Best Canadian Weekend Getaways: Kananaskis Nordic Spa

The last year has been challenging for many, the economic state of many countries, including Canada has made travel harder. 2019 poses an interesting time for adventures in Canada, with the economy in a downturn, huge changes in government and currency exchange, our money is worth a little lot less when traveling outside of Canada. On the flip side, traveling to Canada from many places is a steal of a deal and luckily for us all, Canada is an amazing place to visit and explore. I m have been working on a must see list of places in Canada and to kick off the series we went to Kananaskis Nordic Spa.

KananaskisNordic Spa is a different take on modern-day wellbeing. Inspired by Scandinavian wellness traditions and the bold ruggedness of the Canadian Rocky surroundings make for a perfect weekend getaway. The spa is located at PomeroyKananaskis Mountain Lodge and is  a Canadian-designed alpine sanctuary created for contemporary lifestyles.

If you are looking to truly relax, reconnect and leave feeling rejuvenated, this is a place for you. Crystal and I used this opportunity to truly unplug, unwind and just be in the moment at this  spa getaway that soothes and rejuvenates the body and mind. The Nordic Spa in Alberta take advantage of the unique offerings while embracing the natural beauty that surrounds you and it allows you to be still; its helps heal body, mind and soul.

The entire point is to chill, relax and take in the amazingness of it all. Hot, warm, cold, rest, repeat in a series of hot, warm and cold plunge pools, three types of saunas (Barrel Sauna, Banya Sauna and Finnish Sauna), a Steam Cabin infused with select aromatherapy oils and an exfoliation cabin for self-exfoliation of the skin.

We stayed at the Pomeroy more for ease of access and because one of the packages available includes spa access that has in and out privileges. Those privileges are great so you can head out to lunch or dinner and than return to the spa. The accommodations, service and amen ties at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge were wonderful. From the moment you pulled up, to check in and room service we were greeted by very polite and helpful staff. The rooms were specious, with a fire place and we had a balcony that overlooked the spa. 
There was multiple places to eat at the hotel as well, all the food we tried, including room service was done well and was Delicious. 

The drive from Canmore or Banff is not long, and its fairly picturesque. You can stay at any of the 100 hotels that are in the Kananaskis area, and that get the day passes to the Nordic Spa which are $70/person.  We purposely chose to go on a week day because on weekends and holidays there is a waiting list. 

There are multiple hikes, trails and actives while at Kananaskis. Depending on the season anything from horse back riding, to rafting to snowshoeing is an option. 

Snowshoe in Kananaskis Country - $55.62 Hike through a winter wonderland in the heart of the Canadian Rockies on snowshoes! Enjoy an exhilarating 5-hour daytrip to an amazing lunch spot surrounded by limestone peaks of the Canadian Rockies, while learning about the flora, fauna, geography and history of the area. Snowshoes are included.

Crystal and I went on a hike an explored the trail around the spa. Troll Falls hike was easy, and it took about and hour.  The trail around the spa is about 20 minutes and the scenery is beautiful, with some awesome lookouts.

Kananaskis River Rafting Adventure - $80.93 Enjoy a beautiful day rafting down the picturesque Kananaskis River in Alberta, Canada. 1.5 - 2 hours on the turquoise waters of the Kananaskis River, one of Alberta’s most pristine waterways. This excursion is an ideal introduction to the thrill of whitewater rafting, and is great for families or groups on the class 1-3 rapids. Spot local wildlife and soak up Canada’s unparalleled beauty as you cruise down this beautiful river. Includes optional pick-up and drop-off in Banff and Canmore.

This getaway is perfect for anyone who needs a break or to relax; couples who are looking for a romantic weekend away; girls trips; bachelor/bachelorette weekends. The Nordic spa is 18+ only so if you have kids, this might not be the best fit. 

Have you guys been? What do you think? 

*this post contains affiliate links.

Sutton Place Edmonton #Staycation + #Giveaway

Sometimes all you need is a little getaway, but still stay close to home. Personally not being able to travel has been a big part past COVID world has been challenging. So when I got an opportunity to check into Sutton Place Edmonton for a much needed staycation I was all in.

