Category Archives: Travel

Sharing Economy Travel Market Leader Acquires Spanish Competitor Eyes America

July 25, 2017 The Silo Leave a comment

Nights Exchange Leader NightSwapping Acquires MyTwinPlace NightSwapping is the first Nights exchange community with more than 250,000 members throughout 160 countries. It pioneered a new concept in 2012 which is unique in the sharing economy travel market. Read the PDF backgrounder by clicking here.

It takes the best parts of vacation rentals, home exchanges and Couch-surfing to let members travel for less or earn money. Whether you’re a traveler or a host, you earn Night credits with each trip which you can them use to travel or convert into money commission free.

Thanks to the innovative idea, you can keep traveling locally, authentically and meet friendly hosts and guests, all the while enjoying improved safety conditions and saving money.

In order to speed up its development, NightSwapping has acquired a Spanish competitor founded in 2013. MyTwinPlace’s community consists of 55,000 members throughout the world.

According to Serge Duriavig, founder of NightSwapping, “this acquisition, which we have been preparing for the last few months, will allow us to significantly strengthen our community by bringing even more travel opportunities to our members, particularly in the booming Spanish market.
This deal affirms our ambition to become a mainstay in the sharing economy travel market. Thanks to MyTwinPlace, our goal to reach 300,000 members in 2017 is already realized. We aspire to reach 1,000,000 members in the next 2 years.”

For Xavier Labollos de Jesus and Jean Noel Saunier, the heads of MyTwinPlace, “the acquisition by NightSwapping is a guarantee that our community lives on serenely.”

In 2014 and 2016, NightSwapping raised 2 million euros successively with venture funds, Family Offices and Business Angels. A fundraising round that allowed the French upstart to grow its community tenfold.
A new round is scheduled before the end of the year, so NightSwapping can keep expanding, with an eye on the American market.

The website is available in seven languages; English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German and Dutch. An app will soon be released on Google Play and the iPhone App Store.

Travel

Explore The World This Summer Via 12 Trendy Family Homes From HomeExchange

May 10, 2017 The Silo Leave a comment

Traveling with kids can be challenging, especially when restricted by a tight budget. As families begin to reevaluate their own homes and hometowns, they are discovering that what they once took for granted can be a huge destination for someone else. Providing travelers with the additional comfort of bedrooms for each family member, a kitchen, garden, pool, toys, bikes and more, a family home away from home can be the perfect base camp to explore a region.

The list below includes 12 family-friendly homes available this summer for families looking to discover the world via HomeExchange:

USA – Colorado – Evergreen

Nestled in the foothills of the Colorado Rockies, this beautiful home is within driving distance of Denver, ski mountains, and Evergreen Lake which is best known for its all-season recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and birding. Bordered by mountain parks with miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, the home is equipped with bunk beds, toys, and video games for young children. A Jeep Wrangler and a Kia Sorento are also available for exchange.

Thailand – Phuket

The ultimate in discreet luxury and privacy, this villa comes outfitted with an ocean-facing spa and “concierge.” Overlooking Surin Beach, and only a few steps from two of Phuket’s top beaches, families can enjoy picturesque sunset views over the Andaman Sea in between horse and elephant rides.

Mexico – Manzanillo

Outfitted with a vast collection of Mexican folk art, this Mexican style three-bedroom home overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Miles of beaches with balmy ocean breezes and warm water year-round, Manzanillo is widely known as the sea fishing capital of the world. The house is about two miles from the great beach of Santiago Bay where house guests will be treated to a beach club membership.

France – Seignosse

This large Basque Landes-style house is located right on the beach. The five bedroom home boasts several terraces and is located less than two miles from the seaside town of Hossegor. The area is internationally renowned for its Atlantic surf spots and gastronomy, as well as golfing, surfing, and cycling.

USA – California – Santa Monica

Vibrant both inside and out, this ocean view four-bedroom house is full of light. Situated in a quiet neighborhood of Santa Monica, families will have easy access to shopping, restaurants, bike paths, and the beach. For families looking to venture further into the state of California, a Ford Expedition that can fit up to eight passengers is included in the exchange!

United Kingdom – London

Nestled on a quiet residential road in the middle of East London, this spacious Victorian family home has a lovely garden and plenty of toys for children. The vibrant neighborhood is only a bus ride or train away from Central London.

Australia – Kingscliff

Beachfront luxury on the magical Gold Coast, one hour from Brisbane City. With miles of beach, bicycle tracks, and local restaurants within a two-minute walk, this home is a perfect holiday for families.

Canada – West Vancouver

This waterfront seven bedroom villa with beach access, a private deck, spacious swimming pool, boats, and three cars are all located within a half hour drive from downtown Vancouver and mere minutes from parks, mountains, shopping, and restaurants.

Costa Rica – Puntarenas

This literal treehouse is situated in the canopy of the jungle that National Geographic called “the most bio-diverse place on earth.” This home is the perfect respite after a day of ziplining, swimming, waterfall hiking, and bird watching. Providing a true sense of adventure and an off-the-grid feel, this abode is free of televisions, hair dryers, and internet access.

Ireland – Stradbally

A kid-friendly home located one-hour away from Dublin, this modern home comes with a separate nanny studio in the garden, swings, slide, playroom, and lots of toys and bicycles. Nearby historic castles, beautiful woodlands, an equestrian center in Stradbally, a fishing lake and a championship golf course designed by golf legend Steve Ballesteros make this a must-stay neighborhood.

South Africa – Cape Town

This golf course estate boasting breathtaking views of Table Mountain and modern architect is only 15 minutes away from the city center. With direct beach access to Sunset Beach, the internationally-renowned windsurfing and kitesurfing hotspot of Africa, families will not have to venture far to create lifelong memories.

USA – New York – Montauk

Located directly across the street from the ocean, Montauk represents a classic and relaxed old American lifestyle. For those looking to juxtapose their stay with a trip to the bustling city of New York, several means of transport are available to get to Manhattan. Travelers can also opt for a seaplane for a quick forty-five-minute flight into the city.

For the Silo, Alexandra Origet du Cluzeau.
About HomeExchange Founded by Ed Kushins, a pioneer of the “collaborative consumption” movement, HomeExchange has facilitated over one million home swaps since 1992. “It was the inspiration for the still popular 2006 movie “The Holiday” starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet and Jude Law. In 2016, 67,000 HomeExchange members made 135,000 home swaps across 150 countries. HomeExchange makes it easy to plan and enjoy a home exchange vacation and offers travelers a memorable, authentic experience. Last year, it was awarded “Best Site for Booking Your Stay” by USA Today readers.

