CloseNews from across Canada
15th November 2022,
Canada on Screen in 2023
Canada film sets: Disney is preparing to release another live-action adaptation: Peter Pan & Wendy, based on the classic film Peter Pan. While the story takes the characters into Neverland, filming could draw avid film fans to Newfoundland and Labrador, where filming took place in 2021. Disney executives were attracted to the province’s striking landscapes and scenery, including areas like Trinity, the Cape Shore and Bonavista. The film’s production took place in Vancouver, BC, also known as “Hollywood of the North” and home to a thriving digital effects and animation industry. Peter Pan & Wendy will be released in 2023.
BBC The Great Race 2023 : Yes, it’s coming! The third series of The Great Race is a race across Canada, literally coast to coast to coast. The show sees pairs of contestants racing from a start line in one part of the world to the finish thousands of miles away – all without using air travel or any modern technology.
They leave behind their smartphones, internet access and credit cards and get just the cash equivalent of the airfare to their destination to make it there. Unsurprisingly, the global pandemic forced production of the show to go on a lengthy hiatus. However, the BBC recently confirmed a new eight-part series was on its way to BBC One and iPlayer. A start date for the series on TV is to be confirmed.
A teaser shares: “The third instalment of the BAFTA -winning series is the most extreme to date. Five pairs of intrepid travellers will race across an entire continent. Ocean to ocean.
“Starting out at the very edge of the Pacific in Vancouver – the teams will travel over 16,000 kilometres across six time zones all at ground level to the finish line perched on the rugged Atlantic coast, North America’s most easterly city – St John’s Newfoundland.
“Taking place against the stunning backdrop of Canada but with no mobile phone, internet access or credit cards to assist them, the competing travellers will discover that to reach the finish line quickest and win the £20 000 cash prize, they need to rely on the kindness of strangers and use every ounce of their travel skills and ingenuity.”
New Hotels
Jasper Openings
Pursuit introduced the new Forest Park Hotel, a wilderness inspired space located in the globally renowned Canadian mountain town of Jasper, expanding its portfolio of iconic experiences, attractions and accommodations within Jasper National Park.
Located at the edge of town, surrounded by stunning mountains and thick coniferous forests, the Forest Park Hotel will provide the ideal basecamp for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature while staying close to the town’s vibrant downtown shopping and culinary offerings.
Connected to the former Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre, the two hotels will become one, creating a year-round, resort style getaway. The new space opened to guests September 2022.
The design of the new property, led by globally acclaimed Canadian design firm DIAOLG and supported by Lawson Projects and Johnston Builders Ltd. of Alberta, will feature a fresh and modern palette integrating natural wood and stone accents throughout the space.
Each of the new hotel’s 88 rooms will include kitchenettes and expanded patios that seamlessly bring the outdoors in. The property will also feature a vaulted pavilion, complete with a show-stopping fireplace that enhances the cozy ambiance of the mountain hotel experience.
Forest Park Hotel will complement Pursuit’s current portfolio of hotels and iconic experiences in Jasper National Park. These include the Columbia Icefield Adventure, Columbia Icefield Skywalk, Glacier View Lodge at the Columbia Icefield, dining and boat tour adventures at Maligne Lake and the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen near Jasper.
For more information on Pursuit’s Banff Jasper Collection, visit banffjaspercollection.com
Quebec Openings
Primed for its grand opening in November 2022, the Hyatt Centric Hôtel Gare Viger housed in the historic Place Gare Viger in Montreal, guarantees good views from its stately rooms and rooftop pool. And when it comes to location, location, location, it’s just mere steps away from both the buzzing Quartier des Spectacles and Old Montréal.
Those looking for a bona fide 5-star experience need look no further than the Vogue Hotel Montréal Downtown, a new addition to the Curio Collection by Hilton scheduled for its grand opening in November 2022. With design flourishes by the esteemed Sid Lee creative firm and Clear Inc. technology installed throughout to purify the hotel’s water and air supplies, the Vogue is always in fashion.
Club Med Quebec – Charlevoix
The first Canada Club Med opened on December 3, 2021, at Massif de Charlevoix. Club Med Québec-Charlevoix is a true escape in a winterwonderland. This brand-new Mountain Resort offers a new skiing experience: the chance to hurtle down the slopes with a breath taking view of the St Lawrence River!
Club Med Québec-Charlevoix is a Green Globe certified establishment and works for sustainable tourism by doing concrete actions such as : no use of single-use plastics, supporting local producers, heritage preservation and management of food waste (Solucycle) which is collected and converted into renewable energy, specifically bio-gas and compost.
Newfoundland Openings
Gros Morne Inn
Located in the forested hills around Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Gros Morne Inn, the parks first sustainable boutique hotel, offers luxury accommodations and fine dining with a focus on sustainability – the first of its kind in the park.
Among the Inn’s amenities are an outdoor spa space with cedar-jetted tubs and a private sauna arranged for an unobstructed view of Bonne Bay, a grand patio for pristine dark sky viewing, as well as a gym and indoor and outdoor event space.
Calgary Openings
Newly opened in downtown Calgary, The Dorian is a premier boutique hotel with a touch of British charm, inspired by celebrated author, Oscar Wilde. The Dorian is actually two hotels in one tower with some unique elements (the intricately patterned wallpaper and upholstery was custom created just for The Dorian).
The Dorian also has some truly local touches including: commissioned art created by Alberta artists; food with a western Canadian flair courtesy of Executive Chef Joshua Dyer at The Wilde on the 27th floor; and Early Grey gin in each Autograph collection room (the gin is a local collaboration with award-winning and farm-certified distiller, Eau Claire Distillery).
