-round residence. This didn’t mean drastic changes were needed since each home is built with the buyer’s choice from the many available options and upgrades. Some of the floor plans were dropped and new ones created. All plans now include a garage. Master bedrooms are on the main floor. Covered porches and patios offer shade from the summer sun but let in lots of light throughout the winter and early summer mornings. Each home features a geothermal
heat pump for lower cost, lower maintenance heating and cooling. The large majority of purchasers to date are year-round residents looking for the warm, sunny climate, the resort-like amenities and low maintenance lifestyle offered by The Cottages, with all of the food, entertainment, and services available in the small towns just a few minutes away. The Cottages on Osoyoos Lake is a Van Maren Group of Companies development. Over the past 45 years the company has built more than 20,000 homes from single family homes to 30 story high rises, plus commercial and industrial projects, primarily in BC, Alberta, Washington and California. They have developed numerous subdivisions. The Van Maren Group of Companies is headquartered in Chilliwack, BC and can be reached at 604-847-0700. For more information on The Cottages, or to arrange a visit to the display homes, call 855-742-0700 or go to www.osoyooscottages.com.
Singapore Airline’s Hub Makes Stopovers a Pleasure
10 Fabulous Ways to Pass Time at Changi Airport, Singapore 1. Have a laptop? Take advantage of the wi-fi facili- 9. Have a Free Massage at the airport. At Changi you ties and check your emails. No laptop? No problem, there are 400 free internet computers available for passengers.
2. Catch a movie on a giant screen at the movie theatre for free. There is always a movie playing 24/7 at theatres in Terminal 2 & 3.
3. Remember to pack your swim trunks in your hand
luggage. Then go for a swim at the rooftop pool at the Terminal 1 Transit Hotel. Afterwards relax in the jacuzzi.
4. Got a couple hours on your hands. Walk around. There is so much to see from admiring the interior landscaping, reading a best seller by the waterfall or koi carp ponds or getting a bite or enjoying a cuppa of the local tea at one of 120 places to eat.
5. Need to do a little shopping? Chances are you’ll
find what you are looking for in one of the 350 shops waiting to service you with a bargain price. Prices are truly competitive and you can even do your shopping online at www.ishopchangi.com.
can find free foot massage machines around the airport, and even some magic, full body massage chairs in Terminal 3. If you prefer a person to do your massage, you can find plenty of those options around the terminals, though you do have to pay for that service.
10.
BONUS – You may just be passing through this tiny island-state, but let Singapore’s sights and sounds, colours and beats, energy and electricity enthrall you on the Free Singapore Tour. If you have at least 5.5 hours (or at least 6 hours for City Sights Tour) to spare till your connecting flight, join one of their free 2.5 hours guided tours with 2 short stopovers. The Heritage Tour runs 4 times daily and the City Sights Tour runs 2 times daily. Yes, there’s an awful lot to do at Changi Airport which is why Singapore Airlines lets you check in 48 hours before your flight. What a great idea....get rid of your checked luggage and go on an airport adventure before your flight.
6. Have a green thumb? Enjoy the airport cactus
garden. Or at Terminal 2, you can visit the Sunflower Garden.
7. Ride the Giant Slide at Terminal 3. The “World’s tallest slide inside an airport” isn’t the sort of thing you come across every day.
8. If hanging around makes you breathless then go for a shot of oxygen at the Oxygen Bar.
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Enjoy a Stopover in Singapore with Singapore Airlines Singapore Airlines has evolved from a regional airline to one of the most respected travel brands around the world since its founding in 1972. The airline owns one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world to destinations spanning a network spread over six continents. Enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds of Singapore with a Singapore Stopover Holiday! It’s a great way to explore the Garden City enroute to your final destination. Singapore Stopover Holiday (worth more than S$400) from only S$50 Includes a one-night hotel stay, return airport transfers, complimentary rides on the SIA Hop-on Bus, and admission to over 15 tourist attractions.