Sutton Place Hotel Edmonton is located downtown with super close proximity to Rogers Place, ton of shopping and many restaurant. The hotel has just over 300 specious rooms with spectacular views, conference centre, underground parking, unlimited wi-fi, 24-7 concierge service, pool and fitness centre. 

 Traveling with COVID-19 still around, even within your own city, can still be a concern, but I felt safe and comfortable during my stay.  The Sutton Place hotel places the highest priority on health and safety. To ensure that their guests can stay with absolute confidence, they have launched Sandman PureClean - a program focused on elevating their already existing high standards of hygiene and cleanliness procedures. 

Few things the program includes: Sanitized check-in; Touchless, express check-out; Floor decals to indicate appropriate social distance; Hand sanitization stations in high traffic areas; Increased sanitization and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces in all public areas and high touch areas in guest rooms. All guest rooms are cleaned, sanitized and left vacant for up to 48 hours (pending occupancy demand). New cleaning products certified to kill viruses like COVID-19 effectively and use of personal protective equipment for staff.

 Upon arrival and in from the chilly, snow covered city, we were greeted with a warm, clean, and modern yet fun and chic style and a friendly front desk associate. 

The main lobby is specious, with a ton of seating, lights and a restaurant, Chopped, a  steakhouse where you can meet for work or meet with friends (that was closed due to COVID). 

The twenty seventh floor, has a gym, a heated pool, and a hot tub. 

I stayed in their Executive suite, and the room was so specious, comfortable and clean. This room was the perfect place to enjoy a luxury birthday staycation, from the comfort of the over-stuffed pillow-top beds and fluffy duvets, the what is possibly the MOST comfortable robe,  fully-equipped fitness centre, indoor heated swimming pool and whirlpool located on the penthouse floor with exceptional views of the city. The view from the room was incredible, even with snow covered YEG. The room was so specious, with a perfect work desk and a sitting area. 

Best part? You  can treat yourself to a stylish getaway and save 50% off your next weekend break at The Sutton Place hotels in Vancouver, Edmonton and Revelstoke Mountain Resort properties. Book by going to suttonplace.com and use promo code NO1120 to get 50% off your weekend stay at The Sutton Place Hotels! 

 

       

Our friends over at The Sutton Place Hotels are hooking one of you up with a two night complimentary stay at their Edmonton or Vancouver locations. Good luck 

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Time for a Staycation: How to Kick Back, Relax, and Vacation in Edmonton With Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West

Winter is when many of us would like to get away, but let's get real: if you're on a budget, balancing mortgage payments and savings for the future, saving money for  your next vacation might not be exactly in reach. Luckily, you don't need to spend your entire savings on your next adventure this winter: a staycation can be just as (or even more) relaxing.

Stay-cations are pretty great—plus less stressful and more affordable. I recently had a little staycation at Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West. 

So what makes a good stay-cation?

A great place to stay.

 The Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West rooms are incredible - they are specious, modern and very comfortable. With recent upgrades and renos it's a new and refreshing stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West and it has everything you need to make your trip an excellent and memorable one.

Great food. 

A staycation is the perfect time to get dressed up and have a good meal at a local restaurant so bring your significant other or a girlfriend and treat yourself. While staying at the hotel we ended up at AQUA Bistro restaurant. The service was great, food was very well presented and tasted delicious. The ambiance was good and relaxing and the everything on the menu is priced well. The hotel stay includes breakfast at AQUA and let me tell you - that was so good.

A place to relax and recharge.

Is there anything better than sitting in the hot tub after a long day to relax. The pool and hot tub at the Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West are perfect for chilling c and enjoying good company. 

The hotel also offers a gym and with my 2020 goals still going strong it was awesome to get a run in.

What do you look for in a perfect staycation?

