• Hey all you sports fans!  Plan to attend the 2010 World Wheelchair Rugby Championships at the stunning Richmond Olympic Oval from September 17-26^th!

• The Britannia Mine Museum (formerly the BC Museum of Mining) located just north of Vancouver, along the famed Sea to Sky Corridor, is open and freshly updated thanks to a $14.7 million refurbishment completed in August.

• Fort Langley is a fun place to spend a sunny day, but is equally as appealing if the weather clouds over.  Shop the specialty boutiques, great restaurants and antiques.

• Vancouver neighbourhoods like Kitsilano and Commercial Drive have many hideaway cafes to relax over a good cup o’ brew and an international newspaper.

• Drive to Penticton for a few days to spend one day exploring wineries from the Naramata Benchlands to Summerland, then hike the Kettle Valley trails on another.

• It’s not too early to plan to attend the Autumn Bounty Culinary Festival in Sun Peaks Resort, October 8 – 10. Organic Farmers to winemakers and a gala dinner at the Delta Sun Peaks celebrate the harvest of 2010.

• Head over to Victoria for a ‘behind the scenes’ look at how the Royal BC Museum operates.  With expert-led tutorials and family workshops, this is a great back to school getaway.

• One Pro-D weekend pack up the family and head to Northern BC and Round Lake Resort.  Located near Smithers, this year-round retreat provides lake-side cabins and family-friendly outings on the 11 hectacre (that’s 28 acres!) property.

• BC’s largest theatre festival begins this week – Vancouver’s Fringe Festival runs September 9 to 19 with most performances occurring at Granville Island.  As most shows don’t make it to the ‘big stage,’  plan to get out and support live theatre!

• Get the kids back to school safely!  Whether your little one is starting school for the first time, or is a seasoned university attendee, this is the week to get back to routines while still enjoying all this province has to offer.

Betty Lohr

Betty and a lucky person in her life are off to Vancouver and a two night stay at the chic Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in the heart of the city!  This urban getaway also includes dinner for two in the hotel’s ’see and be seen’ popular restaurant, Preston’s.  I suggest a long walk on the seawall to Stanley Park, maybe a show at Granville Island’s Arts Club Theatre and definitely some shopping and browsing on Vancouver’s Robson Street and Yaletown. Read my review here.

Book your getaway at www.coasthotels.com and visit www.tourismvancouver.com for more ideas on things to see and do in beautiful Vancouver!

My favourite spot in BC is in little Fauquier in the West Kootenays just over the Needles Ferry.  My husband and I will be going there for the third year in a row this year.  The place is called An Inn for Two.   It’s a beautiful little place that has two cabins…very private and completely catering to couples!   Privacy, no cell service, no phone, no tv, no kids, no responsibility…. Just peace and serenity for the two of you.

The cabins are fully contained and have soaker tubs and beautiful views of Arrow Lake.   Most of all..the owner, Marnie, is absolutely FABULOUS!  We’ve never stayed anywhere where we feel SO welcomed and appreciated.   I would suggest this destination to any couple who have busy lives and just need to get away from it all for a few days … I guarantee they’d come back feeling completely rejeuvenated!   Here’s her website… the pictures are breathtaking, but don’t capture the actual beauty you experience when you’re there….. http://www.innfortwo.com/

Cheers and Happy Travels!
Dawn Sarantos

Takakkaw Falls near Cathedral Mountain Lodge

A Sense of Majesty

The setting for Cathedral Mountain Lodge definitely sets the tone for this glorious getaway. Safely tucked in amongst the heart-stirring beauty of the Canadian Rockies lies this perfect lodge – naturally landscaped with towering rock walls and mountain peaks, to dramatic water falls (Takakkaw Falls, Canada’s second highest waterfall, just minutes away), to the roaring, glacier-fed Kicking Horse River that slows to a gentle run as it passes by the front doors of several of the property’s 29 log cabins.

Hunker Down

Imagine entering your beautiful handcrafted log cabins boasting floor to ceiling stone fireplaces, lots of windows which open to the serene beauty surrounding you, and a generous deck to reflect on life…and the sparkling views.  Wander out past the main lodge where rock gardens and old oak barrels overflow with wild flowers enticing you to wander down pathways towards the river.  Adirondack chairs call from the water’s edge to come and sit awhile. Relax and drink in the sweet smells and sounds around you.

The main lodge is gorgeous with its mountain-styled elegance reflected throughout the dining room to the patio and deck.  An afternoon respite in front of the outdoor fireplace gently prods one to linger longer…perhaps over a glass of wine with a specially prepared cheese tray.  Heading into dinner, the menu choices and presentations won’t disappoint. In fact, one guest we chatted with was still enjoying the Chef’s mouth-watering surprises a week after arriving. Check out one of Chef James’ recipes here. After a deep, peaceful sleep, you’ll awaken to chirping birds who beckon the personal picnic basket filled with breakfast goodies – especially enjoyable with your feet propped up on the veranda railing.  Indeed, an escape to the peaceful tranquility of Cathedral Mountain Lodge is exactly what the doctor should order!