Travel

Warm History Behind Sanderson Centre 100th Anniversary

March 3, 2017 The Silo 5 Comments

Opened as the Temple Theatre on December 22, 1919, the centre was originally designed as a vaudeville and silent movie house. Opening night premiered with five acts of vaudeville and the silent movie “Heart of the Hills” starring Mary Pickford. As one of the premiere theatres in Canada at the time, the Temple was a “first-run” film house attracting films from all the major distributors.

The local orchestra members started collecting promotional photos of the acts who performed at the theatre and glued them to the walls, the doors, and the sides of their sheet music cabinets. Many of these photos were salvaged during renovations of the orchestra pit and are on display throughout the lobbies today, along with photos of our more recent performers.

The Temple Theatre was renamed the Capitol in the early 1930s. For fifty-seven years, the theatre entertained moviegoers, and occasionally drew up her movie screen to be used again as a stage. As the years passed, attendance waned and in August 1986, the final movie “One Crazy Summer” was shown at the Capitol Theatre.

The vision of reopening the theatre as a performing arts facility was born and was met with fantastic support from local citizens. The Brantford Heritage Theatre Foundation spearheaded a highly successful fundraising campaign for the restoration and renovation of the Capitol Theatre. The first performance was Evita on October 2, 1986, tickets sold out quickly and two more performances were added. On December 11, 1989, the theatre was renamed the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, a tribute to the memory of the Sanderson family known for their generous support of local causes.

The original ceiling mural (shown above this article’s title) was reproduced aided by ghost images which remained and historical photographs. It is believed the mural is titled “The Three Muses” depicting Greek goddesses who preside over literature, sciences, and the arts. Canada’s premiere performer Anne Murray officially opened the newly restored theatre on September 8, 1990, with a gala presentation.

In June, 1991 the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts was proud to be awarded the prestigious “Theatre Preservation Award” presented by the League of Historic American Theatres. The Sanderson Centre joins a select few authentically restored historic facilities including Carnegie Hall in New York and the Elgin Winter Garden Theatres in Toronto.

Amid the grandeur of 1919, the theatre inspires all to treasure the past and cherish the present. The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, together with the Sanderson Centre Foundation, continues to honour our heritage. We invite you to enjoy the archival collection of photographs and memorabilia showcased in the lower lobby.

As we approach our 100^th anniversary there will be many celebrations and events during the year.

Travel

5 Disruptive Luxury Travel Trends Shattering The Status Quo

February 15, 2017 The Silo Leave a comment

With the global luxury market collectively growing at 4 percent to an estimated $1.15USD (€1.08) trillion in 2016, according to a recent “Bain & Company Luxury Study,” coupled with optimistic forecasts that the luxury goods market will pick up this year, the hospitality industry is gearing up for elevated demand among both leisure and business travelers. This amid evidence that, despite widespread geopolitical uncertainties, luxury consumers are redirecting their spending toward new and more personalized high-end experiences like luxury travel, food and wine.

“The luxury market has reached a maturation point,” said Claudia D’Arpizio, lead author of the study. “Brands can no longer rely on low-hanging fruit. Instead, they really need to implement differentiating strategies to succeed going forward. We are already starting to see clear polarization when it comes to performance with winners and losers emerging across product categories and segments.”

D’Arpizio also underscored that personal luxury market brands that “take an omni-channel, customer-centric approach will rise to the top.” Such is the prevailing wisdom for both the B2C and B2B luxury travel sector, specifically, with personalized experiences, quality of service and private booking options serving as primary distinguishing factors for luxe brand positioning throughout 2017 and beyond.

Here how these key drivers will converge with evolving luxury travel trends to greatly influence various vertical sectors—and, in doing so, the marketplace at large—in the months ahead:

1. Small group cultural immersions loom large.
Travelers are increasingly seeking exclusive and regionally-authentic itineraries that cater to small groups. Tour companies like Fort Washington, Pennsylvania-based Gate 1 Travel are capitalizing on this trend with offerings that provide the convenience of an escorted tour with the intimate view of local cultures that large groups just can’t provide. “Our small group tours option has seen, by far, the most significant increase in booking volume–up 50% in 2016,” the company reports.

A City Lodge Hotel Group report concurs that the trend of being “connoisseurs of local culture” will boom this year. It emphasizes that indigenous tourism experiences and cultural immersion will remain a big factor whether traveling within your own home country or jaunting to faraway lands. “We’ll see more people wanting to visit more than the big landmarks and monuments of their destination,” it says. “Rather people are more likely to be interested in knowing about the locals–those that call that place home. Trips to the rural communities will become popular, and travelers are likely to be more interested in private guides that teach them about the traditional ways of life.”

2. Private villa travel surpassing leading luxe resorts.
Today’s breed of private villa rentals have become the ultimate in luxury travel lodging for vacationers and business travelers, alike. This is due to the vast array of benefits and creature comforts it proffers for couples, families and small groups. While maximized privacy and security, uber-tailored guest service and 5-star accommodations and amenities are chief reasons the trend toward private villa lodging is exploding, an elite few have offerings far beyond that don’t just rival, but far exceed, those offered by high-end resorts, including their elite Penthouse suit options.

According to luxury travel agent Sandy Webb who books elite vacations all over the world “private villa residences offering first class, one-of-a-kind services are ushering in an entirely new era of bespoke hospitality around the globe. They are, in fact, single handedly setting a new and decidedly elevated standard for luxe travel worldwide.”

One private villa exemplifying this new standard is Casa Dos Cisnes–Puerto Vallarta’s foremost premier private oceanfront villa vacation experience. This 10,000 square foot Casa Dos Cisnes property, a five-bedroom colonial style home with breathtaking views of the Pacific that can accommodate up to 10 adults, goes well over-and-above to ensure each guest’s needs, desires, hopes and expectations for an extraordinary private villa vacation are fulfilled.

According to owner Cathryn Arnell, this includes proffering a bevy of premium benefits, including an authentic and stylishly-appointed residential setting, custom-prepared gourmet meals from an on-site private chef, 24/7 bilingual butler service and multiple staff, monitored security, housecleaning services, private infinity-edge ocean view pool, fully equipped state-of-the-art gym, large media-entertainment room, concierge and spa service, musicians for hire, sports and boating excursions, VIP treatment at the city’s leading beach club and most renowned restaurants, and more. “Given that guests enjoy complete privacy and security in the most exclusive area in Puerto Vallarta, commandeering the entire 10,000 square foot space with all of the relaxation, solitude and discretion that affords, the result is a one-of-a-kind holiday providing an unparalleled culinary and luxury living experience.”

3. Higher caliber private jet jaunts.
According to Sergey Petrossov, founder and CEO of JetSmarter—an industry-leading private jet company based in Dubai, people are increasingly growing accustomed to personalized experiences, so much so, that it isn’t a demand anymore; it is now an expectation that needs to be met.

