MISSION TOFINO: RESTAURANTS IN TOFINO, THINGS TO DO & MORE

With love from Tofino - A fun afternoon at Cox Bay Beach

Want to hear a crazy story?

The day my friends and I travelled from Victoria to Tofino, British Columbia, the highway flooded! At the time, Vancouver Island and the lower mainland were experiencing an ‘Atmospheric River’ which was causing it to rain like crazy (AND I mean non-stop for the previous 4 days). Although rain is not uncommon for BC in November, the amount of rainfall Vancouver Island and the lower mainland received due to the Atmospheric River was record breaking, causing river levels to increase dramatically and localized flooding to occur.

Driving Route from Victoria to Tofino British Columbia

How people typically drive from Victoria to Tofino BC

Unfortunately for us, this all came to light while sitting in standstill traffic on the highway just 25 minutes outside of Victoria. We had planned to get up early, have breakfast and leave Victoria at 11AM which gave us an estimated arrival time of 3:30-4PM. However, just before 11AM the Malahat flooded and we were stuck. We sat there for 5 hours barley moving. Eventually, we learned they had to shut down the highway and had to make a pivotal choice, roll the dice and attempt another route or turn back defeated.

alternative route from Victoria to Tofino British Columbia

How we ended up having to drive from Victoria to Tofino BC

Normally, the drive from Victoria to Tofino BC will be around 4.5-5 hours long and take you up the east side of the island through Duncan, Nanaimo, and Port Albernie. But since the Malahat (the 25 km stretch of highway in the Cowichan Valley between Victoria and Duncan) was closed due to flooding we had to take the long way around. In total, we were in the car for over 13 hours. It was madness! The alternative route we ‘rolled the dice’ on took us up the west side of the island before cutting back across to Duncan, and continuing up through Nanaimo and Port Albernie to Tofino British Columbia. This route added an additional 2.5 hours to our journey and since we didn’t start moving again until 4PM, the sun had set and we had to do the whole drive in the dark! I’m talking dark, foreign, winding, one lane roads in the rain!

By the time we finally arrived to our hotel in Tofino, my friend and I had felt like we had gone through battle together. We were exhausted, relieved and elated, and the rest of our trip definitely had an underlying sense of gratitude to it. Our trip to Tofino ended up being totally worth the additional hecticness and over the next few days we took full advantage of our time there, getting up early to do some hikes, exploring beaches, checking out restaurants and discovering everything the area had to offer.

If you are planning a trip to Tofino, British Columbia make sure to check out my list of recommendations below so you too can make the most of your time in this easy going and playful Vancouver Island town.


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Accomodations In Tofino - Tofino Resort and Marina.jpg

Tofino Resort and Marina offers guest safe harbor to enjoy Tofino’s purifying coastal air, abundant wild life and never ending adventure opportunities.

TOFINO RESORT AND MARINA

Our refuge after the grueling drive and stomping ground during our three night stay was none other than Tofino Resort and Marina. I first heard about this newly opened resort (opened in the summer of 2017) over a year ago. Rumor has it that the place used to be pretty run down and their restaurant was actually the dive bar in town. But looking at it now you wouldn’t know it as the 63 room hotel and marina has been completely renovated and the resort outfitted with a new designated Adventure Centre, a state-of-the-art gym, full service marina, and two new restaurants - 1909 Kitchen and The Hatch Waterfront Pub.

If you are looking to explore Tofino beyond the beaches, Tofino Resort and Marina’s Adventure Centre has you covered with an incredible selection of activities and courses like guided fishing, whale watching, wildlife tours, paddle boarding tours, and Maquinna Marine Provincial Park Tofino Hot Springs Cove tours*!

*During COVID the Tofino Hot Springs (Hot Spring Cove) closed but will be reinstated so check back for future updates!
- Good news! The Tofino Hot Springs (Hot Spring Cove) is now open to the public again! (updated Oct 5 2022)

Since opening, 1909 Kitchen and The Hatch Waterfront Pub have become local favourites. While exploring the many shops in town, several people we spoke with recommended we eat there and commented on how great their brunch was, and how beautiful their waterfront patio and dining room is with views of the mountains. I particularly loved their fresh seafood offerings, use of local seasonal forged ingredients, and well rounded menu selection. Highlights from our meal included the Outlandish Raw Oysters, Kale Salad and Wagyu Flank!

Three additional things I loved about this place were 1) it was clean, 2) my bed was so comfy and, 3) you could walk to town in 5 minutes, which meant you were close to so many of the best restaurants in Tofino including cafe’s, boutiques and more! We were also right on the water so if you wanted to come by boat (I would love to sail up the west coast one day) or gather your best mates for the ultimate pacific salmon fishing trip, it’s the perfect spot to refuel and recharge.

Room at Tofino Resort and Marina, Tofino BC

Suite with King Bed at Tofino Resort and Marina, Tofino BC


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TOFINO RESTAURANTS

Dinner at Shelter Restaurant in Tofino BC

Located just down the street from Tofino Resort and Marina, Shelter Restaurant uses an array of fresh and local ingredients to create dishes that embody the essence of Tofino. My friends and I grabbed dinner at Shelter on our first night and were blown away by how delicious the food was at this Tofino restaurant. Highlights of our meal included the Crispy Brussel Sprouts (unlike any other I have ever tasted), the Farmhouse Chicken Burger, and Steak Frites with Chimichurri.

Hot Tip: This Tofino restaurant does get packed so make sure to call ahead and make a reservation or go early and put your name down before walking around town so you don’t have to sit outside and wait.

Restaurants In Tofino - Tocofino

The little food truck that started it all! Tacofino’s first location at the back of Live to Surf Parking Lot In Tofino BC

The little food truck that started it all, Tacofino’s first location at the back of the Live To Surf Parking Lot still continues to draw a crowd and is definitely a must when in Tofino. Serving delicious tacos (vegan and vegetarian options available), burritos and gringas, this legendary orange food truck has been a favourite for locals and visitors since 2009. The Tuna Ta Taco and Fish Taco are menu favourites as well as the Krispy Chicken Taco, but you really can’t go wrong when ordering anything on their menu.