• 29 Top Hotels to select from • Enjoy admission into over 15 attractions in Singapore (worth more than S$400) together with special dining deals when you book a Singapore Stopover Holiday. Free admission to the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Chinatown Food Street Chinatown Heritage Centre Gardens by the Bay Indian Heritage Centre Jurong Bird Park Lee Kong China Natural History Museum Malay Heritage Centre MINT Museum of Toys National Gallery Singapore National Museum of Singapore National Orchid Garden Night Safari Sentosa Singapore Cable Car Singapore Flyer Singapore Philatelic Museum Singapore River Cruise Singapore Zoo The Original Singapore Walks
Rates are on a per person per night basis. Breakfast can be included as a surcharge. Singapore Stopover Holiday packages are available for passengers travelling on Singapore Airlines (SQ) and/or SilkAir (MI) ticketed and operated flights into and out of Singapore. Passengers travelling on codeshare flights operated by our codeshare partners may not be eligible. www.singaporeair.com
Off-Grid Travel Fun in Las Vegas It may come as a surprise to many, but this famous oasis in the desert serves up much more than a 24/7 buffet menu of casinos, gambling and slot machines. Whether Vegas virgin or veteran, travellers seeking authentic off-grid experiences and excellent adventures will be more than satisfied by this destination’s attractions off the Strip.
Lip Smacking Foodie Tour “Come hungry!” says tour owner Donald Contoursi. His Lip Smacking Foodie Tours of downtown’s Fremont East district showcases the best of the local restaurant scene. These are hidden gems, like Therapy and 7th&Carson, that visitors wouldn’t even know existed without the benefit of this three-hour tour. In addition to sharing signature dishes, Donald provides guests with a primer on downtown history and the chance to meet like-minded foodies. All dietary restrictions can be met, and tours are prioritized with VIP seating and menus. “You may not gamble, and that’s fine” says Donald, “but I don’t think you should gamble on your food.”
Claudia Laroye
Helicopter Ride to Hoover Dam Built in 1933, the historic Hoover Dam has enough concrete to circumnavigate the earth at the Equator. To truly appreciate this important feat of hydroelectric engineering, book a scenic helicopter flight with Papillon Helicopters. The aerial vantage point offers unique perspective on the 726 feet of the dam’s structure and design. As you fly above the Dam, Lake Mead, and the fascinating formations of Black Canyon, your friendly pilot shares educational information and details about the sights on the ground.
ATV Adventure in Eldorado Nevada has a rich mining history, including the Eldorado Canyon historic mining site just 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas. Ride through a desert canyon dotted with cholla cacti on a fun Awesome Adventures ATV tour that covers trails meant for mule-driven ore wagons. Keep a sharp eye out for big horn sheep or mountain lions in the brown hills above the trails. Loose clothing is recommended 24
Visit the Techatticup Gold Mine It’s a spooky affair wandering through the tunnels of an abandoned gold mine. The pathways are narrow and dimly lit, with 100-year old mining debris still scattered around. This mine was a profitable source of gold in the 19th century, mined from quartz veins that are still visible. Take a guided tour and learn of the harsh working conditions and short life span of miners and their donkey ore-haulers. Most men didn’t live past 35 years old, and many donkeys would go blind after ten days in the darkness of the mine. The ghost town of Techatticup is worth visiting in its own right, for its General Store’s quirky collection of kitsch, knick-knacks, and homage to Area 51.
Golden Knights Hockey It may seem strange to see hockey in the desert, but the hottest ticket in town is for a Vegas Golden Knights game at the new T-Mobile Arena. The newest franchise in the National Hockey League is packing the rafters with new hockey converts and super-fans. Part of the reason is the gorgeous new arena, which offers the chance to enjoy a game in the nightclublike space of the Hyde Lounge. This one-of-a-kind experience with 18,000 square feet of private clublike feel includes incredible viewing opportunities and sweeping floor-to-ceiling views of the Las Vegas Strip and new MGM Resorts International Park. The hockey is good too.
The Mob Museum, The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement It’s not every day that you meet a museum docent who served as a mob ‘specialist’ in a past life. Though visitors may not hear any spilled secrets from the living, you’ll certainly get an eye and earful about Made Men, G-Men and their bosses at the Mob Museum. Located in downtown Las Vegas in the historic former Courthouse and Post Office, this interactive museum presents a fascinating and authentic view of organized crime’s impact on Las Vegas history, as well as its unique imprint on America and the world. Visitors are treated to real stories, and actual events of Mob history are revealed through live interpreters and engaging exhibits. 25
The Museum will debut its newest attraction, The Underground, a permanent exhibition dedicated to the history of Prohibition, in April 2018. The exhibit will include a real speakeasy, and transport guests back to the 1920s, when Prohibition gave rise to the Mob’s control over the outlawed liquor trade.
