Posts Tagged ‘Canada Hotels’

Spend the Holidays in Montreal at Hotel Le Saint Sulpice

Thursday, November 12th, 2009

Warm, cozy and inviting are the words that come to mind when I entered the Hotel Le Saint Sulpice.

Faade du St-Sulpice

This luxury hotel is located in the most historic spot of Old Montreal just steps away from the famed Basilica de Notre Dame, Hotel Le Saint Sulpice is an ideal spot for sight-seeing, shopping and strolling along the cobble stone streets exploring all the shops and sights.

I couldn’t think of a better way to spend the evening after a day of shopping and sightseeing than to snuggle up in front of a roaring fire.  Almost every suite in the hotel features a fireplace, large soaker tub, and cozy decadent furnishings.  One can almost feel as though they are staying at their Uncle’s estate in Europe for the weekend.

The hotel’s European inspired restaurant, Restaurant S, features live music after 5pm every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.  The restaurant produces a scrumptious array of local meats, fish and poultry.  And don’t forget to try the rabbit, it’s spectacular!

With the holidays around the corner, I couldn’t think of a better place then to stay at Hotel Le Saint Sulpice for the season.

hotel-le-saint-sulpice-montrealIf you want to get away for Christmas be sure to take advantage of their Merry Christmas Package. This includes an overnight stay for Christmas Eve in on of their fabulous elegant suites, a Christmas five course dinner, live music from their band, Continental breakfast, and a festive Christmas day Brunch.  Perfect!

If you already have plans for Christmas, why not spend your New Years Eve in Montreal?  Their New Years Eve package includes a one night stay in one of their elegant suites, a welcome bottle of Champagne, a New Year’s six course dinner, live band music and a delicious New Year’s Day Brunch.  I’ll toast to that!


A Heavenly Honeymoon: The Wickaninnish Inn

Wednesday, November 11th, 2009

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Wind, waves, water, wilderness, wonderful food and West Coast warmth await you at the Wickaninnish Inn: if that doesn’t turn you on after your wedding, what will?

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Our big day had been a huge success and even more spectacular than we thought possible. But apparently the best was yet to come… a room fit for a West Coast King and Queen welcomed my new husband and I to the earthly delights of the Wickaninnish Inn. When the door swung open, the lights were dimmed, candles were lit, the fireplace was on and romantic music was playing. Rose petals were scattered on the floor, over the bed, and in a bath that had been drawn for us in the double soaker tub overlooking the beach. Wow. And sitting on the table next to the fireplace was a bottle of champagne and a welcome card from Guest Services representatives, Emmanuel and Rheena.

Waves were crashing on the rocks below our balcony and the wind was howling. This was our idea of heaven.

wickaninnish-innSeveral hours earlier, on our drive here, we had accidentally drifted off course. “Nicole, I hate to say this, but shouldn’t we be in Ucluelet or Tofino by now? Or Port Alberni?” My new husband suddenly looked sheepish. Apparently he had unconsciously headed towards the site of his stag the week before instead of our honeymoon destination. I had been dozing since we docked in Nanaimo, but now, a few hours after we had driven off the ferry in Vancouver Island’s Departure Bay, I was wide awake. As we passed a sign saying Port Hardy – not Port Alberni – I decided to call The Wickaninnish Inn.

Cory at Guest Services was calm and gracious as we realized that we had been headed in the wrong direction for a few hours despite clearly marked signs. He kindly offered to change our dinner reservation at the Inn’s Pointe Restaurant to as late as possible. The staff at the Wickaninnish was clearly prepared to go above and beyond to “iron out any wrinkles” in the beginning of our marriage.

the-wickaninnish-innUpon our arrival, we were seated in the dining room while Emmanuel took our things to our room. We were brought two glasses of Blue Mountain Brut and ordered a dozen fresh oysters to share. I decided on the Ginger & Tamarind Glazed Sablefish and Paul asked for the Sloping Hills Pork.  We both had a piece of each type of delicious homemade bread brought to our table, and the amuse bouche was fantastic.  My sablefish and Paul’s pork dish were out of this world and we shared crème brûlée in several different flavors for dessert. A dish of decadent chocolate truffles arrived with our cappuccinos, accompanied by a piece of dark chocolate with the word “Congratulations” written on it in white chocolate.

