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Lori Henry's BlogPosted by Lori Henry M. Wylie “Capi” Blanchet’s book, The Curve of Time, introduces readers to the spirited woman who travelled on her own terms. Her adventures in the 1920’s took her along the western coast of British Columbia, Canada, at a time when women were supposed to stay at home and cook meals for their families. For fans of this daring woman, Cathy Converse gives them the chance for one more read about her life in her own book, Following the Curve of Time. Although not much is known about Capi, Converse gets to know her through the places she travelled to and the impressions she left behind. British Columbia Travel The west coast of BC is a wild, scenic and, above all, beautiful stretch of land to explore. By ship, Converse is able to zip and in and out of inlets along the coast, some almost as unknown as they were in Capi’s time. Part historical book, part personal narrative, I loved being taken along for the ride that Capi made in the early 1900’s. Through a modern eye, places like Vancouver Island, Desolation Sound and Knight Inlet get a fresh update as Converse takes them in like Capi did: from the water. The writing style of Following the Curve of Time remains in biography style for most of the book, adding authority to what the author shares. But her knowledgeable voice and ability to follow in Capi’s waterborne path enhance the account and make travelling through this region of British Columbia much desired. Author: Cathy Converse Publisher: Touchwood Editions ISBN: 978-1894898683 Posted by Lori Henry DanceHouse makes its debut presentation of the Urban Bush Women and Compagnie Jant-Bi collaboration. Fourteen dancers from Brooklyn, New York, and Senegal took the Vancouver audience on a wild ride through their African Diaspora roots and feisty moves. Choreographers Germaine Acogny and Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, along with collaboration from the dancers, create an electrifying evening of dance. Part traditional African dance, sans its “folkloric trappings,” and infused with contemporary Western movement, the dancers explore what it means to experience the world from the same ancestry, yet different cultures. They use their voices, bodies, movement and stillness to interact with each other and the audience. Side lighting and ceiling spotlights create a setting of underground separation. Microphones on the floor allow the dancer’s feet to enhance the music with their shuffling and stamping. The women from Urban Bush Women proved their strength and resilience in every turn of the head or hip bounce; the men from Compagnie Jant-Bi used their guttural movement and masculine sass to stand up to the female energy. They were all phenomenally beautiful. From insightful solos to bursts of sexual expression, the hips were swaying and bootties bumping in infectious force. Catch the rest of the tour at the below dates and cities. Les Écailles de la Mémoire (The Scales of Memory) Presented by DanceHouse and The Cultch
Phone: (604) 801-6225
Posted by Lori Henry Playing now is the quirky play of Cyrano de Bergerac, adapted by Vancouver’s own James Fagan Tait, starring the solid cast of David Mackay, Kevin MacDonald and Melissa Poll. Going back to 17th century Paris, director James Fagan Tait keeps the language modern with snappy dialogue. The audience is thrown right into the fray as the actors shout from the play’s audience, which is also the real audience. The intimacy doesn’t remain, though, as the pace slackens a bit during the first half. By the time the second curtain rises, and the drama of Cyrano the romantic and Baron Christian the pretty face collaborate to win the heart of Roxanne, the pace is just right. Dialogue slips off the actor’s tongues with precision and the wit stays zingy with each line. James Fagan Tait does a brilliant job of keeping the actor’s natural and surprisingly un-theatrical. Beautiful work was done by the entire cast to create near-minimalism that’s punctuated with dry humour and perfect comedic timing. I loved the quirky humour and unexpected eccentricity of the whole play. James Fagan Tait is a mastermind of timeless writing and contemporary (and local) society. As he says in his introduction in the program, “…welcome to the 17th-century Paris of this very moment. Don’t be surprised if the people in that time look and sound a little bit like us right now.” As my friend told me after the opening night performance, “I’d love to go back and see the run near the end.” By that time, the rhythm at the beginning would hopefully be worked out and the entire show will be a tour de force. Cyrano de Bergerac, presented by the Arts Club Theatre Company Directed by James Fagan Tait October 23 – November 23, 2008 At the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage in Vancouver, BC 2750 Granville Street, Vancouver, BC Box Office: (604) 687-1644 Tickets: from $31.00 CDN
Posted by Lori Henry If you like fresh food, like dining in restaurants that support local farmers, and are in Vancouver this October, you’re in luck. Eat BC! has just launched a new campaign for foodies that involves local growers, producers and… BCAA? All you have to do is visit the Eat BC! website and search for participating restaurants, hotels and retailers (there are over 200 this year!). Then, get over to your favourites and order one of their “Eat BC! Signature Dishes,” marked on the menu. This ensures that the plate you’re about to eat is completely made from products from British Columbia. On top of that, if you’re a BCAA member, bring your membership card with you. When you flash it to your server, they’ll bring you a free dessert. Yum. Contests There are also two contests: one year of two-nights stays at the Best Western and one year of free dining every week. All you have to do is fill out a ballot at each of the participating restaurants, hotels and retailers you visit during the month of October. Pretty sweet! So come out and support the local agricultural industry in British Columbia.