New City Neighborhoods to explore
Discover a Montréal neighbourhood: Shaughnessy Village
One of Montréal’s most rapidly changing neighbourhoods, Shaughnessy Village balances urban style, cultural diversity and noteworthy new restaurants with centuries-old history. One to discover.
Culinary Stories
Raw Almond – Winnipeg
After a three-year hiatus, RAW: almond is set to return in February 2023. The world’s first pop-up restaurant on a frozen river is a gourmand’s bucket list experience as top chefs from across North America participate and serve up a multi-course gourmet feast.
Brunch Capital of Canada
Victoria was named the brunch capital of Canada by Food Network, and we’re not surprised! With most popular brunch spots like Jam, The Ruby and Blue Fox Café, Victoria hosts many hidden gems like Fireside Grill, and fit for a royal with high tea at the Fairmont Empress, The Butchart Gardens and Abkhazi Gardens.
Not only do Victorians love brunch, but all food! Victoria is home to the most restaurants per capita in Canada
The MICHELIN guide arrives in Vancouver!
Sustainable. Inspired. Delicious. Vancouver’s culinary scene is widely regarded as one of the most exciting and varied in the world. From multi-course Chinese feasts and the best sushi outside of Japan, to farm-to-fork, ocean-to-table, and molecular gastronomy. Our culinary scene is inspired by flavours, techniques, and cultures from around the world. Combined with the Pacific Northwest’s abundance of incredible ingredients, dining in Vancouver is something truly special.
And now the cities status as an internationally renowned dining destination has been cemented by the arrival of the first MICHELIN Guide Vancouver in fall 2022. Showcasing outstanding restaurants and professionals receiving MICHELIN distinctions, the guide will spotlight the very best that Vancouver has to offer. The famously anonymous inspectors of the Guide award the iconic MICHELIN Stars – One, Two or Three – to unparalleled cuisine. The Guide is also renowned for its Bib Gourmand selection, highlighting restaurants that offer great quality food at good prices. The MICHELIN Green Star is given to restaurants that are leaders in sustainable gastronomy.
The first group of restaurants to receive stars were announced on October 27th making 2023 the best year yet to visit Vancouver for foodies worldwide.
Fairmont Waterfront x Wayward Distillers
Fairmont Waterfront proudly embraces sustainability, the environment and community. The rooftop garden and apiary produces over twenty varieties of herbs, vegetables, fruits and edible blossoms and has been home to a quarter of a million honeybees since 2008. In collaboration with Wayward and in celebration of indigenous West Coast fauna, the hotel has crafted this unique Wild Gin distilled from fermented honey and traditionally harvested local botanicals including Juniper, Nootka Rose, Bull Kelp, Spruce Tips, Cedar and Lavender
The Dalmore Experience
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is the proud owner of The Dalmore 30 2021 Edition, an elegant single malt 30-year-old whisky, exclusively being poured at Notch8 Restaurant. The Dalmore is regarded as one of the most prestigious spirits in the world, and the perfect one ounce pour of The Dalmore 30 2021 Edition is offered exclusively at Notch8 for $500 CAD, where guests can sip on the scotch with a specialty handcrafted glass. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver also offers an exclusive Dalmore scotch pairing dinner experience that takes guests on a journey of 75 Years of Dalmore, featuring The Dalmore 12, 15, 18 along with the grande dame Dalmore 30 2021 as the finale, each course expertly paired with dishes by Notch8 Executive Chef, Danai Hongwanishkul. The dinner is available from $755.00 CAD per person plus taxes and gratuity.
Pursuit Introduces New Culinary Experience Terra in Jasper National Park
Pursuit introduced its newest dining concept, Terra, an inviting restaurant located in the quaint mountain town of Jasper. Launched this June, the new experiential eatery features a regional farm-to-table menu inspired by the raw and wild nature of the globally recognized national park.
“There is a burgeoning culinary scene within Jasper that is showcasing fresh and modern fare and we are privileged to be part of this vibrant foodie movement,” said Tyler Tays, Executive Chef, Jasper Lodging, Pursuit. “Terra’s mountain-inspired menu introduces flavours influenced by nature and carefully crafted with regionally sourced ingredients resulting in dishes that will surprise and delight.”
The sharing-based menu features small plate dishes such as fried green tomatoes, bone marrow and candied salmon, alongside larger plates including the restaurant’s show stopping ember-hung duck and reverse-seared bison tomahawk with house-made dandelion chimichurri.
“From design conception of the space to the inviting menu and careful selection of regional spirits, we wanted to create an experience that would bring people together after a day of mountain exploration,” said Tays.
For more information visit terrajasper.com,
Pursuit Opens Banff’s Newest Restaurant and Lounge, Brazen
Launched this summer, Brazen Restaurant and Lounge is a new and bold dining experience in the heart of Banff. Located in the historic Mount Royal Hotel, the restaurant focuses on sharable dinner classics designed with a modern-day twist and features cocktails inspired by Banff’s bold characters and days gone by.
“Brazen pays homage to the original lounge and restaurant in the Mount Royal Hotel – The Alberta Bar. In its day, The Alberta Bar was the center of activity and a place where all gathered to share a meal and share their stories,” says Executive Chef Scott Hergott. “Today we reimagine this classic Banff space, bringing it back to life in a contemporary way with an adventurous Albertan spirit.”
Shamelessly bold, Brazen’s seasonally inspired menu showcases ingredient-led cuisine firmly anchored in tradition; flavours on the plate that echo the nostalgia with a modern local twist. Standouts like Sherry Creamed Fox Farms Mushrooms on Toast; braised Elk and Cabbage; and Charred Acorn Squash are offered alongside Smoked Mussels, Hangar Steak with Potato Fondant; and Truffle Mac and Cheese.