the-wickaninnish-inn-canadaNeedless to say, this welcome put us in a wonderful mood and the rest of the week got better and better. There was a surf competition taking place – the O’Neill Coldwater Classic – down the beach; the restaurants in town – Shelter, Sobo, Schooner and others – were incredible; our couples massage at the Inn’s Ancient Cedars Spa was an out-of-body experience; the tasting menu at the Pointe Restaurant was gastronomically magnificent; and on days when the weather wasn’t exactly sunny, we had a perfect excuse to luxuriate in our romantic room.

We moved to the Chesterman Beach Loft Suite for our last night at the Inn.  That meant Paul could do the one thing he’d been determined to accomplish while we were there – cook crab! It was a lot of fun and a delicious treat – thanks to the suite’s well-equipped kitchen. We even collected seawater to cook our 3 huge live crabs in. Yum.

I met with Charles McDiarmid, the Managing Director of The Wickaninnish Inn, the next morning for a guided tour. It’s impossible to stay at the Wickaninnish without being impressed by the incredible attention to detail around every turn. From the furniture and art pieces made by local artists, to the use of recycled wood to the way that every part of the place reflects its unique combination of awe-inspiring, wild surroundings and unmatched, sumptuous interiors. Did I mention that you can see the view from every place in the bathroom… even the shower? Our king bed was turned down every night, there were books and dvds in the library to borrow, countless indoor and outdoor areas to explore, and always someone willing and able to offer us anything we needed. It quickly became evident that creating the Wickaninnish Inn was a labor of love for Charles, his father and their team.  As a result, the Wickaninnish is a truly magnificent Canadian destination.

the-wickaninnish-inn-bcPaul and I love to travel. We had spent time in Europe last summer, and I had just moved back to Vancouver from Toronto before we got married. But when the time came to plan our honeymoon, we both realized there was no place we’d rather go than Tofino… and definitely no hotel we’d rather stay at than the Wickaninnish Inn. The best part of it is that now I have the perfect excuse to suggest a stay there at least once a year… for our anniversary, of course.


Great 2010 Olympic Getaways Close to Vancouver: Part 2

Monday, November 2nd, 2009

Beautiful British Columbia

If you are heading to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympic games, extend your vacation and check out some of the best hotels in British Columbia close to Vancouver!

Port McNeill:

nimmo-bay-resort

The quickest and most common way to get to here from Vancouver is to take a short 50 minute flight into Port Hardy and then taxi to Port McNeill. Once you have arrived make sure to check yourself into Nimmo Bay Resort. This is the perfect spot for those who are looking to experience the true Pacific Northwest wilderness. With their high end Heli-Fishing or Heli-venture trips you will surely have an experience like no other. Stay in one of their beautiful chalets right on the water and dine on some of the most delicious cuisine around.

Tofino:

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Come to Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, with a quick flight from Vancouver via Canadian Air Charters or Tofino Air and experience the Long Beach Lodge Resort. The weather here is fairly mild all year round but make sure to bring your waterproofs as the temperate rainforest climate is sure to bring the rain. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in the area so cameras are a must! And after a long day you can dry off at Long Beach Lodge Resort in your own Rainforest Cottage, warm up in your private hot tub and take it one step further with an in room massage. What could be better than that?

Victoria:

sooke-harbour-houseFor any first time visitor to Vancouver, a trip to Vancouver Island’s city of Victoria is usually top on the agenda. This city is an easy one and a half hour ferry ride from Vancouver and is full of trendy shops and great restaurants. And if you are looking for a fabulous luxury inn, Sooke Harbour House is where it’s at. Nestled in the corner of Sooke Harbour, overlooking the Olympic Mountains, and home to one of Victoria’s finest seafood restaurants, this is the perfect place to complete your 2010 Olympic getaway vacation.