In order for brands to be memorable, they need to remember their customers and offer unique customized experiences. For its part, this JetSmarter achieves by placing a heavy emphasis on member relationships, with each assigned a relationship manager who is responsible for creating personalized and customizable private travel experiences.

JetSmarter also cites that there’s a very thin line between high-end and luxury, with the difference barely noticeable. “The travel industry is inundated with both high-end and luxury brands, however the distinction is relatively minor,” Petrossov said. “People often confuse high-end brands for luxury ones. Luxury brands essentially need to heighten their levels of service to be able to distinguish themselves from their high-end counterparts.”

4. Next-gen travel tech eases and expedites.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another tech trend that will continue to evolve at a rapid pace. According to Advito’s 2017 Industry Forecast, AI has already enabled a range of apps, bots and software that makes it easier for industry purveyors to interact with travelers at every step of a trip to expedite, ease and enhance. AI automates computer processes to work in the same way as the human brain. Natural language processing (NLP) helps computers understand human speech or typing, and AI then applies machine learning to provide a useful response.

Advito reveals that the travel industry is “well-positioned to embrace AI,” and also that the wider travel industry is adopting AI as, for example, KLM passengers are now able to use Facebook Messenger to confirm bookings, get boarding passes and flight status updates. “AI is still in its infancy, but it is in our immediate future,” the report asserts. “As it develops, it will help simplify complex travel decisions, shorten the buying process and deliver a more personalized offering.”

5. Game changing smart suitcases solve perennial problems.
Travel is tough enough in the best of circumstances and is all-too-often replete with challenges. From crowded freeways, overbooked flights, Wi-Fi downtime and generally not having necessary items at hand, getting from point A to point B can be fraught with more than its fair share of frustrations. Not surprisingly, technologists have responded with problem-solving gadgets and gear that exemplify tremendous innovation and ingenuity both in concept and execution. One glowing example of this is the Bluesmart Suitcase. Billed as “the world’s first smart suitcase,” this carry-on keeps traveler’s belongings tracked, devices charged, bag secure and trips hassle-free thanks to integrated technology that syncs to an associated mobile app that’s compatible with both iPhone and Android.

The suitcase features a built-in battery/charger with 2 USB ports. The substantial 10.000 mAh battery can charge your phone up to six times, juicing up this and any other USB-connectable device from the USB port on the back or the inside. The bag also boasts a 3G+GPS tracker with global coverage to track the suitcase anywhere in the world; a scale built right into the handle that interfaces with the app to tell you the approximate weight of your suitcase; and a remote digital lock that can be set up to lock itself when you step away and to unlock when you return. The TSA- approved smart lock provides distance alerts, notifying you if you leave it behind. Of course, the bag needs to carry you belongings, so the main compartment does provide large space for clothes, shoes, and coats, while a secondary TSA-friendly compartment is able to accommodate up to a 15″ laptop.

Despite the fact that luxury sales fell flat in 2016 as consumers shunned traditional products, it’s experiences—namely travel and entertainment—that are predicted to drive sector sales growth up ahead. “There is a progressive shift from physical products to experiences, especially in the last year,” Federica Levato, partner at Bain & Company and co-author of the study, told Reuters, predicting that trend would continue. With the world economy poised to regain momentum this year and the penchant among wealthy consumers to spend on travel and gourmet food and wine rather than clothes and accessories, the future is bright for high-end hospitality. For the Silo, Merilee Kern.

About the author: Branding, business and entrepreneurship success pundit, Merilee Kern, MBA, is an influential media voice and lauded communications strategist. As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List International News Syndicate,” she’s a revered consumer product trends expert and travel industry voice of authority who spotlights noteworthy marketplace change makers, movers and shakers. Merilee may be reached online at www.TheLuxeList.com. Follow her on Twitter here: http://twitter.com/LuxeListEditor and Facebook here: www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList.

Sources:

http://www.bain.com/about/press/press-releases/the_global_personal_luxury_goods_market_holds_steady_at_249_billion_amid_geopolitical_uncertainty.aspx

http://www.thediamondloupe.com/articles/2016-04-12/bain-forecasts-drop-luxury-market-sales-2016-rebound-next-year

www.clhg.com/blog/2016/11/2017-travel-trends/

https://www.advito.com/advito-industry-forecast-2017/

Spotlight image- centraljetcharter.com

Travel

Finally, A Toronto Beer Festival On May Two Four Long Weekend

April 18, 2016 The Silo 2 Comments

It’s time to plan your May Two Four Long Weekend – by staying in the city! Building on the success of its perennial sell-out summer event, Toronto’s Festival of Beer is announcing the 3rd Annual Spring Sessions of Toronto’s Festival of Beer. On May 21st and May 22nd beer fans will break out their coziest cottage gear at Sherbourne Common outdoor space, at the foot of Lower Sherbourne Street. Spring Sessions will bring together more than 20 breweries, food vendors, along with all the amenities of a cottage in the city! Plus the first 500 people who purchase tickets for each day will receive a limited edition Spring Sessions snapback hat.

“We are thrilled to bring this incredible beer experience to the people of Toronto on the May Two Four long weekend.” says Les Murray from Toronto’s Festival of Beer. “Everything you’d expect at a cottage will be here in the city, topped off with an amazing array of brews!”

Several breweries will be sampling their beer at Spring Sessions, including: All or Nothing Brewhouse, Creemore Springs Brewery, Henderson Brewing Co., Steam Whistle Brewing, Granville Island Brewing, Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company, Big Rig Brewery, Great Lakes Brewery, Brickworks Ciderhouse, Mill Street Brewery, and more.

With some of Toronto’s hottest restaurants preparing food on site, you will be able to pair your favourite brew with offers from: Tiny Tom Donuts, Ontario Corn Roasters, Ted’s World Famous BBQ, Chimney Stax Baking Co., The Pie Commission, Smokes Poutinerie, Oyster Boy and more. For the Silo, John Sinden.

Tickets for Spring Sessions of Toronto’s Festival of Beer are on sale now for $30cdn, which includes five sampling tokens and a Commemorative Festival Mug and a limited edition Spring Sessions snapback hat to the first 500 people who purchase tickets for each day. This is a 19+ event. Tickets for the festival can be purchased online at www.beerfestival.ca/spring

When:

Saturday, May 21st: 12:00PM-7:00PM

Sunday, May 22nd: 1200PM-7:00PM

Where:

Sherbourne Common. At the foot of Lower Sherbourne Street, next to Corus Quay at George Brown College.

About Toronto’s Festival of Beer:

The TFOB Mission is all about beer; showcasing local and international beer at Spring Sessions on the May Two Four Weekend, as well as, Canada’s largest summer beer celebration, Toronto’s Festival of Beer on July 22nd – 24th at Bandshell Park inside Exhibition Place. This summer, beer fans from across the country will come to celebrate their favourite golden beverage while enjoying culinary delights from some of Canada’s top chefs, beer education sessions, live grilling demos and so much more! Last year, over 35,000 attendees enjoyed live music from great acts like Naughty By Nature, 54-40, and Lowest of The Low. This year, fans will enjoy House Of Pain on Friday night and Big Sugar on Saturday afternoon.