Posted by Lori Henry News of the 2008 Matrix Shackleton Centenary Expedition caught my attention, as I’m heading up to Baffin Island next month. I’m reading up on Nunavut and the Canadian Arctic and getting more and more immersed in the history and culture of our northern land. This expedition, though, is serious business. A modern re-enactment of the 1908-09 Nimrod voyage, these adventurers are off on fabulous treks of northern exploits. And they’re looking for a new team member. David Royds, chairman of Matrix Group, says: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for someone to experience the stark reality of Antarctic conditions and fulfill a dream. “The successful candidate will need to be prepared to endure -35°C temperatures and 50mph headwinds, to haul their own 100lb sled and to camp on the remotest landscape on earth. It’ll certainly be an adventure to tell the grandchildren!” The voyage will include six descendants of the original team. Their “application” will be a series of questionnaires, fitness and medical surveys, psychometric testing and panel interviews. They’ll then have to cross Baffin Island, Canada, with polar explorer Matty McNair. “The type of person we will be looking for is someone whose cup is always half full - never half empty; someone who can laugh at themselves; a strong team player who sees this as a lifetime opportunity and can tell a good joke to keep others’ spirits up," says expedition leader Worsley. “Above all else we want a candidate with a relentless passion to succeed whatever the adversity.” Find out more about his ambitious trek and learn how to join them by visiting the Matrix Shackleton Centenary Expedition website. Posted by Lori Henry Now that Beijing has closed the 2008 Summer Olympics, it’s time to look forward to Vancouver and Whistler’s turn at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. "The energy and excitement surrounding the 2010 Games has been building in Whistler for years, but it took a noticeable jump during the Beijing Olympics, because we know we're next," says Barrett Fisher, Tourism Whistler's President & CEO. "All the hard work and effort put in by the Whistler community: The Resort Municipality of Whistler, Whistler Blackcomb, VANOC staff in Whistler, hotels, restaurants and other tourism operators, have put us in the position to walk onto the world stage confident that people who come here before and during the Games will have a memorable experience, immersed in the spirit and the pulse of the 2010 Winter Games in a beautiful mountain winter setting." Whistler’s 2010 Olympic Winter Games Venues Whistler Creekside (complete): this will host alpine skiing events. Whistler Sliding Centre (complete): this will host bobsleigh, luge and skeleton events. Whistler Olympic Park (complete): this will host Nordic and cross-country skiing, biathlon and ski jumping events. Tours of Whistler Before the Olympic Games Whistler Sliding Centre: these tours have ended for this year but will continue next summer. Whistler Olympic Park: this site is open for self-guided tours, again starting next summer. PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola: starting December 2008, this gondola will stretch from the top of Whistler Mountain to the top of Blackcomb Mountain. In 11 minutes, you’ll travel 4.4 kilometres (2.73 miles) and will be on the longest and highest gondola of its type in the world. Get in touch with Tourism Whistler (1-800-WHISTLER) for travel information and to book tours. Posted by Lori Henry I’m young, I love travelling and I own real estate. I just might be the main target for retirement homes. What?! Seriously, there’s a new trend called “Pretirement” where young people buy property in places they’ve travelled to (and fell in love with). They enjoy the property now and then have a retirement home for the future. You could also call it smart planning or looking ahead, but the real estate industry likes to come up with their own terms. Either way, it’s a smart move and, if you’ve been to British Columbia, you know how amazing it would be to retire here in your later years. There are two developments that are being promoted for this new trend, both in BC. I haven’t been to either yet, but they’re billed as luxury waterfront property. Sounds good. Brentwood Bay Eco-Villas These are located next door to Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa, a favourite BC accommodation. OceanVillas on Vancouver Island is all about being “green,” with consulting work done by Calgary’s EnerVision and LEED designation. "Innovative residential projects like OceanVillas are setting the standard for achieving superior energy efficiency and environmental performance in a luxury setting," says Alex Joseph, EnerVision's Executive Director. "We are pleased to be part of such a worthy undertaking and tip our hat to the project developer Dan Behune." Waterfront Acreage in Kelowna At Sheerwater, there’s 70 acres of land near the water up for sale, with only 24 home sites. Lots come in two or four and three quarter acres and some have private moorage. The community is gated and houses will be built from native and natural materials (you get to choose the builder and your own timeline). If you’re young, doing well and looking ahead to that uncertain future, this might be worth looking into… Posted by Lori Henry Getting kids off the Wii, their Facebook profiles or downloading videos on YouTube can be a challenge, even when the weather is gorgeous outside. There are so many on-line distractions and new video games to play, that it’s easy to forget about the old fashioned outdoors. Hopefully a new website will help with that. Point your kids to discoverfishingbc.ca. It covers freshwater fishing spots around the lower mainland like Rice Lake in North Vancouver, Lafarge and Como Lakes in Coquitlam, Deer Lake in Burnaby, Sasamat Lake in Port Moody, and Green Timbers in Surrey. Further out, there’s also Browning Lake, in Murrin Provincial Park just south of Squamish; Kawkawa Lake, in the Upper Fraser Valley; Mike Lake in Golden Ears Provincial Park just east of Maple Ridge; Wahleach Lake near Chilliwack; and Whistler's Alta Lake. "Parents who expose their children to this fascinating environment will see many benefits,” says Natalie West, Information and Education Coordinator of the Freshwater Fisheries Society of British Columbia. “A greater appreciation of nature; a sense of wonder about the diversity of species we co-exist with; the benefits of fresh air and time spent outside; and an opportunity to engage in thoughtful, un-distracted conversation.” Encourage your kids to get outside and explore this beautiful province of British Columbia! Posted by Lori Henry The news caught my attention: the folks in Alberta always seem to be coming up with new and intriguing events. The latest comes from Bon Accord, near Edmonton, where the first ever Prairie Gardens Corn Festival will take place. For three days this August 30 to September 1, 2008, get outside for corn-eating contests, corn stalk building, corn husk doll making, and, of course, roasted corn eating. After dark, get a flashlight and walk through the tall cornfield “dragon trails” for family fun. “The Corn Fest