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Holiday Wine & Cheese Pairings

November 26, 2019

To take you through the season in style

Nothing is easier (and smarter) than serving a delicious wine with a fabulous cheese. It’s effortlessly chic and makes holiday entertaining a breeze. To set you up for success, here are five brilliant wine and cheese pairings to add panache to classic holiday gatherings…

Holiday Open House

WOODED CHARDONNAY AND GRUYERE2017 Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay, California

Toasty and refined with creamy-crisp flavours of lemon meringue pie, toasted coconut and vanilla.

Available at LCBO | $19.95

One seriously compelling pairing is oaked Chardonnay and Gruyere, a hard cheese from Switzerland. The combination will dazzle your guests. Simple yet oh-so-good. Set a big wedge on a cheeseboard with crackers. Grate some onto thin toast points and broil it. Or bake some Gruyere, onion, mushroom tarts. Any way you slice it, you can’t go wrong.

Office Party

SAUVIGNON BLANC AND FRESH GOAT CHEESE2018 Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

A juicy attack of guava dappled with orange, lemon and lime, as well as coriander and parsley.

Available at LCBO | $17.95

The crisp, gently herbaceous flavour of Sauvignon Blanc tastes like it was made to serve with fresh goat cheese. Spread it on crackers, crumble and broil on flatbread, or bake it in thumbprint-sized phylo cups with chives sprinkled on top, and all you need is a bottle of the wine to bring finesse to the office party.

Hanukkah

MANISCHEWITZ WINE AND CREAM CHEESENV Manischewitz Blackberry, New York

Blackberry jam in a glass—but liquefied and gourmet—with a firm alcoholic backbone sustaining the vinosity.

Available at LCBO Vintages | $9.00

When observing Hanukkah, you can lift the festivities with Manischewitz wine and cream cheese treats. The combination of the sweet, jam-jar goodness of the wine works very well with cream cheese. Whether it’s rolled in nuts, cheese-ball style, baked into latkes, or just spread on toasted bites of challah—the pairing is downright delicious.

Christmas Day

BAROLO AND TRUFFLED PECORINO2014 Marchesi di Barolo La Tradizione Barolo, Piedmont, Italy

Allusions of tar and roses underpin bright fruit—dusty cherries and plum purée—with hints of coffee, earth and chocolate.

Available at LCBO Vintages | $42.95

For a real treat at Christmas, pair Barolo, one of Piedmont’s most revered wine styles, with truffled Pecorino— otherwise known as pecorino al tartufo. The earthy elegance of Barolo pairs famously with the gamey goodness of truffles, especially when the truffles imbue hard, salty Pecorino. It’s a hedonistic combination. Truffled Pecorino needs no embellishment, so serve it simply with crackers or toasts and pour the wine.

New Year’s Eve

CHAMPAGNE AND GRANA PADANONV Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne, France

Baked apple, white flowers and toast edged with warm vanilla and nuts. Delicate and elegant.

Available at LCBO | $74.25

New Year’s Eve calls for bubbles. And nothing is quite as celebratory as Champagne, with its hallmark cooked apple, brioche, and lemon curd character. But you can step up your game by serving it with Grana Padano—Northern Italy’s famous hard, crumbly cheese rich in umami. A large wedge of this honourable cheese really needs no embellishment—so serve as is, with fizz.

Story by CAROLYN EVANS HAMMOND

A Tale of Two Destinations

July 24, 2019

Make the most of your long-haul getaway to Asia by combining Hong Kong and Thailand into one trip of a lifetime, as each destination offers a complement of unique and memorable experiences.

CITY AND COUNTRY COLLIDE IN HONG KONG
The minute you take off on the Ngong Ping 360 cable-car for Lantau Island, you realize there’s some truth to the saying “sometimes the journey is the destination.” From the window – or below your feet if you get on the crystal cabin with a glass bottom – breathtaking views of mountains, forests and the coast pass you by.