Travel

Montreal Restaurant Renoir Is Part Of Culinary Golden Mile

April 14, 2016 The Silo Leave a comment

SOFITEL MONTREAL GOLDEN MILE

ON S’EN MET PLEIN LES PATTES

Chaque jeudi Every Thursday

Du 14 au 28 avril, de 17h à 20h

From April 14 to 28, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Bar à crabe des neiges et oursins

Snow crab and sea urchins bar

Le printemps arrive, le crabe des neiges aussi ! Joignez-vous à nous au restaurant Renoir pour découvrir nos fameux cocktails ainsi que des produits sélectionnés par notre Chef Olivier Perret.

Spring is coming, so is the snow crab! Come join us at the Renoir restaurant to discover our famous cocktails and products selected by our Chef Olivier Perret.

Servis avec mayonnaise maison et garnitures

Served with home-made mayonnaise and garnish

30 $

Taxes et service non inclus

Taxes and service not inclued

Restaurant Renoir
1155 Sherbrooke Ouest
Montréal, H3A 2N3, Québec
SofitelMontreal.Restaurant@sofitel.com
+1 (514) 788-3038
www.Restaurant-Renoir.com

#RenoirDesNeige

#RestaurantRenoir

#SofitelMontreal

1155 Sherbrooke Ouest – Montreal – Quebec – H3A 2N3 – Montreal – Canada
Tel: +1 514 285-9000 – Fax : +1 514 289-1155 – montreal@sofitel.com – www.sofitel.com/Montreal

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Reenact These Famous Movie Road Trips

February 8, 2016 The Silo Leave a comment

Wildly changing oil prices are keeping us guessing on accurate fuel cost estimates so don’t forget to check the price of gasoline before you hit the road 😛
Infographic courtesy of our friends at car leasing made simple.

Travel

In The United Kingdom, Toronto Blue Jays Makes Canada Tourist Target

October 19, 2015 The Silo Leave a comment

In the era of social media, it only takes a few seconds for a picture to change the world. Photographs shared on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest can shape public opinion in seconds, which has huge implications for politics, marketing, and social campaigning.

Last week, amongst the many iconic images doing the rounds on people’s timelines and newsfeeds, one from the world of sport stood out: the shots of Jose Bautista tossing his bat after hitting a game-winning home run in the Toronto Blue Jays’ 6-3 win over Texas Rangers.

The image at the top of this article summed up the passion and emotion that are hallmarks of Bautista’s style of play, and drew attention to the fantastic entertainment that the Blue Jays’ campaign in the American League Championship Series has provided for millions of loyal fans.

Anyone who glimpsed the photos and dug a little deeper into the backstory would have learned of Bautista’s brilliant performance in a do-or-die game for the Jays. The contest was full of drama and controversy, disputed calls, crucial errors, and brilliant baseball.

In countries like the UK, where baseball barely registers on the radar of most sports fans, moments like this can be pivotal. All of a sudden, legions of sports fans sit up and take notice of what’s happening overseas, and some of them fall head over heels in love.

All it takes is a performance like Bautista’s to send sports fans into action. Some of them will be slow burners, taking note of the Blue Jays’ progress over the years before gradually developing into full-blown fans. Some will use their newfound interest in baseball as part of their sports betting strategy. Sports betting is huge in Europe, and many avid gamblers relish the opportunity to gain an advantage over bookmakers and place bets on the less-talked-about sports at online destinations like Bet365 and others.

Then, there are the sports fans who will take drastic action when they discover a new sport that they enjoy. These are the superfans who will go straight to the Blue Jays’ online store, immediately buy themselves a jersey, and then book themselves on the next available flight to Toronto in time to catch the very next game taking place at Rogers Centre.

Sports tourism is a huge industry, and was cited as the fastest growing sector in the global travel and tourism industry back in 2008, accounting for $600 billion – or 10 per cent – of the international travel tourism market.

Sports clubs and franchises have cottoned on to this, and are employing marketing managers who are wise to the power of social media to gain new fans overseas and bring them flocking to the stadiums and stores where they will spend their money and contribute to the club’s coffers.

Baseball is some way behind sports like football, which have been successfully exported to Europe through initiatives like the International Series, which sees a number of NFL games played in London each season.

Europe lacks the stadiums and infrastructure to support a similar export of baseball, but that certainly won’t stop clubs like the Blue Jays from reaping the benefits of the new fans who will support the club from afar if they continue to send powerful messages around the world via the web. For the Silo, Keith Allison

Travel

Outer Shores Expeditions Relive Canadian Documentary Haida Gwaii

May 14, 2015 The Silo 1 Comment

Please note, Outer Shores Expeditions is in no way affiliated with the ‘Haida Gwaii: On The Edge of the World’ nor is it portrayed in the documentary. What Hot Docs’ best Canadian Feature Documentary explores on film, Outer Shores Expeditions explores by classic wooden schooner.

Documentary film fans were given an intimate look into life on the Haida Gwaii archipelago during Toronto’s Hot Docs film festival in 2015, and now travelers can experience one of the planet’s most spectacular places for themselves with Outer Shores Expeditions, British Columbia’s leading sailing operator.

‘Haida Gwaii: On The Edge of the World’ was awarded top honours at the prestigious documentary film festival. Director Charles Wilkinson’s film about First Nations rights activists, ecologists and locals took home the Best Canadian Feature Documentary award, receiving praise from the Hot Docs festival jury for its “stunning cinematography.”

Toronto audiences were captivated by the film’s journey, as the documentary sold out all four of its screenings throughout the festival. It’s a journey travellers can also experience for themselves aboard Outer Shores Expeditions’ classic 70-foot wooden schooner Passing Cloud this summer.

To those of us familiar with Haida Gwaii, its people, and its history, it really doesn’t come as a surprise that a film placing this spectacular setting at its centre would enrapture audiences,” says Russell Markel, Captain and Founder, Outer Shores Expeditions. “You look around you and you have to believe that a talented filmmaker would find a perfect story of place and people in Haida Gwaii.”

‘Islands of the People’

Outer Shores guests will be able to experience first hand the history and pre-history of the ‘Islands of the People.’ The expedition is dedicated to exploring and learning about the ecosystems, wildlife and cultural heritage also featured in ‘Haida Gwaii: On The Edge of the World.’ Excursions include Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, Haida Heritage Site, National Marine Conservation Area, ancient Haida villages, old-growth forests, estuaries, white-sand beaches and rocky shores.
Expedition Schedule

Outer Shores offers five “”Haida Gwaii Archipelago: Islands at the Edge expedition sailings from June to August.