Dinner at 1909 Kitchen in Tofino British Columbia

Even if you don’t stay at Tofino Resort and Marina, a visit to 1909 Kitchen should still be on your itinerary. Not only are the views amazing, but their cocktail and food menus are too. If you’re in Tofino in the summer they also have a great waterfront patio with views of the mountains. Many people we met also recommended this Tofino restaurant for brunch, but the dinner we enjoyed there was definitely one of the best meals we had.

Restaurants In Tofino - Quest Artisan Patisserie

We found a tiny French patisserie called Ouest Artisan Patisserie while exploring Tofino BC

We stumbled upon Ouest Artisan Patisserie one morning while exploring town and had to stop and check it out. Located in a tiny shipping container at the end of Campbell Street (220 Campbell Street) this traditional French patisserie offers freshly made croissants, breads, sandwiches, and pastries daily as well as beautiful custom wedding cakes, macarons and artisan chocolates. My friend ordered one of their croissant breakfast sandwiches to enjoy while we walked around checking out the other container vendors/stores and the amount of noise he made to show his enjoyment while eating was enough to get my own stomach growling.

Restaurants In Tofino - Rhino Cofffee

Erica and I grabbed two Americano’s from Rhino Coffee House every morning while in Tofino, British Columbia

Every morning in Tofino we would stop in at Rhino Coffee House to grab coffee and treats. Known for their fresh daily donuts and roasting their own beans, Rhino Coffee House quickly became our go to morning spot while in Tofino. Their Americanos were just the caffeine fix I needed to get the day started and I wasn’t alone. This place was always busy and you could tell that many locals like to gather outside chatting over coffee with their neighbours while walking the dog. It was cute and totally encapsulated the ‘Tofino lifestyle’.

TOFINO BEACHES & THINGS TO DO IN TOFINO

If you are looking for fun things to do in Tofino there is definitely no shortage. Known for it’s incredible surfing, visiting one of Tofino’s gorgeous beaches is definitely part of the draw. Even if you have no intention of surfing, spending the afternoon walking along the beach and watching the surfers or sunbathing is must. There are also some great local, family friendly hikes and adventures to do in the area, a few of which I did myself and am happy to recommend below!

Things To Do In Tofino - Visit Long Beach

Captured a surfer heading out for a rip at sunset on Long Beach in Tofino British Columbia

Probably the most famous beach in all of Tofino is Long Beach, where you will see lots of local surfers doing their thing. This 16km stretch of beach represents the longest beach on Vancouver Island and has a vibrant, storied, surf history. Known for being a great place to watch a dramatic winter storm or spot a gray and humpback whale during their migration, Long Beach has been attracting visitors to Tofino for decades. While in Tofino BC, the gang and I took the drive to Long Beach hoping to watch an amazing sunset and we were not disappointed. We ended up arriving 45 minutes prior to sunset and spending a lot of time walking around taking photos. The lighting was so beautiful at this time of day that I ended up taking some amazing shots of wildlife and surf. If there is one beach you can’t miss, it’s this one.

Friendly Reminder: Since Long Beach is located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve remember that droning is not allowed and parking is strictly monitored so don’t forget to pay the fee!

Another great and popular beach to visit is Cox Bay Beach. Surrounded on one side by cliffs, a lot of people who visit Cox Bay Beach will also do the unmarked hike to Cox Bay Lookout, a 2.6 kilometer trail that under normal conditions would be considered moderate. Unfortunately for us, the recent rains had made the trail quite muddy and since the trail is not maintained, I highly recommend you wear hiking boots. The reward of course is a beautiful view of Cox Bay Beach and of the open ocean but take care getting up and down as it can get very slippery, especially going down.

Things To Do In Tofino BC - Tonquin Beach

Erica at Tonquin Beach, the first of three beachs we came across while on the Tonquin Trail.

On our first morning in Tofino, British Columbia, my friend Erica took me to do the Tonquin Trail. This short, 2 mile trail seemed to be a popular trail for locals with dogs (almost everyone we saw had one). Perhaps that’s because it’s so conveniently located close to town or maybe because the trail itself is super easy and quite beautiful. Erica and I were able to do the entire loop in about an hour and a half (we stopped a lot to take photos) and found the trail takes you along the Pacific coastline through rainforests and along rugged cliffs and boardwalks that led to get vantages points. Additionally it also connects three beaches together Tonquin Beach, Third Beach and Middle Beach, so it’s an easy way to see all three with one short walk/easy hike.

South Beach, one of the two beaches you can explore while on the Nuu-Chah-Nulth and South Beach Trail

A great family friendly trail that Erica took me on was the Nuu-Chah-Nulth and South Beach Trail. Apparently as a child Erica did this trail with her dad and to this day still has very fond memories of her experience. The 6.4 km trail is very easy with elevated boardwalks that take you through old growth forests with lush vegetation to two well know beaches, South Beach and Wikaninnish Beach. Known for its large rock formations, South Beach is a pebbled beach with rolling foamy waves. If you’re visiting during storm watching season, be careful of powerful waves and ocean spray!

My favourite beach of all the Tofino beaches was definite Mackenzie Beach. This beach is a little more sheltered than the rest thanks to its large tidal rocks. As a result, the water is calmer than the others with gentle waves suitable for skim boarding, stand up paddle boarding or small children. It also happens to be one of the only beaches we visited that was not in the National Park so I was finally able to take out my drone and ended up capturing some great footage. Beach access is available to everyone, even if you are not staying at one of the properties that line the beach. Everyone is welcome, just parking might be hard.

Unfortunately, when I was in Tofino the Tofino Hot Springs were closed and I was unable to do the tour offered through Tofino Resort and Marina’s Adventure Centre. However, the Adventure Center did mention that they are planning to reinstate the Tofino Hot Springs tour once the Ahousaht First Nation and the Hesquiaht First Nation grant access to Hot Spring Cove again (access was restricted due to concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 to the Hesquiaht First Nation village in Hot Springs Cove). This was definitely something I was looking forward to doing while in Tofino BC but alas, I understand the reasons why. Regardless, I recommend checking back for updates on whether it’s been reopened because it’s something I totally plan on doing the next time I’m in Tofino, British Columbia.


TOFINO MAP

Check out this Tofino map which shows where all the above recommendations are in relation to the Tofino Resort and Marina!