experience is about connecting with local agriculture, nature, and having wholesome fun on the farm,” explains Tam Andersen, local corn grower (his official title is Director of Fun). “The hot August weather has ensured tall four meter high maze-corn, and there is an abundance of sweet corn to enjoy.” Travel packages include an overnight stay at Fantasyland Hotel, an E-Z Air Helicopter Services metro Heli-tour of Edmonton, Maze passes, and a West Edmonton Mall Super Savings Coupon Book. Dates: August 30- September 1, 2008 Time: 10:00am-10:00pm Saturday, 10:00am-6:00pm Sunday and Holiday Monday Location: Prairie Gardens (56311 Lily Lake Road, Bon Accord, AB, T0A 0K0) Phone: 780-921-2272 Corn Maze Admission: $30 per family of four or $8 per individual (free for tots 2 & under) Posted by Lori Henry The coastal cities of Vancouver and Richmond are known for their fresh seafood and, of course, wild BC salmon. I’m a huge fan of fish and am quite excited to hear about the first annual Wild BC Seafood Festival this year. Happening on August 30, 2008, the festival takes place at the Steveston Harbour Authority Fisherman’s Park (in front of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, 12138 Fourth Avenue). This is in Steveston, Richmond and will feature wild BC salmon, sablefish and sardines. There will be demonstrations of recipes, tips on buying seafood, storing, preparing and eating it. Most importantly, there will be samples to try and recipes to take home and replicate. Guest chefs include: Jeff Van Geest (Executive Chef/Owner of Aurora Bistro, Vancouver, BC), Manuel Ferreira (Owner of Le Gavroche and Senova Restaurants, Vancouver, BC), and Stephen Wong (Vancouver journalist, food and beverage consultant and cookbook author). It looks like there will also be kids’ activities and live entertainment by Richmond’s Darren Specht and the Blueshawks. Wild BC Seafood Festival Steveston Harbour Authority Fisherman’s Park (in front of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, 12138 Fourth Avenue) Date: August 30, 2008 Time: 11:00am-4:00pm Admission: free Event Tel: (604) 535-9828 Posted by Lori Henry The last time I was on Salt Spring Island, I had a wonderfully relaxing experience at Hastings House Country House Hotel. I wandered to the town centre, ate at House Piccolo and explored the variety of tables at the Salt Spring Island Market. It was there that I first heard of the Salt Spring Island Apple Festival. I won’t be able to make it to the island for it, but it sounds delicious indeed. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the event, celebrating red-fleshed apples in over 350 varieties. Highlights: Red Flesh Apples- about 25 varieties are grown on Salt Spring Island. The taste is said to be as fine as the appearance. Variety- Salt Spring Island grows about 350 varieties of apples, making it the ideal place to find your favourite kind. Organic- all orchards in the Apple Festival are organic and being so, supply one of the healthiest fruit available. Taste- growers on Salt Spring Island pride themselves in the taste of their fruit. I think organic and local always tastes better :) Salt Spring Island Apple Festival Date: Sunday Sept 28, 2008 Time: 9:00am to 5:00pm Location: Fulford Hall, plus 15 farms Posted by Lori Henry There is definite buzz about the 2005 Bordeaux vintage wines. Luckily, you don’t have to be in France to partake. The release will take place at the Marquis Wine Cellars in Vancouver, BC. It was with this excitement that I made my way to Bacchus Restaurant (604-689-7777, 845 Hornby Street) in the Wedgewood Hotel for a taste of these Bordeaux vintages and a delicious lunch. Described by Jeffrey M. Davis, Bordeaux wine connoisseur and special guest, as “the greatest vintages you’ll have seen in 100 years,” I was obviously ready to dig in. The standout for me was the 2005 Clos du Marquis from Saint-Julien (estimated price upon release, $104.90 CDN), served with goat cheese parcels and roasted tomatoes from the kitchen of Bacchus. Although a full-bodied red, it finished with a lovely, sweet fruity aroma. If I’ve tempted you enough to attend the public tasting and release, mark the below info on your calendar. This is expected to be a popular event, so plan ahead if you know you’ll be in town. 2005 Bordeaux Knockout “Vintage of the Century” Tasting & Release Date: Saturday September 13, 2008 Time: 9:00am-11:00am (doors to non-ticket holders will open at 11:00am) Location: Marquis Wine Cellars, 1034 Davie Street (downtown Vancouver) Cost: $39.00 CDN Contact: Marquis Wine Cellars Tel: (604) 684-0445 For help knowing how to pair wines, advice on how to host your own wine tasting, and for funny anecdotes about the wine industry, pick up Natalie MacLean's Red, White, and Drunk All Over, a definite recommendation by me. Posted by Lori Henry On Saturday August 9, 2008, farmers in Agassiz, British Columbia (six km from Harrison Hot Springs) will open their doors. The Slow Food Cycle Tour will connect travellers with local farmers and their food. With the trend in sustainable farming, local produce, the 100-mile diet and many Slow Movements around the world, this event fits right in with the Fraser Valley vibe. Here you’ll be able to get away from the city and enjoy a world where fields are vast and flavours are plentiful. The tour is self-guided, with registration recommended. The cycle is fairly flat, as I’ve been told (but I haven’t been on the tour) and covers over 25km. The Fraser Valley is a hotbed of delicious produce, sustainable food and artisan’s wares. Slow Food Vancouver has also organized transportation and bike rentals if you’re from out of town, so follow the link above for more information on that. This group holds many events throughout the year, so if the timing is off but you’re interested in what they’re doing, cruise through their website for events happening at the time you visit. Event Details Date: August 9, 2008 Time: 9:00am-4:00pm Cyclist Check-in: Agassiz Fair Grounds 6800 Pioneer Avenue (120 km east of Vancouver, BC) Cost: $5.00CDN per person (children free) Posted by Lori Henry This new package from the Fairmont Chateau Whistler made me smile. Located in the gorgeous setting of Whistler, Canada, it’s natural that skiers and snowboarders will ditch their electronic devises and just enjoy the natural beauty. Not so. More and more people, whether business travelers or vacationers, are bringing along their cell phones and blackberries “just in case.” Not able to disconnect for even a few days, they end up talking on the phone half of the time they should be sightseeing in a new destination. Sound familiar? So the