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Travel News: WestJet unveils its Dreamliner ‘Spirit of Canada

WestJet today unveiled its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner livery, logo and cabin interior including the airline’s first-ever business class cabin. The reveal is part of WestJet’s lead-up to the arrival of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in early 2019. WestJet is a proudly Canadian, modern, and innovative airline. With our distinctly Canadian guest experience delivered by our more than 13,000 WestJetters, we are truly bringing the Spirit of Canada to the world. We are an international airline with headquarters and roots in Western Canada, yet we will never forget where we started in 1996. -Richard Bartrem, Vice-President Marketing Communications, WestJet The WestJet Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner features a three-class cabin including business class seating, premium economy and economy seating. Drawing from Canadian themes, the cabin interior welcomes guests with a rich colour palette: a soothing alpine lake blue in Economy class; aurora‑inspired shades and tones in Premium Economy; and in…

Boston

Travel News: The First Raffles Hotel & Residences Opens in North America

 Raffles Hotels & Resorts, part of AccorHotels, in partnership with hoteliers Gary and Jeffrey Saunders of Saunders Hotel Group and developer Jordan Warshaw of The Noannet Group of Boston, announced the signing of definitive agreements to debut the first mixed-use Raffles property in North America. scheduled to open in 2021. “We are proud to announce the introduction of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, one of our portfolio’s most iconic and beloved luxury brands, to Boston, an American city with a powerful history of cultural significance and landmark events,” said Kevin Frid, COO of AccorHotels North & Central America. “As the only Raffles property on the continent, the hotel will bring to North America the unparalleled standards of excellence for which the Raffles brand is celebrated. We are certain that Raffles Boston Back Bay Hotel & Residences will become a legendary address for unsurpassed service, extraordinary style and distinctive experiences for years…

Canada

Book Your Special Event at the Toronto Marriott Markham Hotel

Ushering a new era of hotels n the Marriott family, the Toronto Marriott Markham Hotel offers an unrivaled guest experience that inspires guests with 209 sleek, modern guest rooms, an unexpected art collection, and top rated F&B offerings.  The 192,000 square foot hotel is best known for its personalized service, inspired and flexible meeting space and top of the line amenities. Ruth’s Chris Steak House, M Club, Draco Restaurant, Cacao 70 Eatery and an infinity pool, are just some of the offerings that the Toronto Marriott Markham features.  Nestled centrally in downtown Markham,  the Toronto Marriott Markham Hotel provides easy access to major highways, and is conveniently located near Main Street Unionville, the Pan Am Centre, and the upcoming  York University East Campus Built. The Guest Rooms at the Toronto Marriott Markham The new hotel has designed each guest room offers a spacious and upgraded look complete with tailored solutions for the modern…

Canada

Toronto: Relax at Ici Paris Ski Care Clinic & Spa

One of the priorities of a busy traveler is taking care of their skin. From dry planes to sun exposure, there are a number of conditions that busy travellers face that can take a number on their skin. That’s why finding a relaxing spa at home that can treat your worries is important.  Located along the Danforth in Toronto, Ici Paris Skin Care Clinic & Spa has 41 years of experience focusing on the latest innovative techniques and advanced holistic therapies while providing customers with the highest quality skin treatments, products and stress escapes. For the busy traveler,  facial therapies  are a great way to refresh, relax and repair after the stress of travel. While their skin care consultants are able to provide you with the best recommondation for a treatment based on your needs, smeone who is on the road a lot could benefit from the Double Glycholic Facial or…

Australia

City Guide: Sydney, Australia

Last week I told you all about my adventures beautiful Bondi Beach. But, when you go to Sydney, be sure to check out the main city as well. This capital city on the eastern coast of Australia has a population of over 4 million people, making it the largest city in the country. Rich with culture and the stunning landscape of the ocean to the east and the Blue Mountains to the west, Sydney has become a lively cosmopolitan city that should not be missed. The best way to get around this vibrant city is to understand all of the different districts that have their own unique characteristics and community. When you visit central Sydney, be sure not to miss these areas! The Rocks Located just west of the Circular Quay, The Rocks is the historic colonial village by the water. This cozy little community is also home to the…