For many, a visit to the largest of Hong Kong’s islands is all about getting up close and personal with The Big Buddha, a giant bronze Buddha that draws pilgrims from all over Asia, but is equally impressive to travellers alike. Lantau Island is full of lush and beautiful places to discover, like Po Lin Monastery, with colourful manifestations of Buddhist iconography, and The Wisdom Path. Here, 38 wooden pillars arranged in an infinity pattern display verses of the centuries-old Heart Sutra prayer, surrounded by
nothing but greenery and the occasional glimpse of the South China Sea.

The serene scene feels a world apart from the dramatic views atop Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, where dense skyscrapers jet out as far as the eyes can see. Taking in the awe-inspiring skyline is a must for first-time visitors – it’s the iconic image typically associated with Hong Kong and where the grandeur of the city can best be understood.

Perhaps surprisingly, the world-class metropolis is also a natural getaway as a subtropical archipelago made up of over 260 islands with 70 percent rural areas. From beaches to nature trails, parks and outlying islands, you can discover the contrast of the great outdoors along with the exciting hustle and bustle in the hub of Hong Kong. Top options to get in touch with nature include Dragon’s Back, a ridge-top path at Shek O Country Park, considered one of the best urban hiking trails in Hong Kong; and Tai Long Wan, a beautiful bay on the eastern side of the Sai Kung Peninsula.

THE TASTE OF PLACE
With 14,000 restaurants to choose from, including Michelin dining and nightlife, Hong Kong is a city full of endless foodie experiences. Indulge in everything from the dim sum at Tim Ho Wan, quite possibly the most affordable Michelin-star restaurant in the world, to the abalone at Forum in Causeway Bay that can cost up to $10,000.

If you’re looking to try a variety of local dishes, a tasty choice is to take part in Hong Kong Foodie Tasting Tours’ Temple Street Night Foodie Tour, where participants can eat like a local and dive into dishes like a sweet “soup” at a 90-year-old iconic Temple Street dessert specialty shop, the region’s infamous curry fish balls; and fresh made-to-order egg puffs, a quintessential Hong Kong snack.

HONG KONG 101
WHAT TO DO: If you only have time to do one thing in Hong Kong, visit The Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Be sure to take in the stunning 360-degree panoramic views from the Sky Terrace, at 428 metres above sea level, the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong. Keep tradition alive and ride the charming Star Ferry boats, which have been transporting passengers from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and back since 1888. Discover hidden treasures and get immersed in local culture by embarking on a walking tour through neighbourhoods like Old Town Central and Sham Shui Po.

DRINK IN THE VIEWS: There are no shortage of stunning rooftop bars to choose from, but why not imbibe at the world’s highest bar on the 118th floor, 1,608 feet above sea level, at Ritz-Carlton’s Ozone bar?

STAY IN STYLE: The Peninsula Hong Kong, The Upper House, The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong and the boutique The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong are some of the luxury properties on offer in Hong Kong.

GET OFF THE BEATEN PATH IN THAILAND: A THREE-HOUR FLIGHT FROM HONG KONG
Rich in island-hopping adventures, stunning sandy beaches, inlets surrounded by limestone cliffs, and remarkable cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand has long been renowned for its alluring beauty and spectacular scenery. Beyond its bustling capital, there is a world of hidden gems to discover across the country. For a unique experience, head to Chiang Rai, part of The Golden Triangle, where three countries, Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Throughout the 1960s to early 1990s, this area notoriously supplied most of the world’s heroin. The fascinating history of the area infamous worldwide for its poppy fields, opium
warlords and drug smugglers can be explored at The Hall of Opium, an exhibition at Golden Triangle Park. This lesser-known gem also features picturesque and Instagram-worthy attractions like Wat Rong Khun, known as the White Temple and Wat Rong Seur Ten, known as the Blue Temple.