clever people at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler have come up with a package that will help with internet addiction: the “Electronic Rehab Getaway.” When you check in, staff will lock away all electronic devises- including laptops, cell phones, blackberries, and pagers- so that you can’t cheat. They’re hoping this will encourage travelers to go play a round of golf at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, go horseback riding, take a paddle, rent a bike, hike, or get on an ATV horsepower; in the winter, hit the slopes on skis or a snowboard, or, anytime during the year, loosen up in the spa and forget about all those pressing deadlines. Fairmont Chateau Whistler "Electronic Rehab Getaway" - Packages start at $358.00 CDN per room (double occupancy) - includes a $200 activity credit - includes a buffet breakfast - available year round Reservations: 1-800-606-8244 4599 Chateau Boulevard Whistler, BC Canada V0N 1B4 Posted by Lori Henry Family vacations are a great time to spend quality time together and learn about other parts of the world. Unfortunately, they’re also a time rife with stress, anxiety, and frustration, especially when you’re travelling with young children. It was with these thoughts that I pondered VIA Rail’s newest response to this problem. They’ve developed a whole on-board program for kids, like kids activity books, games, video showings, cardboard train cut-outs, and a dedicated kids menu on long distance routes. Even better, if you travel before September 15, 2008, your 2-11 year old child will travel for free! You must purchase one senior, student (18+) or adult fare in comfort class, but otherwise the deal is good on every train within Canada. Here’s the tips VIA Rail offers to get your kids ready for a fascinating ride on the train: - read books about train-related adventures (think The Little Engine That Could, Simon’s Book of Trains and Thomas & Friends) - watch videos beforehand (think The Polar Bear Express and more Thomas & Friends) - let them know how a train works- it’s pretty cool stuff! Visit the VIA Rail website or call 1-888-VIA RAIL (842-7245) for more info and to book your family vacation. Posted by Lori Henry It’s a big decision to pick up and move to another country, continent or city, but the folks at Explorer Publishing have been making it easy for ex-pats since their first guidebook was published in 1995. Now it’s Vancouver’s turn. If you’ve visited this beautiful city and want to make a home here, you might find this book helpful. Hot off the press comes Vancouver Complete Residents’ Guide, a book in which I contributed. The chapters are thorough, detailed and have a local touch (all are written by residents themselves). I’ve browsed through the entire guidebook and was impressed by the calibre of writing and quality of information written by my colleagues. My visiting friend from Sweden, with an interest in making the move to Vancouver, was equally impressed and scoured the book for hours. On top of that, it looks great. It’s a classy book with top-notch photos and an easy to read layout. Most stores/attractions/restaurants are mapped out at the back of the book, making all recommendations crystal clear to find once you’ve arrived in the city. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the laws on getting an entry visa, or where to find the hottest local designers, this guidebook has it all. And I’m not just saying that because I contributed to it: the wealth of information is astounding and will make your move so much easier. You can buy Vancouver Complete Residents’ Guide from AMAZON. Posted by Lori Henry Well, the Vancouver International Folk Music Festival is finished for another year. I spent the weekend there again this July listening to the wonderful bands from all over the world. There were headliners like Ozomatli, Hayley Sales, Aimee Mann, and Spirit of the West, but the majority were lesser-known groups that were fantastic. Particularly delightful was Kobo Town. They hailed from Ontario but are originally from Trinidad (and had the accents to prove it). Their blend of Anglo-Caribbean, reggae and calypso were totally intoxicating. Also fun was the (what I thought) impromptu drum circle by Vancouver Rhythm and Dance, who had small performances and drum circles daily at their tent. It was amazing to walk by and we swept away by a circle of people with lent-out drums all making beautiful music. That’s the spirit of the Vancouver International Folk Music Festival. My coverage of the event this year will be published in the next couple of weeks. Posted by Lori Henry I had been meaning to check out New Works’ All Over the Map Dance and Music Series for many years now. They put on free performances on Granville Island on an outdoor stage, encouraging Vancouverites to dance, learn about other cultures, and have fun in the sun. With a motto of “All Sorts of Dance for All Sorts of People,” the shows are kid-friendly, family-friendly, couple-friendly and, really, anyone-friendly. I took a visiting friend from Sweden and we rocked out this past weekend to the charming rhythms of Kunaka (playing at the Folk Festival this upcoming weekend) and infectious spirit of the dance troupe Miyanda. All of their music and dance came from South Africa. Next up, on Sunday July 20 (the shows run on six Sundays throughout the summer) is the Langley Ukulele Ensemble and Kauhane Polynesian Dancers. All shows start at 2:00pm at Ron Basford Park on Granville Island and, if it rains (it’s always a consideration in Vancouver!), performances move to the adjacent Performance Works theatre. Coming up this summer is also SOULdiers’ Dance hip hop on July 27, Mozaico Flamenco Dance Theatre on August 17, and Dancers of Damelahamid, First Nations dance and music, on August 24. If you’re in town, this is a great event to go out for- the turn out is great and you’ll be hard pressed not to get up and try out your dance moves. Posted by Lori Henry This month, a series called Touched by Tibet is screening at Vancouver’s Vancity Theatre, presented by the theatre and Canada Tibet Committee. Running from July 18th-30th, each film deals with issues facing Tibet, both in documentary and narrative format. 