Okanagan Valley:

burrowing-owlNestled in interior BC, this area is officially known as the “Wine Capital of Canada” And at a four and a half hour scenic drive from Vancouver; the wine will be worth it. Perched on a hillside in a fortress-like building is the Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, your perfect sanctuary in South Okanagan. The phrase a room with a view is taken to a whole new level here and with each having its own intimate fireplace, its best to bring that special someone.

Make sure to check out part 1 of our Great 2010 Olympic Getaways.


Great 2010 Olympic Getaways Close to Vancouver: Part 1

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

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Kiwi Collection has some of the best hotels in British Columbia and with all of them being so close to Vancouver, it’s is sure to make your 2010 Olympic getaway even better!

Sunshine Coast:

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Found along the northeast shores of the Straight of Georgia (from Gibsons to Powell River and Desolation Sound), the Sunshine coast is only about a 40 minute drive away from downtown Vancouver and is one of the most naturally beautiful places close to the city! Think excellent scenery, cozy inns and peace and quiet. The only thing you can do here is relax. Our favourite hotel on the Sunshine Coast is Rockwater Secret Cove Resort. This boutique resort offers guests the opportunity to stay in tree-top tenthouse suites. Rockwater Secret Cove Resort combines luxurious accommodation with camping. Pretty cool.

Blue River:

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If you are looking to experience one of  the best places for heli-skiing on the planet, Blue Rive is your best escape. Located in Western BC and about a 6-hour scenic drive from Vancouver, this winter wonderland is sure to leave all the Olympic business behind you. The small community in Blue River along with some of the landscape in Canada attracts visitors from all over the world. And if you are looking to get cozy in an old European style lodge, the Albreda Lodge on the edge of town is the place to be.

Salt Spring Island:

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Half way between Nanaimo and Victoria, Salt Spring Island is just off of Vancouver Island’s East Coast. This relaxing and quaint place is perfect for kicking back and enjoy being “away from it all” without having to go too far from the city (making it a perfect “quick” Olympic escape!). Salt Spring Island is home to many artists, musicians and sculptors and is a great place to visit if you want to explore some of Canada’s best local talent and some of the most beautiful countryside on the west coast away from the hustle and bustle of the Olympics this February. The best way to get to Salt Spring Island is by float plane, which will take less than an hour. Check out Salt Spring Air, Seair Seaplanes, Harbour Air Seaplanes and Kenmore Air. In terms of accommodation, the best hotel on Salt Spring Island happens to be a quaint little inn! Hastings House Country Estate is tiny (only 18 rooms), and has an excellent restaurant and spa. President of Kiwi Collection, Philippe Kjellgren, stayed there recently and we wrote a review about his stay!

Jesmond, Clinton:

echo-valley-ranch-spa

Located in the interior of British Columbia, Jesmond, Clinton, is the Echo Valley Ranch and Spa which has one of the best spas around. At a comfortable five-hour drive from Vancouver, visitors to Jesmond, Clinton can also get there by chartered flights. If you need a place to let go and relax after all the Olympic festivities, let their Baan Thai spa help get you reguvinated and refreshed with a wonderful scene of well being. Offering a wide variety of classic spa services as well as Asian therapies, you might never want to go home.

Check out part 2 of our Great 2010 Olympic Getaways close to Vancouver!


Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen Season 6 Winner to Head to Whistler

Friday, October 16th, 2009

Most of us have heard the foul mouth Gordon Ramsay yell at his up and coming chefs during his hit show Hell’s Kitchen. And season 6 has come to a close and announced its winner, Dave Levey, with the grand prize of joining the Araxi kitchen up in Whistler, British Columbia.

hells-kitchen-season-6-winnerDave will soon be heading up to the beautiful scenic mountains of Whistler and join Executive Chef James Walt and the rest of the Araxi Restaurant and Bar team just in time for the 2010 Olympic games. During the season Dave battled with a cast on his wrist but impressed Gordon Ramsay with his fortitude in a come from behind victory.

Araxi Restaurant holds a long held international reputation for excellence in food, wine and hospitality right in the heart of Whistler Village. With ingredients from nearby Pemberton Valley farms and collaboration with local growers, Araxi’s seasonal menus showcase the extraordinary cuisine of the area and is known as one of the best in the Pacific Northwest.