The cocktail menu is rooted in the classics and celebrates the era of The Alberta Bar. Inspired by famous characters of Banff who frequented the original lounge, drinks are reimagined favorites brought to life using local spirits and house made cordials.
The design of the space is masculine and traditional – pulling from the history of classic hotel lounges. With a nod to old-world service, a little bit of cheek and timeless hospitality of the Mount Royal Hotel, visitors are warmly welcomed to sit and savour the experience as they gather to share stories of the day.
For more information visit banffjaspercollection.com
Ski and Snowboard News
New chairlifts to enhance Whistler Blackcomb guest experience 22/23 Big Red Express will replace the existing high-speed 4-person lift with a high-speed 6-person chair. This new chair will increase uphill capacity by nearly 30% and enhance and modernise the guest experience mid-mountain out of the Creekside area. The new high-speed 8-person Creekside Gondola will be replacing the existing 6-person gondola significantly improving wait times and increasing out-of-base uphill capacity
The Flying Moose chalet unveils its fully loaded heli-lounge for the ultimate luxury ski getaway
Following up on its grand opening last year, the ultra-luxe Flying Moose Chalet in Revelstoke, British Columbia has added a fully loaded, Heli-lounge to its impressive complement of bespoke services and amenities. The Heli-lounge completes the experience for guests seeking an exclusive getaway to one of Canada’s top mountain resorts, and the world’s most desired heliskiing destination.
Accompanying the 8,200 square foot custom timber frame home, the Flying Moose Chalet’s 800 square foot, expansive Heli-lounge sets the stage for a full day of adventure in the Selkirk and Monashee Mountains. Starting with a morning stretch class for the earliest of risers, a hot expresso is served in the Heli-lounge as guides deliver news on the weather, the day’s terrain selection, and pre-flight details. Custom-milled heated bench seating, spacious areas for hanging and drying personal gear, boot warmers, and a highly engineered air return system, all contribute to elevating the heliskiing experience to a whole new level of comfort and indulgence.
After a day of exploring the region’s renowned heliskiing terrain or shredding North America’s longest vertical descent on Revelstoke Mountain Resort, the Chalet’s dedicated team awaits in the Heli-lounge. A daily Flying Moose signature cocktail, curated by Josh McLafferty of the award-winning Monashee Spirits Craft Distillery, is served as the day’s adventures are streamed to a big screen surrounded by an accompanying soundtrack.
Beyond the Heli-lounge, the Flying Moose Chalet is much more. The Chalet prides itself in its exemplary service and customized hospitality. Eight unique, private suites are dispersed throughout the home, intermingled amongst an upper games room and fully stocked bar, expansive vaulted great room, fireside lounge, steam spa, and fitness and media room. Accommodating up to seventeen guests, a team of on-call private butlers, drivers, servers, and housekeepers work in tandem with Executive Chef James Young and Hospitality Manager Erin Brower to ensure personal preferences are anticipated and expectations exceeded.
Attracting international adventurers since the 1970’s for the unsurpassed quantities of snowfall and quality of powder, Revelstoke is the epicenter of heliskiing globally, and growing in reputation as a ‘bucket-list’ destination since the opening of Revelstoke Mountain Resort in 2007. Blanketed by the resort’s legendary snowfall, the mountain boasts 3,121 acres of skiable terrain, two-high alpine bowls, terrain park and North America’s longest vertical ski descent.
Flying Moose Chalet is operational year-round, with rates starting at $65,000 CDN for an eight-person, seven-night stay.
For more information, visit www.FlyingMooseBC.com.
Juniper Express Chair at Lake Louise Ski Resort will open for its first full season of operations for winter 2022-23
Having opened in February 2022, the high-speed Juniper Express quad chairlift will whisk skiers and riders up the mountain to access its five dedicated blue trails in as little as six minutes. It provides the perfect area for beginner and low intermediate skiers to practice their skills and build confidence. The resort experience is further enhanced by in-bounds terrain that was unveiled for the first time in 25 years in winter 2021/21. West Bowl is a vast area capped by the summit of Whitehorn Mountain on the front face of the resort that offers breath-taking views.
Upcoming and Recent Attraction openings
In 2023 Pursuit will open its newest attraction, RailRider – a 3,375-foot mountain coaster at the Golden Skybridge located in Golden, B.C. RailRider is the first of its kind in Western Canada and will be the fastest and largest mountain coaster in Canada.
The RailRider mountain coaster will race through an old growth forest between Canada’s two highest suspension bridges. It features an up-track that takes riders 1,180 feet up the canyon, before they descend 2,195 feet, reaching speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour. Riders will then coast under the lush canopy, around a 360 loop, through a 50-foot tunnel and finally shoot out onto a cantilever that extends over the majestic Columbia Valley.
RailRider will allow riders to choose their own level of adventure with state-of-the-art technology providing ample safety features, including distance control, speed limiters and a self-braking system.
Pursuit worked in partnership with ADG, an expert attractions company that specializes in designing and building mountain coaster experiences around the globe, including the Cliffside Coaster at Lake Placid, New York and the Rocky Mountain Coaster at Copper Mountain, Colorado.
This year, a variety of new attractions were added to the Golden Skybridge experience, including a climbing wall, axe throwing and an expanded challenge course.
The town of Golden is located in southeast British Columbia, 90 minutes from Banff, and is surrounded by six Canadian national mountain parks. This mountain community, historically known as an outdoor adventurer’s paradise, is a perfect basecamp to explore pristine landscapes and breath taking views. The town is also a popular stop for visitors travelling between Calgary, Banff, the Okanagan and Vancouver.