GETTING FROM VICTORIA TO TOFINO, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Victoria to Tofino - Driving

Image credit to TourimsTofino.com

The easiest way to get around the island is definitely to drive and under normal conditions the 317.3 km drive from Victoria to Tofino British Columbia should take you under 5 hours to complete if you don’t stop.

Alternatively, there is a ferry that you can take part way from Victoria to Swarts Bay terminal, but it doesn’t save you time or get you far enough to make a substantial dent so it’s not really a good option.

If you don’t have a car you can also take the Tofino Bus offered by the Tofino Bus Company that services both north bound and south bound daily. Fare for adults start at $102.83 whereas youths between 12-17 are $72 and Children 2-11 are $52. The bus does pick up from various points around Victoria including the Victoria main bus depot (departure is at 9:45AM) so check their website to see what the closest pick up point to you is. There are also four main drop off locations in Tofino so be sure to pick the one closest to where you are staying.


GETTING FROM VANCOUVER TO TOFINO, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Getting from Vancouver to Tofino isn’t hard, it just takes some preparation. There are flights offered by Pacific Coastal Airlines and Harbour Air Sea Planes that can take you right from Vancouver to Tofino in 45 minutes. Additionally you can do a ‘drive and fly’ combo by flying from Vancouver to Victoria, Nanaimo or Comox and drive the rest of the way.

Image credit to TourimsTofino.com

If you don’t feel like flying, BC Ferries also offers numerous ferries from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. Your three options for taking the ferry include:

  1. Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay: Horseshoe Bay terminal is located just north of Vancouver and arrives to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay in just under 2 hours.

  2. Tsawwassen to Duke Point:  Located just south of Vancouver close to the USA border, the Tsawwassen terminal ferry takes you to Duke Point terminal, about 15 minutes south of Nanaimo, in approximately 2.5 hours.

  3. Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay:  Leaving from the same mainland terminal as above, the Swartz Bay terminal ferry takes approximately 2 hours and drops you off 30 minutes north of Victoria.

For more information visit https://www.bcferries.com

Further, if you don’t have a car and don’t want to fly from Vancouver to Tofino, you can also take the ferry to Vancouver Island and then jump on the Tofino Bus. I would just do the extra research to make sure you line up the timing correctly so you don’t get stuck mid transit.


Well there you have it! Another great trip in the books for me and another slew of recommendations for you! If you are heading to Tofino soon I hope you have a great trip and feel free to come back and share your recommendations with me too! I’m always looking for an excuse to go back! Until then, safe travels!

A big thank you to Tofino Resort and Marina for hosting us and partnering with me on this post. As always, all opinions remain my own!


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THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

One of the many beautiful door ways in Cartagena, Colombia

If you are lucky you will one day find a place that fills you with wonder and happiness. A place that presents beauty around every new corner, can inspire you, and can make you feel a connection. For me, this place was Cartagena, Colombia.

Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is truly Colombia’s hidden jewel. It is a vibrant city full of colonial history, beautiful architecture, and warm, friendly people. It is a city that can both charm and surprise you. A place that feels so real, so well preserved, and so authentic to its history and culture. It is a place that I dreamed for many years to one day visit, but no matter how much research or prep I did prior to going, I could never of imagined how truly beautiful and wonderful my experience would be.

This past October I spent four amazing days in Cartagena with Copa Airlines and wished I could of stayed on longer. If you are planning a trip to Cartagena, I am both super jealous and excited for you! If I ever have the opportunity to organize and curate a trip back with a group of my friends, here is a list of places, activities, and restaurants that I discovered and would want to share with them.

Things To Do In Cartagena, Colombia

Entrance to The Walled City

The Walled City (or the Old City) - One of the most beautiful and historic parts of Cartagena is the walled city (essentially a city within the city). During the colonial era a wall was built around the wealthy area of the city to protect the homes of Spanish aristocrats and wealthy businessman from Caribbean pirates. Today the wall still stands and is an important symbol of not just the city but of the entire country. Most of the architecture in the walled city has been well preserved or restored and features bright colourful building facades with large beautiful doors and sprawling bougainvillea trees. It is completely walkable, pedestrian-friendly and is where you will find some of the most beautiful boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops.

If you can afford to stay in one of the many beautiful boutique hotels located in the walled city I definitely recommend it. If you can not, I would still try and jump on a walking tour or take time over the course of you trip to explore and hang out in the area. If you are a photography lover there are endless opportunities to capture beautiful photos in this area and you will absolutely love it!


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Getsemani Neighbourhood - Once a predominantly poor neighbourhood, Getsemani was the epicentre for the Colombian independent revolution in Cartagena. Today it is known as the trendy, bohemian part of town where you can find lots of hostels, bars, cafes, and young people hanging out. Located only a ten minute walk from the Walled City, the Gatsemani neighbourhood also features numerous beautiful, vibrant, murals that add further charm to the area. Since the area is both smaller and cheaper than the walled city, it is a perfect option for those money conscious travellers.

Cartagena Restaurants

While not entirely sure what to expect, the quality of dining options in Cartagena was definitely a pleasant surprise for me. Since the city is located on the Caribbean coast menus are full of fresh seafood options as well as meat, but prices for delicious, creatively executed dishes felt quiet reasonable.

Carmen - this was the first restaurant we went to during our four days in Cartagena and it may have spoiled me in terms of setting the bar for all other dining experiences while in town. The restaurant itself had beautiful tile floors, a small outside courtyards with tables and chairs, an enclosed bar area, and another enclosed and air conditioned seating area (a refuge for us from Cartagena’s heat and humidity). The restaurant offered contemporary cuisine inspired by local flavours, executed using modern preparations. The meal we had here was unbelievable and the presentation was amazing. If you are looking for a truly elevated dining experience while in Cartagena - this is it! After lunch I read over the menu once more and noticed that a five course tasting menu was available with wine pairing for the equivalent of approximately $110 CAD! For the quality of food and service you are getting that felt like a steal!

Restaurante Candé - Although Carmen was an amazing meal my favourite dish while in Cartagena was actually at a restaurant called Candé. Like Carmen, the cuisine at the restaurant was inspired by traditional Colombian flavours and both the service and presentation were amazing. Here I had the fresh fish cooked in coconut milk and served on a bed of veggies, which was so delicious I couldn’t stop eating it even after I was already full.