Since the fastest way to connect to a destination is through food, be sure to taste the staple dish made famous in the city, Khao Soi Noodles, before unwinding at one of the many fabulous luxury hotels, like the Four Seasons Tented Camp or the Anantara Golden Triangle.

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE IN BANGKOK
Although Thailand’s capital city has many showstoppers like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho that command attention, Bangkok is constantly evolving and reinventing itself with new shops, restaurants, rooftop bars, and attractions to discover. One of the newest notable attractions is the Mahanakhon Skywalk, Bangkok’s highest observation deck at 314 metres, which offers 360-degree panoramic views from an indoor and outdoor area. The must- see add-on to any Bangkok bucket list features a glass floor with a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful skyline below.

For those who are looking for other off-the-beaten path ideas, there’s lots more to discover like the beautiful Wat Suthat temple, located close to the Giant Swing, another interesting attraction originally built in 1784. And, if you’re in the mood for shopping, there’s something for every budget from the Asiatique Riverfront, a night bazaar and mall by the banks of the Chao Phraya River, to the ICON SIAM, a new shopping centre featuring high-end shops like Chanel and Dior.

BANGKOK 101

STAY IN STYLE: The Rosewood Bangkok, Waldorf Astoria and Capella Bangkok are just a few of the new five-star luxury properties to choose from in Bangkok.

DRINK IN THE VIEWS: Relive a scene from The Hangover Part II and grab a cocktail at the Sky Bar at the top of Lebua at State Tower. Another scenic option to watch the sunset is the Moon Bar, located on the 61st floor of Banyan Tree Bangkok, often included in the world’s top 10 rooftop bars rankings, or the open-air rooftop bar at Sala Rattanakosin, which features stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.

WHERE TO EAT: The capital city is home to a wide array of culinary options ranging from world- famous street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. To get a taste for the local cuisine, try some popular dishes like a plate of Phad Thai or a pot of spicy Tom Yum Goong. For a terrific meal, head to Jay Fai, one of only three Michelin-starred street-food venues in the world, but be prepared to wait in line. Curated by the chefs behind Bo.lan, Err! Is another tasty Michelin-starred restaurant offering urban rustic Thai dishes.

Story by ANN RUPPENSTEIN

The World’s 17 Best Beaches

July 24, 2019 No Comments

From remote stretches of sand in far-flung locales to the ever-popular Caribbean getaways, there is a bounty of spectacular places for travellers to soak up the sun, whether they seek white, pink or even black sand. So, where should you plan your beach escape for next winter? Why not try one of the top 17 beaches in the world as voted by the experts, Canadian travel agents.

7. CABLE BEACH, BAHAMAS Photo Courtesy of Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Located in Nassau, Bahamas, travellers love the Cable Beach area for its beautiful beaches and snorkelling. Many resorts and intimate hideaways are beachfront or just a short stroll away, but no matter where you’re staying in Nassau Paradise Island, you're mere minutes from wiggling your toes in the sand and frolicking in warm, multi-hued azure waters stretching as far as the eye can see.

Day and Night in Singapore

July 24, 2019 No Comments

Day | Night

Singapore was already the most buzz-worthy city in Asia, but then the film Crazy Rich Asians came along and kicked it up a notch, giving Singapore, a small but mighty city-state in Southeast Asia, a new level of world recognition.

CHECK-IN

Many will be drawn to the eye-popping Marina Bay Sands (marinabaysands.com), whose three towering tiers are an iconic landmark for Singapore. A stay there includes access to the amazing Sky Park with its two rooftop pools. On the other hand, consider a quick escape from the city at the Capella Singapore (capellahotels. com) on nearby Sentosa Island. This luxury property has a quiet seafront location and upscale colonial vibe. EAT Yes, Singapore has all the premium dining options that could be expected and desired. But why not try the cuisine that is part of everyday life in Singapore and offers a delicious blend of cultural influences? Hawker centres (visitsingapore.com) are convenient collectives where individuals operate small cooking stalls and specialize in preparing specific dishes. Favourites such as laksa, chicken rice, curries and satay can be had at insanely low prices, and enjoyed in an authentic, bustling setting. Don’t miss the stalls that have achieved a Michelin star rating, like world-famous Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle.