Our stay was c/o Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West - all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting brands that support letterstoLALAland.com

How To Truly Connect To & Understand Culture

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Culture is a big word, and it can mean many things at once. While it might elicit something of a groan to start an article like this, culture is anything that connects people and provides a common fabric of experience. So for instance, even the office at your place of work can have its own culture. Two people can develop their own culture of understanding after being friends for a decade.

But culture as we know it often relates to people, sometimes born out of geographical locations, ethnicities, shared culture heritage, and values. In some cases, cultures can connect and blend into something new. We need only look to many Gen Z individuals whose slang becomes a blend of many different cultures, creating a brand new method of communication. The internet itself is homogenizing the way we speak and connect, which is why the skull face emoji, once a relatively ominous symbol, is now considered an emblem to use when recognizing the humor in something. That’s a cultural change.

Perhaps you have a set of exciting travel experiences coming up. Maybe you’re wondering exactly how to get the best of culture and learn the most while you’re there. Never fear, because in this post we’ll discuss how to truly connect to and understand culture, which should inspire you to have the best time possible:

It’s All About Gastronomy

From delicious cuisine to the cultural centers of a nation’s food production, experiencing the true bounty of that particular part of Earth is a wonderful thing. It’s why heading on Tailor Made Wine Tours France can be such a great way to experience various countries because they show you the essence and the history behind the biggest movers, shakers, and preserving experts of the great winemaking tradition. Exploring a nation through your taste buds is not only smart, it’s appreciated by the locals.

Attend Cultural Events & Festivals

You might consider an event, holiday or seasonal activity as unrepresentative of what the culture is, but that’s not always the case. Sure, an event might be a limited span of time in which many different perspectives come together, but how a culture enjoys a certain event, especially if they have their own take on it, can be enlightening. For example, Thanksgiving in the US is very unique, while the American take on Halloween is also much louder, bolder and more celebratory than in other countries. Moreover, some hold amazing traditions, such as the carnival in Venice. Attending cultural events is not only fun, it can help you understand what a country and its culture values.

Understand Basic Communicative Signifiers

Some countries, like Italy, talk using their hands and are quite expressive. Others are more reserved. Many have figures of speech that might sound a little odd to you, but are benign or even welcoming to them. For example, if a British person welcomes you by saying “You alright?” - they’re not necessarily concerned with your health or worried about you, they’re greeting you. This is just one example. Learning the common fixtures and signifiers of day to day conversation can help you flow more easily from place to place, and have fun doing so. Luckily, the internet is a great resource, as are travel guides.

With this travel advice, you’re sure to better connect and understand culture going forward.

Alberta Summer Season Bucket List - Things To Do In Alberta That You Have To Add To Your Summer Bucket List

Edmonton is home, and Alberta is filled with the wild open fields of the prairies, mountains, fun events and so many things to explore. This Summer we are keeping it close to home and exploring our backyard. Here are our Summer bucket list items in Alberta:

Have a food experience (a foodgasm if you will) - With ton of events that are centered about food these events are on our must see, I mean taste list: Taste of Edmonton and Edmonton Heritage Festival and Cariwest.

Spend some time exploring farmers markets - Edmonton Downtown Farmers' Market, Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, the 124 Grand Market and Calgary Farmers' Market.

Hike and Camp Sulphur Gates – Take the short hiking trail to see the Sulphur Gates, an impressive cliff at the confluence of Smoky and Sulphur rivers. Dramatic rock formations adorn this site and define the two rivers in stark contrast. Sulphur Gates Campground is located in Sulphur Gates Provincial Recreation Area, 5 km north and 7 km west of Grande Cache off Hwy. 40. There are 22 equestrian campsites with corrals, and 2 equestrian day use sites. A short distance down the road there are 15 regular campsites suitable for tents or smaller RV's. From the parking lot at the campground, a short trail leads to lookout platforms with spectacular views of the Sulphur River canyon and the Smoky River.

Explore Drumheller Hoodoos – Enjoy the 0.2-km loop trail near Drumheller, Alberta. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of five min to complete. This is a very popular area for walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

Need for Speed: Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge – This gravity-fueled activity is located at the famous Winsport facility where the Winter Olympic Luge track is also located. Accessed via chairlift you will drop over 328 feet from the Start Zone and kart down the 5,905 feet of twisting track to the End Zone. Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge Calgary is a fun, fast-paced family activity that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy.