For more information on the Golden Skybridge, visit www.goldenskybridge.com.
With its rich history, there are thousands of stories about the Calgary Stampede waiting to be told. That’s the purpose of the new SAM Centre set to open in Spring 2024.
SAM Centre will feature 30,000 sq. ft. of space with a permanent gallery, changing exhibits, an immersive digital experience, indoor and outdoor gathering spaces and an artifact and archival collection space. Visitors to SAM Centre will learn about local history, connecting them to western heritage and fostering a sense of belonging and connection to the community.
Also under construction is the epic new home of the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (or MAC for short, set for opening in 2025), but that doesn’t mean the museum’s programming has stopped for the duration. Returning to the site of their first exhibition in 1965 in the Place Ville Marie, the MAC’s temporary home’s programming continues with Mika Rottenberg (until October 9, 2022), which brings together the artist’s videos, installations, and sculptures in an immersive exhibition. And also set to open in 2023, the ultramodern glass and steel marvel the Port of Montréal Tower at the newly re-developed Grand Quay will offer visitors thrilling views over Old Montréal, Downtown and the Saint Lawrence River.
Sustainable News
The Chelsea Hotel has achieved the coveted EarthCheck Gold Certification, recognizing the past seven years of commitment to environmental and social responsibility. This is a direct result of the commitment of our team to reduce, reuse and recycle. This places the hotel as a leader among sustainable tourism operators.
The Hotel Association of Canada continues to award the hotel with a 4 (out of 5) Green Key Eco-Rating. This program is a measurement and performance tool for improving our environmental performance.
Since 2018, bees have taken up residence on the fourth floor roof and through a partnership with Toronto Bee Rescue the hotel has been helping to preserve Canada’s bee population. They specialize in the humane removal and location of established honey bee colonies. The hotel is home to four bee hives.
Station Mont-Tremblant is the first Québec business to earn Ecocert Canada’s ECORESPONSIBLE ProgramTM Level 3 certification, by meeting all its required criteria and passing its inspections. To reach its goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 5% by 2022, the Laurentian ski area set up an Ecoresponsibility Charter to which it attaches great importance. Over the past 20 years, it has deployed countless green initiatives, from waste management best practices promoting recycling and composting, reducing light pollution to save energy, watering with untreated water, carpooling, zero paper best practices, using free shuttles, off-road vehicles and electric carts, introducing solar panels and e-car charging stations, protecting the mountain’s ecosystems during development and snowmaking, implementing a green hotel program as well as steering promoters towards hosting and managing eco-friendly events. tremblant.ca
Saint John opens New Waterfront Container Village with mixed use space at Cruise Ship Dock. Canada’s oldest incorporated city just got something new and unique. Area 506’s Waterfront Container Village is made from more than 60 shipping containers, brightly coloured and ready to welcome the city’s locals, as well as guest from the many cruise ships that dock along the port.
In June 2022, the City of Saint John officially opened the full waterfront experience, with a diverse collection of retail shops, a performance space, a waterfront Container Lounge, food trucks, public art and pop up activities.
The Waterfront Container Village features shipping containers, converted into retail spaces that showcase New Brunswick product and services. Guests are greeted by graffiti alley for local and international artists to leave their mark on, a crew lounge for cruise ships, a stage for live entertainment and a waterfront beer garden. The beer garden has a three level patio that provides great views of the Bay of Fundy and the stage. https://area506.ca/container-village
Fairmont Pacific Rim Becomes First Fairmont in North America to eliminate non-essential single-use plastic
Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver’s definitive luxury hotel, announces the elimination of non-essential single-use plastics from its guest journey, including throughout its public spaces, guestrooms, dining venues and spa. The milestone was verified by British Columbia-based GreenStep Solutions Inc., a Certified B Corporation dedicated to providing organizations with environmental impact performance assessments, technology and certifications to measure and improve sustainability performance.
In 2018, Fairmont Pacific Rim and GreenStep Solutions Inc. began the journey to elimination through an extensive audit process of all single-use plastics within the hotel operation. The assessment included reviewing the purpose and frequency of single-use plastic practices, followed by the development of a comprehensive road-map towards the reduction of single-use plastics by removing items entirely, identifying reusable alternatives, and/or introducing sustainable materials in their place. Fairmont Pacific Rim has worked with suppliers, partners and vendors to eliminate plastics within the guest journey while continuing to provide the high level of services and amenities the hotel has become renowned for. As of August 2022, GreenStep awarded Fairmont Pacific Rim the third-party verifier’s first Single-Use Plastic Free Certification within the North American hospitality sector.
Watch in 2023 as the Calgary Tower becomes home to an indoor vertical farm by Agriplay. Agriplay transforms underutilized commercial infrastructure into productive local vertical farms and sustainable green building systems. Agriplay’s first Showcase Facility will be in the Calgary Tower Centre, where 65,000 square feet of office space will be converted into one of Canada’s largest urban indoor farms, producing over 150 varieties of crops.
Mount Norquay demonstrates commitment to safe, clean, green energy
Mount Norquay became the first ski resort in Canada to be powered by 100% renewable power in April 2021. Partnering with Bullfrog Power, Canada’s leading green energy provider, Mt. Norquay’s new green-powered status means it’s now running 100% on renewable power, generated from a blend of wind and low-impact hydro power from new, Canadian renewable energy facilities – that’s everything from keeping the resort’s chair lifts moving, to lighting up its day lodges. Mt Norquay operates as a ski and snowboard resort throughout the winter and attract sightseers, hikers and alpine diners and climbers – via its series of Via Ferrata routes – during the summer.