GREENERY

Gardens by the Bay (gardensbythebay.com) is an award- winning horticultural destination that spans 101 hectares of reclaimed land on Marina Bay. Its massive Supertrees are vertical gardens that reach up to 16 storeys in height.

COLONIAL KICKS

Step back in time at the Fullerton Hotel (fullertonhotels.com) on the Singapore River. The old-world ritual of afternoon tea in the Courtyard, or Cantonese dim sum in Jade, can be followed by cocktails at the Lantern Rooftop Bar.

SHOP

Get your retail therapy at the newly opened Design Orchard (visitsingapore.com), which showcases over 60 local fashion brands on the premium shopping mecca, Orchard Road.

Day | Night

When the hot, hot heat of the tropical sun fades into night, Singapore comes alive with the evening’s more moderate temperatures.

SAFARI

The Singapore Zoo Night Safari (wrs.com.sg) invites visitors to embark on an after-dark adventure under bluish lights on grounds that house over 2,500 creatures, including the Asian elephant, Malayan tapir, and Malayan tiger.

ON TRACK

Every globetrotter should attend a Formula 1 race at some point, and the F1 event in Singapore is amongst the most glamorous (www.singaporegp.sg). The “Monaco of Asia” waits until the night time to start the race under super-bright track lighting. The race runs near the end of September.

SINGAPORE SLING

It is a visitor’s imperative to make a stop at the historic Raffles Hotel (raffles.com/singapore). It houses the Long Bar, which is where the Singapore Sling was first concocted. Be prepared to pay handsomely for a big glass of the sweet, potent drink.

LATE

The Singapore River is lit by the many clubs and bars that line the river banks at Boat Quay and Clarke Quay. The hot tropical sun is gone, but the humid tropical night remains, welcoming outdoor dining, imbibing and revelry.

DEPARTURES

End your trip on a high note! Already known for its lush indoor gardens, Changi Airport (changiairport.com) has this year opened the new Jewel attraction, composed of a giant, glass-topped atrium that features a forest valley, canopy park, canopy maze and the plunging Rain Vortex.

CALLING ALL Adventurers

July 24, 2019 No Comments

DISCOVER BARBADOS DURING THE YEAR
OF WELLNESS & SOFT ADVENTURE

You can drive around the entire island of Barbados in just three hours; at just 34 km long and 22 km wide, it’s a small country. But Barbados is big in style– an island nation steeped in history, pride, culture, sport, and a wealth of natural beauty, both rugged and coastal. Don’t be fooled by the call of the Caribbean, there’s more to Barbados than its beaches, although those are pretty spectacular, too. This year, discover every side of the island during Barbados’ year of wellness and soft adventure.

ISLAND SAFARI TOURS
Hit the open road with Island Safari Tours. Pile into an open-sided jeep that picks you up at your hotel and takes you on a back-
road adventure, zigzagging its way across the hills and fields of the interior of the island and along it’s lesser-known coastlines. All the while, a friendly guide will stop along the way for photo ops and to make sure you learn the history and culture as you go. A terrific way to spend the afternoon.

RUN BARBADOS
Runners from around the world flock to Bridgetown, Barbados, each December to participate in the Run Barbados Marathon
weekend. Festivities kick-off Friday night with a one-mile run divided into five heats: elite women, elite men, amateurs, children, and a fun run. Saturday afternoon, the festivities amp up with live music, stilt walkers, and crowds gathering to cheer on the 5K run, 5K walk, and 10K run participants. The half and full marathons begin Sunday at 4 a.m. to avoid the punishing Caribbean heat. All races start from picturesque Carlisle Bay with race routes winding their way through historic downtown. Streets are often
lined with locals cheering on the runners. Races are professionally timed for serious runners, but still festive and light-hearted enough for casual participants, too.