The Araxi Restaurant is close to all of Kiwi Collections luxury hotels in Whistler and will surly make your next visit to the mountain escape a memorable one. Some of these hotels in Whistler also appeared on the Bachelorette this year:

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler:

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The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler:

the-westin-resort-spa-whistler

Four Seasons Resort Whistler:

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Pan Pacific Whistler Village Center:

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Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside:

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Hastings House Country Estate is the Perfect Spot to Relax on Salt Spring Island

Saturday, September 5th, 2009

If you’re trying to find an excellent spot to host a relaxing romantic weekend, or if you want to charm your mother or mother in law with a trip to a gorgeous country estate in one of the world’s most tranquil settings, look no farther than Canada’s Salt Spring Island!

This gorgeous island is part of the Gulf Islands off the coast of British Columbia on Canada’s Pacific Coast. Salt Spring Island is a favorite destination of both local Vancouverites, Canadians from other cities and international travelers because of its island charm. There is no better place to relax.

President of Kiwi Collection, Philippe Kjellgren, recently stayed at a luxury hotel on Salt Spring Island – Hastings House Country Estate. He really enjoyed this English-style Inn, set amongst a 22 acre garden

“Name a flower and you’ll see it at Hastings House,” Philippe recounted of his stay. “It’s a very romantic and very picturesque place.”

Hastings House Country EstateThis 18-room luxury Inn is right on Ganges Harbor and is known for its excellent gardens, fine food and wine and quiet, natural beauty. Each suite is uniquely designed and decorated, giving guests a truly individual experience.

On Saturdays, guests can walk in to town (only about 10 minutes away) and enjoy the fabulous farmers’ market. You’ll find all kinds of great local produce, Salt Spring lamb, local wines and all kinds of tasty treats here.

Philippe was particularly impressed with the high quality amenities and products in the rooms (Molton Brown bath products), the relaxing Muskoka Chairs and the fabulous food served at the hotel’s restaurant.

Salt Spring Island is one of the easier Gulf Islands to get to. You can take the quick and scenic route to get there from Vancouver by traveling by float plane. This way, you get a great aerial view of downtown Vancouver and of Salt Spring Island – a once in a lifetime view!


Go to Tofino, Port Mcneill or Pender Island for the Labour Day Weekend

Monday, August 17th, 2009

If you live in Vancouver chances are you are going to want to head out for the long weekend to get away from city. And as any Vancouverite knows, the city is surrounded by amazing places to visit, especially for those of us who want to ‘get back to nature’.

If you are thinking that the perfect island getaway is what you need for the long weekend, look no further than Pender Island. This island is one of British Columbia’s most spectacular, southern gulf islands and is easily accessible by both airline and ferry.

Poets Cove Resort & Spa:

You’ll find Poets Cove on the less populated South Pender Island, perfect for some alone time. With its rolling farmland, pristine lakes, wilderness and marine parks, it offers endless opportunity for exploration and enjoyment.

Poets Cove is beautifully designed with an elegant sophistication about it. Each room is complete with its own fire place, balcony and stunning view of the ocean. During your weekend stay here, make sure to take advantage of Poets Cove’s Susurrus Spa which offers a full range of spa services using seasonal ingredient treatments in a soothing atmosphere of relaxation and indulgence.

Although best known for its awesome winter rains, Tofino is great in the summer for those who love to surf, kayak, hike or go whale watching. Located on Vancouver Islands west side on the Pacific Ocean, this is another perfect weekend getaway.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort – Bedwell River Outpost:

This premier eco-safari destination is open annually from mid May to the end of September and only offers all inclusive adventures of 3, 4 or 7 night stays. Inspired by late 19th century Great Camps, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort promises a delicious irony of indulgent luxury and remote, untamed wilderness.