Outer Shores Expeditions also offers expedition sailings of Pacific Rim National Park , Great Bear Rainforest, the Gulf Islands and Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound.

For more information on Outer Shores Expeditions, visit www.outershores.ca or call 1-855-714-7233 Please mention The Silo when contacting.

About Passing Cloud

Passing Cloud is a classic, 70′ schooner designed by William James Roué, famous for designing the legendary schooner Bluenose. Built in Victoria, BC, in 1974, Passing Cloud has a rich history on the BC Coast, renowned for her elegant design, exceptional accommodation, robust construction, and remarkable sailing abilities. Designed to sail around the world, Passing Cloud is an ideal vessel for small-group natural and cultural history expeditions throughout the BC Coast. Among her many features are Passing Cloud’s classic West coast wheelhouse, four private staterooms and gorgeous main salon.

About Outer Shores Expeditions

Outer Shores offers multi-day wildlife and cultural expeditions that are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Guided by a crew of professional mariners and expert naturalists, Outer Shores Expeditions small groups of 6 to 8 guests explore, experience, and learn about the stunning wildlife and ancient cultures of coastal British Columbia while living and traveling aboard the 70′ classic wooden schooner Passing Cloud. President and Captain Russell Markel holds a PhD in marine biology and is dedicated to hosting guests from around the world while fostering stewardship and supporting conservation-based research in the areas where Outer Shores travels.

Travel

St. Lawrence Expedition Earns National Geographic Recognition

April 15, 2015 The Silo Leave a comment

National Geographic Traveler recently released its tenth annual ‘50 Tours of a Lifetime,’ a curated list of the best-guided trips offered by today’s top adventure tour operators around the globe. This year’s collection includes Adventure Canada’s Mighty Saint Lawrence expedition cruise, an incredible voyage that begins in historic Québec City and travels down the Saint Lawrence seaway to the French territory of Saint-Pierre. Travellers will search for beluga and blue whales in Saguenay Fjord, hike Anticosti Island, photograph the famous red cliffs of the Magdalen Islands, and discover the rich geological and natural histories of the region. The expedition departs June 14, 2015.

“It is a great privilege to be included in National Geographic Traveler’s 50 Tours of a Lifetime in 2015,” said Cedar Swan, CEO of Adventure Canada. “We’ve worked hard to curate an incredible team that will enhance the rich natural landscape and history that played such a key role in formation of Canada. We’re thrilled to help shine the spotlight on Quebec’s Maritime region and we look forward to connecting our guests to the people, culture, and natural wonders of this region for years to come.”
Sailing down the nation’s historic waterway, the 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour introduces guests to the best of la belle province. Accompanied by an expert team of expedition leaders—as well as renowned naturalists, historians, artists, and photographers—travellers will discover seldom-visited coastal communities by Zodiac, accessing remote areas unreachable by car or large cruise ship.

Featured activities include visits to bird nesting colonies, whale-watching, trekking through national parks, sampling French wine and cheese in Saint-Pierre, and learning about the region’s French and aboriginal heritage. Adventure Canada also debuts its new photography programming aboard the Mighty Saint Lawrence expedition, including interactive workshops with Fujifilm photographers Billy Luong and Dan Bailey.
The ten-day adventure starts at $2,595 USD per person, and includes the itinerary and educational program, all shipboard meals, entry and park fees, most shore excursions, service charges, and port fees.

For more information, email marketingdirector@thesilo.ca or visit adventurecanada.com or call 1-800-363-7566.
About our new friends- Adventure Canada
Founded in 1987, Adventure Canada is a family-owned and operated adventure travel company specializing in land-based and small ship cruise adventures in Canada’s Arctic and east coast regions, Greenland, and select wilderness destinations. Adventure Canada’s trips feature a wide array of special guests including musicians, authors, biologists, and historians.

Travel

Vacate The Seatback SKY2BUY Is The New ‘Mall in the Sky’

April 8, 2015 The Silo Leave a comment

After a difficult bankruptcy auction process, the purchase of SkyMall’s brand name was announced last Friday, March 27th. The new owners paid $1.9 million for the well-known brand. The purchase price, however, didn’t include any assurances from the airlines that the catalog will be put on their planes. In fact, all prior agreements with the airlines are void. One fact is clear: SkyMall no longer has a monopoly to sell in the skies. Scott Jordan, CEO and Founder of multi-pocket clothing company, SCOTTeVEST, has been both a supporter of getting SkyMall back onto planes and a critic of the mismanagement that landed SkyMall into bankruptcy in the first place. Jordan was the most vocal during the auction process and many assumed he would be the winning bidder for SkyMall.

He explains why he let the SkyMall name go to another party: “At the most basic level, there are two things required to make SkyMall work: a catalog and placement of that catalog on airplanes. Producing a catalog is easy. The only way to get a catalog onto airplanes is with the cooperation of the airlines. SkyMall allowed every airline contract to lapse and, despite my best efforts, we were unable to come to terms with the airlines before the bankruptcy auction,” Jordan explains. “By losing the agreements with the airlines, SkyMall’s previous management team lost their monopoly on in-flight shopping. Since I didn’t like their business model, I chose not to submit a bid. I didn’t believe that the name alone was worth it.”

About six weeks ago when SkyMall declared bankruptcy, Jordan was quick to jump to the forefront of the public discussion with a series of widely read articles on LinkedIn and many press mentions, including an appearance on CNBC’s Closing Bell. Due diligence quickly uncovered that all of SkyMall’s contracts with airlines – the foundation of the entire business- had lapsed. Jordan insists that the concept of in-flight shopping is still valuable — if and when a brand can get back on airplanes. And, that is exactly what he hopes to do.

Introducing SKY2BUY: Your New Mall in the Sky, Inspired by Duty Free Shops Jordan’s new new venture is SKY2BUY. It will be in planes in test markets in the U.S. in June or July of this year and plans to become the go-to source for in-flight shopping. Jordan’s emphasis is on creating a high-end travel magazine with shopping opportunities instead of a kitsch-filled catalog. Brands that cater to travelers — like Jordan’s own SCOTTeVEST — will be featured. In addition to shopping, SKY2BUY will include editorial content of interest to travelers. Rather than developing a stand-alone publication, Jordan’s SKY2BUY will be a special advertising section in airline magazines that are already onboard every flight. The model is simple: reward travelers with massive discounts (just like a Duty Free Shop) based on shopping while traveling. Fliers already flip through in-flight magazines and SKY2BUY will provide added incentives to reach into the seatback pocket. Cooperating with in-flight magazines is a sound cost-saving measure. Whereas SkyMall paid over $350K annually to each airline just for fuel surcharges, SKY2BUY will be integrated into the print materials already found on board. This efficiency both reduces the amount of print materials on each flight and makes SKY2BUY’s discounting model possible. This is just one example of cost-cutting to be implemented by SKY2BUY intended to pass savings to the consumer and profits to the airlines.