10 Questions for The Dalai Lama is a documentary by Rick Ray, which acts as both a memoir of his travels through India and an interview with the Dalai Lama himself. Ray was allowed 10 questions for his holiness and received some profound and amusing answers. Shots of the countryside through India, where the Dalai Lama is living in exile, are stunning, and inner city shots reveal the poverty faced by locals each day. Yet within the dire history of China’s plan to control Tibet, lies some beautiful moments of both monks and people being truly happy. Also playing in the series is Blindsight, a movie about blind Tibetan children as they climb the 23,000 foot Lhakpa Ri mountain on the north side of Mount Everest. The other documentary is The Unwinking Gaze: The Inside Story of the Dalai Lama’s Struggle for Tibet. Professor Tsering Shakya will attend the Friday and Saturday screenings of The Unwinking Gaze, and Professor Jeffrey Hopkins will be at the Wednesday 7:00pm show, as well as the 7:00pm Tuesday screening of 10 Questions for The Dalai Lama. All films are shown at the Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour Street, 604-683-3456) as part of the Touched by Tibet film series. Tickets are $9.50 CDN for adults ($12.00 for a double bill), $7.50 for students and seniors ($10.00 for a double bill), and $7.50 for all matinees. You must also buy a $2.50 membership. Posted by Lori Henry The annual Calgary Stampede is one of the largest in the world. Albertans get ready for this event months in advance and welcome the world to their showcase city of Calgary. All the stops are pulled out to offer a western-themed trip including daily pancake breakfasts, cowboy hats galore, “Yee Haws” ringing through the streets, and enough drinking to make your head spin. I just returned from the first weekend of Stampede, exhausted and ecstatic to have experienced what is dubbed “The Best Outdoor Show on Earth.” I was blown away by the event and can’t wait to share with you what I learned in my “First Time at Calgary Stampede” article (see below). It’ll cover how to decide what to pack into each day, as there’s the Stampede parade, first class rodeo, chuckwagon races, agricultural exhibits, family activities, games and rides, live music, and the phenomenal grandstand show. For now, head to the Calgary Stampede website to get the daily event schedules and info about concerts and the rodeo. If you want to plan a last minute trip, you still have all week to get to Calgary and join the fun. Travel Alberta (1-800-252-3782) can help with arrangements. Yee Haw! UPDATE: My First Time at Calgary Stampede article is now up! Posted by Lori Henry The last time I was in Edmonton, AB, I had a tour of the wonderful Royal Alberta Museum. In the works was a new exhibit that piqued my interest: the legend of the dragon was being displayed with over 200 artifacts and fossil remains from museums and private collections. Work on the room was just getting started, so I wasn’t able to see anything, but I imagined learning about these mythical creatures while marvelling at what they left behind. I became fascinated and hoped that I could make it back for the opening. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it, although the exhibit is still running until September 14, 2008. This same exhibit was first created in France and has toured in Canada at the Museum of Civilization in Quebec City before travelling to Edmonton. “The Royal Alberta Museum is proud and privileged to be hosting the exhibit, which opened to rave reviews in its previous showings,” said Royal Alberta Museum Executive Director, Bruce McGillivray. “The artifacts demonstrate how dragons have evolved across different cultures and over time, and provide a fascinating example of the power of the imagination to give form to what is mysterious and unexplained.” On top of the show, the Royal Alberta Museum is throwing in other events related to dragons: Here Be Dragons, a Sunday afternoon lecture series with dragon experts and storytellers, Dragon Tales for younger kids, a dragon film festival, and roving dragon characters. Sounds fun! Please let me know if you see the exhibit in Edmonton, as I’d love to know what I’m missing :) Or maybe I can sneak in another trip to Alberta… Dragons: Between Science and Fiction runs until September 14, 2008. Contact the Royal Alberta Museum (780-453-9100) for opening hours and program schedules. Posted by Lori Henry I wondered how I would spend my Canada Day in Vancouver when I got the e-newsletter from Latidos Productions: Aché Brasil would be performing for free downtown at Robson and Bute Streets. Having had an interest in Brazilian dancing for awhile now, I decided to ride my bike down and check it out. WOW, the performance knocked me out! The band and dancers were all dressed in appropriate attire and let their sparkling personalities shine to the crowd. Even though Vancouverites can be a bit shy on the dance floor, they got a few locals swaying their hips and lifting their arms. Most looked like they wanted to join in but instead just clapped and smiled. After a little research, I noted that the Aché Brasil Academy here in Vancouver, BC is a training ground for students in Capoeira. Classes run throughout the week for all levels and your first class is free. If you’re visiting Vancouver, I suggest stopping in and trying out a few classes- the touring group certainly made it look infectious and fun. Hmmm, maybe I’ll have to go down and try a Samba class… Aché Brasil Academy- Vancouver 341 East Broadway (just east of Main Street) Vancouver, BC V5W 3K9 Tel: (604) 876-2422 Posted by Lori Henry One of my favourite things to do in the summer in Vancouver is hang out at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival. David Lam Park hosts free concerts (just outside the Roundhouse Community Centre) and is the best venue, where I join everyone to lie on the grass and enjoy the musicians on stage. Crowds of thousands gather with their towels, picnics, umbrellas and lawn chairs to groove with the musicians. The first weekend is usually held in Gastown and at Victory Square on the edge of downtown Vancouver. Although fun, the David Lam Park location beats Gastown. There’s no comparison to sitting near the water, with a breeze blowing through, and listening to jazz. Every year I ride my bike from Main Street, which takes me down Ontario Street, past Science World, and along the waterfront until I hit David Lam Park. Every year it seems to get busier, but the scenery is still invigorating. It’s a glorious ride, although the trip home is all up hill :) This weekend, I caught Duane Andrews, who played Newfoundland-style jazz and folk music: lovely tunes for relaxing. My favourite, though, was Zapato Negro, a mix of musicians from Cuba, Venezuela and Vancouver. Their music has an Afro-Caribbean, Latin and classic jazz mix, perfect for dancing away the hot summer day… Posted by Lori Henry One of my favourite festivals to grace Vancouver is the French Film Festival, only in its second year. Eight films from France