Inside the Italian town that gave us Parmesan cheese

On a trip to the grocery store the other day, I found myself standing in the pasta aisle.

Stocked between the packages of linguine and penne, rigatoni and fusilli, and hovering above exorbitant rows of pre-mixed jars of pasta sauce, were an army of plastic shakers, crammed with Parmesan cheese.

Grabbing one, I rolled the container over and skimmed the ingredients: cellulose powder, potassium sorbate, calcium chloride, lipase, sorbic acid…the list went on, with a string of other words that sounded just as unnatural. 

Don’t get me wrong; I’d grown up eating the Parmesan cheese I was now side-eyeing. After ladling chunky Bolognese sauce onto a plate of steaming, buttered spaghetti noodles, the cheese was the next best part, even though sometimes you’d have to whack the bottom to get the clumpy pieces to break apart. After a few vigorous shakes with roughly a quarter of the container dispersed, the pasta was ready to eat.

I never gave much thought to this cheese, which for some reason, could sit on a shelf with dried goods and not go bad, sometimes for more than a year. But after visiting a local caseificio, (known locally as a classic dairy farm) in Parma, Italy, I had a new appreciation for one of North America’s favourite cheeses.

A 1,000 year-old secret

 Like the city’s name suggests, Parma is the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano, which is a protected designation of origin product, and somewhat of a national treasure to all of Italy.

For one thousand years, the production of Parmigiano Reggiano in Parma has followed an ancient recipe using just three simple ingredients: milk, salt and rennet—familiar and natural ingredients, I might add. With such simple origins, the final product is also lactose-free, high in protein and low in fat.

Originating in the Middle Ages, Benedictine monks were the first to start churning out large wheels of cheese with a long maturation period, using salt from the nearby Salsomaggiore salt mines and fresh cow’s milk.

Free from additives and preservatives, the longer the cheese aged, the more value it held.

According to the Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano, which was founded in 1901 in a bid to authenticate and differentiate between copycat Parmesan cheeses, the first evidence of cheese being used as commerce through trade dates back to a record of sale in the 12th century. From dowries to land agreements, cheese was used as a form of currency for hundreds of years.

The making of a perfect Parmesan

At Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, a producer of Parmigiano Reggiano, the process starts with roughly 550 litres of raw milk.

“Half of the milk is from the previous evening that is kept in large containers and half is from this morning,” said Giovanna Rosati, spokesperson for the  Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano. “In the morning, they push the container over the vat and the partially skimmed milk falls into the vat. They are not allowed to use a decreamer, because it would alter the milk. It’s a great example of a protected designation of origin (PDO) product, which is a product that owes its characteristics to its area of origin, where it is produced, not to some secret patented recipe,” she added.

From there, rennet (an enzyme found in the stomach of dairy cattle) is added and the milk begins to naturally curd. Next, it’s the job of the master cheesemaker to break the curd down and begin cooking the cheese. Using steam, the curds sink to the bottom of the vat and begin to form one giant mass. From start to finish, the process takes roughly 50 minutes, in which two twin wheels of cheese are created. 

But the work doesn’t stop there. After cooking, each cheese is wrapped in a traditional linen cloth, then placed in a traditional mould, which gives it its classic wheel shape. Next, it’s transferred to a casein plate, which is outfitted with a sequential alphanumeric code that enables the cheese to be traced all the way back to its origins.

Holding up the stencil, Rosati looks almost like a WWE wrestler with the prized championship belt. “This engraves a few key details on the rind of the cheese,” she explains, noting it includes the code of the dairy producer where the cheese was made, as well as the month and year of production.

To be classified as a true Parmigiano Reggiano product, the cheese must be aged for a minimum of 12 months and undergo a rigorous quality control check, which includes a series of tapping tests to check for air pockets or tears.

And as for the cheese that doesn’t pass the test?

It’s cut up and sold as regular Parmesan—not to say that it isn’t outstanding, but without that stamp of approval, it’s no Parmigiano Reggiano. 

This story first appeared in the Spring 2024 issue of OFFSHORE. To read the full version, click here to access a digital copy.

Luxury motels are trending—but should you book a stay?