Luxurious "mountain-chic' cabin

Bring the Kids?

Yes and no, depending on what your needs are on this trip. Children are definitely welcome here as the Lodge and surrounding terrain deliver a great getaway for families with children eight years and older (some cabins have sleeping lofts).  No computers or swimming pool though – the entertainment is pure and simple.  Get outdoors exploring the abandoned railway trails, hike, bike, fish or get out on horseback – it’s your call because it’s all here.  Inside, consider board games and cards, to reading together on the porch of your cabin.  Entertainment together will be spontaneous in ways often overlooked in our city lifestyles. With advance notice, the Management team and their superb staff can arrange meals for allergy sufferers, and while the cabins don’t allow pets inside, you can be sure your four-legged family member will love his or her spot on the safe and covered veranda.

Getting Here

Fly into Calgary and make the 2.5 hour drive – it’s worth every single minute.  The flight is fast and easy, no matter which airline you choose. Travelling this route provides stunning visuals as you drive through Banff and Lake Louise on route to Cathedral Mountain Lodge, and the road trip is half the fun.  ‘Photo ops’ abound so don’t forget the camera as we did.  Mind you, a quick stop in Canmore, java and disposable camera in hand (surprise – the photos are fabulous, just as they were prior to digital!), and you’re good to go.

When You Go

Reservations are being accepted now for the end of the 2010 season which wraps up on October 2, 2010.  It’s never too early to start planning a trip for next year either so take a look at the gorgeous site at www.cathedralmountain.com or telephone toll free 1.866.619.6442. For route and general travel information, including the history of the nearby Spiral Tunnels and the adorable town of Field which is literally down the road from Cathedral Mountain Lodge , please visit www.KootenayRockies.com.

Chef James Welcomes Guests to Cathedral Mountain Lodge

Chef James Holmes hails from Ontario (born and raised), but now calls British Columbia – home away from home – thanks to training at Dubrulle Culinary Art Institute in Vancouver.  A strong desire to work with free range, organic, traditional European ingredients and regional fresh water fish  ensures the culinary concepts that inspire Chef James to create his unique menu style are the elements which keep guests coming back for more.  Keeping the flavours simple and fresh enables Chef James’ passion for food to speak for itself and carries forward his dedication and appreciation for fine cuisine to his team, servers and guests.   On many evenings, he makes his way throughout the intimate  30-seat dining room, sharing his love and passion for food.  This warmth and appreciation for his craft, and his guests’ pleasure are vital to creating memorable experiences for all.

Book your 2010 getaway before the season ends this October, or book for next year – the Lodge is open from late May to early October each year,  at www.cathedralmountain.com.  Read the full feature here.

Following is one of his popular recipes that pairs perfectly with a glass of ice wine from the interior region of British Columbia.

Seasonal Okanagan Valley Fruit Fritters

Ingredients

• 1 cup sifted flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for deep frying
• Peach slices, apples chunks, or fresh berries of your choice
• Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar

Preparation

Sift together flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Mix together egg yolks, milk, and 1-tablespoon corn oil. Stir into dry ingredients until well mixed. Add egg whites, which have been stiffly beaten. Fold into the batter. Pour oil into a deep fryer or heavy deep kettle and heat to 370°. Put banana chunks or fruit chunks in batter. Spoon into hot deep oil and fry for 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Peaches, apples or fresh berries may be used. Sprinkle hot fritters with powdered sugar or roll in cinnamon sugar mixture.

Sit back, let the sweetness linger over your palate and enjoy!  The best of BC is here!

Hike the beauty of the Sunshine Coast with Distinctly West Coast Excursions

August 30 to September 5, 2010 marks the end of summer holidays before the kids head back to school.  Yah! There’s still time to see some local attractions or take a trip somewhere in our great big backyard!

• Fort Langley celebrates Labour Day weekend with a Fort Farm Tour September 4 & 5 from 9a to 6p.  Farm animals, cooking classes and farm machinery displays run the entire weekend.  Only 45 minutes from Vancouver for a day of family fun.

• The Vancouver Aquarium is a wonderful place to visit on a sunny day but it’s even cooler when it’s raining.  Check out the fish and fauna all week.

• 

  Golf at Fairmont Hot Springs - Photo Courtesy of D. Weixl

• This is the last week to view The Modern Woman: Drawings by Degas, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec and Other Masterpieces from the Musee d’Orsay in Paris and now on display at the Vancouver Art Gallery.  A stunning collection sure to delight the artist in all.  Daily tours available from 10a to 5p.

