Betty Lohr

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 

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

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

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

Xa:ytem Visitors Learn cedar weaving

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

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

A lazy afternoon at the beach

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

Hit The Street

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

Harrison Beach Hotel is across from the lake

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

Nearby Neigbourhoods

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

Harrison Lake Poolside

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

Getaway Details

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

www.kilby.ca, www.harrisonbeachhotel.com

Photos courtesy of Tourism Harrison

PNE Parade Runs Friday August 20, 2010

Enjoy the last lazy days of Summer!

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

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

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

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

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

• 

  Visit Granville Island for farm fresh corn!

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

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

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

• 

  Silver Spoon Food Tour in Gastown, Vancouver

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

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

I'll get there first!

It’s all about the beaches!

• Hit the beach at White Rock and walk for miles along the sea wall, or dig your toes into the warm, sun-kissed sand…then head to East Beach for award-winning fish and chips at Moby Dick’s.
• English Bay in Vancouver is best loved for the seawall entrance to Stanley Park and the stunning sunsets caught from the deck of the Boathouse Restaurant or the patio of the Sylvia Hotel.
• Dundarave Village at 26th and Marine in West Vancouver is a great starting point to run the sea wall all the way to Dog Heaven by Park Royal, and then back again, especially in the early morning.
• 

  Strolling the Lakeshore Beaches of Kelowna

  Still on the North Shore, head out to Deep Cove in North Vancouver for a spectacular sunset kayak cruise.

• Whytecliff Park out by Horseshoe Bay has fabulous underwater diving. When the tide is low, a hike across the beach to the rock mountain is loads of fun for the entire family.  The park is perfect for an afternoon picnic, or you can order take-out from the seasonal concession stand.
• The warmth of the water is mighty fine when lounging on the beaches of Lake Osoyoos in the Okanagan.  Park yourself on the grassy bank, or better still – stroll across the pathway from your beautiful suite at Watermark Beach Resort.
• 

  Hurrah for August!

  Kelowna is known for its fabulous wineries but the beaches are pretty outstanding too.  With a collection of upscale, resort hotels dotting the lakefront, pick a beach and enjoy the day!

• If you’re heading to the Kootenay Rockies region this month, be sure to visit Wasa Lake Provincial Park just outside of Cranbrook.  Boasting the warmest waters in the region, you can swim or simply lay back on the gently sloping beaches.
• Beachcombers and picnickers alike adore the wilderness beaches in and around Kitimat in Northern British Columbia.  Campers and RV travellers will tell you the beauty and peaceful ambiance are second to none.
• August is the best month for sunning and swimming on the two top beaches in the Cariboo, Chilcotin and Coast region.  Check out the shade and the waters at Green Lake and Ten Mile Lake…great for kids and the family pet!

Special thanks to Tourism Kelowna for sharing their photos of beaches!

Grand Opening Celebration

This past June I had the pleasure of MC’ing the opening celebration for one of Vancouver’s newest properties – the upscale, fresh and lovely Coast Coal Harbour Hotel at 1180 West Hastings Street.

Decorated in contemporary and thoroughly modern colours and furnishings, this hotel is poised to become one of the downtown core’s hidden gems, of this I’m certain.  From the wide circular drive and entrance, to the vast expanse of the gorgeous lobby, the hotel continues its theme of open and clean spaces right through to the guest rooms.

With extensive meeting space – including a 5,000 sq. foot ballroom boasting the best views in town, truly, as its windows boldly show off the stunning North shore mountains and inner harbour, and eclectic chandeliers that are gaining quite a reputation; the hotel is fully serviced to meet even the most discerning traveller’s tastes.

Superior Room with Harbour View

The guestrooms are well laid out in a soothing west coast palette of sea greens, browns, greys and creamy whites, and the health club with an outdoor pool ensures all of a guests needs are met.  Couple these attributes with the stellar service of the hotel’s management and staff and you’ve got a winning combination for visitors on a holiday, business trip or attending a conference at the nearby Vancouver Convention Centre – which is located only two close blocks away!