Go back in time and walk through Dinosaur Provincial Park - Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated a two hour drive east of Calgary, Alberta, Canada; or 48 kilometres, about a half-hour drive northeast of Brooks. The park is situated in the Red Deer River valley, which is noted for its striking badland topography, and abundance of dinosaur fossils.

Simple Ways To Ensure Travel Cuisine Translates Well In Your Kitchen

While we all enjoy different aspects of travel, one thing that most keen adventurers would agree on is the joy of trying new and exotic cuisines. It’s hardly surprising, then, that a lot of us are keen for those impressive dishes overseas to translate well in our kitchens once we get back home.

Unfortunately, when you turn to these dishes to help you through the post-vacation blues, it isn’t unusual to find that you can’t even come close to replicating them. That can be a real blow, but there are steps you can take to make this back-home translation a little easier to manage. Admittedly, achieving complete replicas of authentic dishes may still be a little difficult to achieve, but you’re guaranteed to get a lot closer to the real thing if you take these steps to make it happen.

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#1 - Buy cookbooks abroad 

Often, the things that make foreign dishes so astounding are the small local touches that rushed online recipes you find back home are never going to give you. For instance, tandoori ovens are the secret to countless great dishes in India, while tagines are a must for any authentically good Moroccan creation. Equally, specific local styles of cooking, such as confit or salt baking, can be crucial. The best way to remember those small but simple touches is to scrap the pale replica recipes and instead invest in a local cookbook that’s going to result in far more authentic, and simple to achieve, dishes. Admittedly, language barriers can be an issue here, but the great thing about cookbooks is that they’re pretty easy to interpret. Making sure to invest in a book with plenty of pictures can especially see you getting along well enough as long as you grasp enough of the language to translate the ingredients list. 

# 2 - Explore inspiring local eateries

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The more inspired you are by the food you eat overseas, the more incentivized you’ll be to create those same dishes back home. And, the more determined you are to make this work, the better chance that it’ll happen. Stepping off-the-beaten-track to explore local eating institutions like Cafe De La Paix in Paris or Cafe Robin in St Martin will especially provide authentic and exciting eating that you’ll want to take forward with you. Diving into the most notable dishes at these eateries, including the famous salt fish served at Cafe Robin, will particularly see you inspired, especially if you also take the time during your trip to find out about Robin herself and why her cooking techniques are so iconic. Apply this same curiosity and passion to any eating excursions during your travels, and you should soon find that you can’t rest until you perfect every last element of those dishes that take you right back to some amazing memories. 

# 3 - Take the time to understand local ingredients 

As much as you’ll want to invest in a local cookbook to get to grips with cooking styles from the country in which your dish originates, it also pays to take the time to understand the local ingredients that often make all of the difference to a dish. For instance, fish sauce is a staple background for rich Asian foods, while plantain is a Jamaican staple. Their place at the very heart of local dishes especially means that skipping even these basic ingredients can leave taste significantly compromised. As such, you should explore local markets, and ask questions about additions like these during your trips. Then, seek Asian supermarkets or foreign food stalls that enable you to stock up even in your home kitchen. 

# 4 - Learn to cook intuitively 

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All other pointers aside, it’s also worth noting that replicating great dishes relies on your ability to cook intuitively. After all, even with a great cookbook to hand, the reality is that most fantastic local chefs will cook by eye, and doing the same is the only way for you to get close to their creations. As such, taste the food you’re eating while you’re away, making sure to distinguish keynotes like garlic, ginger, and so on. Then, apply this same test taste method to the food you cook back home, making sure to recognize when things are missing, and considering from taste alone what they could be/where you could improve next time.

Replicating dishes from your favorite travel adventures can be tricky, but it’s certainly not impossible if you translate the best recipes using these tips. 