• Bonding, puffing and getting in shape are found on a good hike, especially on the Sunshine Coast.  Find your favourite with Distinctly West Coast Excursions.  They can even help with booking a weekend away to really push your limits!

• In Vancouver, visit Granville Island. For back to school treats and hostess gifts that will be the talk of dinner, be sure to drop by Edible BC’s shop in the Public Market.

• Check out the variety of fall courses being offered at your local community college or university.  From cooking to learning a second language, life long learning is a gift.

• Take a late summer road trip along BC’s spectacular Heritage Discovery Circle Route from Vancouver to Haida Gwaii – ok, you have to travel by ferry too!

• Visit Vancouver Island and hike the West Coast Trail near Tofino and Ucluelet.  While the full trek can take up to seven days, try an afternoon first!

• 

  The pools at Fairmont Hot Springs - Photo Courtesy of P. Moynes

  Fly into Cranbrook, pick up the rental car and head to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort in the Kootenay Rockies region.  Relaxing hot springs, great golf and superb food and accommodations close out summer.

• Coracle Cove – a delightful Bed & Breakfast on the Sunshine Coast, affords the perfect spot to hide out for a few days of rest and relaxation…the breakfasts are divine and so is the deck off your suite!

Sad but true…only a few weeks left of summer!

• 

  The PNE turns 100!

  Escape to Kingfisher Oceanfront Resort Sunday through Thursday and get the second night for 50% off. Gourmet lunch and massage for only $99 more!

• Visit Vancouver and the PNE.  Celebrating 100 years of FAIR Fun, this is the summer to re-discover those irresistable miniature donuts and the petting zoo…and a few rides!

• Head up to Whistler with Rocky Mountaineer. Could be THE best trip of summer.  Overnight packages start at only $199 for the rail experience and hotel.

• The Night Market in Richmond is unique and very fun.  Food, glorious food, loads of free parking too.

• All you lovers of sunsets head to English Bay in Vancouver and Rain City Grill for the BEST Halibut & Chips…for only $10 per person. Utterly romantic!

• 

  Soothing Scandinave Spa in Whistler

  The arts are alive and thriving this week over on the Sunshine Coast. Studio tours, music and kids programs run from Powell River down to Pender Harbour, Madeira Park and Roberts Creek.

• Hop in the car and travel the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish, stopping to view the Cultural Journey passages depicting the region’s First Nations Heritage.

• Continue on up the road to Whistler and unwind at the blissful Scandinave Spa following a spectacular bike tour around Lost Lake. Bike rental and spa packages start at $99.

• Klahowya Village and the Spirit Catcher Train is open for two more weeks of summer. A great family outing in the heart of Stanley Park in Vancouver.

• Ice cream and summer were made for one another, so wherever you are this week-at home or on holiday, drop by the local gelato parlour for a cone!

Small and cozy...Enjoy!

Sometime over the coming weeks you and yours will find you just need to get away…so why not head out to the Fraser Valley, to Harrison Hot Springs for a romantic two night escape.  Tuck into the Harrison Beach Hotel where this two night stay includes a welcome bottle of wine, one breakfast for two in Country Kim’s Cooking Cafe, and two passes (one for each of you) to the public mineral pools.  And, complimentary parking is included, as is a late check-out should you find yourselves lingering on the lakeshore the last morning!  This is an easy place to reach, it’s relaxing and if you let yourselves soak into the ambiance, you will have a fabulous time.

Read more about Harrison here.

View the community of Harrison at www.tourismharrison.com and the hotel at www.harrisonbeachhotel.com.

www.HarrisonBeachHotel.com

Click here for full Contest Rules and Regulations

All entries must be received by:  Midnight, September 6, 2010.  Good Luck!

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Xa:ytem Visitors Learn cedar weaving

The real history of Harrison began many thousands of years ago with the first original inhabitants. Although there is no certain date, best archaeological estimates are that people lived here some 10,000 years past, shortly after the retreat of the last ice age.  And while little remains from this early period, we do know that the indigenous people were the predecessors of the Stò:lo people.  Today, this vibrant community located approximately 90 minutes from Vancouver, is a favourite getaway for families with kids of all ages.  There’s so much to see and do here, year-round, however the late spring and summer times are really outstanding.

Take the scenic drive out Highway 7 as the road winds through some of the prettiest county this side of the Rockies. A must stop

A lazy afternoon at the beach

is a visit to Xá:ytem – the Longhouse Interpretive Centre. Here you will experience an amazing historical tour of the area’s First Nations culture. Enthralled by the stories and songs shared by the tour guides, the fascinating historical details of life over the past 150 years is warmheartedly woven together with the wisdom and knowledge of the thousands of years old oral culture of the Sto:lo and Coast Salish peoples. Integrating the treasured heritage of First Nations with that of the early settlers makes for a truly memorable visit with family, especially children.