CULINARY ADVENTURES
For a five-star foodie adventure, head to Oistin’s Fish Market on Friday nights. Locals and tourists alike come here to savour the daily catch that fishermen fry, grill, and BBQ at this open-air night market. Lively music and dance, a craft market, and delicious food make this a party you shouldn’t miss. Not sure what to order? Communal tables mean you can ask the person seated next to you. But don’t miss the dangerously sweet rum punch, traditional macaroni pie, and world-famous fishcakes. Worth the wait
in line.

UNLEASH YOUR INNER EXPLORER
Spend an afternoon exploring the magnificence of Harrison’s Cave, a crystallized, limestone cave characterized by flowing streams, deep pools of clear water, and towering columns. Measuring 2.3 kilometres long with the Great Hall an awe-inspiring 15 metres high, Harrison’s Cave is considered active, as it carries water and its stalagmites are still growing. There are a variety of ways
to explore the sights and sounds of the cave’s running streams and waterfalls: enjoy a comfortable guided tram tour, grab your helmets and headlamps for a three hour discovery tour of the cave just as the early explorers did, or travel the cave by foot for a closer look at the formations.

ON THE WATER
Relax on the deck of a Cool Runnings catamaran as you sail the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Spend a full day on the water, with snorkelling stops to see shipwrecks and sea turtles, then anchor in one of the many beautiful coves of Barbados to enjoy a delicious traditional lunch. Sunset dinner cruises are also available, as well as private bookings for special occasions. For more active adventure, find your stoke at Barry’s Surf School. Whether you’re new to surfing or a weekend warrior, you’ll be hanging ten in
no time. Try Barry’s two-hour introductory course or more advanced three-day “surf stronger” package.

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Perched high in the hills of St. Joseph Parish, take in Barbados’ breathtaking east coast views at Naniki. Proprietor Tom Hinds, welcomes you to his peaceful property with 10 cozy self-contained cottages, pool, restaurant, and new wellness centre. Get back to nature with hiking, biking in the countryside, yoga classes, or by visiting nearby Bathsheba Beach’s incredible coastline.

Story by ASHLEY ROCHEFORT

Six Reasons to Visit Club Med’s New Eco-Chic Resort

July 24, 2019 No Comments

Nouveau Michès

Emerging from a tropical palm grove along 2,000 feet of pristine white-sand beach in the Dominican Republic’s unspoiled northeast coast is Club Med’s first new resort in the Americas in 25 years, the Michès Playa Esmeralda. A hidden paradise of all-inclusive luxury, this eco-chic retreat features four boutique villages to entice every type of traveller. In case you need any more convincing, here are six reasons to make your next vacation a Club Med vacation.

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE.

One resort, four boutique villages. Explorer Cove is an adventurous refuge that offers multi generational families a treasure trove of activities. The colourful heart of the resort, Caribbean Paradise, suits everyone’s vacation needs. Peace and wellness await in the adult-only Emerald Jungle. Archipelago is an oceanfront, adult-only sanctuary designed with luxury seeking romantics in mind.

ECO-CHIC.

A resort with a conscience means you can feel good about your vacation. At this Green Globe certified resort, say goodbye to single-use plastics and hello to solar panels and electric shuttle services.

VACAY WITH A VIEW.

Discover a variety of inspiring and breathtaking vistas at local excursions, like El Limon’s cascading waterfall, whale watching at Samana Bay, yoga on a treetop platform, or the peak of Montaña Redonda with its swing at the top of the world – totally instagrammable!

EXCLUSIVITY.

Unique to Club Med, their Exclusive Collection vacation package embodies the sophistication and comfort of all-inclusive luxury and includes pre-arrival contact, concierge service, small group transfers, in-room continental breakfast, turn-down service, premium liquor brands, and evening champagne service.