Alquimico - While in Cartagena I went out to a bar in the walled city called Alquimico that made delicious cocktails. I absolutely loved the vibe here and they had a DJ spinning everything from Calvin Harris to Lauren Hill. The bar spans over three floors with a rooftop patio at the very top. If you are looking for a cool place to go out at night where both visiting and local young professionals hang out - this is it! I will definitely be taking my friends here when we go, it’s just that cool.

Amazing Hotels In Cartagena

Rooftop Cabana’s at Tcherassi Hotel and Spa

Tcherassi Hotel and Spa - I had the pleasure of staying at this beautiful boutique hotel and spa for the first couple nights of my trip in Cartagena and absolute loved it. Located in a restored colonial building within Cartagena’s walled city the hotel is owned and designed by famous Colombian clothing designer Silvia Tcherasii. Tcherassi Hotel and Spa perfectly combines casual luxury and modern design together to create a beautiful, bright and spacious 42 room boutique hotel. I absolutely loved staying here and I totally recommend it to anyone looking for contemporary accommodations while in Cartagena. The hotel also has a great rooftop pool with a handful of cabanas as well as a bar and restaurant area - all of which offer incredible views of the city, so make sure to check those out. Also breakfast is complimentary with your stay making it even more worth the price tag (starts around $230 CAD a night for a Superior Room).

Hotel Casa San Agustin - On my final night in Cartagena I moved to another hotel called Hotel Casa San Agustin that was actually jaw-droppingly beautiful! Also located in the heart of the walled city this boutique hotel is the ultimate place to stay for those looking for luxury accommodations while in Cartagena. The hotel spread across three exquisitely restored 17th century Colonial homes and is comprised of only 31 rooms. The hotel has a Hammam Spa on site and offers complimentary bicycles, mini bar (replenished daily), breakfast, and cocktails and coffee in the library every day. My room was large and decorated in an authentic Colombian style, which being able to experience even for just one night, made me fall further in love with Colombia, its culture, and all it’s charm. Room rates start at around $500 CAD a night which seems like a pretty hefty price tag if you are travelling solo, but if you are going with a group of 4-5 people you can get a suite for $800-900 CAD a night which can be a more palatable alternative.

Things To Try in Cartagena

Coffee Tasting - Colombia is a huge exporter of Coffee which is why when you are visiting Cartagena (or really anywhere in Colombia) you HAVE TO do a coffee tasting. I did a tasting at Cafe San Alberto which is a satellite store front and cafe for the San Alberto coffee farm located in Buenavista, in the Quindío province of Colombia. During the 40 minute coffee tasting I learned about Colombia’s coffee regions, growing cycle, different coffee taste profiles, and brewing methods. Coffee tastings at Cafe San Alberto cost approximately $50 CAD per person and was definitely a culture experience I was happy I did not skip out on.

Salsa Dancing - One of the funnest activities I did while in Cartagena was Salsa dancing! I am not an experienced dancer but doing a 90 minute beginners class at Crazy Salsa was so fun and went by so fast! They have drop-in classes (schedule available online) for a variety of dances, available at all different levels, and intro classes start at the equivalent of only $11 CAD. The dance studio can accommodate up to 20 people in the largest room, but if you are a beginner looking for a more private lesson or travelling with a group of people, they offer packages to easily accommodated your group’s needs and/or individual skill level.

Sailing - Since you are on the Caribbean coast, getting out on the water is a must. While there we took a boat to checking out one of the islands off the coast of Cartagena called Baru and it was so nice to be on the water. Sunset Sailing Cartagena is a boat rental company I got to experience while in Cartagena and they offer everything from day tours to weekly rentals on beautiful sail boats.

Flying to Cartagena

With flights out of both Montreal Trudeau and Toronto Pearson, Copa Airlines makes travelling to South America easy and affordable for Canadians. I flew Copa Airlines to Colombia via Toronto Pearson and thoroughly enjoyed my inflight experience. The staff were friendly, the plane was on time, the seats were big and comfortable, and the food that was served was actually really good! The best part about flying with Copa Airlines though is their ‘24-hour layover in Panama’ offer that is available at no extra cost - an offer I completely took them up on. If like me, you are interested in visiting not just one but two countries on your next trip to South America, this is the perfect bonus offer for you. Panama has some beautifully renovated boutique hotels and I definitely recommend checking out the old city - a perfectly walkable area with lots of cafe’s, stores and restaurants to keep you entertained during your quick 24 hours visit.


Lady dancing outside the entrance to The Walled City, Cartagena

One thing I am also very happy to report is that Cartagena is very LGBT friendly. If you are traveling with friends who are gay, there are gay bars scattered throughout the city of Cartagena.

In terms of safety, I never felt scared, or threatened, or unsafe while in Cartagena in any way, even at night while out partying.

If you have any questions regarding my trip, please feel free to hit me up in the comment section below. If you are heading to Colombia I hope you have an amazing time and I’d love to hear your feedback on any of the experiences/places I recommend if you do end up trying them yourself! Safe travels!


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Additional Photos From My Trip


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FROM SANTORINI TO MYKONOS: ISLAND HOPPING IN GREECE WITH BOOKING.COM

Watching the sunset from Iconic Santorini - A Boutique Cave Hotel in Imerovigli Santorini

Watching the sunset from Iconic Santorini - A Boutique Cave Hotel in Imerovigli Santorini

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Every spring a sea of travel Instagrammers I follow seem to flock to the Greek islands and fill my feed with beautifully white cascading buildings accented with the quintessential blue domes you associate with Greece. Frankly, it’s enough to send a girl into a fit of envy. I have always dreamed of going to Santorini and Mykonos and finally this last June I was able to cross another big destination off my bucket list once and for all!

Prior to going, I knew that the trip was going to be expensive. Both Santorini and Mykonos are only really ‘open for operation’ between May and October and even then if you’re not there in the peak summer months (June - September) it can be a little too cold/windy, or kind of ‘dead’. Nevertheless, I was looking to do this destination the right way and quickly accepted the fact that I may have to pay a heavy price tag for it - sometimes you just gotta treat yourself!