Under the canopy of the Rainforest along the water’s edge you’ll find a total of 20 roomy guest tents. They are great white canvas prospector-style quarters built on discreetly-situated raised wooden platforms, connected by cedar boardwalks.

clayoquot-wilderness-resortsThese all inclusive packages include all gourmet meals made with very fresh, whole-food oriented ingredients, drinks, and all guided and unguided activities including some spa treatments. Note: arrivals are available only on Thursday or Sunday.

If you are hoping to stay away from the Pacific on the east side of Vancouver Island another great getaway is Port McNeill. This coastal town supports many species of fish and wild life. And, of course, the mild climate allows for year round outdoor recreational activities, and is enjoyed by visitors from all over the world.

Nimmo Bay Resort:

If you are looking for adventure, Nimmo Bay Resort has tailor made helicopter adventures that will exceed your highest expectations. Best known for its Heli Fishing and wilderness adventures, the Nimmo Bay professionals will work with you to custom design a wilderness outdoor adventure for your group of any size.

Each day is action packed with a variety of coastal adventures in and out of the helicopters. This is truly the best way to experience the beauty of the B.C. coast.

nimmo-bayEach of the nine chalets at the Nimmo Bay Resort are all set in a panorama of pristine wilderness that only British Columbia can provide. Complete with a floating main lodge and bakery where meals are served close by, your stay here will be on that you will never forget.


Get out of Edmonton Labour Day Weekend: Lake Louise and Jasper

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

Although Edmonton is a beautiful city in and of itself, resting in its scenic river valley with a thriving music and arts community, sometimes the best way to spend a long weekend is to get out of the city and get back to nature.

With both Lake Louise and Jasper close by it’s a perfect time to hit the highway and breathe the fresh mountain air.

grizzly-bearsJump in the car and head south west, in about 5 hours you will hit the fabulous Lake Louise. Lake Louise is one of the largest ski areas in North America – but you can still get a lot out of this uniquely beautiful area in the summer.

Be sure to bring your camera and take advantage of their fully enclosed gondola for some of the world’s greatest views of the Rockies. This ride is also the best in the world for seeing wild grizzly bears in their natural environment.

It’s also a great place to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the summer and relax at some of the world’s best luxury mountain resorts.

Post Hotel & Spa:

Voted as the number one ski hotel in North America by Conde Nast, Post Hotel and Spa is a perfect long weekend getaway! Reward yourself at their Temple Mountain Spa which is inspired by nature and designed to envelop you in comfort offering personal custom treatments.

The Post Hotel and Spa was originally built in 1942 and resonates with the spirit of its colourful founder, Sir Norman Watson. Also home to a magnificent wine cellar, it has won the Wine Spectacular Grand Award for six consecutive years from 2002 – 2007. Their extensive list of wine is a perfect for  accompaniment for their four diamond winning distinguished restaurant which Gourmet Magazine has listed as the third best rustic retreat in the world!

This hotel is truly a gem in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Moraine Lake Lodge:

Nestled in the spectacular valley of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake Lodge is the ultimate romantic escape. The luxury lodge embraces the dramatic beauty of the surrounding area and is a sanctuary suited to meet all of your needs offering breathtaking views of the snow capped mountains and glacier-fed lake.  The lodge also offers complementary canoe rentals to enjoy Moraine Lake, the lodge’s inspiration.

Every room and cabin at the lodge has an outdoor deck complete with custom designed, hand crafted log furniture, giving guest true Rock Mountain comfort.

The Moraine Lake Lodge also offers spectacular dining with a unique and elegant menu showcasing the best cuisine from the region. Wine-lovers will also delight in their impressive wine cellar, including Canadian and American vintages.

Another great alternative to your long weekend getaway is Jasper. Only a three and a half hour drive from Edmonton, the town of Jasper is a beautiful area in nature, preserved under the aegis of Canada’s national park system. With a wide range of activities and wildlife to explore Jasper is perfect for the entire family.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge:

Probably the most famous accommodation in Jasper, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge welcomes you to the Grand Canadian Lodge Experience. Enjoy homelike comforts and amenities surrounded by incredible views of majestic mountains and the emerald green Lac Beauvert.