Boutique motels, with their modest room count, old school hospitality and all-around affordability are an ideal choice for travellers from all walks of life.

A few years ago, if you’d told me that I would be willingly spending my weekend at a motel, I probably would have laughed.

If countless road trips across Canada—and one too many reruns of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 horror flick, Psycho, taught me anything— it was that these places, whose flickering neon signs beckoned slyly from the parking lot, offered cheap rates for a reason. 

It didn’t used to be like that, though. Motels as we know them started dotting North American roadways in the 1920s. Their origins were primitive at best, offering weary travellers a place to wash up and lay their heads. 

The term “motel” was actually coined from the words “motor hotel” because these accommodations primarily targeted travelling motorists. After the Second World War, motels spiked in popularity, as more attractive features, like outdoor pools or kitchenettes were introduced. But by the 1960s, as chain hotels emerged, motel bookings tanked. While hotel brands continued to reinvent themselves to cater to an ever-changing clientele, motels remained entrenched in the past. 

Now, decades later, motels have entered their renaissance era.

Motel mania

A far cry from the seedy, roadside fixtures with their often sleazy connotations featured in Hollywood cinema, boutique motels are having a moment. Often refurbished or completely gutted from the ground up, these new motels include thoughtful amenities, sought-after perks and contemporary decor that give select high-end hotels a run for their money.

From on-site wine bars and farm-to-table eateries, to full-fledged room service and generously stocked minibars, in-room spa treatments and on-site after-hours socials, these motels leave dingy stereotypes in the dust. 

And so, on a Saturday afternoon, I found myself checking into The Beach Motel. 

As a travel editor, I’ve lost count of the five-star hotels I’ve stayed at around the world. From private infinity plunge pools overlooking the Caribbean Sea, to signature scents in-room and even pillow menus, luxury properties are constantly coming up with new ways to make your stay feel extra special. But after stepping into the lobby and receiving a signature welcome drink and a hot towel during check-in, The Beach Motel immediately felt very on par to the level of hospitality I’ve come to expect from those high-end properties.

An elevated stay

Stepping into my suite, the elevated hospitality continued—there were chocolates on the bed, the heated floors had been turned on, and general manager, Amanda Deer, was eager to help answer any questions or attend to special requests.

Located on the shores of Southampton, one of Ontario’s best summer beach towns, the property is owned and operated by Dane and Samantha Buttenaar. With backgrounds in landscaping and real estate, the couple opened The Beach Motel in March 2022, successfully transforming the old Huron Haven motel that occupied the lot years before.

“I think since the shift to hotels, motels have been neglected and always been a ma and pa type establishment. Normally owner occupied, they were understaffed and not well kept,” said Dane Buttenaar, co-owner, The Beach Motel. “More recently, there’s been a shift from hotel accommodations to Airbnb and boutique properties that allow a more personal touch. We enjoyed embracing a guest-focused experience that allowed guests to not only have great service, but the chance to all interact and converse about travel and our beautiful town, Southampton.”

Home to 17 suites, each room is outfitted with either a king or queen-sized bed, a soaker tub and a rainfall shower and heated bathroom floors. Additional in-room, hotel-like amenities include a Nespresso machine stocked with a selection of coffees and teas, matching robes, a hair dryer, a mini fridge and even an ice bucket as well as wine and cocktail glasses. 

The Beach Motel also houses a spa that offers massages and facials, a two-person sauna and an on-site restaurant, with a weekly farm-to-table menu executed by chef Carey McLellan. Inside the restaurant, which doubles as a lounge, guests can take their pick of complimentary board games and plenty of paperbacks, and on cooler nights, enjoy a drink by the cozy stone fireplace. It’s that smaller setting coupled by its communal spaces, that make you feel so much more connected to the property and the staff. 

Of course, it’s important to also point out a few key differences between a high-end motel, such as The Beach Motel, and a true five-star hotel, too. With fewer rooms and a lower guest-to-staff ratio, you can expect an intimate atmosphere and a more personalized approach to service. However, many boutique motels don’t offer a 24-hour concierge; instead the front desk follows a dedicated hourly schedule. Parking may also be limited in busier months, and on-site restaurant hours close earlier than the restaurants in town. 