Preston’s, the hotel’s dining room and lounge is already on many locals’ radar as a popular ‘go to’ place.  Its relaxed vibe with impeccable service fuels the lunchtime corporate set, then translates to a perfect spot après work for cocktails or dinner.

Preston's For Cocktails

Hotel guests can enjoy breakfast starting at 6:30am, and indulge in a late dinner after exploring the many attractions of Vancouver.

Coast Coal Harbour Hotel’s location is ideal for a getaway with Stanley Park within an easy walk as well as Vancouver’s superb downtown shopping on Robson,at Pacific Centre and in Yaletown and Gastown.

Visit www.coasthotels.com

• A must see from now to September 6^th is the newly opened Klahowya Village and Spirit  Catcher Miniature Train in Stanley Park, Vancouver. An authentic First Nations experience like you’ve never seen.  Open 9:30a to 5:30p daily. www.aboriginalbc.com/KlahowyaVillage

• 

  Vancouver Aquarium Touching Pools

  Vancouver’s world class Aquarium has loads of family fun with Sponge Bob Squarepants 4D running every morning at 9:30a. Stay on to visit some of his underwater pals in the touch-stations.  www.visitvanaqua.org/events/sponge-bob-4d

• Head to the Cariboo for high tech treasure hunting with their new geocaching of Chasing the Golden Butterfly along the Gold Rush Trail.  Launch is July 14 in Barkerville.  www.barkerville.ca/special_events.htm

• 

  3rd Annual Wine & Food Festival at Sun Peaks Resort

  Summertime and the sipping is easy, especially at the 3^rd annual Wine & Cultural Festival at Sun Peaks Resort, July 16 – 18. Symphonies, sunshine and culinary spectacles await. www.sunpeaksresort.com/activities/events/event.aspx?c=1&e=1085

• Whistler is a magical place for a family getaway so check out the Whistler Children’s Art Festival at Whistler Creekside on July 17 & 18. Special hotel packages at www.tourismwhistler.com and event info at www.whistlerartscouncil.com

• The weather is mighty fine and so is the golf in the Kootenay Rockies region of BC.  From steaming natural hot springs overlooking mountain ranges and winding river valleys, this is the Kootenays golf experience. www.hellobc.com/en-CA/RegionsCities/KootenayRockies.htm

• 

  Duck Creek Farm on Salt Spring Island

  BC’s wild east coast of Vancouver Island has some of the world’s best surfing in Tofino.  Getting there is half the fun on a Tofino Air floatplane as it takes you over pristine beaches, old growth forests and towering glaciers.  www.tofinoair.ca

• Onboard the Swan Spirit explore Desolation Sound , Savary Island, The Copeland Islands and more.  Departs from the historical Lund Hotel on the Sunshine Coast. Departure schedule is online at www.lundhotel.com

• Visit Canada’s best-loved outdoor Farmers Market on Salt Spring Island. Running every Saturday to the end of October from 8a-4p, rain or shine, this market is so special as everything must be made locally…everything!  www.saltspringmarket.com

• 

  Lonsdale Quay Summerfest 2010

  Summerfest at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver is a community-based, free event running through to September 5^th. Shop for the freshest, local fruit and produce, take in the entertainment and bring the kids! www.lonsdalequay.com

I’ve had the great fortune to get to know the always wonderful, Chef Eric Pateman of Edible BC quite well over the past few years.  His energy and passion for food and a healthy lifestyle are infectious!

If you haven’t been to his retail store on Granville Island, be sure to put it on the list of must visits when in Vancouver.  All the products sold are either grown and made in BC, or from points across Canada; with many being organically produced.  Eric and his team are thoroughly versed on the exciting culinary growth taking place here in particular, within British Columbia.  From small mom and pop operations to larger suppliers who are meeting the demands of a savvy consumer, this is a great spot to shop for your home or a gift. 

