The Pearle Hotel & Spa: A Jewel on the Lake

By Barbara Ramsay Orr “But the pearls were accidents, and the finding of one was luck, a little pat on the back by God.” – John Steinbeck   As a travel writer and guidebook author, I have frequently written about the attractions in this part of the province, between Toronto …

Navigate West: 13th Street Winery

For a relaxing daytrip in spring, 13th Street Winery in St. Catharines beckons. There are more than two decades of winemaking behind the label that wraps 13th Street’s bottles, and plenty more to be discovered on a visit. Here you’ll find a revitalized farmhouse, high ceiling tasting room, a bakery and …

Research now, Travel Later

Slow, immersive and pre-planned post-pandemic travel By Barbara Ramsay-Orr   When travel resumes, journeys will be changed as a result of the isolation and caution created by the pandemic. Travel professionals are predicting that we will be visiting places that are less packed with tourists, we will be learning in depth …

Roam Notes

Remote travel with Disney Reach remote destinations aboard luxury ships led by Adventures by Disney, which is now entering the expedition market. Its first expedition cruises will set sail to Antarctica in late 2021 and to the Galapagos Islands in 2022. They will feature expert naturalists and adventure guides with …

Golfing in the Tropics

Plan the perfect golf trip to the Caribbean and Bermuda By Tracey Luel A warm and sunny golf vacation in the Caribbean or Bermuda may seem like a dream right now, but while we have the time why not plan, explore and get organized for Fall 2021 and beyond. Fingers …

Luxurious remote work destinations

By Erica Tu While 2020 has brought about many changes, uncertainty and challenges, it has also taught us all how to adapt to a very fluid situation. Travel has come to a halt during the pandemic and many of us recognize, more than ever, the benefits that we’re missing out …

Roam Notes

Vegan Victorian vacation Scotland’s first vegan hotel opened in June 2019, and it’s already winning awards. National Geographic just bestowed a Good Egg award on the Saorsa 1875 for its commitment to sustainability. The 11-room Victorian lodging features vegan dining, upcycled furniture, eco cleaning products and runs on renewable energy. …

A (virtual) luxury retreat

By Barbara Ramsay Orr   Celebrated California chef, Jillian Fae, is in my Burlington kitchen, giving me a cooking lesson.  We are chopping red bell peppers together, preparing the ingredients for a curried shrimp dish with scallions, coconut milk, and cilantro, and a fresh cabbage slaw with nut butter vinaigrette. …

Navigate West: Experience the dome

Experience the Canadian winter in style At Fielding Estate Winery’s Wine outdoor dome lounge in Beamsville. The Domes are heated, transparent, socially distance and exclusive for your party, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Enjoy wine by the glass, and cheese plates and flights while taking in the …

Parksville-Qualicum Beach: East coast gem of Vancouver Island

By Linda Barnard   Picture a beach that appears to stretch forever with mountains in the distance, waterfalls, lush and peaceful forests and a Mediterranean-style climate. It may seem like an unattainable getaway with travel plans on pause but there’s no passport required for a vacation in Parksville and neighbouring …