Dig ThisExperience What could be more fun than horsing around with gigantic, earth-moving machines alongside your friends and family? At Dig This, guests can channel their inner “Bob the Builder” in a giant natural sandbox. It’s a surprisingly zen-like experience digging holes and moving large tires into piles with giant excavators and bulldozers. Employees outfit grown-ups with the knowledge and safety gear necessary to get behind the wheel before explaining all the levers and buttons of the control panel. Patrons are then left alone inside climate-controlled cabs, connected to their instructors via headsets in case they need additional guidance. Patrons steer the big rigs, complete with nicknames like Maximus, around the play yard, excavating trenches and managing obstacle courses.
Wine Cellar & Tasting Room at the Rio Follow the spiral staircase down into the Rio’s Wine Cellar to one of the most impressive public wine collections in the United States. Home to some 10,000 bottles valued at more than $10 million, guests can settle into comfortable leather couches and conduct a flight of wine tastings accompanied by delicious charcuterie in a relaxed setting. In addition to recommending the perfect wines for tasting, knowledgeable stewards can pour sips of scotch, port or cognac.
Magic Mike Live Life imitates cinematic art at this all-new live experience based on the hit films Magic Mike and Magic Mike XXL. The live show recreates the fictional Club Domina as a cabaret nightclub inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The intimate space gives guests frontrow seats to the show that features thirteen very handsome and talented men performing in front of, above and behind the audience. This is an interactive show, where hopeful and willing participants may be chosen from the crowd of mostly, but not exclusively, female attendees. Photos credit: C Laroye
VIT Expo Save the date! Plans are well on the way for the return of the Vancouver International Travel Expo. The third installment of the show promises to be even bigger and better. The 2017 show showcased 200 exhibitors featuring travel opportunities on every continent. Exhibitors came from more than 25 countries and included cruise
vs
Canuck Fans In November the newest NHL team, the Las Vegas Golden Knights, made their first regular season vis-
Late last October Mexican lowcost carrier, Interjet added Vancouver to their Canadian service with direct flights to both Mexico City and Cancun. They also offer service in Toronto and Montreal. “Vancouver is one of North America’s fastest growing tourist destinations as well as a thriving business center,” said José Luis Garza, Interjet’s CEO. “Its majestic mountains, sparkling ocean waters, rainforests and natural beauty throughout all four sea-
lines, hotels and resorts, airlines, tour companies, and exciting and exotic destinations. The grand prize winner, Linda McGougan from Port Moody, is now working with Jackson’s African Safaris to complete the arrangements for the trip which includes air from New York on South African Airways, stays at Montusi Mountain Lodge, Isibindi’s Zulu Lodge, Isibindi’s Rhino Ridge Lodge, Isibindi’s Kosi Forest Lodge, and Return Africa’s Pafuri Trails Camp, all for 2 people.
cruise, a 1 week all inclusive Punta Cana vacation with Blau Hotels and Resorts, a China Eastern Airlines ticket to Shanghai, Panasonic and Nikon cameras, and more.
Other prizes that were awarded include a 10 day India tour from China Star Holidays, Aero Mexico tickets, a Celebrity Cruise Lines
www.vitexpo.ca
The 2018 show will be held on Saturday, September 29, under the sails at the Vancouver Convention Centre. More than 250 exhibitors are expected, many offering special deals only available at the show. To receive show updates and discount ticket offers go to
it to Vancouver’s Roger’s Arena, beating the Canucks 5-2. Why not follow the Canucks as they venture to Las Vegas to try to even things up. Single game tickets are still available for the February 23 and March 20 games in Las Vegas.
credible food (see the Las Vegas story on page 24) and excellent shopping.
Add a couple of nights to take in the glitz and glamour that has made Las Vegas famous. Enjoy world class entertainment, in-
604-559-8837
sons make it a natural getaway for Mexican leisure and business travelers. We’re also delighted to offer Vancouver travellers’ access to Mexico on our unique brand with lower prices, free checked bags on select fares, more legroom between seats and great service that has been embraced everywhere we fly.” This gives travellers a great new service choice to these popular leisure and business destinations, and through Interjet’s extensive network also provides customers more op-
Not sure where to start? SunClub Vacations will help you put together a trip to suit your budget. Call them at
tions for travel throughout Mexico and the rest of Latin America. Flights to both destinations run 4 times each week, on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. For more information regarding Interjet’s new Canadian service or to make a reservation, visit
www.interjet.com or in Canada, call
1 (844) 874-4053. 26
THE DREAM VACATION AT A DREAM PRICE
Ancient lost villages, scenic mountain train rides, volcanic hot springs, exhilarating canopy tours— the South American countries of Peru and Costa Rica offer plenty of ways to elevate your heart rate. So if you envision experiencing a world of ancient pyramids and plantations, scenic beaches and bridges, and mystic mountains and valleys, the time to turn your dreams into reality is now.