Exploring the village of Imerovigli Satorini, Greece

Exploring the village of Imerovigli Satorini, Greece

Although I knew this trip was going to get expensive from takeoff I started my accommodation search the way I always do, with a scroll through Booking.com. I used this website on my last trip to Italy and quickly appreciated the vast variety of accommodations they offer. From hostel stays to people’s apartments to luxury Santorini villas and boutique cave hotels, they seem to have every type of accommodation under the sun at a variety of price points. My goal, however, wasn’t to find cheap accommodations. I wanted to experience true Hellenic hospitality and so I sought out those hotels that provided the picturesque caldera views I was envious of when seeing those Instagrammers photos. Something quintessential of the destination that would give me the full, real experience. Also, another great thing about this website is that every once and a while you do come across a hilarious review that makes the research portion of planning a trip so much more fun - LOLz!

After a deep dive into the best places to stay in Santorini, I found and secured two perfect places (Iconic Santorini and San Georgio Mykonos) to stay and booking our flight - Adam and I were ready to go. We didn’t bother planning too much ahead in terms of restaurants and activities, because the hotel we were staying at in Santorini said it isn’t really necessary in June - reservations can easily be made the day of or a day in advance at the most. Going with the flow is not my usual style, but we decided to take their advice and see how it played out. In the end, they were right and I was still able to comprise Two ‘Eat, Stay, Play’ survival guides for you so HERE WE GO!


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A beautiful church I found in the town of Imerovigli

A beautiful church I found in the town of Imerovigli


SANTORINI, GREECE

Essentially Santorini is made up of 3 larger towns and villages - Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia. They are all situated on the steep cliffs of the island and face the caldera. To my surprise and what I didn’t know prior to visiting, is that Santorini is a volcanic island with all the beautiful towns you see in the photos are situated on the inner lip of the mouth of an ancient volcano! CRAZY RIGHT!?

Santorini Restaurants

Ammoudi Tavern in Oia - Recommended by the concierge at our hotel, Ammoudi Tavern is one of the best restaurants in Santorini. Adam and I had an absolutely sensational seafood dinner at this restaurant in Oia Santorini. Although it did involve having to drive there, we totally made an evening of it. We went early to catch the sunset beforehand (HOT TIP: Oia is the best place to watch the sunset in Santorini) and once the sun went down, made our way to the little cove below the city where the restaurant can be found. It was very romantic and I would have easily gone back again if we had the rental car for an extra day.

Argo in Fira - This restaurant was another beautiful hotel recommendation and I am so glad they did because it would not have been something I would of found on my own. It was one of the best meals we had while in Fira Santorini and I can still remember the delicious seafood plate for two Adam and I ordered. We spent the evening sitting on their second-floor deck overlooking the Caldera and tiny pathway filled with shops and people, drinking house wine and giggling. The food was spectacular and in very traditional Greek style. The service was friendly, fast, attentive and it easily became one of the best meals of our trip not to mention it’s a great spot to start if you want to experience the nightlife in Santorini or want to grab a bite before hitting up bars and clubs in Fira.

To Psaraki Tavern - A favourite amongst locals, this seafood restaurant gets busy at lunch and after eating there I can see why. The fish was fresh and very beautifully prepared. The restaurant was perched atop a cliff looking over the marina where the sailboat charters come in (you should definitely go sailing while in Santorini - more about this recommendation below) and provides a relaxing atmosphere away from the city crowds for you to enjoy your lunch. The staff was friendly and parking was easy. It is also smack in the middle of Eros and Perivolos Beach (more on this to come as well below) so it’s a great pit stop on your way from one beach to another.

Our Hotel in Imerovigli Santorini

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Iconic Santorini - A Boutique Cave Hotel - situated in the small village of Imerovigli Santorini this hotel is what Santorini vacation dreams are made of. This 17 room boutique hotel offers comfortable, clean, cozy accommodations carved into the mountainside. The hotel recently underwent renovations in 2013 and has been completely modernized and redecorated in a  natural, traditional Hellenic style. Each room comes with its own private terrace and two day beds - a perfect spot to enjoy your complimentary breakfast.

Enjoying breakfast at my hotel - Iconic Santorini in Imerovigli Santorini

Enjoying breakfast at my hotel - Iconic Santorini in Imerovigli Santorini

Although the hotel felt very luxurious, the staff aimed to make you feel at home and comfortable. They were so very accommodating, greeted you every time they saw you, and even allowed for special dinner menu requests from guests. Chef Mattheos - a Santorini native - makes special trips to the market each day to gather fresh ingredients for his dinner menu and was kind enough to pick up an octopus especially for me one evening. His menus often reflect what is in season and is prepared in a traditional Greek manner. Many of the recipes and techniques he uses have been passed down through his family for many years.

The food at the hotel was sensational and very reasonably priced. Although we ate out several times, the view from the dining area at the hotel was one of the best we experienced during our time in Santorini! It’s honestly one of those hotels you could enjoy being cooped up in your entire trip and feel totally content about it.

Since the hotel is perched upon the highest cliffs in Imerovigli Santorini, it does have a 'no children under 14' policy (mainly because a 1000 foot drop off the cliffside is a dangerous risk), but for those who are interested in a quiet, calm, adult-only atmosphere,  one will quickly realize it is the perfect honeymoon hotel. In the end, my stay here was hands-down the best hotel experience I have EVER had and I have nothing but great things to say about my stay at Iconic. I’ll definitely be going back!

Things To Do In Santorini

Santorini Sailing - one of the best activities we did while in Santorini was a 5-hour sail around the south side of the island. Adam and I were walking into Fira Santorini one night for dinner from our hotel (an easy downhill walk) when we passed the Santorini Sailing storefront and decided to step in out of curiosity to check out prices. At this point, it was 9 PM and we wanted to sail the following morning.  Usually, the rates start as low as 90 Euro per person however in our case that boat was sold out. Lucky for us they bumped us up to the semi-private boat which included lunch and unlimited drinks for the same cost! BRILLIANT! The sailing company picked us up from our hotel at 8 AM the next morning and we were sailing by 9! It was such a beautiful day!  The crew were so friendly and told us all about the different island formations and areas. The food at lunch was great and they were always offering to help take your photos, making sure you were having fun, and always had a cold beverage. If you are looking for things to do in Santorini Greece and you don’t get seasick, I highly recommend doing a day sail!