The recipe below is suitable for Celiacs and is absolutely yummy!  Plus Spot Prawns are readily available right now.  All of the ingredients listed are from Granville Island Market, however you should be able to locate them in your local community.

www.edible-britishcolumbia.com

BC SPOT PRAWN BISQUE (Serves  eight)

Pair with:  Sumac Ridge Stellar’s Jay Brut 2002

Ingredients

• Head and Bodies of 2 lbs of BC Spot Prawns (Seafood City)
• 1 Onion, Finely Chopped (Green Grocer)
• 2 Large Carrots, Roughly Chopped (Green Grocer)
• 4 Large Ripe Tomatoes, Roughly Chopped (Green Grocer)
• ¼ C Brandy (Liquor Store)
• 500 ml Whipping Cream (Milk Man)
• 2 Tbsp Lobster Oil (Edible BC)
• Dungeness Crab

Method

Place the prawn heads, onion, carrot, tomatoes and brandy in an 8L stock pot and cover with enough water to go approximately 4 inches above all the ingredients. The exact amount of water does not matter since you will be reducing this stock.

Bring the pot to a soft boil and decreasing the heat, simmer until the liquid is almost level with the ingredients.

Using a stick blender or traditional blender, puree the ingredients together and return to the pan and reduce again by half.

Remove the pan from the heat and strain the liquid through a very fine strainer twice and return to a clean saucepan.

Add the cream and return the pan to a low heat and reduce the liquid by half again.

Taste the soup and season if required, but most likely all the sweetness from the tomatoes and carrots, and the saltiness of the prawns will create an almost perfect taste.  Just before serving, garnish with the lobster oil and Dungeness crab meat.

Sit down and enjoy with family and friends!

First Nations Children Celebrate Their Vibrant Culture

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

Take the scenic drive out Highway 7 as the road winds through some of the prettiest county this side of the Rockies. A family favourite of household is a visit to Xá:ytem – the Longhouse Interpretive Centre. Here you will experience an amazing historical tour of the area’s First Nations culture. Enthralled by the stories and songs shared by the tour guides, the fascinating historical details of life over the past 150 years is warmheartedly woven together with the wisdom and knowledge of the thousands of years old oral culture of the Sto:lo and Coast Salish peoples. Integrating the treasured heritage of First Nations with that of the early settlers makes for a truly memorable visit with family, especially children.

Hit Harrison

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

Quaint and comfy restaurants – most perfectly suited to family dining, dot the lakeshore. For a more intimate and upscale environment with well behaved children, enjoy the Copper Room located in the always fabulous Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa.  This is one special place to stay overnight too!

Nearby Neigbourhoods

As you travel either to or back from Harrison along the spectacular Highway 7 route, there is a special place located at the confluence of the Harrison and Fraser Rivers. The Kilby Historic Site is the last remaining site of the heart of the once-bustling community of Harrison Mills.  Period-costumed interpreters discuss transportation, geography, farming and the logging industry from the 1920s and 1930s with their guests. Visitors are enthusiastically encouraged to tour the General Store Museum, stop for a snack and pet the farm animals too – city kids will love this experience!  And if you go over the May 24^th long weekend, be sure to pack the kids’ favourite teddy bear for the Teddy Bear Picnic. Full details are on their site.

Getaway Details

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

www.kilby.ca, www.harrisonresort.com

Photos courtesy of Tourism Harrison and R. Bond, CtoC Productions

Scroll down the home page of  getawaybc.com here for the fun video of Harrison

World Cup Sledge Hockey/Tourism British Columbia

remarkable 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Now Canada’s westernmost province is set to celebrate once again with the arrival of the Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler.

From March 12 – 21, disabled athletes from around the world will compete for medals in five winter sport disciplines. British Columbia welcomes visitors and spectators to witness these amazing feats of athleticism and to experience some of the many activities the destination has to offer.

Popular pavilions – including the British Columbia Canada Pavilion at the Vancouver Art Gallery – will re- open their doors, and LiveCity Sites in Vancouver and Whistler will come alive again with free music and entertainment.

Tickets to Paralympic sporting events are available and affordable, and accommodation can be found at a variety

World Cup Fan/Tourism BC & Randy Links

of price points. Great hotel rates can be found in Vancouver and Whistler as well as around the province with spring promotions and other special offers.

For travel information and to book accommodation and activity packages in British Columbia, visit www.hellobc.com. To purchase tickets to the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, visit www.vancouver2010.com

Courtesy: Tourism British Columbia