Getaway to Costa Rica 8 Days from San José to San José | Prices starting at $999*
Mysteries of the Inca Empire 11 Days from Lima to Lima | Prices starting at $2,089* B.C. Reg. #69460
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On Safari in Kenya
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South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger
14 Days from Cape Town to Johannesburg | Prices starting at $2,539* NEW!
South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger with Victoria Falls
17 Days from Cape Town to Johannesburg | Prices starting at $3,139* COSMOS COMMUNITY: Cosmos Community is designed to give back to the local communities and people that our vacation packages visit. Unique experiences may range from planting a tree in Brazil’s Amazon to visiting a local family in their home in the Sacred Valley. Your knowledgeable Local Guides will bring each destination to life and share with you how you are directly supporting local communities worldwide.
SunClub Travel & Rewards Turning TRAVEL DREAMS into REALITY It's Your TimeYou're free to indulge you curiosities and explore the world. To get out there and encounter new cultures. Tap into the many rhythms of life in places you've always dreamed about. Call SunClub Travel & Rewards to assist you finding inspiration, connection, and enrichment around every corner of the world! Toll Free 1-855-578-6258 www.sunclubvacations.com B.C. Reg. #69460 * Prices and availability subject to change. Land price only. Does not include airfare. Restrictions apply.
The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond Oh, ye’ll tak the high road, and I’ll tak the low road, And I’ll be in Scotland afore ye; But me and my true love will never meet again On the bonnie, bonnie banks o’ Loch Lomond.
With more than a hundred castles and 30,000 lochs in Scotland it would not be possible to visit them all in one lifetime. So where to go first? Loch Lomond, made famous in song, is Scotland’s largest freshwater loch, located at the boundary between the lowlands of Central Scotland and the Highlands. It is 39 km long and up to 8 km wide and contains 30 or more islands (depending on the water level), a number of which appear to be man-made in prehistoric times. The Loch is now part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park which was established in 2002.
The original author of this song is unknown. Stories of its origin help in understanding its meaning. One story is that it was written in a final letter home by a Scottish soldier awaiting death in enemy captivity. In Celtic mythology if someone died away from their homeland, the fairies would provide the soul a route home, known as the “low road”.
Boating and water sports, cycling, hiking and golf are among the many activities that draw visitors from throughout Scotland and around the world. The Loch Lomond Golf Club has in past hosted the Scottish Open. Loch Ness, made famous in monster lore, is Scotland’s second largest freshwater loch in area, but due to its depth it is the largest by volume in the British Isles. There are about 40 rivers, creeks and waterways feeding into Loch Ness, which
contains more water than all of the rivers and lakes in England and Wales combined. It is best known as the fabled home of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, whose first historical mention dates back to 565. A sighting was reported in 1871 but the popular legend really took hold in 1933. Many sightings, photos, and sonar readings since then have all been called hoaxes by the scientific community, creating fodder for the conspiracy theorists. If you are a Nessie fan a visit to the Nessie Museum is well worthwhile. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition is located in Drumnadrochit. Take one of the many boat cruises and you may be the lucky one to see her with your own eyes. In Urquhart Bay about 1.5 km east of Drumnadrochit you will find Urquart Castle which dates back to the 13th century. Urquhart played a role in the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century. In 1692 it was partially destroyed to prevent it from being used by Jacobite forces. It was 28
Castles & Lochs not until the 20th century that it was placed under state care and it has since become one of the most visited castles in Scotland. Urquhart is one of the largest castles in Scotland, though much of it lies in ruins.
Stirling Castle is one of the most important castles in Scottish history. Most of the current buildings date to the 15th and 16th century. Stirling Castle has come through no less than
eight sieges. Mary, Queen of Scots, among other Scottish royalty, was crowned at Stirling Castle.
Loch Awe was very aptly named. Known for its awe inspiring scenery, it is the third largest freshwater loch in Scotland. A fisherman’s paradise, it is dotted with castles on islands. Its nearly 130 km of shoreline includes beaches, forests, pastures and the picturesque Village of Lochawe.