will play from now until August 14, 2008 at the Park Theatre on Cambie Street and 18th Avenue (3440 Cambie Street, 604-709-FILM). This year, win a free trip to France just by attending! Enter your name in the draw box and pray for it to be to chosen on August 15th. Details can be found at the festival link above. The French Language Films (with subtitles, of course!) Showing now is Claude Lelouch’s Roman de Gare, which I will see tonight and report back on. Next up is Flight of the Red Balloon by Hsiao-hsien Hou, opening this Friday June 27. Starring the always-perfect Juliette Binoche and based on Albert Lamorisse’s 1956 classic film of the same name, the story is based on family conflicts woven together with a red balloon. Binoche steals the show as the obvious master of her craft, joined by young Simon Iteanu and Fang Song, who offer average performances. Opening on July 4th is the popular Priceless, starring the ravishing Audrey Tautou (of Amélie fame) and charming Gad Elmaleh (of Le Valet). A hodgepodge of excellent talent rounds out the fun, including Marie-Christine Adam, Vernon Dobtcheff, Jacques Spiesser, and Annelise Hesme. Hilarious, entertaining and moving are the keys to this French gem that will have you planning your next trip to the French Riviera in search of… well, you’ll have to see the movie. I’ll report back on the future films being screened: Love Songs (Louis Garrel and Ludivine Sagnier), The Duchess of Langeais set in 1820’s Paris, Catherine Breillat’s The Last Mistress, A Secret (Cécile de France and Patrick Bruel), and Conversations With My Gardener (Daniel Auteuil and Jean-Pierre Darroussin). Posted by Lori Henry Golf fans travelling to Whistler are in for a treat. The Chateau Whistler Golf Course is usually lauded as the spot to tee up, but the Adara Hotel is proving they have other ideas. The inventive accommodation in BC has announced it’s newest package: heli-golf off of Mount Currie (Pemberton) and the Big Sky Golf and Country Club. I’m not a golf enthusiast, but the thought of being escorted by a private helicopter over beautiful BC and plopped down on the peak of Mount Curry to drive balls, doesn’t sound too shabby. Then, play a round at the Big Sky Golf and Country Club and be guided back to Adara Hotel in Whistler. Nice. The deal has started and will be available until October 1, 2008. Packages include: • A night’s stay in a Superior Queen Guestroom • Breakfast at The Mix by Ric’s (to the value of $50) • Transportation to and from Whistler Village to the heli-port • A scenic helicopter flight to the glacier on Mount Currie in Pemberton • Individual drivers for Eco balls and 5 Eco golf balls per person • Flight from the Mount Currie glacier to Big Sky Golf and Country Club • Green fees and golf cart at Big Sky Golf and Country Club • Return flight from Big Sky Golf and Country Club to Whistler • Dinner at Araxi restaurant (to the value of $250) Prices are $2,778 CDN for four people ($694.50 CDN per person). Contact Adara Hotel ((866-502 2372) for more info and to book. Posted by Lori Henry Pender Island, one of the Gulf Islands of BC, is a real treat close to Vancouver. I just came back from a three day trip there this week. As my first time on the island, I was truly impressed with the friendly people I met and uniqueness of the environment. Driving through the narrow streets almost engulfed in dense forest, it was in stark contrast to the city streets of metropolis Vancouver. I stayed at the gorgeous Poets Cove Resort & Spa, a luxury hotel overlooking Bedwell Harbour. Highlights were definitely the kayaking trip from the resort’s marina, Poets Cove’s Susurrus Spa, Morning Bay Vineyards and Estate Winery, and the bakery at Driftwood Centre, the main shopping village of the island. I actually dreaded taking the ferry, as it always seems like the trip takes so long, but this journey fine. Or maybe I’m just learning about patience and enjoying the beautiful scenery! The drive from Vancouver to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal is the worst part, but it’s smooth sailing from there. A two hour ferry ride later with BC Ferries (1-800-223-3779) and I arrived at Pender Island excited to explore. Now, I can’t wait to go back. Read about my BC island adventures in the following articles: Posted by Lori Henry Vancouver, BC might seem a more likely city to find vegetarian restaurants. Yoga addicts, the laid back west coast attitude, and a focus on fresh, nutritious food make it easier to open up a restaurant offering meat free or mostly veggie menus. But Calgary, known for delicious Alberta beef, is a city also full of vegetarian options. I travelled there last month and thought I’d have to do some serious restaurant searching because I don’t eat meat. It wasn’t all that difficult, though. Restaurants like River Café, with its critical accolades and organic cuisine, and Buzzards Restaurant & Bar, which has an awesome veggie burger, are great places for vegetarians. Even the restaurant at the Hyatt, with a focus on local produce, has a delicious tofu dish that certainly made a trip there worth it. In Vancouver, the choices are even more varied. The Naam is the familiar name for veggie options, staying open 24 hours and only closed on Christmas day. Bo Kong Vegetarian Restaurant on Main Street and Yogi’s Vegetarian Restaurant dish up delectable Chinese and Indian-inspired cuisine. Almost all menus in Vancouver offer vegetarian options. I’ve written articles on vegetarian restaurants in both cities, so check them out if you think there’s nowhere there for you to eat meat free food. Posted by Lori Henry I have just returned from a trip travelling through Saskatchewan, Canada. The prairie province is a treasure trove of interesting rural towns and infinite gravel roads. Flying from Vancouver, I hit Regina first. I had a day and a half to explore the capital city of Saskatchewan. Of note were the RCMP Heritage Centre and Government House Heritage Property. A short drive southwest to Moose Jaw and I was dipping my weary body into the famous Temple Gardens Mineral Spa’s mineral pool. This is where I also explored the underground "Tunnels of Moose Jaw" to see the stories of the Chinese immigrants and bootleggers of the city. Off south to the small town of Val Marie, the gateway to Grasslands National Park, was a lovely excursion. I stayed at The Convent Country Inn, a 1939 building that served as a residence high school operated by The Sisters of Assumption. A trip west to the Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park was next on the agenda. This is where Fort Walsh National Historic Site is, as well as the