Beachfront stroll - Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa

Arbutus Suite - Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa

Spring time signals renewal and rejuvenation at the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa in the gorgeous Comox Valley region on Vancouver Island.  Within minutes of exiting off a BC Ferry in Nanaimo, you’re on the Island Highway driving straight to the peaceful setting of endless water views draped against the purple-grey backdrop of the Sunshine Coast and, most importantly, bathrobe heaven!  Yes, the Kingfisher Spa is synonymous with luxurious pampering in an easy, relaxed environment. So much so that guests comfortably wander the property in one of the resort’s most popular dress codes…spa robes and flip flops.

Stay in an ocean view guest room or a beachfront suite, as everything you need is easily accessible from either style of accommodation. And the Dining Room and Spa sit towards the front of the Resort’s property, taking full advantage of the views and scenery too.  Then there is the lounge chair(s) placed in the perfect position on the beach.  Stroll down with your morning coffee, close your eyes and listen to the waves (not more than fifteen feet away in some spots), gently roll onto the shore. The warmth of the early spring sun fills you with an inner peace not felt in some time.  It’s a very good thing this taking time for oneself.

How to Spell Bliss

Spa Refreshments on patio

This trip is all about reviving one’s energy so here’s my suggestion.  First day take a few laps in the heated, outdoor pool, with a pause in the Jacuzzi, immerse yourself in the innovative hydrotherapy experience of the Pacific Mist Hydropath®.    Located in the lower section of the Kingfisher Spa,    the one hour session has guests following a recreated west coast shoreline – complete with sandstone sculpted caves and mineral pools.  A professional attendant guides you through 8 different water therapies including a waterfall massage, steam cave, river walk and tidal bath complete with seaweed scrub. Most popular guest response received by your gracious spa host is “I’m blissfully contented,” finished off with a barely audible “Thank You!”

The second day, continue your revival with a massage treatment or go for the full package and indulge in a facial,

Kingfisher's Spectacular Brunch

manicure and pedicure too. Once you’re tuned up from head to toe, rest amid the soothing ambiance of the relaxation lounge.  And yes, at some point you should get out of your bathrobe, dressing appropriately to explore some of the nearby community’s culture.  See a video Kingfisher Oceanfront Resort & Spa.

Local Charm

A mere twenty minute drive down the road from Kingfisher Oceanside Resort,  tour downtown Courtenay where you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques, cafes and museums lining 4^th and 5^th Street and adjacent cross streets.  Stop by Brambles Market where the purely British Columbia theme means all products – both fresh (meats, dairy, fruits and vegetables) and preserved (jams, pickles, sauces) are sourced from within the Comox Valley and Vancouver Island, to points around the

Welcome to I-Hos Gallery, Comox, BC

province.  Great outlet for a take away lunch to be enjoyed on the nearby beach, or pick out locally made cheeses and bread to nibble on with a glass of wine back at your room at Kingfisher.

This time of year the weather is still on the cool side, so drop by Hot Chocolates for a smooth cup of cocoa and yummy cookie.  Smothered in the bright colours of spring, chocolate-covered sunflower seeds are a fun gift to bring home…if they make it there.

And speaking of home, drop by the stylish Home & Garden Gate boutiques (a second store is in nearby Cumberland), where proprietor Jody Williams invites visitors to linger over inspiring displays of specialty items ranging from candle holders to imported linens.

Be sure to take the drive over the 17^th Street Bridge and turn right towards Comox.  Located on the site of the original Comox Village is the I-Hos Gallery.  Stepping inside, the gallery walls feature a collection of traditional and contemporary northwest coast First Nations artwork, books and home décor – hand-etched wine glasses, silver napkin rings and exquisite serving dishes.  It’s easy to spend an hour here exploring the treasures within…and leaving with a special purchase to be enjoyed back home.

Ferry Me

Heading over to Vancouver Island aboard BC Ferries, I love watching the kids, even as harried parents nervously admonish rambunctious play and high-pitched squeals of laughter.  It’s a funny thing how the very essence of childhood – unabashed gaiety, spontaneous bursts of energy, and readily making new friends, simply flourishes aboard these magnificent vessels of travel.  Adults seem to react in similar fashion. Relaxing during their trip across the water, weary students share their excitement in anticipation of returning home to loved ones, commuters unwind while exchanging casual conversation with fellow passengers, and those travelling on a mini vacation? They bury themselves in brochures and maps or a good book, near a window and enjoy the trip!