But if it’s small town hospitality and a charming experience you’re after, give the humble motel another chance.

More motels to explore in Ontario

The Drake Motor Inn

Dubbed Prince Edward County’s most retro inn, The Drake Motor Inn is operated by the same owners of Toronto’s beloved Drake Hotel and Wellington’s Drake Devonshire. Wrapped in bright, funky colours, this pet-friendly motel features 12 guestrooms, all decked out with art and photography. Guests can enjoy plenty of perks, including complimentary use of Polaroid cameras for the perfect selfie, as well as a plethora of dining options at the Drake Devonshire.

thedrake.ca/drakemotorinn

Penny’s Motel

A laid back, old school vibe, minus the bubblegum pink bathtub awaits at Penny’s, located in Thornbury, Ont. on the coast of Georgian Bay. The swanky-looking motel offers 13 pet-friendly rooms, stocked with Malin + Goetz bath products, heated floors and rainfall showers. Locally-sourced food, including build-your-own s’mores abound at Apres, Penny’s snack bar. Other amenities include complimentary bikes, communal fire pits and heated patios.

pennysmotel.ca

Somewhere Inn

Outside of Ottawa in Calabogie, Somewhere Inn, opened in August 2021, breathes new life into an old motel from the 1970s. Its oversized, dog-friendly rooms that can sleep up to eight are TV-free (encouraging you to explore somewhere new, duh) and furnished with comfortable queen and king-sized beds. Nespresso machines, soaker tubs, Endy mattresses and fluffy duvets make this spot feel just like home for you and your furry friend for as long as you’d like.

somewhereinn.ca

Cayman Islands answers Canadian demand with more flights

As travel continues to rebound following the pandemic, the Cayman Islands continues to steadily climb back to 2019’s arrival levels and market share.

Last year the destination saw record-breaking arrivals including the destination’s best Q1 and best ever March on record for Canadian visitation.

The steady increase in Canadian visitation has also led to an increase in airlift to five non-stop flights a week to Grand Cayman thanks to augmented summer schedules.

More flights from Air Canada & WestJet

The heightened demand for Canadian travel to The Cayman Islands has resulted in boosted flight frequency by both Air Canada and WestJet.

Both airlines will increase the number of non-stop flights from Toronto to Grand Cayman to a combined seven a week from March to April 2024 and up to five a week through the summer.

Combined, Air Canada and WestJet will offer up to seven non-stop flights per week from Toronto to Grand Cayman in March and April.

An increased summer schedule will see up to five non-stop flights per week from Toronto to Grand Cayman on Air Canada and WestJet.

Last year, visits from Canada were 44 per cent higher than those from January to December 2022 and for the first time in a year, more than 4,000 Canadian visitors were welcomed in three months (February, March and December). Three of the best 10 performing months for Canadian visitation in recorded history were in 2023.

Canadian arrivals in December 2023 totalled 4,125, up 7.8 per cent from December 2019. Canada represented an 8.3 per cent share of total stayover arrivals in December 2023, compared to 7.1 per cent in December 2019.

In 2023, the destination welcomed a total of 429,284 stay-over visitors.

Contiki launches island-hopping trip to the Philippines

Contiki recently launched its first trip to the Philippines.

The new nine-day and 13-day Island Hopping tour visits some of the country’s most famous tourist hotspots and unique hidden gems on the Palawan Island. 

The nine-day version goes to Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, and El Nido, and includes many island adventures. Some of these include a boat ride through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Subterranean River National Park, an island-hopping day trip in Port Barton, a Jeepney ride to Nacpan Beach, and a unique Special Stay and Make Travel Matter Experience at the Isla Experience in Daracoton Island – which directly contributes to the welfare of the locals.

Among the included experiences is a Filipino-classic tricycle ride to Las Cabanas for a beach sunset, and a traditional boodle fight. Travellers will also have a chance to visit a local’s house for an authentic locally-grown Filipino meal.