Historic Anniversaries
50 Years of Gros Morne National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2023, Gros Morne National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site will be celebrating its 50th anniversary—but the park doesn’t look a year over five million. While celebration plans are still in the planning process (including a legacy piece), consider this your invitation to see some of what the park has to offer, including the Tablelands, Western Brook Pond Fjord, and Green Gardens.
The Calgary Tower, one of the city’s best-recognized landmarks, turns 55 in 2023. The Tower is open every day of the year (except Christmas) and offers a 360-degree view of the city from the 191-metre-high observation deck. Travellers would be hard-pressed to find a better vantage point to gaze at the mountains and prairies that surround Calgary.
Indigenous News
Fly in Style with the only Indigenous Owned Seaplane Company
Gulf Island Seaplanes, the only Indigenous seaplane flight operator has now expanded their flights, offering daily service from Vancouver Harbour in addition to their other main base at Gabriola Island.
The fleet landing into Vancouver Harbour includes two Beavers, carrying five passengers and a Caravan, with a capacity of nine passengers. The seaplanes are wrapped with artwork by Tom Spetter at Animikii, featuring a thunderbird, a lightning snake, and a face representing its passengers. The mountain peak in the company’s logo represents Stegyawden (Hagwilget Peak), a nod to the birthplace of co-founder, Alison Evans from Hagwilget Nation.
Allowing visitors a window seat on every flight, Gulf Island Seaplanes offers sightseeing tours ranging from 20 minutes to 45 minutes, flying around the city centre and mountain vistas. By spring 2023, visitors will also be able to enjoy cultural scenic flights to learn more about the area’s rich history, resilience and culture.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre New exhibit
Ancient Medicine: From Feast to Famine to Freedom – The SLCC Ancient Medicine Exhibit explores the complex health journey of Indigenous People. In the exhibition visitors learn about some medicinal plants, see them as they are used today and how people are managing chronic illnesses caused by the interruption of our natural diet. View artwork that explores the journey of artists in relation to these themes as well as artwork from Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation Indigenous artists.
In summer 2022, Explore Songhees officially launched their cultural walking and canoe tours on Vancouver Island. These tours are an engaging and authentic experience that moves guests. Led by knowledge keepers within the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, these hosted tours delve into the history and impacts of colonial settlement on the traditional lands of the Lekwungen speaking people.
In 2022, the Metis Nation of Alberta is voting on a historic constitution, an important step on a journey of more than 100 years toward self-determination for these Indigenous Peoples of Canada. At the same time, Metis Crossing has officially opened — a cultural centre and destination dedicated to upholding and teaching visitors about Metis culture, history and language. Metis Crossing includes a boutique hotel, interpretive tours of a wildlife park that connect visitors to the cultural and historic importance of the bison, walking tours that teach about traditional plants and medicines, and opportunities to undertake traditional crafts and activities. In early 2023, start-watching pods will also open to give visitors a chance to see the northern lights from the comfort of a private glass-topped suite.
Combined with an Indigenous wildlife tour at nearby Elk Island National Park and a number of Indigenous experiences in the nearby city of Edmonton, this is an itinerary corridor that allows visitors a deep and meaningful connection to the region’s Indigenous culture.
There’s a new hotel in town that you’ll want to snag a room in quickly. Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport opened earlier this month and is owned by Long Plain First Nation, which is located on Treaty One Territory on Long Plain Madison Reserve, the city’s first urban reserve. This project has been a long time in the making, with Long Plain originally purchasing the land on Madison in 2006.
You’ll find an established Winnipeg brand attached to the project—Sparrow Hotels manages the property, which also owns and runs popular boutique hotels, including Inn at the Forks, Mere Hotel and Norwood Hotel. The hotel is part of the Wyndham Garden group; it is the first Indigenous-owned hotel under that brand. Tourism Winnipeg
Thoughtful design celebrating Indigenous culture and a tranquil colour scheme inspired by the Earth makes guests feel instantly welcome upon entry. In fact, you’ll see “Ode’ Ackiing” in black lettering behind the check-in desk, which translates to “Heart Land” in Ojibway.
The 132-room hotel features a unique curvature not seen in your typical hotel blocks as a reflection of the circle of life. Space for natural light is also prominent throughout the hotel which was designed to greet the sun with an east-facing main entrance, which is a common theme among Indigenous traditions and cultures. Smudging and pipe ceremonies are welcome in the hotel, with spaces built to fire code keeping these important traditions front of mind.
Indigenous art is a huge part of what makes Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport’s interior shine. Unique pieces of Indigenous art grace each room, many of them created by Garry Meeches on the 4th floor, Cyril Assiniboine on the 3rd floor, and Linus Woods on the 2nd floor, whom are all Long Plain artists. Near each elevator you’ll also find a massive focal piece.
One special room guests may notice enroute to the pool and fitness area (be sure to pop in to admire the stunning tile work, even if you’re not going for a swim!) is a Knowledge Keepers’ gathering room. This is where Elders staying at the hotel can unwind and chat in a comfortable, private space.
The culinary offerings Pull up a seat inside the peaceful, relaxed dining room at Manoomin restaurant (translates to wild rice), where Manitoba ingredients take centre stage. You’ll find numerous dishes highlighting bison, berries, grains, granola, seeds and pickerel on the earth-inspired menu, with Executive Chef Jennifer Ballantyne, Opaskwayak Cree Nation (a Red Seal Chef) at the helm. The bison tacos feature fluffy fried Bannock made in-house daily and toppings like wild rice for an Indigenous twist. Bison chili, fried pickerel cheeks and harvest are some other inspired choices. Diners can choose to eat in the cosy dining room or outside on the patio in warmer months. Also on-site is Onishkaan Café (translates to get up or wake up), which is open daily at 6:30 am serving tea, coffee, pastries, and bannock and jam, so guests can fuel up before hitting nearby sights and shopping.