4 Common Travel Disasters and How to Overcome Them

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Traveling the world is one of the best experiences you can have. You get to see unique places and meet new people, which will give you the chance to make memories and learn more about yourself. However, all travelers know that the trip is never that straightforward, and there is a chance that you’ll encounter some issues along the way. These issues can range from mild inconveniences to total disasters that disrupt your adventure. So what are the most common, and how can you overcome them?

Lost Luggage 

It’s the worst thing to stand beside the carousel waiting and waiting for your bag to come around only to realize that it has not arrived with you. Thankfully, there are plenty of solutions to lost luggage. The simplest approach is to keep some clothes in your travel buddy’s luggage. But what if you’re traveling alone? Some lightweight clothes in your carry-on will avoid any problems. You can feel confident that your luggage hasn’t disappeared into thin air and it will arrive eventually, but you should still speak to the airline as soon as possible to kickstart the retrieval process. 

Missed Flights and Transport Delays

So much of traveling is spent waiting for flights or taking overnight buses. It’s something that experienced travelers accept as part of the experience. However, some countries do not have the regimented transport schedule you are used to. This can cause problems, especially if your connecting flight is delayed. You don’t want to be stranded somewhere, so you’ll need to make sure you’re covered. As long as it is not your fault (or any of your party’s), you should be entitled to compensation.

Illness and Injury 

Trying new things is all part of the travel experience. From exotic food to different activities, you want to throw yourself into everything and see what it’s like. However, while this can be exciting, there is also the risk of experiencing an injury or succumbing to illness. Travel insurance should cover your bills, but there’s the risk that things can get out of hand if you don’t get treated quickly enough or if the treatment is not sufficient. Getting advice from good medical malpractice attorneys can provide peace of mind and help you get the compensation you deserve.

The Victim of A Crime 

Even though it’s safe to travel through most of the globe, you don’t want to give people an excuse to mug you. You’re more likely to be the victim of opportunistic crime, so make sure you keep all valuables close to you and don’t flaunt them around. Again, travel insurance should cover any loss through theft, and you must go to the police as soon as possible. Your insurance company will require proof that you have reported the crime, otherwise, you risk your claim being rejected.

Overcoming Disasters 

While you can do everything you can to avoid disasters, there is often nothing you can do to stop it. Rather than let it ruin your once-in-a-lifetime adventure, you should know how to deal with disasters and act as quickly as possible to avoid further issues. 

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Travelling the World With Style and Sass

You’ve always had wanderlust running through your veins; there isn’t a day that you don’t dream of the warm sand between your toes or a cool sea breeze through your hair. Travelling the world with style and sass is what life is all about for you, and you’re finally able to get back to planning again after such a long time. If you’ve got the travel bug, you’re probably making a list of all the countries you want to visit, as well as enlisting your favourite travel companions. To you, travelling isn’t just about seeing new places and experiencing new cultures, it’s about doing so in style and in a way that feels authentic to you. So, grab your hottest accessories, pack your suitcase with the best outfits and hop on a first class flight to your favourite destination. Here are a few ways that you can make your next trip chic, stylish and memorable.

Invest in the Best Equipment

If you want to create an Instagram-worthy trip, you need to invest in the best possible equipment to make this happen. Believe it or not, you can create amazing selfies, video montages and other visual footage using just your smartphone, but only if you have the right accessories to go with it. Consider the OM 5 if you’re looking for an ideal accessory to enhance your memories when you go travelling. As well as having an up to date smartphone, selfie stick and great accessories, you may also need other equipment such as a laptop, chargers and power converters depending on which country you’re going to. Once you’ve ticked these items off your list, you will be well equipped to create amazing memories on your travels.

Get Savvy With Your Wardrobe

You may have the best equipment to take selfies and videos, but are you wearing your most stylish outfit? It’s time to get savvy with your wardrobe and discover ways to wear your clothing multiple ways. If you’re travelling alone, you may have limited space in your luggage so think carefully about what you pack. Consider taking good quality basics such as jeans, tshirts, a jacket, trainers and a pair of heels. When you combine each of your looks in a different way, you will have a completely different outfit. Couple these outfit changes with a swish of lipstick and new hairstyle and you will be good to go when heading out for dinner in the evening. Another way you can enhance your wardrobe is with awesome accessories, whilst we’ll discuss next.