The 13-day version includes a 4-day boat expedition, that takes travellers to some of the undiscovered gems in the Philippines, including Palawan Calamian’s Group of Islands (Northern Palawan archipelago) and famous attractions such as Coron islands, Cullion and Linapacan. It includes a private boat, the chance to go snorkeling in Coral Garden, seaside camping in Coron, and a visit to Turtle Islands.

For more information about the new Philippines Island Hopper trip, click here.

Popular tour operator leading trips to Bosnia & Herzegovinia

G Adventures will soon be offering an extended program of trips to Bosnia and Herzegovina that are designed to support local communities, while showcasing the Balkan nation’s distinctive culture, nature and heritage.

The new trips are launching as the result of a collaboration between the U.S. Government’s USAID Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (USAID Turizam) initiative, the Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council (GTTRC), and G Adventures.

Yves Marceau, vice-president of product for G Adventures, welcomed the partnership and opportunity to expand the operator’s trip offerings in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“The Balkans is a special part of the world that is growing in popularity as people move beyond traditional European destinations. As more travellers start to visit, it’s important that tourism develops the right way – a way that supports local people and communities. Travel is a two-way exchange, and we’re excited to introduce our new trips in 2025,” Marceau said.

A "model for tourism development"

Karl Wurster, Director of the Economic Development Office at USAID/BiH says the success of this collaboration will serve as a model for tourism development, not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but worldwide.

“We are pleased to launch our collaboration with G Adventures, a company that takes travellers from around the world to more than 100 countries. What’s most impressive is G Adventures’ commitment to community tourism, which will ensure the long-term sustainability of tourism development in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Wurster.

As part of the new partnership, representatives from G Adventures will be visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore new destinations, services and experiences to expand existing itineraries and introduce new and extended trips. Here, USAID Turizam will introduce G Adventures to suppliers and service providers to discuss ideas for future on-trip experiences.

For more information on G Adventures, please visit www.gadventures.com.

You can now fly directly to Osaka, Japan from Toronto

Air Canada has unveiled a new seasonal, direct service between Toronto and Osaka.

Flights between Pearson International Airport and Kansai International Airport will run three times a week from June 17 to Oct. 25, 2024, onboard the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Paired with increased frequency on their popular Vancouver-Osaka flight, this will more than double Air Canada’s capacity to Osaka, compared to the previous summer.

Direct service to Japan

Japan continues to be an expanding market for the airline, which has steadily increased both their capacity and number of direct routes to accommodate the demand.

During peak summer season this year, Air Canada will offer more than 12,000 seats a week between Canada and Japan, resulting in an overall capacity increase of approximately 20 per cent compared with last summer.

Air Canada currently runs direct flights between:

  • Toronto-Osaka (KIX) *Seasonal
  • Toronto-Tokyo (HND)
  • Toronto-Tokyo (NRT)
  • Montreal-Tokyo (NRT)
  • Vancouver-Osaka (KIX) *Seasonal
  • Vancouver-Tokyo (NRT)

A vibrant city

Thanks to its continual growth and development, Japan is now more accessible than ever for Canadian tourists, opening a direct gateway for visitors to experience the land of the rising sun for themselves.

Osaka is a vibrant city best known for its food, fun and nightlife.  A convenient 30-minute train ride from Kansai International Airport, it is a gateway not only to the Kansai region but to the rest of Western Japan, with convenient access to the many attractions in Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Nagasaki and beyond.

ARHOME is a design-forward guest suite like no other

Experiential hospitality brand arcana is excited to announce the launch of its infinite arcana experience with ARHOME, design-Forward guest dwellings delivered fully assembled, available for individual purchase.

To celebrate the launch, ARHOME is offering an introductory limited release of 25 guest suites starting today, built in Canada and delivered Spring 2024.

All elements of ARHOME are intentionally designed to orientate guests towards nature while ensuring complete comfort. The combination of fine craftsmanship, hospitality grade finishes, and materials chosen with sustainability at the forefront, results in a one-of-a kind, fully assembled, prefabricated alternative to those looking to add guest accommodations.

About ARHOME

ARHOME is 275 square feet and designed with hospitality in mind. It can be your very own private weekend hideaway, the perfect guest house or short-term rental and is custom built in Canada and arrives fully assembled. 