At the northern end of Loch Awe is one of Scotland’s most photographed sights, Kilchurn Castle. Kilchurn was the first of a number of the Clan Campbell castles. It was built around 1450 and at 5 stories was a high-rise by 15th century standards. The castle survived a number of battles but was severely damaged in a lightning storm and subsequently abandoned in 1760. For most of the year Kilchurn Castle is easily accessible on the tip of a peninsula at the north end of the Loch. During high water the site becomes a temporary island. A 14th century high-rise, Doune Castle, features a 47 meter tall gatehouse. Its most notable feature however, is one of the best preserved great halls in Scotland. Doune Castle has been seen by millions of film and television viewers as it has been the set of many productions, including Ivanhoe, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones and Outlander.
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MV V2V Empress to re-launch in early 2018 The MV V2V Empress is continuing sea trials into the final week of December, ensuring that the vessel meets the rigorous safety requirements that will ensure passenger safety and comfort. The first sailing date is expected in the early New Year to allow for proper testing and trials to take place. When sea trials are
completed, the MV V2V Empress will return to harbour-toharbour service. V2V Vacations offers daily sailings between Vancouver and Victoria, the only ocean going, direct downtown to downtown connec-
tion, combined with exceptional service and the comfort of ergonomic leather seating in all cabins, local culinary options, and the unsurpassed scenery of the British Columbia coastline. Find out more at
https://v2vvacations.com/
Flair Airlines Launches Vancouver Service On December 15th Flair Airlines launched new non-stop service from Vancouver (YVR) to Kelowna and Edmonton. The Edmonton flight continues on to Toronto. Flair Airlines offers travelers an ultra-low cost option flying Boeing 737 aircraft. Both services will operate 4 times weekly. Flair Airlines is the first Canadian Ultra-low cost airline to fly from
YVR They are headquartered in Kelowna and have been in business since 2005. Last year they flew close to 400,000 passengers on about 3100 flights. This new service continues the expansion that will have Flair Airlines operating 12 aircraft by the spring of 2019.
Flair now flies from Abbotsford, Kelowna and Vancouver in BC, as well as Edmonton, Hamilton, Winnipeg and Toronto.
Check out all options at
https://flairairlines.com
Caribbean Recovery The latter half of 2017 was far from kind to the Caribbean with hurricane Irma quickly followed by Hurricane Maria. While damage was extensive in some areas, others were hardly affected at all.
12 out of 32 Caribbean countries suffered some degree of damage but the message they want you to hear is that the Caribbean is open for business. Even where there was damage, the recovery has been speedy, airports are operating normally
and most hotels are back up and running. A great source for the very latest updates on what’s open and what’s not is the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association at
http://caribbeantravelupdate.com/
Wild Food Gastronomy in Marana, Arizona
People have been farming in Southern Arizona along the Santa Cruz River for at least 4,000 years, longer than in any other part of the United States. Historically, the Sonoran Desert was lush and verdant, particularly along the Santa Cruz River, and has two rainy seasons. Many mountain ranges throughout Southern Arizona create creeks, washes, microclimates, and biome variation, forming the greenest desert in the world – a one of a kind place. Native peoples were masterful at exploiting microclimates and engineering landforms for farming maize (ancient corn), beans, squash, onions, amaranth, chile peppers, sunflowers, and agave, among others. The ancient farming and the subsequent preservation of ancient seeds from cultivated plants, are two reasons why Tucson was named the first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in the United States. Marana, Arizona not only shares in this distinction with its next door neighbor (Tucson) due to its ancient history, but also brings this history forward through the Marana Gastronomy 31
Tours, which are the first gastronomy tours approved by UNESCO Creative Cities network member, Tucson City of Gastronomy. But most unique in this region are the largest number of edible wild foods in any desert in the world. Many of these foods are enjoying a revival in interest due to their unique flavors and nutritional value. According to Carolyn Niethammer, the first Southwest wild foods cookbook author, there are 450 edible wild plants in the Sonoran Desert. Ancient foodways, artisanal flavors, and Sonoran haute cuisine set the stage for the Marana Gastronomy Tour. Visitors can expect to travel back thousands of years with University of Arizona professor emerita and
Arizona State Museum Curator Dr. Suzanne Fish as they explore ancient archaeological sites of the Hohokam civilization, before returning to the present for a modern cuisine tasting infused with with ancient wild foods, ancient domesticated native foods, and post-1687 European foods. BKW Farm, Bean Tree Farm, Catalina Brewing Company, and Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain all take center stage during the epicurean showcase. You can experience ancient Sonoran Desert wild foods on the Marana Gastronomy Tours, running twice a month from October to April. Discover more at
www.townofgastronomy.org.
what’s cooking in
CUBA
SHRIMP IN GARLIC WINE SAUCE (Camarones al Ajillo)
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons butter 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup olive oil 1 3/4 pounds raw shrimp, peeled and cleaned 1/4 cup white wine 2 lemons
Directions: • In a medium-sized pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. • Add the butter and whisk until it begins to subside after bubbling. • Add the minced garlic and saute for 1 minute. • Add the shrimp and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. You should start to see the shrimp change color and start to shrink. • Add the wine and lemon juice and cook 2 minutes, stirring frequently to make sure all the juices get through to the shrimp. • Serve the shrimp on a platter, and make sure to pour the sauce from the pan over the shrimp. Sprinkle the cilantro and serve.