ICONIC ACTIVITIES.

There’s fun for the whole family at Michès Playa Esmeralda with some iconic Club Med sports and activities to experience, like family paddle boarding, trying out a Hobie Eclipse or electric jet surf, taking a run or leisure walk on the fit trail, and horseback riding on the beach.

THE CARAMEL SECRET.

Dining in The Family Restaurant, one of three gourmet dining options on site, becomes an adventure when the kids are invited to the hidden “Caramel Room” for a decadent dessert experience filled with their favourite treats. If the adults are looking for a treat of their own, stop by one of the hotel’s four bars, three wine cellars, beach lounge, or coffee shop.

Story by ASHLEY ROCHEFORT

Muskoka’s Top Drops

July 24, 2019 No Comments

At the lake, drinking Ontario wine feels like the right thing to do for any occasion. And local wineries can —and do—spin out some very fine juice. You just need to know which bottles to buy. With that in mind, I tasted high and low to find six hidden gems that pair perfectly with quintessential cottage moments.

ON THE DOCK
2017 Redstone
Limestone Vineyards
South Block Riesling,
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara
Score: 96 | $19.15
Available at redstone.com Kick back in the sun with a glass of this sunlit Riesling. Its refreshing scent of fresh salted lime and saturated, sorbet-like attack will have you at hello. The beam-like entry tastes bright and pure, quickly unspooling with coy suggestions of white peach, lemon-lime and mango before leaving an attractive wet stone and sea salt finish. This is a stylishly complex wine with a light kiss of sweetness, mouthwatering acidity, and a sensibly low 10.5 per cent alcohol.

AROUND THE BONFIRE
2016 Tawse Winery
David’s Block Cabernet Franc,
VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara
Score: 96 | $50.15
Available at tawsewinery.ca Bonding around the bonfire with friends is priceless—especially over a superb bottle of red such as this. It teems with aromas and flavours of black cherries dunked in dark chocolate, while the rich centre is intriguingly scored with elements of minerality—graphite and granite as well as a toasted nuttiness. And yes, actually, it pairs with stick-roasted hotdogs, too. Ticks all the boxes while demonstrating why connoisseurs are calling Cabernet Franc Ontario’s flagship grape variety.

AS THE SUN SETS
2017 Westcott
Rosé Pinot Noir,
VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara
Score: 92 | $22.95
Available at westcottvineyards.com Pour a glass of this dry wine that drinks like a Provencal rosé and watch the sun set. All easy elegance, it shines pale coral and exudes ethereal aromas of struck steel and crushed redcurrants. The attack is silky-crisp and restrained, with wispy notes of cool linen and homemade strawberryrhubarb pie, followed by a faint but resonant twist of citrus zest on the finish. Just 400 cases of this delicate rosé were produced though, so snap it up before it’s gone.

WITH GRILLED STEAK
2017 Henry of Pelham
Speck Family Reserve Baco Noir,
VQA Ontario
Score: 94 | $24.95
Available at LCBO Vintages or henryofpelham.com Baco Noir has a cult-like following in Ontario, and this particularly profound expression tastes like it was made to pair with grilled steak. Made from 35 year old vines, it’s inky dark in colour and delivers robust aromas of macerated berries, smoky tobacco and roasted coffee. Then, a cashmere crush of dark cherry and plum, cigar box and espresso fill the mouth and stay a while. Outstanding value from a top-notch Baco Noir producer.

WITH GRILLED FISH
2017 Stratus
Weather Report Chardonnay,
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake
Score: 93 | $28.00
Available at stratuswines.com Grilled fish is a summertime staple. And it comes to life with this sophisticated white from one of Ontario’s terroir-driven producers. It offers all the concentration and weight needed to stand up to grill marks, while maintaining delicacy and elegance. Quiet scents of nougat and praline lead to a smooth entry that quietly unfolds with full-bodied flavour. Chantilly cream, sweet corn, and nuts infuse the bright citrus core, and a crème brûlée finish with a touch of grapefruit pith lend lingering appeal. A connoisseur’s wine.