Getaway Details

Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa – www.kingfisherspa.com. Telephone 1.800.663.7929

BC Ferries – www.bcferries.com . Telephone 1.888.223.3779 or from your cell phone *223

Locals Restaurant – www.localscomoxvalley.com. Telephone (250)338.6493.  Open Tuesday to Saturday, lunch and dinner.

I-Hos Gallery –www.ihosgallery.com. Telephone (250)339-7702. Open 7 days a week 10am to 5pm.

Tourism Vancouver Island – www.vancouverisland.travel Telephone 1.888.655.3483

Comox Valley Tourism – www.discovercomoxvalley.com. Telephone 1.877.848.2427

Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa, Beachfront Orca Suite

Spring renewal on the horizon?  Then this contest is for you!  Head over to Vancouver Island – Comox Valley area to be exact and the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa.  The setting is pure west coast – seaside relaxation with endless views over sandy beaches and the Pacific Ocean.  An outdoor, year-round heated pool with adjacent, full service spa is the ultimate remedy to soothe away any blues lingering from winter.  Put together with outstanding dining – from in-room/suite, to the spa and of course the restaurant, and you’ve got the ultimate getaway. This package includes return ferry passage for one vehicle and two passengers – compliments of BC Ferries, and two nights

Sail the coast with BC Ferries

accommodation in a coastal chic beachfront Orca Suite, with a water therapy treatment for two in the famous Pacific Mist Hydropath, compliments of Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa.  Your winter weary souls will be singing.

Reservation is not valid on government holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and is subject to availability.

Getaway information at www.kingfisherspa.com and www.bcferries.com.  Read my review here.

Click here for full Contest Rules and Regulations.

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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

Coracle Cove Bed & Breakfast & Cottage

Visit www.coraclecove.com  to book your gourmet getaway!

Eggs Florentine for Two

Ingredients

• ½ package pre-washed baby spinach
• ½ small clove garlic, crushed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• Grated Swiss cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 11/2 tablespoons flour
• ¾ cup milk
• Salt and Pepper
• Pinch of cayenne
• Pinch of nutmeg
• More grated Swiss cheese
• Pinch of paprika

Method:

• Preheat oven to 350’

• Add the olive oil and spinach to a large frying pan, and cook gently until the spinach is wilted.  Add the crushed garlic; cook briefly and season with salt and pepper.  Turn this into a small baking dish, and sprinkle with a small amount of the grated Swiss cheese.

• Melt 2 tablespoons butter in the same pan: add the flour, cayenne and nutmeg, and using a whisk, stir until smooth and the roux begins to brown.  Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until thickened.  Season with salt and pepper.

• Carefully break 2 eggs over the spinach mixture, and then cover with the sauce.  Sprinkle with grated Swiss cheese, and lightly dust with paprika.

• Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until eggs are just set and the top is golden.

• Enjoy with a Mimosa, fresh tea and coffee!

This divine Lodge sits at the water’s edge of Sakinaw Lake, only a few minutes drive past Madeira Park and Pender Harbour on the Sunshine Coast.  Incredibly easy to reach following a BC Ferries sailing from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver across to Langdale, the drive up the coast to the lake is half the fun of the trip. And while the peaceful 40 minute ferry ride provides a dramatic view of mountains, ocean and million dollar homes draping the shores of our well loved coastal communities, once you reach the Sunshine Coast your gaze will expand to include fabulous dining and shopping!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Smitty's Oyster House, Dockside in Gibsons

Gibsons Landing is a ‘must stop’ before heading out to Sakinaw Lake Lodge.  Even during the dreary, rainy winter of the west coast, the village vibe is always alive albeit low key at this time of year. If you haven’t been here ever, or at the very least for a few years, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.  Thankfully, Gibsons’ aesthetic remains seaside village-y and oh so quaint.  What’s refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable is not only the attitude, it’s the retail face too.  We found it to be welcome and inviting, with good variety and a dose of sophistication that piqued our attention.  During our stay, locals and visitors poked about the enticing shops looking for a good book, or something new to wear. Girls being girls, we combed the sale racks at both Romantique (a fabulous lingerie shop also located in Park Royal South in West Vancouver), and Zocalo Boutique which

Best Gelato - Mike's Place, Gibsons, BC

carries a great mix of international brands worn by many of the mainland’s fashionistas and their twenty-something daughters.