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WOR LD CRUISE 2020
117 DAYS TO SEE THE WOR LD, A L I F E T I M E T O R E M E M BE R I T. Your guests can travel all around the globe on MSC Magnifica for a once-in-a-lifetime exclusive cruise experience. They will savor exotic gourmet delicacies, marvel at spectacular Broadway-style entertainment, bask in the comfort of elegant staterooms, take in incredible sea views and explore the wondrous worlds that await at every fascinating destination. MSC MAGNIFICA
GENOA CIVITAVECCHIA MARSEILLE BARCELONA LISBON FUNCHAL Atlantic Ocean
SUEZ CANAL TRANSIT
AITUTAKI MINDELO PAPEETE AQABA BOUNTY BAY PASSAGE HANGA ROA CALLAO SALVADOR DE BAHIA ARICA RIO DE JANEIRO MONTEVIDEO VALPARAISO RAROTONGA BUENOS AIRES PUERTO MONTT Pacific Ocean PUERTO MADRYN PUNTA ARENAS
USHUAIA
JANUARY 4 - APRIL 29, 2020
SALALAH SINGAPORE PORT KLANG
MUMBAI COLOMBO
KOMODO DARWIN ALOTAU DOINI ISLAND NOUMEA ILE DES PINS
BENOA
CAIRNS Indian Ocean SYDNEY AUCKLAND WOLLONGONG - PORT KEMBLA HOBART MILFORD SOUND WELLINGTON NAPIER TAURANGA
F ROM CIVITAVECCHIA, GENOA, BARCELONA, MARSEILLE FROM
$14,999
p.p.
117 Days
43 Destinations
23 Countries
8 Overnight Stays
Itinerary and other information may be subject to change prior to sailing. Please visit our website msccruises.com.
For more information or to book call SunClub Vacations Toll Free 1-855-578-6258. The Cruise Experts in Vancouver * Rates are cruise only per person based on double occupancy and quoted in USD. Offer valid for new bookings only for U.S. & Canadian residents. The listed lead rate of $14,999 is for Category I1 on 1/4/2020. Government fees and taxes (GFT) are an additional $1,279.76 per person. Subject to change. Ship’s registry: Panama.
BC Reg # 69460
REDWHITE talk wine or
CUBA TRIES ITS HAND AT WINE MAKING Cuba’s popular mojitos and daiquiris may soon be competing with a wide range of wines from the island, sold in attractive bottles with labels featuring exclusive designs by well-known Cuban artists. Under the brands “Colonial,” “Cortes,” “Soroa” and “Castillo del Morro,” red, white and rose Cuban wines are being marketed by two companies, both joint enterprises between the Cuban government and European firms. Bodegas del Caribe, incorporated in March 2002, planted 22 varieties of grape brought over from Spain with the goal of adapting them to the climate and soils of the island. The businessmen, who represent the Spanish firm Palacio de Arganza, said the company tested varieties of Spanish grapes in some 60 hectares (148 acres) in Bainoa, Batabano and Wajay, in Havana province.
and also bottled here. In other words, the process, from start to finish, is done in Cuba.” They predict greater yields and the possibility of exporting to the Dominican Republic, Britain and Germany. “A wine originally from Cuba, from Cuban vines, constitutes a curiosity for connoisseurs right now because Cuba does not have that tradition. We are taking advantage of this boom of sorts to make some sales and show the world we are capable of producing it.” The promotion of Cuban wines, under the slogan, “Wine is also culture,” tries to tie the product to the best of the country’s culture. That is why the labels feature designs by the island’s visual artists.
The upshot is 4,000 cases of each type of wine the company is being marketed in the island’s main hotel chains. “Wine has great potential in Cuba. People are demanding a quality Cuban wine,” Palacio de Arganza have said. “The grape is harvested, processed in Ceiba del Agua in aplant with the latest technology 34
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