Historical Ressor Ranch, the hospitable accommodation I stayed at. Up to Saskatoon for a couple of days, the highlight was definitely the Western Development Museum. The largest of the four Saskatchewan branches, the 1910 indoor street is a recreated version of booming Saskatoon. Lastly, I headed north to the town of Waskesiu within Prince Albert National Park. Beautiful! I went on a canoe trip at the Marina Adventure Centre and saw beaver lodges in the lake; the scenic drive through the park was gorgeous. Tourism Saskatchewan did a fantastic job of planning this itinerary for me, all of which you’ll be reading about in the next few weeks. There’s a certain charm that got to me and still has me dreaming of the infinite skies... Posted by Lori Henry The sun has started to shine in Vancouver, BC and there’s no city as beautiful in the summer. Locals get outdoors and take advantage of the scenery and things to do, from rollerblading along the seawall to sipping cocktails on the best patios. For the best way to mix nature with the modern city, try patios at Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar (604-915-9463, 1138 Homer Street), Provence Marinaside (604-681-4144, 1177 Marinaside Crescent), or Lift Restaurant (604-689-5438, 333 Menchion Mews). Summer Events in Vancouver run the gamut from the Vancouver International Children’s Festival, Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, the Vancouver International Folk Music Festival, Festival Vancouver, and the Celebration of Light fireworks competition. If you're in Vancouver or thinking of visiting the city this summer, check on dates for the above festivals before making your plans concrete. They're worth getting to as a taste of what Vancouverites most love about July and August. Posted by Lori Henry I attended the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival in and around Osoyoos a couple of weeks ago. Apart from all the wine drinking, the highlight was learning about the aboriginal culture in the area. I was lucky enough to stay at the Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort & Spa, located within the 200-acre Nk’Mip Resort (pronounced in-ka-meep). It shares the land with the Sonora Dunes Golf Course, Mt. Baldy Ski Resort, Nk’Mip Cellars, a lakefront RV park and campground, and the fantastic Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (1-888-495-8555). Inside is the Pithouse Theatre with a multi-media performance, another theatre that plays the impressive “Coyote Spirit” film, a gallery featuring local artists and Mk’Mip children’s artwork, and the interesting gift shop. Outside are more interactive stations, rattlesnake “hotels,” a tule mat tepee, and 50 acres of walking trails. Overall, there is 20,000 square feet of space to roam. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable. I was absolutely thrilled with the experience there and recommend it as a MUST if you’re visiting the Okanagan. It’s open daily from 9:30am – 4:30pm (slightly reduced hours in the winter) and has a variety of tours and special interpretive programs. Definitely good for all ages. Posted by Lori Henry It was with great pleasure that I was invited to a screening of Vancouver Historical Society’s City Reflections: 1907- Vancouver- 2007. When a Seattle filmmaker, William Harbeck, decided to strap a camera onto an electric streetcar in downtown Vancouver in 1907, the footage would be lost to the next generation. It ended up in a private collection in Australia, mislabelled as coverage from Hobart, Tasmania! After making it’s way Library and Archives Canada, it was restored to it’s present glory. The clever folks at the historical society decided to shoot the same film, 100 years later, on the same streets of downtown Vancouver. Side-by-side coverage of the two films, as well as intelligent and humorous narration allows future generations to see how far the city has come in 100 years. “While street scenes of today’s Vancouver may not seem all that interesting to us now, think how different some of these scenes will look to someone 25, 50 or maybe even 100 years from now,” says Jim McGraw, a board member of the Vancouver Historical Society. “Will our cars look as quaint to them as horses and wagons look to us today?” Another screening will be held for the public on May 22, 2008 at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre (604-738-7827, 1100 Chestnut Street) for an 8:00pm showtime. The DVD will be made available shortly from the City Reflections website. Posted by Lori Henry Mother’s Day in Vancouver is always fun. There are many things to do and places to take that special woman, whether she’s your mom, your mother-in-law, a soon-to-be mom or even a grandmother. It’s also a great excuse to pamper her with good food, a massage and some quality time with her favourite daughter/son/relative, etc… At the Opus Hotel (604-642-0557, 350 Davie Street), Elixir bistro moderne is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch from 11:00am – 3:30pm. Two-course, $29.50 CDN and three-course, $36.50 CDN options are available, with things like buttermilk pancakes and wild BC salmon. While you’re there, enter to win a “Mother and Daughter Opus and Michael Kors Shop and Stay Experience.” Yes, this is a $500 shopping spree at the Michael Kors store at Oakridge Centre, chauffeured service to and from the mall (in a 7 series BMW), one night’s accommodation in a deluxe guestroom at the Opus Hotel, and breakfast for two in the morning. Um, yeah, good deal! For even more luxury, Absolute Spa (604-684-2772, 1015 Burrard Street) is running specials on Mother’s Day luxury spa treatments. From the massage or body wrap in a bed of roses ($95-$105 CDN) and four hour Hawaiian Vacation (a mix of Lomi Lomi massage, a pedicure, body buff, and body wrap in coconut mango aromas- $315 CDN), to manicures and pedicures for two people ($120 CDN per person) and gift cards, your mother can have anything she wants. Posted by Lori Henry I had a wonderful meal the other night at Shun Feng Seafood Restaurant. In Richmond, BC, it’s only a 15-minute drive or a reasonable bus ride on the 98 B-Line. It’s located right in Parker Place mall and is definitely worth getting out to. The daunting 10 course meal, with wine pairings, was superb. All of the produce was sourced locally and wines were all from British Columbia. To start, the Sumac Ridge Sauvignan Blanc went perfectly well with fantastic seaweed spring rolls. Highlights of the night were the flaméed drunken BC spot prawns, melt-in-your-mouth wok-fry steak of sablefish, and the dessert selections of pan-fried pancakes and a baked almond bun. The special