We were amazed at the eclectic array of restaurants including Smitty’s Oyster House down on the dock, to Molly’s Reach – the restaurant setting for Canada’s longest running comedy/drama, The Beachcombers.  Two more stops before we hit the road…Mike’s Place for a dish of the most delicious gelato next to that found in White Rock (more on this in another feature), then a cuppa something organic and hot, complemented by a decadently delicious muffin from the new’ish Black Bean Roasting Co.. Being girls, we knew these treats would tie us over ‘till a late lunch at the yummy Gumboot Café in Robert’s Creek, our last stop before reaching the lakeshore of Sakinaw.

Lakeside Locale

Campfire at Sakinaw Lake Lodge

Sakinaw Lake Lodge is only accessible by boat. Park your car then hop on board your private water taxi – a pontoon boat captained by one half of your engaging host couple, the utterly charming Garrett Gabriel.  A ten minute ride, complete with jazz music in the background (99.9 out of Parksville!), and you’ll soon arrive at the deck stop of one of the most enjoyable getaways you can imagine…I guarantee it!  Once you’ve chosen your suite, take a tour of the property, go for a hike or jump in the lake, depending on the time of year.  As evening draws near, throw on your jammies and settle in with a glass of wine or your favourite beverage.  The next few hours might be the most fun you’ve had in ages.

The ‘home,’ built in the late sixties, has been dramatically transformed through the talents of Garrett, his wife Liza

Cedar Suite, Sakinaw Lake Lodge

and their business partner, Garrett’s mom Donna. As Liza shared “When we bought the property, we knew it had good bones with truly unique details.  Respecting that taste is personal; we took the main cottage from a Caribbean-Calypso look to an updated west coast design reflective of the tastes of the 21^st century.” The result is an updated version of a west coast classic – complete with exposed beams complemented by a soothing colour palette of creamy whites, earthy tones of sage greens, woodsy browns and splashes of soft gold.  Standing on any one of several decks overlooking the lake and you know this is one special place.  It’s not over the top luxury, it’s coastal casual, comfortable and tasteful.  From the bathrobes and cozy slippers (a housewarming gift from a European friend), to the soaker tub in the main bath, there are touches throughout that ensure your visit will be memorable.

Food Glorious Food

Liza & Garrett Gabriel, Proprietors/Hosts of Sakinaw Lake Lodge

The most delicious breakfast is included with your reservation, and for an additional charge, you can elect to have a dinner or two prepared for you. Please note, you are encouraged to bring your own food stuffs and beverages if you prefer to stick with the No Boys Allowed rule. However, one night spent dining with these two impeccable hosts (yes, they wore jammies too!) and you’ll know why we allowed Garrett to stay. A great sense of humour, coupled with Liza’s culinary prowess will ‘wow’ you!  During our stay, it was clearly evident that this self taught chef is extremely talented and loves entertaining. I asked what has been the ultimate compliment they’ve received since opening only eighteen months ago. With a huge grin, Garrett replied “We’ve been told a number of times by our guests that they find staying at our place makes them feel like they’re just hanging out with good friends.”  Quite a compliment indeed as your hosts are never intrusive, they have thought of everything you might need and it’s all delivered in the most beautiful setting. Relatively new to the hospitality biz – Garrett is a former physiotherapist and Liza is a realtor, these two were made for this lifestyle.  Unfortunately Donna was away during our stay but according to Garrett and Liza, her positive influence and design savvy is evident everywhere.

We Lingered Over

Sakinaw Lake Lodge Pancakes

Dinner:

• Caramelized Onion Crostini with prosciutto, fig and goat cheese
• Organic greens with balsamic, maple syrup dressing and feta cheese
• Beef Goulash with parmesan mashed Yukon gold potatoes
• Blueberry crumble with vanilla ice cream

Breakfast:

• Champagne & OJ
• Homemade granola with organic yogurt and fresh berries
• Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with locally sourced organic bacon
• Garrett’s Cowboy Coffee – the best ever, stove top brewed coffee topped with Liza’s freshly steamed milk

Getaway Guide

Sakinaw Lake Lodge is perfect for ‘the girls’ getaway – we laughed, cried and celebrated life till midnight.  Rising the

Summer Swim, Sakinaw Lake Lodge

next morning, each one of us was captivated by the restful sleep, then the pleasure of awakening to such immense quiet and beauty.  And yes,  it definitely would work for ‘the boys’

too. It would also be outstanding for a couples’ getaway, especially with the hot tub and barbeque deck and boating options.  Families would have an absolute ball taking in the outdoor adventure so readily available, especially with kids ten years and older.