What to Expect from SKY2BUY Shoppers will always be able to make purchases from SKY2BUY, but only travelers are eligible for the discounts. One is considered a SKY2BUY traveler when (s)he is in an airport, on an airplane or has arrived at his or her destination within the past 24 hours. This is verified electronically by geo-tagged locations or by entering a flight confirmation number. A traveler’s boarding pass acts as a ticket to savings. This unique, location-based model rewards travelers who shop during/immediately after travel. SKY2BUY’s discounting concept is similar to a duty-free shop. A shopper can buy the same goods elsewhere, but it is only while traveling that the discounts are available. SkyMall cited the increased use of electronic devices in-flight as a reason for decreased interest in their catalog. SKY2BUY will address this challenge by offering tech-savvy fliers free in-flight apps to encourage immediate purchases, as well as partnerships with in-flight wi-fi providers to provide free wi-fi for purchases made on SKY2BUY. As a former SkyMall advertiser, Jordan’s company SCOTTeVEST was frustrated by the amount of time from when a customer placed an order and when SCOTTeVEST received the order from SkyMall so they could fulfill it. SKY2BUY’s customers will purchase directly from advertisers. By removing the middle-man, advertisers will receive order information in real time, thus enabling them to provide a better customer experience. In some cases, orders will be available upon landing at the shopper’s destination. The elimination of the middle-man will not only make things faster, it will also remove an unnecessary layer of costs. “Realize that you forgot a tie for that big meeting? Turn to SKY2BUY. Left your sunscreen at home? There’s an outdoor excursion kit waiting for you at your destination,” explains Jordan.

The Content SKY2BUY will dial up the entertainment aspect that made SkyMall enjoyable by embracing creative content and making it more than just a catalog. Because all travelers are going from one location to another, there is a shared experience. SKY2BUY plans to build on that experience, offering gadgets and travel aids… not alien butler statues or dragon bookends. Travel should be enjoyable and SKY2BUY’s product selection will be curated to combat in-flight boredom and encourage shopping by providing items that are relevant to travelers. The focus on travel-related items and purchasing directly from advertisers should take care of the low conversion rates that contributed to the demise of SkyMall. Focusing on conversion rates comes naturally to Jordan after years running the highly successful, ecommerce company SCOTTeVEST. He understands the importance of creating content the resonates with customers. A small sampling of planned sections in SKY2BUY’s initial 16-page spreads include:

Travel gear and Luggage
Gadgets
Food and Drink
Fashion
Auto-Related Items

Just as most airline magazines are updated monthly, SKY2BUY will be refreshed on the same schedule, ensuring that readers always have something new to peruse – and buy – while in transit.

The App While most customer’s first experience with SKY2BUY will be in print form, SKY2BUY is developing a sophisticated, user-friendly app. It will be available as a free download prior to take-off (without having to pay for wifi). Travelers can then shop while they are in the air. Purchases will automatically sync upon landing, with no need to pay for in-flight wireless.

The Editorial “Content and commerce are inextricably bound together,” explains Jim Louderback, the former editor of PC Magazine who has been tapped to lead SKY2BUY’s content efforts. “Entertaining product curation creates stories as compelling as those on Netflix or in the movie theater. By combining great storytelling with great product curation we’ll be building a cure for boredom AND an experience you’ll want to share over and over again.”

SKY2BUY is Cleared for Take-off Jordan hasn’t revealed which airline magazines will include SKY2BUY, but confirms that he has three major U.S. and multiple international airlines in active conversations. The airlines have been very open to Jordan’s model because of the likelihood of profitability from day one. A June launch is SKY2BUY’s goal, to coincide with the summer travel season. On a parting note, Jordan said, “This summer, fly with SKY2BUY: your new mall in the sky.” Full SKY2BUY details may be found at www.SKY2BUY.com.

Supplemental- United Arab Emirates “Super Jumbo” A380

The amazing Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Travel

Buffalo, New York’s Hyatt Regency offering specialness to visitors from Canada

November 8, 2014 The Silo Leave a comment

The City of Buffalo is experiencing an economic and cultural resurgence. Visitors from around the globe have been enjoying the majestic Niagara Falls, Sabres, Bills and Bisons sporting events, breathtaking Canalside, and terrific shopping. Located just steps from Buffalo’s Metro Rail, Hyatt Regency Buffalo is a quick trip to many popular activities, cultural attractions and dining options.

In recent years, Buffalo has undergone an economic and cultural resurgence. Hyatt Regency Buffalo is proud partner with the Buffalo Loves Canada campaign and welcomes all residents from Canada to enjoy the city’s many attractions and rich architecture. Located just steps from Buffalo’s Metro Rail, Hyatt Regency Buffalo is a quick trip to many popular activities, including visiting the Buffalo Museum of Science and HarborCenter, catching an exciting Sabres, Bills or Bisons game, walking around breathtaking Canalside, or shopping at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara, Walden Galleria, Elmwood Village, or Boulevard Mall.

Wonderfully historic- downtown Buffalo. image courtesy: s84photobucket/user/segaert-library

Additionally, Hyatt Regency Buffalo recently unveiled its luxurious new Penthouse Suite, a stunning high-end space with a panoramic view of the skyline of downtown Buffalo. The space is perfect for leisure or business travelers looking for a sophisticated retreat in the heart of downtown Buffalo—and for hosting exclusive corporate board meetings and executive retreats. Guests of the suite receive complimentary transportation in the hotel’s Mercedes-Benz shuttles, as well as their own personal concierge or meeting concierge.

Hyatt Regency has recently announced two exclusive “Maple Leaf” travel packages offering special rates to visitors from Canada. Buffalo is the perfect weekend destination for Canadians to watch hockey and football games, visit the U.S. side of Niagara Falls, and also offers a vibrant cultural scene as well as plethora of dining options.

The Hyatt Regency's "Huron Suite" with a splendid downtown view. — The Hyatt Regency’s “Huron Suite” with a splendid downtown view.

The “Maple Leaf” package starts at $99 during weekends and $109 during holidays and mid-week. Canadians can also choose from the Maple Leaf PLUS package, which includes luxurious overnight accommodations, complimentary valet parking, a $25 Visa gift card, and 20% discount on rejuvenating treatments in luxurious Spa Alexis (closed on Sundays). Rates for the Maple Leaf PLUS package vary per day. Advance payment and proof of Canadian Residency are required at time of check in. Both packages are non-refundable and subject to availability. Please call 716.856.1234 or visit www.buffalo.hyatt.com for details and to make a reservation. Please mention the Silo when contacting. Blackout dates include Nov. 15, 28 & 29; Dec. 13 & 31; Jan. 24; and Feb. 21, 27 & 28. Additional blackout dates may be added. For the Silo, Katharine Nichols.