Just in time for the Labour Day long weekend, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is offering a special, “99 Ways to Play”. They are offering a $99 play credit per night to use towards anything you can charge in your room.

You can use this credit towards food and beverage, golf green fees and club rentals, the kid’s camp, onsite activities or towards their Insignia Salon & Spa just to name a few.

This is the summer to discover Jasper!


Get out of Calgary for Labour Day Weekend: Banff or Yoho National Park

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009

Sometimes the best way to spend a long weekend is to get out of the city. Nestled near the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is surrounded by pristine wilderness featuring some of the finest natural areas in North America. With epic landmarks like Banff and Yoho National Park close by, it’s hard not to find an excuse to get away from the city.

If you are looking for an interesting getaway out of the city this weekend, why not head out to the beautiful Yoho National Park. Only a two and a half hour scenic drive from Calgary and just over the provincial boarder it’s a great spot to rest up and take a relaxing long weekend. With activities ranging from canoeing and rafting, fishing and mountaineering you will surely be inspired to enjoy nature.

Cathedral Mountain Lodge:

Wake up to the song of wild birds and the call of an alpine river, to the scent of fresh pine and the beauty of mountain wildflowers at Cathedral Mountain Lodge, an authentic log cabin. Located along the glacier-fed Kicking Horse River in Yoho National Park, each cabin is perfectly designed to create an oasis of luxury.

Each cabin features wood burning stone fireplaces and comfortable private decks with fabulous views. The Cathedral Mountain Lodge enjoys and excellent reputation for offering fresh regional cuisine showcasing the best of the Rockies while focusing on organic, free-range and in season local ingredients. They also have an extensive wine cellar offering Canada’s finest wine, as well as many excellent selections from both Old and New World vineyards.

I can’t think of a better way to spend a weekend then at this luxurious mountain hideaway.

If Yoho National Park isn’t your thing, only about an hour drive outside of the Calgary, Banff is a perfect getaway to enjoy the mountains, walk amongst nature or get some great shopping in. Activates like rafting, wildlife tours or horseback riding can all be planned ahead but nothing beats a little luxury with your adventures. Featuring some of the best hotels in Alberta you can’t go wrong with a weekend stay in Banff.

The Rimrock Resort Hotel:

Nestled above the Banff town site, The Rimrock Resort Hotel offers comfort and luxury combined with the most breathtaking mountain and alpine valley views to be found. Guest rooms are complemented by the natural beauty found outside with wood accents and earthy tones.

This resort hotel features multiple restaurants to indulge in whether you have a taste for elegant wild game, a delicious martini by a fire place or a more formal evening at their AAA/CAA five diamond dining room, Eden. Your long weekend getaway will surely be one to remember.

The Fairmont Banff Springs:

Few hotels in the world can rival the majesty, hospitality and scenery of The Fairmont Banff Springs, known as a symbol of Canadian hospitality. Sometimes called ‘The Castle in the Rockies’, this luxury resort will make your long weekend anything but ordinary.

The Fairmont Banff Springs offers a variety of vacation packages, each designed with your comfort and enjoyment in mind. From romance to sports they will supply everything from champagne to lift tickets. Could it get any better than that?


Canada Day 2009: Montreal

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

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Canada Day in Montreal

This Canada Day Montreal is celebrating Celafete 2009. With over 200 free activities for people of all ages and interests at the quays of the Old Port there’s no excuse not to get involved! If you are celebrating with kids they will be sure to enjoy multiple inflatable bounce rides and get inspired by circus performers from Circus Magic and the Floating Theater. Food lovers will be able to feast on a day long food fair featuring local culinary talents.

If you are a big kid at heart make sure to attend Dansons Sur les Quais an open air disco starting at 9 p.m. Just like any disco you won’t be short on laser beams, 3-D projections, low level fireworks and live performances on two stages. This is celebrating in true Montreal style. And after your dancing feet have had a good work out don’t forget to check out the final fireworks show down at le Vieux Port at 11 p.m.!