Hit The Street

‘Main Street’ Harrison is an eclectic mix of architecture, mostly from the 40s to 60s.  The mood is casual, with that small town energy – friendly retailers whose kids help out in summer, to elders striving to maintain the coziness of the village while integrating modern conveniences (wireless internet), with contemporary new structures. One thing is glaringly obvious – the streets and lakefront beaches are remarkably clean, as is the lack of obnoxious city sounds of loud music and vehicles. The lakefront is alive with water activities come the good weather so if you’ve only made it a day trip, don’t forget the bathing suits, towels and sun screen!

Harrison Beach Hotel is across from the lake

Quaint and comfy restaurants dot the lakeshore. And for a relaxing haven, book into the Harrison Beach Hotel located minutes from all the action and right across from the beach.  With 42 units all facing the lake or mountains, you can bring along a few refreshments as each guest suite has a full or partial kitchen, and should the weather be on the rainy side, hop into the indoor pool or workout in the gym onsite.

Nearby Neigbourhoods

As you travel either to or back from Harrison along the spectacular Highway 7 route, there is a special place located at the confluence of the Harrison and Fraser Rivers. The Kilby Historic Site is the last remaining site of the heart of the

Harrison Lake Poolside

once-bustling community of Harrison Mills.  Period-costumed interpreters discuss transportation, geography, farming and the logging industry from the 1920s and 1930s with their guests. Visitors are enthusiastically encouraged to tour the General Store Museum, stop for a snack and pet the farm animals too – city kids will love this experience!

Getaway Details

www.tourismharrison.com, www.xaytem.ca,

www.kilby.ca, www.harrisonbeachhotel.com

Photos courtesy of Tourism Harrison

PNE Parade Runs Friday August 20, 2010

Enjoy the last lazy days of Summer!

• The final days of Vancouver summers have been signaled by the Pacific National Exhibition for 100 years!  If you haven’t been in some time then make it happen this August 21 to September 6, 2010.  Opening Day concert with our own Bryan Adams and the forever young, Beach Boys!  Online pricing for 6 to 64 yrs is only $16.80 per person.

• Ranked by Michelin as one of the top three drives in Canada, the trip to Tofino’s Long Beach Lodge Resort is a perfect destination for road trippers. Facing one of the best surfing beaches in North America, dude experiences include grabbing your board, to ocean fishing and kayaking.  Rooms start at $229.00. Instructor rate (for five bros) start at $169.00 and $29.00 for equipment rentals for each person per day (includes board, wetsuit and booties).

• Wine and dine local while savouring the views at Summerland Resort Hotel.  Chef Paul Cecconi sources local markets and farms for his seasonally fresh menus so book a spa, then dinner and stay the night in deluxe studio suite.

• Haida Gwaii fishing is the BEST in years!  If you still haven’t booked the guys for the annual fishing trip, check out availability with West Coast Fishing Club!

• Beachside Forno in West Vancouver is fast becoming one of the most popular breakfast spots on the North Shore.  How about scrambled eggs with bacon and a yummy cheddar with salsa or, take out the s’mores and head to Ambleside beach to watch the sun set over Vancouver!  Delici-oso!

• 

  Visit Granville Island for farm fresh corn!

  Corn on the cob is synonymous with summer days, and longtime Granville Island resident Ocean Construction is paying tribute to the treat in its annual art unveiling – a colourful and fun design covering the entire drum of one of its husky cement mixers.  Visit during the Farmer’s Market every Thursday from 9a to 3p.

• Local foodie, Cyndi Hunter of Silver Spoon Food Tours takes guests on fantastic culinary tours every Thursday from 364 Water Street in Gastown. Learn the local history while checking out amazing restaurants in this cool area of Vancouver.

• Visit the larger-than-life, hands-on FREE Animal Grossology exhibit at Metropolis at Metrotown running until August 22^nd.  The interactive, 3D exhibit is based on the premise that laughing through science will make it more memorable and prompt kids to question “why?” and “how?” more than they would from reading it from a text book.

• 

  Silver Spoon Food Tour in Gastown, Vancouver

  Saturna Islanders have refurbished the most photographed place in the Gulf Islands. The fog alarm building is now a multi-use community-operated centre in a charming place to visit. Accessible by BC Ferries via Maine Island, from Tsawwassen and Schwartz Bay ferry terminals.

• Last minute, mid-week getaways at Bellstar’s Hotels & Resorts spell magical memories for the family.  Rates start at $129 in Whistler/Adara and Pemberton/Pemberton Lodge for deluxe studios, and $195 for 1 bedroom suites in Osoyoos/Spirit Ridge and Vernon/Strand Lakeside Resort.  Visit Kimberly for only $139 at the Mountain Spirit Resort.