Canada

Travel Tips: Rick Mercer’s 15 Year Trip Across Canada

Rick Mercer has been an integral part of Canadian television for the last quarter century. Born in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canadians have found delight in quick-witted comedic style that has captivated audiences all across the country and the world. Earlier this year it was announced that fifteen seasons, 277 episodes and 264 rants, The Rick Mercer Report will be coming to an end in April, 2018. The final season features destinations all across Canada traveling from a Sea Cadet National Regatta in Kingston, Ontario to a shipwreck Festival in Gjoa Haven, Nunavut to the Festival of the Grape in Oliver, British Columbia. After a decade and a half of traveling across Canada for this program, Mercer is finally taking some time at home to unpack his suitcase. The Best Job in Canada “I know I have the best job. It is a little embarrassing how much I enjoy…

Design

Design: Alya Skin Uses Australian Pink Clay to Detoxify

1. If you could describe Alya Skin in 3 words what would they be? I would describe Alya Skin care as Loving, Fun, and Genuine. We consider all Alya Skin customers as family – we do our best to provide the best product at an affordable price. We also endeavour to ensure our products work. I think these days most companies make claims that aren’t necessarily true. The reason why we have been so successful within the first 3 months of trade is because our product works! 2. What was the motivation in developing the pink clay mask? I’ve always had my eye on the beauty niche – once we heard about Pink Clay, we knew we could produce a product that actually worked and a product that would give results, but wouldn’t break the bank. 3. How have you been able to develop the product while remaining committed to…

Portugal

10 Things to do in Lisbon

1. Wake up early to explore. Whether you are looking to get the best pictures, or hoping to catch a glimpse of the landmarks, the best time of the day to do so is early in the morning. Take advantage of the unobscured views by rising early and visiting the Praça do Comércio, Rossio, or wander through the Baixa and Chiado neighbourhoods to enjoy these sights without the hustle and bustle. Plan your morning walk to enjoy these main sights without having to fend off crowds of other tourists. 2. See one of the best views at the Castelo de São Jorge. Located at the top of the hill in Alfama, the Castelo de São Jorge offers one of the best views of Lisbon and the Tagus river. This Moorish castle is a historic medieval landmark that overlooks the city. Go back in time by exploring the archeological site or climb to the top of the…

Food & Drink

Toronto Coffee & Tea Expo Returns

Join us at the second annual Toronto Coffee & Tea Expo  is taking place on Saturday, April 14th and Sunday, April 15th at Evergreen Brickworks (550 Bayview Ave.). Guests of the two-day expo will experience the city’s top brews and discover industry tips, emerging trends and new beans from local vendors and indie cafés from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. Coffee and tea lovers will discover what’s brewing in the minds of leading coffee and tea innovators as they explore exhibitors, savour endless free samples, learn industry secrets and participate in new and returning hands-on programs — like free TIY (Tea-It-Yourself) workshops and Espresso-Making classes. There will be a “best cup” competition hosted by CBC’s The Goods’ Chef Shahir Massoud alongside a celebrity judge panel on Sunday at 3:00 pm. Tickets are available for $15 online. $20 at the door, pending availability. https://www.torontocoffeeandtea.com/tickets

Travel News

Magnolia Hotel & Spa opens new restaurant: The Courtney Room

The Magnolia Hotel & Spa in Victoria, British Columbia  announced the opening of their new  restaurant, The Courtney Room, later this spring. “Old world meets the new world in The Courtney Room, which is opening in our 20th anniversary year,” says Bill Lewis, general manager at Magnolia Hotel & Spa. “Now owned and operated by the hotel team, we can’t wait to reveal the bright, elegant new room, and share Chef Sam Harris’ menu, inspired by both land and sea.” Working with  interior designer Sharon Bortolotto from BBA Design, the firm responsible for the hotel’s guestroom refresh, and are excited to work with the team from Glasfurd and Walker; designers of innovative brands such as The Botanist in Vancouver. The Courtney Room will be designed in the  style of a classic French bistro, with elements of Art Nouveau. High ceilings and bistro style lighting create a casually elegant ambience – focal…