IN GOOD COMPANY
2016 Leaning Post
Clone 96 Chardonnay,
VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, ON
Score: 97+ | $45.00
Available at leaningpostwines.com This impressive wooded Chardonnay drinks like fine white Burgundy at a fraction of the price. Wonderfully heady aromas of smoky lime, fresh butter and cool stone draw you toward a creamy-weighty palate shot through with bright acidity. Each satiny sip unfurls with lemon curd, toasted meringue, and freshly rolled pastry with underpinnings of chalk, marzipan and honey. Polished,poised, and worth every cent. Winner of the gold medal at the Ontario Wine Awards and Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines in 2018.

Story by CAROLYN EVANS HAMMOND

TAKING THE HIGH ROAD

July 24, 2019 No Comments

What’s worse than the bumper-to- bumper summer traffic heading north from Toronto on a Friday afternoon? The car is cramped, tempers flare, kids melt down, everyone’s hungry, and we’re not even past the city limits yet. What should be a 90-minute drive turns into a mind-bending, patience- testing three-hour crawl. Well, what if I told you there’s a better way? This May long weekend — the unofficial start to summer and the official start to cottage season — instead of taking to the highway, I boarded a 40-minute flight from downtown to Muskoka. I could get used to this…

11:25 AM After a quick and friendly check-in, I take a seat in the comfortable lounge at Fly GTA Airlines at Billy Bishop Airport. With free WiFi, ample magazines, and complimentary refreshments, I take a few moments to relax before heading out on the tarmac.

11:51 AM Unlike traditional flights, as soon as all the passengers are checked-in, we can board the plane. Staff are eager to assist with luggage, if needed. A brief welcome from the pilot, seat belts buckled, and we’re ready to go!

11:56 AM Time for take-off. Nothing quite like an aerial view of Toronto’s incredible skyline. On board, I meet fellow passengers and cottagers from Lake Rosseau, Michael and Shea. It’s also their first time flying north for the weekend. “This couldn’t be easier,”exclaims Michael. “Better than traffic.” My thoughts exactly.

12:10 PM Soaring just above the clouds now. A signal is spotty at this altitude, but I did manage to get in a few business texts, with pictures, of course. Sitting back, enjoying the scenery, I feel relaxed already. What a start to the long weekend!

12:17 PM There’s no mistaking the enormous, deep blue of Lake Simcoe. I can almost taste cottage country now.

12:26 PM Zipping past the cottage- country traffic starting to build on Highway 11.
12:32 PM The scenery grows ever more familiar, as we enter deeper into cottage country. Lakes dotted with islands and windswept trees: Muskoka’s rugged landscape starts to take shape.

12:36 PM And, in no time at all, we’ve landed at Muskoka Airport. I’m impressed with the service, the ease — what a stress-free way to start the weekend. Back on the ground, I ask Michael and Shea if I might see them again on another flight this summer. “Oh yes, the value of your time and decreased stress level is worth it, it’s a no-brainer,” Michael replies. FlyGTA Airlines (flygta.com) offers flights to Muskoka Thursday through Tuesday throughout the summer months. Check back often for rates and scheduled flight times. Need a ride? FlyGTA can also arrange for airport transfers. I, for one, will be taking this route as often as possible.

Hope to see you on board!

Story by WENDY MCCLUNG

The Suite Life

April 1, 2019 No Comments

Whether you call it your home away from home or your own private oasis, living “the suite life” is a breeze with Celebrity Cruises.

With suite accommodations setting the standard for modern luxury, Celebrity offers unparalleled comfort and convenience, as well as exceptional amenities and exclusive on-board experiences from personal butler service to private restaurants and lounges.