For a great end to a great day, make sure to book your stay at one Montreal’s best hotels for a great night sleep:

Opus Hotel Montreal
W Montreal
Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile


Canada Day 2009: Quebec City

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

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Canada Day in Quebec City

Known as the jewel of French Canada, Quebec City is simply like no other place in North America!

This year, Canada Day is taking place during Quebec City’s tenth annual Festival Grand Rier de Quebec comedy festival. With almost 500,000 visitors coming out to the festival during its 26 day run, you will be guaranteed to be laughing till you cry.

If comedy doesn’t suite your fancy make sure to check out the free Canada Day show at Place Georges V starting at 7 p.m., featuring musical artists such as Long distances, Guns Roses, Jonathan Roy and Finger Eleven. This show will end with a bang displaying the traditional celebratory fireworks show.

If you are in the city for a visit make sure to book your stay at one of these amazing hotels in Quebec City, which will be the perfect end to the perfect day.

Auberge Saint-Antoine
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Hotel Dominion 1912


Canada Day 2009: Banff

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

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Canada Day in Banff :

Right in the middle of Canada’s gorgeous Rocky Mountains, you won’t want to miss the Canada Day festivities in Banff.

Festivities kick off at Canada Place with the annual Parks Canada Pancake Breakfast (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.).

After breakfast, head to Banff’s Central Park where you can enjoy the majestic scenery and entertainment (on the Louis Trono Gazebo and Stampede stages). The 2009 Parade runs along Banff Avenue (starting at 5 p.m.) and afterwards, Canada Day enthusiasts can head back to Central Park to listen to some live music and view the spectacular fireworks show, starting at 11 p.m.

If you’re just visiting during Canada Day, the following is a list of some of Banff’s Best Hotels:

The Rimrock Resort Hotel
The Fairmont Banff Springs


Canada Day 2009: Edmonton

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

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Canada Day in Edmonton :

There’s no shortage of Canada Day celebrations in Edmonton this year. From a free pool party and BBQ at Borden Park (1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 112 Avenue and 73 Street), to the Silly Summer Parade (starting at noon and running until 2 p.m. at 7730-106 Street), you can see two grand fireworks displays at night!

Fireworks start at both Mill Woods Park (66 Street and 23 Avenue) and Kinsmen Park at 11 p.m. The Kinsmen Park Fireworks (known as the Canada Day Fireworks Finale), take place over the River Valley, and spectators can’t view the fireworks from the park.

Good places to view the fireworks include: Alberta Legislature Grounds, Victoria Park (River Valley Road), Ezio Farone Park (west entrance to High Level Bridge on 109 Street North), Dantzer’s Hill (below Queen Elizabeth Park), and Government House Park (Groat Road and River Valley Road).

If you’re traveling here, the following is a list of some of Edmonton’s Best Hotels:

Matrix Hotel Edmonton
The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald


Canada Day 2009: Whistler

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

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Canada Day in Whistler:

Planning to head up the Sea-to-Sky Highway on or around July 1st this year? Why not stop of in Whistler to commemorate Canada’s Birthday and join the 2010 Olympic Mascots Miga, Sumi Quatchi for a day filled with fun for everyone.

Go to Whistler Village and join the “Whistler Spirit—Let’s Hear It!” parade where locals and foreigners will celebrate Whistler’s heritage and culture.  Street performers will provide entertainment; a ceremony featuring athletes, guests and the Olympic torch, will mark the opening of the Olympic Store in the core of this unique resort town.

If you are going to stop in Whistler, here are some of the finest places to relax and enjoy the scenery from:

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre

The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler


Canada Day 2009: Victoria

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

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Canada Day in Victoria:

As the capital of BC, you bet that Victoria’s city center will be bouncing with fun and excitement to celebrate Canada and its diversity.

Music by the Japanese drumming ensemble, Uminari Taiko, Al Milner, Pacifika, and Elliot Brood will resonate from Victoria’s harbor throughout the day. Activities for adults and kids will provide ample opportunity for you to join in the celebrations.

The Canada Day Fireworks will end the night with a bang at 10.30 p.m. sharp.

Here are some of Victoria’s finest hotels, should you be visiting the area during the festivities:

Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa
The Fairmont Empress