Accessorise, Accessorise, Accessorise

Getting your accessories on point whilst travelling will bring more style and sass to your trip without a doubt. Statement necklaces, hats, handbags, earrings and shoes are all great ways to change up your outfits and bring a whole new vibe to your trip. The truth is, when you look good, you feel good. So, if you pack your favourite accessories and outfits you are going to have the best time during your travels. You will be able to look back on your time away with joy and happiness knowing that you brought your A game every single day.

Scope Out the Best Hotels

Let’s face it, nobody wants to stay in a subpar hotel or apartment when you’re travelling the world. Part of the experience is enjoying your surroundings, soaking in the best possible atmosphere and being well looked after wherever you stay. Choose one or two amazing hotels that will feel like a treat when you stay there. You can use these to get as many photo opportunities as you can, and you can have a break from your busy activities. Staying in a beautiful hotel will not only enhance your travel experience, but it will also give you a well-deserved treat!

Choose Luxurious Travel Options

Travelling in style is the only option when you’re planning on travelling the world. Opting for comfortable seating on aircrafts, trains or buses will enhance your travel experience dramatically. When you’re exhausted from a busy day of exploring you want to rest and recuperate. Your travel time between destinations is the perfect time to catch up on some much needed sleep and do any research you need for your next pitstop. 

Research Incredible Restaurants

When you’re travelling the world, you’re going to want to discover the best restaurants in the city or country you’re staying in. Trying new delicacies and exploring new foods is one of the most exciting parts of travelling. Head to some local blogs and do some research so you can book your reservations and avoid disappointment when you arrive.

Plan a Meet Up With Friends

Nothing brings more joy to a person than meeting up with friends whilst travelling. If you don’t want to spend an entire trip with your nearest and dearest, then you can easily arrange a weekend getaway during your time away. This kind of meet-up can break up your trip nicely, and can give you that much needed time to catch up with the people you love hanging out with. If you’re travelling alone it can become isolating at times, so having these small moments to look forward to can make a huge difference.

Work In the Most Beautiful Places

If you have to work whilst you’re on your travels, why not choose the most picturesque places you can find? Imagine loading up your laptop on the beach or settling down for an afternoon of work on your hotel balcony overlooking the sunset. Working whilst travelling doesn’t have to be hindering; it can feel freeing, enjoyable and fulfilling as long as you choose the right places and times.

Planning a chic and stylish trip is not only exciting but it can be super enjoyable too. Whether you’re taking your best friend on holiday with you or you’re enjoying the solo travelling life, there are so many ways to add an extra touch of pizzazz to your upcoming vacay!

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Support local - Calgary #YYC and Area Restaurants

Covid19 waive number three is in full swing in Alberta, and these are hard time for many. Supporting local is more important than ever. Local businesses are owned and operated by your neighbors and friends - so here is a list of Calgary Local Restaurants to check out:

1. Double Zero Pizza
2. Marathon Ethiopian Restaurant 
3. Shokunin 
4. Notable Restaurant 
5. Boogies Burgers
6. Silver Dragon Restaurant 
7. Ship and Anchor Pub
8. Last Best Brewing 
9. Holly Grill 
10. Seed N Salt
11. Nick's Steak and Pizza
12. Himalayan Restaurant 
13. The Coup
14. Yellow Door Bistro
15. Broken Plate Kitchen
16. Comery Block
17. Una Pizzeria
18. Foreign Concept 
19. Native Tounges 
20. Saltlik 
21. Annabelle's Kitchen
22. Monday's Plant Cafe
23. Cluck and Cleaver 
24. Spot On Kitchen and Bar
25. Big T's BBQ
26. Alumni Sandwiches 
27. Ten Foot Henry 
28. Dairy Lane Cafe
29. Home and Away

If you have other YYC and area restaurants you want me to add, let me know.