Tango Bar, Fira Santorini - If you are interested in experiencing nightlife in Santorini, this champagne and cocktail bar was recommended to us by a couple of people we met during our stay and so happy they did! Adam and I went and enjoyed a couple of glasses of wine at Tango after dinner one night (the party doesn’t really start to happen till after 11 PM so go late) and danced to some great house music. The bar to me has more of a nightclub feel but unlike many of the other bars we went to, it is cliffside and offers great views of the water and surrounding views of the city lit up at night. Most of the clubs in Santorini are located in Fira anyways so even if it’s not super busy, it’s super easy to walk from one club to another until you find one with an atmosphere to your liking.

Rent a car - Although our hotel was amazing and I could literally spend all day there (and be happy as a clam doing so), Adam and I wanted to explore all the island had to offer. The hotel was amazing at helping us arrange a car and for 60 euros and 24 hours of freedom we thought, why not. If you want to check out Eros beach or Perivolos beach - or even just go into Oia for dinner and watch the sunset, you are looking at a 40 Euro taxi ride each way so may as well rent a car for a day and do all of it! Navigation and parking isn’t difficult so it’s actually one of the best options if you want to be more mobile and explore the island further.

Sunset in Oia Santorini

Oia - A lot of the Instagram photos you see of Santorini are actually taken in Oia. It is a beautiful town with many busy streets and is known as the best place to watch the sunset! Although it’s a bit of a distance from Fira and Imerovigli I definitely recommend checking it out at least once. There is a hiking path you can take from the hotel that is supposed to be about 2 hours walking or you can drive there within 15 -20  minutes. Since Adam and I rented a car, it wasn’t an issue getting to Oia Santorini and actually made for a nice drive. If you didn’t want to rent a car and just take a cab expect around a 40 Euro price tag for a taxi one way.

Eros Beach and Perivolos Beach - another great activity to do if you have the ability to move around the island and want to spend a day at the beach. Since we had a car for the day we were able to go explore both Eros Beach and Perivolos Beach (the black sand beach) and see the different landscapes of the island. These two beaches are both on the more flatter end of the island and are filled with beach clubs and restaurants - a much different vibe from the cliffside towns


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SANTORINI TO MYKONOS

The next stop on our Greek island hopping tour was Mykonos - the party island! Although we did look into flights from Santorini to Mykonos we figured the most viable way to make the journey was to swim. JUST KIDDING! We took a ferry for 70 Euro a person and within 2.5 hours we arrived in Mykonos! It was super easy and the hotel helped us arrange the booking of our ferry tickets and transportation to the Santorini to Mykonos ferry dock.


Exploring Mykonos Old Town

Exploring Mykonos Old Town

MYKONOS, GREECE

So what we quickly learned about the island was that all the big beach clubs and the majority of hotels are all located on the south side of the island. The north side of the island has picturesque secluded beaches with lovely restaurants, but for the most part, everything is happening on the south side. Also, the BIG party day in Mykonos is Sunday so if you can work your itinerary to be there on the weekend like we did, you can really get a taste of the party scene. Lastly, although we did rent a car for a day while in Mykonos, navigating was not as easy as Santorini. We did get lost and had to turn around a handful of times, not to mention I’ve never experienced so many blind corners in my life!

Restaurants in Mykonos

When it came to restaurants in Mykonos, prices were all over the map! Some places were so expensive and a total rip-off, while others offered great value for amazing food. To help you avoid getting stuck in a tourist trap or spending your entire meal budget in one shot (one place we went to was charging over 100 euro for a grilled fish) here are two restaurants in Mykonos I highly recommend adding to your list!

Kiki’s Tavern - When it comes to Mykonos Restaurant, this place is no joke! It was hands-down one of the best afternoons Adam and I had the whole time we were in Mykonos and it wasn’t just because of the food. Picture a little wooden restaurant next to a secluded beach with their own private swimming cove. You show up, add your name to the list (which will typically already have an hour-long wait), help yourself to complimentary rosé while you enjoy the beautiful view of the cove. The wine will start to hit you quicker than usual because 1) you’re hungry and 2) you’re in the hot sun, so you walk down to the waters and go for a dip to cool off. You do this several times until your table is ready and then you enjoy a beautiful meal in the shade with a picturesque view of the water. Beautiful! Since Kiki’s isn’t in town you will need to either rent a car like we did to get there or take a taxi which may even be your best bet considering we did get lost…. a few times. LOL

Nikolas Tavern - Loved this place! Mainly because it was a family-run and owned business and you could really see how they put their whole heart into operating it. There are family photos all over the walls inside and they are so welcoming and ready to offer you something to drink. The restaurant is right on the beach so you can go early to watch the sunset and then hang under their illuminating overhead string lights while you enjoy some traditional Greek food. They also had 14 Euro half-liter pitchers of wine which was a perfect way for me to get a little tipsy before going out. Adam and I loved it here and since it was only a short walk from our hotel we ended up coming back several times during our trip. The prices were completely reasonable and allowed us to eat until our stomachs were full and heart content for under 70 euro! With drinks!

Our Hotel In Mykonos

*use my discount code to receive 15% off your next accommodation reservation with Booking.com

San Giorgio - What really attracted me to this hotel was the bohemian aesthetic. When you see pictures of Mykonos you usually see pictures of the town – all the white buildings with blue windows and railings. What you don’t see is that the island is actually very rustic and when you get out of town, more bohemian, airy, and minimalistic. The land around the populated areas are used for farming and every once and awhile you will see small herds of animals. My hotel San Giorgio was on a beautiful point between two of the best beaches to party in Mykonos – Paraga Beach and Paradise Beach – making it a great location for anyone looking for that Mykonos party experience.

Olive tree at my hotel - San Giorgio Mykonos

Olive tree at my hotel - San Giorgio Mykonos

The hotel itself is beautifully laid out and upon arrival we were ushered down to the pool, given a welcome glass of prosecco, and a breakdown of the hotel. We were informed that our stay included a complimentary breakfast, a free 30 minute training session with the hotel trainer Panos, and were encouraged to participate in one of their many free workshops, talks, and meditations that happen daily. The philosophy of the hotel is to be a communal space where creatives can come to meet and inspire one another. We met a lot of interesting people while we were there and everyone was so friendly and open to chatting, making it super easy to buy into the concept and make new friends.