The amenities
The hotel offers bilingual service in English and Ojibway, with wayfinding signs throughout the hotel reflecting this too. Looking to bring home a stunning Manitoba souvenir, but running short on time? Located in the lobby, Kookum’s Korner is open 24/7, offering beautiful pieces of jewellery and dream catchers for purchase, supporting Long Plains First Nation artists.Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport
Slow Travel
By Water
New in Whiteshell Provincial Park: Voyageur Houseboats
If you are looking for deceleration, Voyageur Houseboats is the right choice! This brand new tourism company located in Pinawa, Manitoba provides a stay-and-play experience truly unique to Manitoba. Starting summer 2022, they rent 4-person tiny houseboats handcrafted by a Canadian artisan woodworker. A licensed Voyageur Captain ferries the houseboats from Pinawa to a scenic, sheltered mooring location inside Whiteshell Provincial Park for low-impact overnight stay. No boating license is required.
Guests can explore the park’s rugged scenery with canoes and kayaks and have access to all sorts of activities and attractions in and around Pinawa, like a scenic tube float down the Pinawa Channel, golfing or cycling.
Further information at www.voyageurhouseboats.com.
By road
Completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway
A significant accomplishment occurred on July 5, 2022: the Trans-Labrador Highway was completed. The completion allows residents, tourists, and commercial traffic to travel on more than 1,100 kilometres of paved highway between the Labrador Straits and Labrador West. Previously, much of this route was gravel road. Now you can experience the pristine wilderness of Labrador on a much smoother ride—it’s the ultimate road trip experience!
By Bike
A major announcement for Le P’tit Train du Nord linear park
A 234-km trail following the old railway line between Bois-des-Filion and Mont-Laurier, it is one of the longest park of its kind in Canada, also a part of The Great Trail. CNN TRAVEL named Le P’tit Train du Nord to its world’s top 10 « Cycling routes that’ll take your breath away». What a wonderful recognition!
linear-park.com
Paddle Power
The Fundy Isles Sea Kayaking Expedition is a fun three-day trip that allows you to discover the wild and have chance meetings with seals, whales, eagles and porpoises. Paddle through the scenic Fundy Isles Archipelago and experience the highest tides in the world while enjoying peacefulness as you hop by kayak from island to island. Experience wilderness camping on private islands and relax in nature as great maritime meals are prepared for you over the campfire. Enjoy fresh local seafood, including a beachside lobster dinner. Then, at night, soak in the stargazing show in a place that has little to no light pollution. This trip includes experienced guides, meals and snacks, kayaking equipment and accommodations. Commune with nature in a unique way, breathe in fresh air in wide-open space and embrace special moments while getting great exercise. www.bayoffundyadventures.ca P
Wildlife Options
New experience with Churchill Wild: Cloud Wolves of the Kaska Coast
Churchill Wild, known for its guided walking safaris with polar bears on the shore of Hudson Bay, has launched a new wildlife experience. This time, they are in search for the wild wolves of Kaska Coast.
Guests stay at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge in the heart of the Kaska Coast of Southern Hudson Bay, one of Churchill Wild’s three remote luxury eco-lodges. This region is an uninhabited wilderness ten times the size of Yellowstone National Park. Far away from civilization and never hunted, the resident packs of cloud wolves (Canis lupus nubilus) have no fear of humans, making for encounters and photography unrivalled anywhere else in the world.
Highlights of the nine-day trip include daily escorted hikes, always in search for wolves and wolf activity, as well as polar bears, moose and other boreal wildlife. Cozy accommodation, excellent food from a tundra-inspired cuisine, educational evening presentations by Churchill Wild staff and naturalist guides about the Subarctic ecosystem, landscape, and Northern way of life, as well as nightly Aurora viewing make the trip an unparalleled experience. Finally, there is field research and citizen science, i.e. research projects carried out with the help of guests. There are all kinds of opportunities to collect trailcam images, cast animal tracks, study social relationships, map territories, conduct and record howl surveys, and gather traditional knowledge from First Nations oral histories.
The program is carried out in the company of acclaimed photographer Jad Davenport, who is travelling on assignment for National Geographic Creative and can share useful tips on photography.
Further information at www.churchillwild.com/adventures/cloud-wolves-of-the-kaska-coast
Lazy Bear Expeditions unveils new tour boat: Underwater beluga whale watching in Churchill
Visitors to Churchill on the coast of Hudson Bay in Northern Manitoba, known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World”, will have another unique way to view beluga whales up close starting next summer.
Earlier this month, the local tour operator Lazy Bear Expeditions unveiled their new tour boat that owner and founder Wally Daudrich said is „the only one in northern Canada with under-the-sea viewing windows below deck, providing next level adventures for guests“. This enhancement brings an exciting new way to experience viewing beluga whales and other aquatic life as never before in Churchill.
The 23-metre catamaran cruise vessel is named after First Nations leader Matonabee who guided the English explorer and fur trader Sam Hearne in the 1700s. It carries up to 65 people and features comfortable seats, large windows, a spacious viewing deck, a fully serviced galley complete with espresso machine, as well as two large wheelchair-accessible washrooms. It has the unique ability to deploy rigid inflatable boats (Zodiacs) for both exploration and viewing expeditions into remote areas of Hudson Bay that are closer to shore. Underwater lighting allows to perform evening cruises where guests can take in beautiful displays of the northern lights. The $6 million project took 3 ½ years to complete.