Visit the inviting web site at www.sakinawlakelodge.com to book.  Also visit www.bcferries.com to make an advance reservation for your sailing.  Great information on the many sites and sounds of the Sunshine Coast is available at www.sunshinecoastcanada.com and www.vcmbc.com.

Photos Courtesy of Sakinaw Lake Lodge and CtoC Productions

Healthy & Yummy! Liza's special breakfast yogurt parfait

From  PJ Parties – gal pals to families, to an intimate getaway for lovers, the food and the setting at Sakinaw Lake Lodge is outstanding.  Co-owner and budding Chef Extraordinaire, Liza Gabriel ensures you are well fed with locally sourced, naturally raised meats and fish, and organic produce.  The Lodge ambiance is west coast casual which means you can linger over breakfast in your pajamas just as we did, or, Liza and Garrett can deliver the morning’s goodies at your leisure.  One thing they promote is kicking back in the morning, usually serving breakfast between 9 & 930 am.  So, practice yoga on the sun drenched deck, go for an early morning hike and possibly a swim in the lake if it’s summertime, then head to the breakfast table.  Enjoy!  www.sakinawlakelodge.com

Chef Liza's utterly decadent French Toast

Sakinaw Lake Lodge Stuffed French Toast
6 eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 loaf French bread
1 8-oz package of cream cheese, softened
Raspberry Jam
2 cups cornflake crumbs
Butter

In a large bowl beat the eggs and stir in milk, vanilla and cinnamon. Slice the French bread lengthwise almost all the way through. Carefully open and spread cream cheese on one side, and raspberry jam on the other. Close the loaf and cut into 1 inch slices diagonally. Soak both sides of the slices in the egg mixture and then dip in the cornflake crumbs. Fry on a lightly buttered griddle. Serve with warm maple syrup and love. Serves 6 to 8 – whether you’re in PJs or not!

Photos Courtesy:  Sakinaw Lake Lodge 2010

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games have already seen Canadian gold: the first two gold

Kla-How-Ya Aboriginal Welcome Village, Pan Pacific Vancouver

medals ever won at home. Olympic hosts were overjoyed when British Columbian snowboarder Maëlle Ricker claimed gold in snowboard cross. Born in North Vancouver, the two-time Olympian, known as Mighty Mouse, won sport’s highest prize virtually in her own back yard. Just two days earlier, Quebec-born freestyle skier Alexandre Bilodeau gave a Valentine’s gift to the nation when he placed first in the men’s moguls on February 14th.

Ever since the Opening Ceremonies, when a line-up of Canadian A-listers, including an unforgettable k.d. lang, wowed a viewing audience estimated at more than a billion, Vancouverites have been dancing in the streets — that is, when they’re not ziplining across them — pushing aside that traditional Canadian modesty to paint the town maple leaf red.

As the biggest, most scenic, and surely the most culinarily-blessed city ever to host a Winter Olympic Games, Vancouver is buzzing. Fans flow along the downtown pedestrian corridors, checking out the pavilions and country

Olympic Fever at Whistler

houses, and filling celebration sites to capacity. Whistler Village has become one big party zone, with six celebration sites bringing top bands and non-stop entertainment to the mountain village. In Richmond, just south of Vancouver, fans flock to the O Zone – the biggest celebration site of the Games – for a host of free family-friendly programming and entertainment. Restaurants and pubs in all three cities report booming business, while souvenirs are flying off the shelves. Hot items? Those iconic red mittens.

And we’re not just winning on the slopes. On February 16, the Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Village became the second neighbourhood in the world to receive a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum Certification – the highest possible green rating. (The first was Dockside Green in Victoria, BC.)

Feature Courtesy:  Tourism British Columbia Visit www.hellobc.com

View of the Lodge across Sakinaw Lake

Garrett & Liza (married) and Donna (mom to Garrett and now Liza), will spoil you from arrival to departure! All they ask is that you settle in and enjoy the comforts of the  beautiful lodge-styled home they’ve created for their guests to enjoy! Located on Sakinaw Lake, approximately one hour from Gibsons, the Lodge is only accessible by boat.  This restful (ok, it’s up to you if you get any sleep in between the laughter, wine and story telling!) and incredibly peaceful setting is sure to provide you and your friends with a lasting getaway memory!  Includes two utterly yummy breakfasts, one savoury dinner with red & white wine, and a private boat cruise on the lake during your stay, weather permitting.  Package does not include gratuities.