ARHOME starts at $225,000 CAD and can be delivered and shipped across Canada within eight to twelve weeks from purchase. Hookup to electrical, water and waste is required for use.

Canadian-designed and built, ARHOME is conceptualized with sustainability in mind by award-winning Vancouver-based architect, Michael Leckie of Leckie Studio and built by Oakville-based Hummingbird Hill Homes and Toronto-based Studio Morro.

 

About ARHOME

ARHOME highlights include:

  • Red oak interiors, heated floors and air conditioning
  • Premium kitchen appliances: Porter Charles stove-top, oven and hood range, complemented by a whisper-quiet, 4.1 cubic feet built-in Vitrifrigo fridge
  • Built-in Sonos speaker system, controlled through smart panels
  • Rain shower and private water closet
  • Lunos system that filters air and eliminates the need for in-wall ducting
  • Discrete storage solutions
  • Choice of three exterior finishes: Corten steel and natural or black stained wood cladding. The arcana iconic mirrored steel cladding is available upon request.

For pricing and additional information, visit findarcana.com.

This Valentine’s Day getaway in Saint Lucia will cost you $250,000

This Valentine’s Day, Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences is taking over-the-top romance to new heights with a private charter to Saint Lucia from anywhere in the world. Couples will feel like they are on Cloud 9 as they jet set to one of the world’s most romantic islands.

This excusive Valentine’s Day on Cloud 9 Package begins with a personalized private charter experience on Planet 9 Private Air, that includes a customized culinary presentation, over-the-top luxury amenities, and even a few surprises along the way, as couples relax aboard their very own private luxury jet.

Lovers will be swept away to the luxurious Windjammer Landing for an all-inclusive stay in a two-bedroom Ocean Point Residence with private infinity pool, breathtaking views, and a dedicated 24/7 personal butler. 

This once in a lifetime romantic getaway will include a personalized itinerary with both exhilarating and relaxing experiences such as an island helicopter tour, candlelit dinner, private yacht excursion, in-villa spa retreat, and other VIP island experiences! 

To celebrate the milestone, couples will take home a personalized gift of diamond jewelry, along with photos and videos from a dedicated photographer who will capture every moment on camera to remember the experience for years to come. 

About the package

Valentine’s Day on Cloud 9 Package includes the following treats, ensuring the ultimate dream getaway experience.

  • Private jet charter with Planet 9: The journey begins with a seamless arrival via a private jet from anywhere worldwide, ensuring a lavish start to the ultimate romantic getaway.
  • S-night stay in an Ocean Point Residence: Guests will feel at home in a newly built Ocean Point Residence featuring a private infinity pool, breathtaking views of Labrelotte Bay, a full kitchen, and a dedicated 24/7 personal butler.
  • Luxury all-inclusive experience: Indulge in unlimited food & drinks at seven restaurants and four bars, luxury spirits and wines by the glass, access to motorized and non-motorized water sports, and more.
  • Island Helicopter Tour: Soar above Saint Lucia in a private helicopter tour, exploring hidden gems and capturing the scenic beauty from the sky.
  • Candlelit Cliffside Dinner: Delight in an intimate dinner perched on a cliffside, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the ocean and a private concert, with a personalized menu curated by Windjammer Landing’s world-renowned chefs.
  • Private Yacht Expedition: Set sail on a private yacht, complete with a gourmet chef, personal crew, and a sunset cruise to see the world-famous Pitons, one of the most secluded and romantic spots in the Caribbean.
  • Exclusive In-Villa Spa Retreat: Indulge in a day of pure bliss at Windjammer Landing’s award-winning spa with couples massages, rejuvenating facials, and a hand-crafted bath soak experience.
  • VIP Island Excursions: Experience VIP access to the best events, attractions, and excursions on the island, tailored for couples to create a truly unforgettable adventure. 
  • Diamond Jewelry Gift: Each couple will receive a bespoke piece of diamond jewelry, adding a touch of elegance to symbolize the eternal bond of their love.
  • Personalized Photography and Videography: A dedicated team of photographers will capture every moment of the romantic getaway to ensure couples’ leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Starting at $250,000 USD, this extraordinary package promises an unrivaled blend of opulence, romance, luxury, and personalized adventure at the Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences.