Lazy Bear Expeditions has been operating in Churchill for nearly 30 years. The Churchill tour operator creates incredible opportunities to see the subarctic wildlife, including – but not limited to – beluga whales, polar bears, bearded seals and more, as well as other natural wonders like the Aurora Borealis.
During polar bear season in autumn, their wildlife viewing is carried out by Arctic Crawlers on land. In summer, guests are taken along the coast of Hudson Bay by boat, offering great chances to discover polar bears and other subarctic animals – including the friendly beluga whales – from water. The curious white whales can also be encountered particularly close by kayak or AquaGliding™ adventures on floating mats. Guests of Lazy Bear Expeditions stay at the rustic Lazy Bear Lodge, centrally located in Churchill. Hand-built by Wally Daudrich, the family-run log cabin-style lodge has 33 comfortable rooms and is home to the cozy Lazy Bear Café.
Further information can be found at www.lazybearlodge.com and www.travelmanitoba.com.
Winter Festivals
Chinook Blast
One of the Calgary’s newer festivals, Chinook Blast enters its third year in 2023 and is quickly becoming a pillar festival celebrating the best of winter in Calgary. “The festival is a great example of the community spirit and collaboration that exists in Calgary,” says Franca Gualtieri, the festival’s Executive Director. “Chinook Blast brings together partners from the arts, non-profit, neighbourhood, tourism and sport communities to create an inclusive event showcasing the best of Calgary.”
Chinook Blast is growing into a uniquely Calgary winter experience and invites visitors from all corners of Calgary and around the world.
In the month of February, art installations, activities, buskers, pop-up performances, a community stage, and an artist pavilion illuminate the nights. Chinook Blast has partnered with iconic Calgary events like Block Heater music festival and Ethnik festival, and incorporated the first Asian Night Market in the City Hall atrium. Visitors can choose their own adventure by building their own schedule of concerts, free outdoor programming, light displays, and cultural experiences.
Chinook Blast 2022 attracted more than 450,000 people to the downtown hub and involved more than 500 artists!
Skijoring returns to Banff as part of SnowDays 2023
As part of Banff National Park’s annual SnowDays celebration taking place on January 18-29, skijoring is returning for only the second time in partnership with Skijor Canada. On January 28, spectators will witness 16 teams consisting of a rider and stunt slider run a straight track that will test their skills in Roman riding, trick riding and stunt skiing/boarding. Visitors can expect an action-packed and high-energy show. Skijoring has been around in Banff National Park since 1917 during the Banff Winter Carnival. During SnowDays, the streets of downtown Banff transform into larger-than-life winter galleries with giant snow sculptures and kids can climb, slide and play at the Play Zone.
Airline News
Beginning in November 2022, customers will see new and restored services in Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges and in Premium cabins onboard, a new Economy Class dining service with a celebrity chef entree internationally plus fresh, new Bistro choices in North America, and in a first for a Canadian airline, complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi when travelling Premium Rouge. Starting in 2023, Air Canada will increase its onboard entertainment content by over 25 per cent, and introduce Live TV, which will enable customers to watch sports events and news live. Details for Live TV, as well as additional new features, such as Bluetooth audio connectivity and an outside camera feature, will be unveiled soon.
Air Canada will be introducing new amenity kits to premium cabin customers later in November. The new line of amenity kits and totes have been purposefully designed to significantly minimize single-use plastics, including the elimination of plastic wrap.
Air Canada Signature Class customers on all international flights will be presented with amenity kits in partnership with Acqua di Parma, featuring stylish amenity bags containing Acqua di Parma luxury skincare products plus an oversized eye mask, socks, dental products and 3M earplugs for additional comfort and personal care.
Beyond 2022
There’s nothing quite like seeing a Cirque du Soleil show in its hometown, under the big top in the picturesque Old Port of Montréal. The buzz in the air is simply magical! We’ll all get to experience that again starting on April 20, 2023, when the Cirque unveils its new show ECHO in a world premiere.
Directed by Mukhtar Omar Sharif Mukhtar, ECHO is Cirque du Soleil’s 20th big top show. Three years in the making and written by renowned storyteller Es Devlin, it’s a tale of evolution as seen through the eyes of a female protagonist named Future. As Future and her friends navigate the phases of evolution, they test the precious balance between humans, animals and the world we share and learn how their actions have the power to shape the world. Inspired to collaborate, they come together to rebuild our planet piece by piece. ECHO invites the audience to participate in a universe of colour, wonder and endless possibilities.
“ECHO will push the values of connection, inspiration and the power of intention,” says director Mukhtar. “We have the ability to create and manifest the world we want to live in, if we all put our collective minds together and encourage a movement that is pushed by the youth of today.”
Eclipses 2023 and 2024
14th October , 2023 Western Canada will be a viewing place for an Eclipse whilst 8th April 2024 eastern Canada (Prince Edward County, Montreal, New Brunswick and Newfoundland & Labrador) will be great viewing places.
Invictus Games coming to Vancouver and Whistler in 2025
Invictus Games is coming to Vancouver and Whistler featuring winter adaptive sports for the first time. The two B.C. municipalities will host the eight-day international sports competition for wounded and ill military personnel in February 2025. The competition will feature alpine skiing, nordic skiing, skeleton and wheelchair curling as well as swimming, indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball. The bid to host was submitted by the municipalities as well as the Lil’wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh nations.
FIFA World Cup 2026
In 2026 FIFA World cup will be coming to the America’s with both Toronto and Vancouver featuring on the 16 host city list (https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026)
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2023 Dates for the Diary
December 11: International Mountain Day The UN-recognized International Mountain Day is celebrated annually to promote awareness about the importance of mountains, highlight opportunities and constraints in mountain development, and build alliances that foster positive change to mountain people and environments around the world.