San Giorgio is a member of the Design Hotel Collection which made it no surprise that the rooms were beautiful. Although not as luxurious as the Iconic Santorini, there was beauty in their understated, earthy, and airy simplicity. It really emulated bohemian chic perfectly with earth-tone painted walls, straw hat decorations, and lights made from natural material. This boutique hotel has only 34 rooms, but each one comes with a little terrace adorned with at minimum a small table and a couple stools. Although you can hear the echoes of the beach club a short distance off it was definitely a nice close haven to escape to when you get sick of the parties.

Things To Do In Mykonos

Mykonos Town - Mykonos Town is picture perfect. This is where you will see all the white buildings and stone-painted (it’s not real stone) ground. A lot of pictures of Mykonos are taken in town, especially by the windmills in Little Venice Mykonos! Go for an afternoon and get lost down the winding alleyways, in and out of small shops, and restaurants and bars - you won’t regret it.

Scorpios - A contemporary take on the ancient Greek Agora, Scorpios is the best beach club in Mykonos and definitely more on the posh side. Drinks will run you between 9-12 Euros so unless you have money to blow come with your buzz already on. Since it can get quite expensive here I found that it attracted a 30+ crowd. Nevertheless, it was beautiful and I loved their ancient Greek tribal atmosphere. The music consisted mostly of techno tribal beats with it was a cool spot to hang out, dance, listen to music, and people watch. This place also happens to be the sister property for the San Giorgio Hotel so if you are staying at the hotel you get line bypass and priority access. A lot of the DJ’s that play at Scorpios also end up being put up at San Giorgio so don’t be surprised if you see them poolside at the hotel the next day ;)

Cavo Paradiso - If you want to party until the sun comes up then this is where you need to go. Scorpios and the beach clubs on Paraga beach usually close down around 1:30 am but the party is still going on at the beach on the other side of the hotel – Paradise beach. Cavo Paradiso is on the point just after Paradise beach (you can literally see it from the hotel) and takes about 15-20 minutes to walk to from the hotel. Here you will find a younger, hostel crowd who want to stay up all night and party! This is the only club we went to while in Mykonos where we had to pay cover (20 Euro) but we got what we paid for and were able to dance all night to a sick DJ (FULL DISCLOSURE: I was pretty tipsy and couldn’t tell you his name, but all I remember is dancing up a storm!) and had a great 'party night in Mykonos' experience. We ended up staying here until the sun came up and walked back to our hotel, totally ready for bed.

Faros Lighthouse - always a sucker for a good sunset, if you are interested in the best spot to watch it from, you just found it. Since it is located on the north side of the island though, you will only be able to do this if you rent a car because 1) there was no taxi stand so how would you get back and 2) it’s not walkable from town.


Although Santorini and Mykonos were two destinations I was dying to visit I really could not have pulled this trip together without my partnership with Booking.com. I have used their site in the past for many of my accommodations reservations and am happy to pass on a 15% savings to you on your next trip with my discount code. No matter where you want to go, whether the US, Europe, a festival or a weekend cottage getaway, Booking.com has such an array of properties and accommodations to choose from they are easily my #1 site. Be a savvy traveler like me! Save on your next reservation and spend that money on a dinner or activity instead!

If you have any questions about my Santorini/Mykonos trip feel free to hit me up in the comment sections below!


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A SLICE OF PARADISE RIGHT HERE IN CANADA - OSOYOOS, BC

View from Painted Rock Winery Tasting Room

It’s kind of crazy for my millennial mind to get around the notion that travelling to faraway places has never been as easy as it is today. As a Canadian my ability to get up and go to another country without restriction is a luxury I fully take for granted. To give you some perspective 36% of American’s hold a valid passport whereas 60% of Canadians have valid passports, making us one of the most well-travelled nations in the world! That said, it has become common place for Canadians to choose to travel abroad instead of visiting beautiful places right on home soil! Crazy right!?


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PLAY: THINGS TO DO IN OSOYOOS

Thankfully I’m here to tell you about a slice of paradise right here at home called Osoyoos, British Columbia. This magical place in my opinion is one of the most underrated destinations for everyone outside of BC. Osoyoos is located 5km from the US border in the interior of beautiful British Columbia and is not only one of the warmest places in Canada, but smack in the middle of BC’s wine country. I was lucky enough to visit this beautiful Okanagan gem last Easter and had the time of my life attending the Osoyoos Oyster Festival, a yearly event to kick off their summer season.

Adding this destination to your bucket list is a must and I’m going to tell you why! Osoyoos has something for everyone. Do you like the outdoors? Cycling, biking, hiking, golfing, horseback riding, wake boarding, water skiing, fishing, boating, skiing, snowboarding, outdoor fitness classes - they have it all. People from British Columbia are some of the most outdoorsy Canadians I have ever met and they have tons of activities to get you out of your resort and into the sunshine where you can enjoy some of the most majestic views of the Okanagan Valley.

On the flip side to its many outdoorsy activities Osoyoos offers so many ways to relax. Their sandy beach, restaurants and wineries are perfect for those who want to spend the day taking it slow and sipping some great BC wines. It’s actually pretty common for people living in the area to spend their days off in the summer slowly drifting down the Okanagan River Channel (located in nearby Penticton) in a tube with a bunch of friends and a cooler full of cold drinks. Now doesn’t that sound like a great way to spend a weekend?!

EAT/DRINK: RESTAURANTS AND WINERIES IN OSOYOOS

One of the biggest draws to visiting Osoyoos is their sprawling fruit orchards and of course their wineries. The Oliver-Osoyoos Winery Association has 39 member wineries and in addition to the wineries in Osoyoos, there are also cideries and distilleries in the area. Exploring some wineries while in Osoyoos is a MUST and can easily be done thanks to organized wine tours like Heatstroke Cycles’ electric bike “Golden Mile Wine Country Tour”. This 4-5 hour leisurely tour takes you to some of the best wineries in the area where you can try some award winning wines. If you are like me and love wine make sure to grab an Oliver Osoyoos Winery Passport before starting your tour so you can collect stamps from each winery to possibly win a case of wine!

With great wine comes great food and restaurants in Osoyoos know how to serve up some great fare. One of my favorite restaurants in Oliver is Miradoro restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards. This restaurant not only offers great views of the South Okanagan Valley but also mouthwatering dishes. Last time I was there during the Osoyoos Oyster Festival I had the best gnocchi ever! It had Oyster foam with an herb and seaweed sauce - so creative and delicious I would honestly go back just for that. If you are a foodie I definitely recommend making a reservation at Miradoro and trying out some of the great restaurants in the region.