Great way to start your morning and your special getaway

Reservation is not valid on government holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and is subject to availability.

Check out their gorgeous web site at www.sakinawlakelodge.com and read my review here.

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Deadline for Entries: March 15, 2010.

Your Hosts, Chris and Shari-Lynne Williams

Amazing Backcountry Getaway at Mount Engadine Lodge

Head in from Calgary, and be prepared to find a mountain lodge which speaks to healthy living and soft adventures in an amazing setting. Mount Engadine Lodge is located approximately 40 minutes outside of Canmore, Alberta, so a getaway here can easily include a day trip to town. While staying at the Lodge though, not only will you feel removed from any routine of your daily life, you most likely will be. There are no televisions and no telephones either, save the one at the front desk.  From the inviting mountain-rustic entrance, to the comfortable interior ‘great rooms’ where two floor to ceiling stone fireplaces and wide, expansive windows invite you to recline while taking in the gorgeous views; your comfort is tantamount to Lodge Hosts, Chris and Shari-LynnWilliams. This dynamic tourism duo has put their unique brand of hospitality in place ensuring your stay will be relaxed and memorable.  Definitely, the emphasis is on peace and quiet, unless you want to mingle with the other guests…all 21 of them, maximum.  This is a small, cozy lodge that invites a soak in the outdoor hot tub, or maybe a soothing respite in the sauna.  It’s your choice after a superb day of hiking, biking, or skiing and snowshoeing.  It just depends on which season you visit.  In the main lodge, there are six amply sized, well-appointed guestrooms (which are really like mini suites), each with a modern, private bath,and  three guestrooms located in the adjacent cabins.  Cozy and intimate, Mount Engadine is one special place.

Welcome to Today's Menu

Eat to Your Heart’s Content

You won’t go hungry here either…in fact, you’ll have to push yourself away from the table; the all-inclusive three meals per day are that good, with enough to feed all and then some.  And whether you’re outside exploring or just hanging out on the deck, be sure to make it back in time for Afternoon Tea. It’s one of the most lavish spreads I’ve seen. Hard to believe all of this is currently available from $350 per room, per night based on double occupancy for a lodge room.  It’s remarkable value for an outstanding experience.

Welcome to the neighbourhood

Alberta’s Serengeti

Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, the meadow where Mount Engadine Lodge rests is quite simply…spectacular.  According to Chris, the comments coming from guests are repeatedly towards the magnificent beauty and then the wildlife. As he shared with us ‘We could call this a Canadian version of Africa’s Serengeti.’ And it is indeed. This remarkable place is a respected haven for wildlife viewing – exquisite birds, cougars and elk, to magnificent moose – yes, moose, each of which passes by the Lodge’s front door almost daily! During our late fall visit, everyone’s cameras clicked away with nary a response from these mesmerizing animals – the moose.  There they stood, grazing and nuzzling one another – mating season was in high gear – enjoying yet another sunny day in their paradise. Other than the occasional look over a shoulder,

they were very cute and the stuff of which makes for great tales back home!

The views from the main lodge deck are awesome

Encore

Named ‘One of the top 5 coolest places in Canada to see a concert’ by Pure Canada, Mount Engadine is this and more.  The Music in the Meadow concert series is innovative and thoroughly entertaining.  Beginning with a mouth-watering dinner elegantly served by whispering candle light, the dining room’s energy levels simply soared the evening we were entertained by the incredibly talented Kat Danser. A neat twist to consider – if there’s no room at the Lodge, you can still experience the music and dining with Mount Engadine’s dinner entertainment package.  A full list of upcoming Music in the Meadow entertainers is available on the web site.

Mount Engadine is kid friendly too!

Getaway Guide

Mount Engadine Lodge – www.mountengadine.com or contact chris@mountengadine.com for reservations and more details…telephone (which is limited thus not an immediate response due to location) is 403.678.4080

Travel Alberta – www.travelalberta.com or telephone toll free 1.800.252.3782

Photos Courtesy of R. Bond, CtoC Productions and Mount Engadine Lodge