Did you know? Mount Logan, located within Kluane National Park Reserve in southwestern Yukon, is the highest mountain in Canada, and the second-highest peak in North America.
December 17: Canadian Maple Syrup Day Created more than 600 years ago, maple syrup is made from sap that comes from the iconic Canadian maple tree. Pay homage to the sweet elixir with a syrup-heavy pancake breakfast on Canadian Maple Syrup Day.
Did you know? Canada produces approximately 75 percent of the world’s maple syrup.
December 21: Winter Solstice On the longest night of the year, there’s no better time to look to the skies. In Canada, see the celestial sights at 13 dark sky preserves in national parks, where light pollution is minimal or eliminated, enabling visitors to see the stars, planets and galaxies in their best light.
Did you know? Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan is the darkest dark sky preserve in the country.
December 1-31: Glow Gardens Toronto. The Toronto Congress Centre in Toronto, Ontario is transformed into a Christmas storybook during this holiday festival that features a series of displays illuminated by over one million twinkling lights. Visitors can fuel up with holiday-inspired drinks, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, and visit Santa himself.
17 January 15, 2023: National Bagel Day There’s nothing quite like a fluffy bagel slathered in cream cheese – and National Bagel Day is the perfect excuse to indulge. For a true treat, visit the legendary St-Viateur Bagel Shop, a Montréal, Quebec landmark that’s hand-rolled its bagels for over a quarter century.
January 19 – February 11, 2023: Igloofest in Montréal, Quebec is the world’s coldest music festival, inviting thousands of electronic music fans and winter enthusiasts to an epic outdoor concert.
January 21, 2023: On Lincoln Alexander Day, Canadians pay tribute to the country’s first Black Member of Parliament, Cabinet minister, and Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario. Alexander was born to immigrant parents in Toronto in 1922 and spent his life championing racial equality and justice – efforts that broke barriers, changed attitudes, and shaped today’s Canada.
January 22: Chinese New Year is one of the largest celebrations for Canada’s Chinese population – many of whom live in metropolitan centres like Toronto, Vancouver and Montréal – marking the first day of the lunisolar New Year calendar, which is based on astronomical observations of the sun and moon. See each city’s website for local happenings.
January 22-29: Whistler Pride in Whistler, BC has evolved into the largest queer-focused ski event in the world. Festivities include a rainbow ski-in/ski-out parade, charity ski race, and plenty of après and eats.
February: Black History Month. Each February, Canadians take part in festivities and events honouring the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities. Visit city tourism websites for details about events taking place in each region.
February 4-13: Winter Carnival One of the largest winter carnivals in the world welcomes thousands of visitors to an all-ages outdoor celebration in Quebec City, Quebec. Guest can look forward to nighttime parades, snow sculptures, skating and live entertainment, as well as caribou liquor and ice canoe racing across the St. Lawrence River. The festivities are presided over by Bonhomme Carnaval, a giant snowman that serves as the festival’s official ambassador.
February 16-19: World Pond Hockey Championship The original Canadian winter experience, the World Pond Hockey Championship features 120 teams from around the world competing in men’s and women’s divisions, with 40 teams playing simultaneously on Roulston Lake in Plaster Rock, New Brunswick.
18 February 20: World Day of Social Justice On this day, nations raise their collective voices with the goal of eliminating poverty and discrimination. Winnipeg, Manitoba’s Canadian Museum for Human Rights demonstrates Canada’s pioneering approach to equality as the first museum solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration and future of human rights.
February 21: International Mother Language Day This UN-designated day was founded to promote linguistic and cultural diversity, with the understanding that languages are the most powerful instruments to develop and preserve heritage, and advance inclusion.
February 27: International Polar Bear Day This year’s celebrations focus on the need to protect denning polar bear families across the Arctic. Learn how Polar Bears International is developing a new tool to map den locations to ensure moms and cubs aren’t disturbed.
March 8: International Women’s Day On this day, the world unites to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and girls. Across Canada, trailblazers and advocates for equality like Christine Sinclair, a decorated soccer star who holds the record for most international goals scored, and physicist Donna Strickland, Nobel Prize winner who helped pave the way for the most intense laser pulses ever created, are changing the world by challenging societal norms and amplifying the voices of women and girls everywhere.
March 20: International Day of Happiness Canadian residents are among the happiest in the world: the country was ranked the happiest place in North America in the 2022 World Happiness Report (15th in the world).
March 20: French Language Day Along with English, French is an official language of Canada, with more than 20 percent of the population indicating French as their mother tongue.
Did you know? The language’s popularity in Canada can be traced back to the arrival of explorer Jacques Cartier, who attempted to claim the Maritime provinces for France (he was also the first to refer to the country as “Canada”, a misinterpretation of the local Indigenous word “kanata”, or “village”).
March 21: International Day of Forests – Forests are crucially important to humanity’s survival. These magical swathes of flora and fauna cover one-third of Earth’s landmass, supporting 1.6 billion people (including more than 2,000 Indigenous cultures) who depend on forests for their medicine, fuel, food and shelter.
Did you know? Canada is home to nine percent of the world’s forests – or 347 million hectares – with more than 90 percent situated on public land.
March 22: World Water Day This United Nations initiative draws attention to water-related issues people face in almost every 19 country in the world.
Did you know? Canada contains seven percent of the world’s renewable freshwater, much of it retained in lakes, underground aquifers and glaciers. Freshwater is considered renewable because it can be used over and over again; however, less than three percent of the world’s water is fresh.