cake-style tea was the perfect finisher. Fortunately, this carefully selected menu will be available all summer long, so I recommend getting to Richmond and trying it out! Dim Sum (menu service) is also available, of course, for those die hard fans. Shun Feng Seafood Restaurant Unit 1425- No. 3 Road (Parker Place mall) Richmond, BC Reservations: (604) 304-6088 Posted by Lori Henry I just got back from my travels in Calgary, Alberta. I took an easy flight from Edmonton and got ready to see a city I hadn’t visited in a few years, yet knew it would look much different. Construction is everywhere and workers labour feverously to complete the construction projects. I stayed right in the middle of it all, at the Fairmont Palliser hotel in downtown Calgary. As usual, the dependable hotel chain got my rave review with its grand entrance and luxurious accommodations. Plus, it’s located next door to the Calgary Tower, the Glenbow Museum and a myriad of great dining options. I was lucky enough to do some pretty neat things, from trail rides in the snow just outside of Calgary, to an urban spa and upscale dining in the heart of downtown. The range of things to do is pretty astounding, as the city is growing so fast and mixing the old western cowboy history with the new metropolitan vibe. Over the next few weeks I’ll be covering the activities I did during this trip, the places I saw and the restaurants I ate in while there. Check back with my feature articles and read about how you can wake up in the sunshine in your luxury accommodation, drive 45 minutes to a ranch and trail ride in the snow, and return to the city for a spa treatment and uber swanky dinner at one of the city’s finest establishments. Tourism Calgary (1-800-661-1678) and Travel Alberta (1-800-ALBERTA) can help you plan your trip. Posted by Lori Henry I’m in Edmonton, Alberta right now and am having a great time. I spent yesterday trying out Café de Ville (780-488-9188, 10137 124th Street), a fantastic little restaurant, then went on to a shopping tour by the fabulous Judy McDonald (Finding Sophies Rubies, 780-901-3178). I discovered where to find all of the best boutiques in the city that I’m sure even residents don’t know about. Then it was over to the EvelineCharles spa (780-424-5666, 244 Edmonton City Centre) for my first body scrub, which was delightful. They also ordered me dinner and I ate right there in the spa! This morning was filled with the charismatic folk at the Royal Alberta Museum (780-453-9100, 12845 102nd Avenue). The knowledge, passion and intrigue at this museum is profound and I enjoyed the colourful commentary by staff. In the afternoon I had a tour of the Union Bank Inn (780-423-3600, 10053 Jasper Avenue) where I’m staying. I got to see many more of the rooms and was impressed with the boutique atmosphere and elegant environment. I just got back from the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra’s The Trumpet Shall Sound show with local trumpeter Jens Lindermann. The Winspear Centre is only three blocks away from the Union Bank Hotel, so I could walk there and back. The show was a wonderful mix of music with the charming Edmontonian Jens Lindermann. The crowd ate up his performance and humorous antics, and were moved when he and the orchestra played Gershwin’s Someone to Watch Over Me in honour of his parent’s 50th anniversary. The Winspear Centre is host to many interesting performances during the year. With the Enmax Hall seating almost 2,000 guests on five levels and fine acoustics throughout, check out their schedule if you’re in town and have a lovely evening out. Posted by Lori Henry I finish off the coverage of my trip to Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island today. On Salt Spring Island, I attended the first day of the annual market in downtown Ganges. I met many wonderful artists and residents of the island and spent the day walking around, mingling and looking through the many tables. Although all the artists were doing great work, there were some standouts at the Salt Spring Island Market. Over on Vancouver Island, I stayed in Sidney, BC for a few nights at the fantastic Miraloma on the Cove. This waterfront resort-style property was a pleasure to stay at and the little touches like games in the living rooms, a teddy bear on the beds and homemade cookies and hot chocolate every night made it stand out from other accommodations. The town of Sidney, BC was also charming. I took one of the complimentary bikes from Miraloma and explored the town and the seaside bike path. Downtown is filled with cute cafés, independent stores and nine bookstores all along the main Beacon Street. People are friendly and the fresh air from the water make this a really pleasant place to stay. You can also use it as a base to see the rest of Vancouver Island, and it’s only a short drive south to visit Victoria. Follow the links above to see what I thought about Sidney and Salt Spring Island. Posted by Lori Henry For those of you visiting Vancouver, BC this month, the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company is presenting the play True West, by Sam Shepard. Put on your evening’s finest, head downtown, and enjoy a night of powerful modern theatre. Austin is a straight-laced screenplay writer trying to break into Hollywood. While working on a script in his mother’s house, his concentration is broken by Lee, his absent older brother. Coming from “the desert,” the two argue, fight, and provoke each other into a state of almost-absurdity. When Lee charms Austin’s producer, his younger brother falls apart at the seams and descends into the life of a drunken slob. In other words, the two almost completely switch roles. As Austin says, “There’s nothin’ real down here, Lee! Least of all me!” Through the many moments of shouting comes quick humour and fantastic dialogue. Sam Shepard is a master at giving actors everything they need to deliver riveting performances. The two leads, Vincent Gale (Austin) and Brian Markinson (Lee), give it their all and incite laughter at all the right spots. Standout was veteran actor Alec Willows, who plays Saul Kimmer, the producer Austin is working with on his script. When Saul decides to scrap that project and jump into a silly western idea from Lee, he deals with the rapidly-declining brother’s sanity to perfection. Southeast corner of Hamilton and Dunsmuir, downtown Vancouver Tickets: (604) 873-3311 Dates: March 29-April 19, 2008 Posted by Lori Henry This past week I’ve been writing feverishly about my last trip to Victoria and Salt Spring Island, British Columbia. I’m always impressed with the rich wilde | |||||||||||||||