Travel must be booked by Feb. 1, 2024. Reservations can be made by calling the resort directly at 1-877-522-0722 or email reservations@windjammer-landing.com

Luxury resort in Antigua adds 12 stunning overwater bungalows

Blue Diamond Resorts’ Royalton CHIC Antigua, set to open in April 2024, has added 12 luxury overwater suites.

The Overwater Suites at Royalton CHIC Antigua will mark the second set of these type of luxury suites in the Blue Diamond Resorts portfolio, building upon the remarkable success of their initial six Chairman Overwater Bungalows at Royalton Antigua in 2019.

The Presidential Overwater Bungalow will offer a spacious 1,912 ft² one-bedroom haven with state-of-the-art amenities and a generous living room area featuring a glass floor providing stunning views of the ocean. The Luxury Junior Suite Overwater Bungalow will be a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. This fully equipped 1,138 ft² suite over the ocean boasts a private terrace, plunge pool, and direct access to the ocean.

For an unparalleled experience, the Chairman Overwater Bungalow Two Bedroom Suite will provide an expansive and luxurious retreat featuring two rooms, terraces, two separate plunge pools, overwater hammocks, and direct access to the sea.

Positioned directly above the ocean, it includes a living room with a crystal floor for mesmerizing sea views, a bar, kitchenette, dining area, three bathrooms, and cutting-edge technology in a 3,049 ft² space.

Exclusive club access

All Overwater Suites will include access to an upgraded Diamond Club with features and amenities such as seamless check-in, access to exclusive areas, and the coveted personal butler service to further enhance your stay.

For more information or to book your next vacation, visit www.royaltonchicresorts.com.

Park Hyatt has opened a luxury hotel close to Marrakech’s famed medina

Park Hyatt Marrakech is now open, marking the debut of the Park Hyatt brand in Morocco and growing the brand’s presence in Africa, joining Park Hyatt Zanzibar and the forthcoming Park Hyatt Johannesburg, slated for 2025.

Uniquely located 15 kilometres from Marrakech’s historic Medina district, the 19-acre resort is situated in an exquisite, off-the-beaten path location at the base of the Atlas Mountains. Surrounded by palm trees, olive trees and jacaranda trees, Park Hyatt Marrakech sits adjacent to the magnificent Al Maaden Golf resort, exclusively offering guests convenient access to the 18-hole course.

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About Park Hyatt Marrakech

Park Hyatt Marrakech stands apart from other luxury hotels in the market through a distinctly residential, modern, and stylish take on Arab-Berber heritage.

Composed of 16 pavilions arranged around a central, zeolite patio, Park Hyatt Marrakech encapsulates the personalized, understated luxury of the global brand with unexpected, hyperlocal experiences for guests – from breakfast in a hot-air balloon in the Three Atlas Valleys, to dinner in a Bedouin tent in the Agafay desert, to airport transfers in luxury electric cars, and more.

Renowned Marrakech-based architect Imaad Rahmouni drew inspiration from Arab-Berber traditions to create a luxurious contemporary design for Park Hyatt Marrakech.

 

The 130 residentially inspired guestrooms and suites are among the most spacious in Marrakech, and promise privacy and tranquility, with Moroccan touches throughout.

Each guestroom features traditionally woven Berber carpets in pure wool and headboards representing the Tataoui motif (a local roofing technique made of laurel branches) alongside modern works of art sourced via Ifitry Artists’ Residence.

Ammenities & more

In addition to convenient golf access, the hotel’s vast, 23,000+-square-foot spa is an ode to Morocco’s culture of hammam rituals and holistic therapies. Featuring products from Sodashi, a brand hand-crafted in Australia and Nectarome, a complete range of high-quality natural products derived from Moroccan traditions, the professional spa team can recommend personalized treatments.

Guests can stay on track of their fitness goals in the 2,153-square-foot fitness centre and yoga studio.

 

The expansive resort also includes an outdoor heated pool, a family-friendly outdoor pool, and an indoor heated pool beneath a vaulted ceiling, each offering unique valley and mountain vistas.