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With over 28 festivals happening throughout the year in Osoyoos there is always something to do. The last two years in a row I have travelled to Osoyoos to attend the Osoyoos Oyster Festival. In terms of variety and bang-for-your-buck two of my favourite events from the Oyster Festival include Walnut Beach Resorts ‘Deep Sea Garden Party’ and the ‘Art of The Pearl Gala’ at Spirit Ridge Resort! Both events offer a huge selection of food vendors, wineries and of course oysters! Shout out to Codfathers Seafood Market for supplying the festival with amazing East and West coast oysters from some of the best farms in Canada. The Walnut Beach Garden party is a fun daytime event that other than the ‘Art of the Pearl Gala’ seems to have the most food and wine vendors along with a good flow of oysters. I’m not someone who likes to wait in long lines so this was a huge plus for me. The ‘Art of the Pearl Gala’ at Spirit Ridge Resort is the big finale event for the Oyster Festival and manyrestaurants in the region participate and go all out creating some pretty crazy and unique dishes for this special event. If you were to go to one event during the Oyster festival the gala at Spirit Ridge would be it! I was so impressed with how many restaurants and wineries participated in the gala, you could spend hours going from station to station tasting and sipping all the delectable offerings. It also had a very good flow so you never had to wait long for food and the supply of oysters seemed endless - which as a foodie is exactly what I wanted!

STAY: OSOYOOS HOTELS, TRANSPORTATION, AND PLACES TO STAY

Traveling to Osoyoos has never been easier thanks to Air Canada and West Jet flying into both Kelowna and Penticton airports. I flew direct out of Toronto and landed in Kelowna BC 4.5 hours later. I like to be mobile so renting a car was the easiest solution for me, but a shuttle service is available from the Kelowna airport thanks to Let’s Go Transportation. The drive from Kelowna to Osoyoos is about 2 hours and it is one of the most beautiful drives I have ever done. The drive from Penticton to Osoyoos is approximately 1 hour. When it comes to Osoyoos hotels and places to stay, there are a variety of accommodation choices to fit anyone’s budget. From the beautiful and luxurious Watermark Beach Resort to the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites to local camping sites it’s easy to find a place to rest your head that also fits your budget. Whatever your lifestyle it’s about time you start thinking about heading out west and exploring this beautiful country we live in.


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THE UP EXPRESS, THE FAIRMONT ROYAL YORK & DINNER AT EPIC RESTAURANT

UNION STATION TO PEARSON AIRPORT

Only two short weeks ago I was graciously invited to try the UP Express and experience a stay at the newly renovated Fairmont Royal York Hotel. As with most happy surprises I was ecstatic by the news and knew the only way I could do the experience justice was to video document it for you.

The UP Express, for those of you who have not yet traveled to Toronto, is Toronto’s express airport train that runs between Toronto Pearson International Airport and Union Station in Downtown Toronto; Toronto’s busiest transpiration hub. Having opened its services less than a year ago the rail service has already lowered its cost to $9 for Adults with presto cards and $12 for those without (children 12 and under ride for FREE). With trains departing every 15 minutes they put the ease and convenience back in traveling to and from the airport and is a great alternative if you don’t want to take an expensive shuttle to and from Pearson Airport . Their trains are fully equipped with bag storage, power outlets and the WIFI is free! It takes a total of 25 minutes to get from the airport to downtown Toronto and the best part is that it’s completely traffic free.  If you don’t need to go all the way downtown do not worry, the train also makes two quick stops along the way at Weston & Lawrence and Bloor & Dundas West. For more information on the UP Express and to view the UP Schedule, feel free to visit their website.


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FAIRMONT ROYAL YORK - A HOTEL IN DOWNTOWN TORONTO

Upon arriving at Union Station getting to the Fairmont Royal York is literally just a hop, skip and a jump. Located across the street from Union Station the Fairmont Royal York Hotel is Toronto’s most historic hotel having opened in 1929. The hotel has recently undergone renovations, revamping room decor including new HDTVs in every room! They have also renovated the pool (that’s right, a Toronto hotel with a pool) and exercise room, have upgraded services on demand, satellite iPad check-in during peak hours, paperless checkout, and digital path-finding monitors. I also highly recommend checking out the Fairmont Royal York Spa during your stay as it is fabulous. To book your next stay in Toronto at the Fairmont Royal York feel free to visit their website for easy web-booking.

Once I was fully able to settle into my room and lounge in their plush bathrobes before getting ready for dinner, I received yet another happy surprise – a small pre-dinner amuse bouche.

The evening’s dinner was hosted at the Fairmont Royal York’s Epic Restaurant. Chef de cuisine Joshua Dyer provided us with a four-course meal perfectly complimenting each dish with wine selected by the house sommelier. Each course presented is available on the current restaurant menu, which changes seasonally. The restaurant’s reputation for innovation and quality was truly evident with each dish. They are known for placing importance on sourcing and using regionally grown premium ingredients; purchasing ingredients from only the best of Ontario's growers. Further, you may also be interested to know that all of the Fairmont Royal York restaurants takes advantage of the hotel’s rooftop herb garden and hand-harvested honey, which they incorporate in many of the dishes and cocktails.

After dinner I was also able to sit down with chef de cuisine Joshua Dyer of Epic Restaurant and learn more about his passion for cooking and what it’s like working for the Fairmont Royal York. Below is a video of that interview. To book a reservation at Epic restaurant please visit their website.

If you have any questions about my experiences please do not hesitate to leave a comment below! If you missed my SnapChats from the event I'll add the video below!

Here are the links to all websites for quick reference:

UP Express - https://www.upexpress.com/Home/index
Fairmont Royal York - http://www.fairmont.com/royal-york-toronto/
Epic Restaurant - http://www.epicrestaurant.ca/home

Fun Fact:
Honey Bees: In June 2008, the Royal York installed three beehives on its fourteenth-floor rooftop terrace to serve its in-house garden. Approximately 350,000 honey bees provide several hundred pounds of honey each year, including 800 pounds (360 kg) in 2011.

Many thanks to Una MacNeil, Sonya Singh, Jessica Bertolo, Brody Horne and Chef Dyer for hosting me!


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