If like us, you can't get enough of Rooftop City Viewing- you will love the pool. — If like us, you can’t get enough of Rooftop City Viewing- you will love the pool.

About Hyatt Regency Buffalo

Hyatt Regency Buffalo, 2 Fountain Plaza, is a 1922 landmark building in the heart of downtown. Adjacent to the Buffalo Convention Center and minutes from Niagara Falls, Ralph Wilson Stadium and Buffalo’s many cultural attractions, the hotel offers a contemporary retreat for work and play in the beautiful City of Lights. The property has 396 guestrooms, 17 suites and 23,479 square feet of flexible meeting space. Amenities include the StayFit^TM fitness center, a 24 hour, state-of-the art business center and pet-friendly rooms. On-site dining includes E.B. Greens Steakhouse and Atrium Bar and Bistro. For reservations, call (716) 856-1234 or visit www.buffalo.hyatt.com.

What a great lobby! Downstairs to The Atrium Bar and Bistro.

About Hyatt Regency

The Hyatt Regency brand is an energizing hotel brand that connects travelers to whom and what matters most to them. More than 140 conveniently located Hyatt Regency urban and resort locations in over 30 countries around the world serve as the go-to gathering space for every occasion – from efficient business meetings to memorable family vacations. The brand offers a one-stop experience that puts everything guests need right at their fingertips. Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts offer a full range of services and amenities, including notable culinary experiences; technology-enabled ways to collaborate; the space to work, engage or relax; and expert planners who take care of every detail. For more information, visit hyattregency.com or facebook.com/HyattRegency.

Buffalo downtowners know how to embrace all the Seasons- a scene from the first Winter Festival in 2010. image: juliafinucane/blogspot.ca

Travel

Niagara Falls Canada Is Romantic And Beautiful Twelve Months Of The Year

October 6, 2014 The Silo 2 Comments

Every girl dreams of that perfect wedding, where she is pampered and spoiled, as she embarks on a new life. With one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders providing a unique backdrop, Niagara Falls is the place for a magical wedding that you and your guests won’t soon forget.

Marriott’s wedding specialists will ensure the most important day of your life is absolutely perfect, from preparation through the ceremony and reception and into the honeymoon, the bride and groom will be pampered, refreshed and relaxed on their wedding day.

Niagara Falls is a dynamic place all twelve months of the year. Imagine having your wedding or engagement photos with this winter time vista.

Pampering the bride starts the morning of the wedding at Serenity Spa by the Falls where a memorable spa experience will have the bride and her maidens glowing when they step up to the altar. That altar is perched 23 storys above the crest of Niagara Falls in the Marriott’s elegant and intimate Chapel Overlooking the Falls, a majestic setting that is truly awe-inspiring. During the reception, experience elegance with every flawless detail tailored to fit your unforgettable story.

The fairy tale continues in a luxurious Honeymoon Suite overlooking the Falls, with breakfast in bed as befits the newly-wed couple. The happy couple can then spend their first day together with a romantic afternoon of indulgence with Serenity’s Couple’s Ritual Spa Treatment.

For the guests, Niagara Falls boasts a vibrant night life to keep them entertained once the happy couple steps away to begin their honeymoon. Clubs, bars and restaurants, not to mention two casinos and several theatre shows, will ensure a wedding in Niagara Falls is a wedding people will be talking about for years.

Travel

Clek’s Tips For safe Family Travel this Summer include approved child restraint for flying

June 6, 2014 The Silo Leave a comment

An example of an approved Child Airplane Travel Harness. CP

Toronto, June, 2014 – Summer travel means quality time with family. New places, new experiences, and best of all, spending time with each other in a relaxed environment. Clek, the award-winning car seat company, offers the following tips for a fun and safe vacation:
1. Research your destination to ensure it is child friendly. Find out if your destination will accommodate infants and toddlers to ensure you have a relaxing, worry-free vacation. A great place to start is the local tourism board. Check online reviews to find out if it is family-friendly.

2. Plan to travel safely. Whether you’re traveling by air or ground, ensure you have access to a car seat for s says Trudy Slaght, Beyond safety, bringing your own car ” Transport Canada highly recommends the use of an approved child restraint for all phases of flight. The use of a child restraint system provides the greatest degree of protection for the infant or child and its use during flight will help in case of unanticipated turbulence. By using the child restraint on the aircraft, it will also ensure that you will have it available for use in the car at your destination.
Don’t worry about going over the carry-on limit for air travel, you’re allowed the extra item where car seats are concerned. Plus, Clek’s weelee is a universal travel bag that makes bringing your own car seat a breeze!

3. Give yourself extra time.

Everything takes longer with kids so arrive early. For air or bus travel this means you can have your seats pre-assigned, maybe even be placed in a row with extra space, otherwise you risk being separated from your kids. For road trips, be sure to t over pack your vehicle so as to impede visibility. Plan pit stops along the way: playgrounds, parks, landmark attractions, etc. Buckle up and have fun!

4. Plan what to bring.

You won’t have access to all your preferred comforts on the road. Beyond your packed items, bring these essentials with you that should be easily accessible:

For baby: Diapers, wipes, change pads, bottles, extra clothes, formula, etc.

First Aid Kit: Band aids, hand sanitizer, antiseptic cream, gauze pads, plastic bag (for car sickness), medicine, etc.

Snacks: water, drink boxes, easy-to-eat snacks (i.e. sandwiches, cheese, apple slices, granola bars, cookies, cereal raisins, crackers, etc.)

Favourite toy: A familiar object will make your child more comfortable on the road (i.e. teddy bear, blanky, pillow, book, etc.). Keep in mind it could get lost. Something special and new for the trip can make it extra fun too.

Other: sunblock, bug spray, flashlight, phone charger, gps/road side assistance plan, maps, disposable toilet seat covers, etc.

For more information, visit: www.clekinc.ca

About Clek: Clek, based in Toronto, Canada, provides modern safety products for today’s families on the go. Utilizing contemporary styling cues and advanced engineering techniques, Clek products excel in both form and function. With simple innovative solutions, Clek products are designed to make life easier without sacrificing style or safety. Clek 2014 products are free of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants as per a study with HealthyStuff.org. Clek seats are recyclable through Clek’s recycling program.

Travel

Crop Circles And Sacred Sites Of England Tour

July 21, 2013 The Silo Leave a comment

Most patterns in crop circle formations are not readily visible from ground level but details can be noticed and pathways lead to contemplation, relaxation and discovery. Did you know that in Summer 2011 The Silo visited a crop circle in Port Dover,Ontario, Canada? Check back later- we will upload a photo soon CP — Most patterns in crop circle formations are not readily visible from the ground.

