I love the city life, but I get anxious if I don’t expose myself to greenery every few days. While visiting Kuala Lumpur, I decided to go on hike at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM). About 80 years ago, FRIM wasn’t a lush forest full of hiking trails, wildlife, and inspiring trees. FRIM was … Continue Reading →
Are the Gili Islands the new Bali?
Don’t get me wrong, I love Bali, it’s beautiful. But after visiting Gili Trawangan, one of the three Gili islands, I felt as though I was being unfaithful to Bali. Why? Because I enjoyed the Gili Islands so much that a part of me wished I booked more of my holiday there. The three Gili … Continue Reading →
Five Amazing Travel Experiences at Sandals St. Lucia
Saint Lucia is famous for its balmy weather, Pitons, and white sand beaches. But did you know there’s more to your visit to Sandals in Saint Lucia than just lounging? Here are five amazing travel experiences at Sandals in St. Lucia. Continue Reading →
A Cajun Celebration on Baton Rouge’s Historic Plantation
Twenty minutes from downtown Baton Rouge, the White Oak Plantation stands in all its glory: 22 acres of lush foliage, gardens and lakes. Continue Reading →
Our Top Travel Experiences in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city full of personality, rich history, fantastic music, charm and Southern hospitality (yes, this is a real thing!). A city that can be enjoyed year-round, there is no shortage of things to see or do. I visited NOLA for an extended long weekend, focusing most of my time in the French Quarter, and was able to see and do a lot over four days.
Here are our top 5 travel experiences in New Orleans: Continue Reading →
Weird and Wonderful Dishes at Fête Rouge Chefs Competition
As most foodies would agree, there’s nothing like watching a Chef showdown – especially when we get to participate in the judging. Yes, this happened. Our food journey of Baton Rouge led us to an epic event — the Fête Rouge Chefs Competition. Continue Reading →
A Foodie’s Guide to Baton Rouge, Louisiana
It’s unfortunate that so many travellers to Louisiana restrict their visit to New Orleans. Sure, it’s a fabulous city not to be missed, with its live music, restaurants, and historic architecture. But just an hour away from NOLA, there’s Baton Rouge — the State capital and a foodie’s delight. Continue Reading →
Flying (& Barfing) Over Glaciers in the Yukon
The experience of flying over a glacial mountain range in a Cessna is difficult to describe. As the overwhelming and awe-inspiring landscape pours into your eyeballs, your language functions are rendered inoperable. Sights like this can make even the Hitchens-iest of atheists reconsider their faith if only for a moment — I did. But God … Continue Reading →
A Culinary Journey at Sandals St. Lucia
As a world traveller, I’m always on the hunt for a genuine dining experience. Exploring cuisine is one of the best ways to learn about other cultures. On the road, I want to taste local ingredients, meet the cooks, and hear stories and traditions associated with the dishes.
I never expected to experience this at an all-inclusive resort. But Sandals has created a culinary expedition with its Discovery Dining concept. Continue Reading →
Where Can You Find A Beef Aging Chamber in Toronto? Head to Michael’s on Simcoe
As if there wasn’t enough happening on King West to keep us busy – there’s yet another gourmet restaurant to try. Well, if you can get reservations, that is. Michael’s on Simcoe has become a hot spot for the theatre crowd and the Toronto International Film Festival. This year at TIFF, the restaurant hosted celebrity events and even scored a mention in People Magazine. Continue Reading →
Checking In: Sandals Regency La Toc Resort in St. Lucia
I have a confession: I’ve never been a fan of all-inclusive resorts. The repetitive meals, the gated community atmosphere, and the obnoxious tourists on their fifth drink by 11am – none of it has rocked my world. I’d rather be backpacking someplace, meeting new people and sampling unique dishes.
That is, until my recent visit to Sandals Regency La Toc in St Lucia. A four day visit changed my perspective on the resort experience. Continue Reading →
Cozying Up at Cafe M in Toronto
If you’re familiar with the Downtown/U of T area of Toronto, you’ll know that there’s a plethora of major coffee chains. Yes, these coffeehouses have great variety and an almost militant routine, but the independently owned café was refreshing change from all that. Nestled cosily between Yonge Street’s local boutiques, Café M turned out to … Continue Reading →
How to Upgrade to First Class on KLM (Without Spending a Fortune)
When I checked in online for my overnight flight to Amsterdam, a message suddenly popped up on my computer screen. “Would you like to upgrade to World Business Class for $300?” Um, yes please. I decided to take advantage of an upgrade option to World Business Class on KLM. For less than $300, I experienced comfort and luxury at its finest. The … Continue Reading →
Six Secret Stopovers for Your Next Vacay
The stopover has rapidly become the best deal for savvy travellers. If you’re travelling on a long haul flight, why not get off the plane at the halfway point and add an extra country to your trip? It’s an opportunity to stretch your legs, get some decent sleep, and explore an extra city (or two) that you would’ve otherwise flown over. Continue Reading →
The Culinary Wonders of Calgary
Whenever I set off to a new destination, I like to do a little word-association test with friends, family and a couple of complete strangers thrown in for good measure. It helps to better orient my piece if I understand the existing landscape. On doing research for my recent fine dining tour of Calgary, it … Continue Reading →
Feng Shui Sushi at Ki Modern Japanese & Bar
I have always admired the Japanese focus on form; everything is carefully considered, and immaculately designed to create the perfect balance. It’s this simple elegance that Ki Modern Japanese and Bar has managed to encapsulate. From their chic entrance on 181 Bay Street, Toronto, where hand blown tentacles reach out to welcome you, to the … Continue Reading →
Cool City Oyster Yard’s Winter Patio in Toronto
With a chill hanging in the air, Old Man Winter is threatening to shut down patio parties. But don’t despair just yet. The Cool City Oyster Yard has embraced the cold and has launched a Winter Patio. In case you haven’t heard, this pop-up West end resto scored rave reviews from food critics, and is … Continue Reading →
Calgary’s River Café Reopens after Devastating Flood
The River Café is a rustic oasis with one of the most beautiful patios to ever grace a Canadian restaurant. Whether you are seated indoors or out on the patio, you have amazing views of the verdant gardens and the beautiful blue green Bow River as it slips quietly by. The dulcet setting is only the … Continue Reading →
Surviving Hostel Hell in Egypt
A couple of years ago my husband and I decided it was a good idea to stay in a hostel in Egypt. We have hosteled all over the world — so this was no big deal, right? Looking back on this story now, I am embarrassed to tell it. I feel like the clueless victim … Continue Reading →