Celebrity’s spectacular Penthouse Suite, available across its fleet (with the exception of Xploration and Xpedition), offers 1,291 square feet of indoor space and comes with a separate living area, Baby Grand piano and private veranda, complete with whirlpool and lounge seating. Guests can unwind in modern living spaces or soak up the experience in a marble master bath with whirlpool tub and separate shower.

Celebrity also indulges every suite guest with an array of special services and amenities, including butler service; Luminae, a private restaurant for suite guests only (available on all Millennium, Solstice and Edge Class Ships); and Michael’s Club, an exclusive lounge with dedicated concierge. Suite guests also receive complimentary 24-hour in-suite dining; unlimited dining and preferred seating in specialty restaurants; fully stocked mini bar daily; complimentary Premium Beverage Package; unlimited Internet; and reserved theatre seating on Evening Chic nights.

Taking the cruise experience to the next level are exclusive features like priority check-in, embarkation, debarkation and port tendering; priority luggage delivery; Celebrity’s eXhale bedding, featuring plush duvets, 100% pure cotton sheets and a pillow menu; Bulgari luxury bath amenities; fresh flowers delivered daily; and complimentary laundry service twice per cruise.

Celebrity’s newest vessel, Celebrity Edge, transforms the suite class experience even further with its outward-facing design and introduction of The Retreat, an exclusive resort sanctuary indulging guests with a spacious outdoor lounge area with plush, stylish furniture, sundeck, full-sized pool and hot tub, dedicated butlers, and restaurant – all complimentary. This is a special space available 24/7 for beverages, gourmet bites and live entertainment. The Edge’s new suite options include the Edge Villa, Celebrity’s first two-storey suites offering 950 square feet of split-level splendour, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living, with one bedroom and two bathrooms and the Iconic Suite perched above the bridge for panoramic views. With two king-sized bedrooms, two full baths, and enough indoor/outdoor living for six guests, this is the the ultimate in indulgence at sea.

Find a suite spot of your own, visit www.celebritycruises.com, call 1-888-283-6768, or contact your travel agent.

Story by GREG COATES

Non-Stop luxury To Asia

April 1, 2019 No Comments

Longest flights in the air by Singapore Airlines

Our planet is massive, and there’s no way around it without spending many hours in the air. But Singapore Airlines is taking some of the sting out of the transcontinental, transoceanic travel experience. It’s called the AIRBUS A350-900 ULTRA LONG RANGE, an airplane specifically designed to bridge
the gap between North America and Asia as quickly as possible. Of course, the best way to accomplish the briefest possible travel time is to stay in the air and avoid connecting flights. This plane is capable of flying further in commercial service than any other, and Singapore Airlines is the first airline to deploy the aircraft. Singapore Airlines will launch nonstop services between Singapore and New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco this fall. With a flying time of up to 18 hours and 45 minutes, these will be the world’s longest commercial flights.

Passengers will be treated to an inflight experience that includes an improved air circulation system and cabin pressurization to a lower altitude, as well as higher ceilings, larger windows and 16 million LED lighting options to allow for optimal inflight rest. Passengers will also have access to videos in the inflight
entertainment system that have been created with the participation of award-winning Canyon Ranch, a leading wellness brand. These focus on ways to maintain health and wellness during the flight with described, illustrated exercises.

The inflight menu has also been advised by Canyon Ranch with those same wellness goals in mind. For instance, passengers in business class can look forward to enjoying prawn ceviche and lavosh with orange, cucumber, grapefruit, cilantro, scallions, and bell pepper, as well as braised pork with citrus and white bean cassoulet with spinach The lie-flat seats in business class are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, giving all passengers access to an aisle. Don’t forget to download the myKrisWorld app before take off, allowing you to create playlists of your favorite movies and music before you board. In addition, the system bookmarks your content, so that a program cut off at the end of a flight can automatically resume at the same spot during the passenger’s next SIA flight.

Get on board and relax! Book your next trip on Singapore Airlines at singaporeair.com.

Story by Ted Davis