Most tangible of Earth mystery
Created anew each year
On underground currents of energy
By sacred sites do appear –
Bedazzle us with your beauty yet again!

There are few mysteries more accessible than crop circles. Each spring and summer these enigmatic patterns appear overnight in crop fields, particularly around the Avebury landscape temple in Wiltshire, England. Whenever possible we enter these beautiful creations within hours of their forming, when the energy of a genuine formation is at its strongest. Cosmic works of art, ET communications in sacred geometric format, pranksters’ hoaxes, spiritual guidance or a warning voice from Gaia, whatever your opinion crop circles are fascinating and truly remarkable.

We have access to the information network that provides breaking news on the latest formations. Some days expert researchers will join us in the circles to share their knowledge and perspectives with us, showing us what to look for or how to dowse for any energy present. You may want to sit quietly in meditation, try and discover what the pattern is (often difficult to tell from the ground inside a formation) or dance with the flow of the lain stalks. Everyone reacts differently to crop circles but no-one can ignore them.

This part of England is also home to some of the world’s most powerful ancient sacred sites including Stonehenge, Avebury and Glastonbury. We will take time to truly experience these places of power including exclusive access to the world famous Stonehenge for a private visit outside of normal hours. Being based close to the World Heritage Site of Avebury Landscape Temple we have daily access to such sites as Silbury Hill, West Kennet Long Barrow and the Sanctuary. In historic Glastonbury we will visit the Abbey, Chalice Well and the Tor.

We’re also offering a pre-tour extension to attend the prestigious Summer Crop Circle Lectures where you will hear fascinating presentations and meet the presenters as well as all the other ardent ‘croppies’.

May we recommend Track 7 Disc 2's "Trampled Underfoot" for listening to while walking through your Crop Circle? ;) — Track 7 Disc 2: “Trampled Underfoot”

Tour Highlights:

• Visits into crop circles
• An optional helicopter flight over these exquisite patterns
• Private out-of-hours access into Stonehenge
• Attendance at the world’s leading Crop Circle Conference with International researchers
• Visits to some of England’s most powerful sacred sites

Supplemental- Crop circles discovered West of Port Dover, Ontario?

Travel

Five Summer Road Trips

June 30, 2012 The Silo 1 Comment

Within the past 12 years I have traveled to and written about over two hundred travel destinations, many within a few hours drive of Niagara. That said, I ‘m often asked what are my favorites. Well, I’ve finally taken the time to think back and jot them down. Before I begin, I should say that I have learned to love the journey just as much as the destination. My primary route to get to a place, when possible, is usually the back way, not the highway, preferably with lots of twists and spectacular scenery. I don’t sweat about getting lost; I’ve found some of my most interesting adventures that way. Another thing that makes for a pleasant journey is to travel on the arm of someone you love. The following are the Coles Notes version of some of my favorite trips.

capriceclassicstationwagon — A yummy car. Memories of old old spice (you know the white bottle?), adidas shorts, sweatbands, the Cars on 8-track and road trips….lots of road trips. #thepastwasablast

Port Rowan, Ontario (138 kilometers)
When you discover this lovely community that hugs the northern shoreline of Lake Erie you’ll be charmed. Nothing shouts. When we walked their tiny main street, which consisted of restored century old stores, we could feel the past. At one end was one of the prettiest habors in Ontario. The whole world slows down when we walked the mature tree-lined side streets where we found historic turn-of-the-century homes that called out to be photographed. If you decide to stay over there are plenty of cozy Bed and Breakfast places to choose from.
Stratford, Ontario (159 kilometers from Thorold- the center of Niagara)
This is a jewel of a city located on the Avon River surrounded by a plethora of affordable eateries, restored Victorian homes on streets lined with majestic mature trees. We fell in love with their walkable downtown filled with plenty of unique shops and a majestic 12–sided red brick building with Queen Anne features built in 1898-99 that serves as their City Hall. The place was buzzing with life. Stratford Tourism offers two free escorted walking tours, a Downtown Historic Tour and a River Walk Heritage Tour.
And of course, there’s the Stratford Festival which serves up top-notch live theater. This season’s calendar opened in mid-April with the musical 42nd St.
This is the home of teen idol Justin Beiber and your teenagers can get a free map from the tourist folks outlining his favorrite places.
www.visitstratford.ca or 1-800-561-7926

georgebaileyPic — The author George Bailey: “I’m often asked what are my favourite [travel destinations] withina few hours drive of Niagara. Well, I’ve finally taken the time to think back and jot them down.”

Elora, Ontario (126 kilometers)
This lovely 177 year-old village is a place that will grow on you the minute you arrive. It’s located on the Grand River where the Elora Gorge begins. Check out the magnificent waterfall and the high rock known as The Tooth of Time, behind the Elora Mill Inn.
We continued to explore the shops, boutiques and restaurant found on Mill and Metcalfe Streets. One unique shop is The Village Olive Grove. It’s one of the few stores in Canada that sells (and allows you to sample) exceptional olive oils and vinegars. One site not to miss is the reflection in the Grand River of the back of the downtown stores.
www.elorafergus.travel or 519-846-0971.

[If you are planning a long road trip with a dash of night driving- remember to fully rest up and stop driving when you are feeling tired CP]

youtubecomment — We have to agree with luckysod04 on this…but check out TOSH.0 parallel parking a Mini Cooper LOL

Lindsay, Ontario (229 kilometers)Lindsay is the gateway to the Kawartha Lakes tourist region. It’s pretty as a picture. One of the main features is Kent Street, the town’s wide main street. It looks like a Norman Rockwell painting. The first to fall under the lens of my camera was the renovated 1893 Academy Theatre at one end of town. Lindsay’s renovated City Hall and Firehall also weren’t too shabby to photograph.
Their Saturday morning Farmer’s Market proved to be a real farmer’s market. It was filled with real farmers who sold produce they have grown on family owned farms for centuries. www.explorekawarthalakes.com or 1-866-397-6673

Aylmer, Ontario (187 kilometers)
Like many of my trips, you have to look beyond what’s found in the tourism publications to experience a community. It’s more than the location of the Ontario Police College. It has a large farming community. Take a ride along the back roads where you will share the road with an industrious Amish community who travel by horse and buggy and operate farms without most modern-day luxuries. Aylmer’s indoor/outdoor Farmer’s Market held on a Tuesday is top-notch. Check out the nearby quaint village of Sparta where you’ll come upon examples of restored period homes dating back to 1825.Don’t miss visiting the Winter Wheat attraction set in a five-acre forest of towering pines.
http://www.aylmer.ca/. or 1-519-773-3164.

for the Silo by George Bailey wonderful.life@sympatico.ca

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