Yes, I know, summer hasn’t even been yet. In fact, we’re pretty much still waiting for spring to be fully sprung. There are still frosts, and it doesn’t seem like it’s almost the start of March. There is so much still to come this year! Easter, the Summer Holidays, Halloween….. It really does seem crazy to be thinking as far ahead as winter. BUT! Why not treat yourself this year?
Canada doesn’t necessarily come to mind when you’re thinking of high end holidays. But just you wait! Unless you’re seriously flush, these treats are going to need a little time to prepare for. Yes, we’re talking about saving. Unless you win the lottery, you’re unlikely to be booking one of these as a last minute treat. We’re talking class, luxury and style. And that doesn’t come cheap. If you want to experience the VIP lifestyle, it’s not easy to do on a shoestring. So splash the cash, max the cards, give yourself little luxury this Christmas. It’s always nice to get away for a few days over the festive season and recharge your batteries before the big day. It’s also a brilliant way to find some unusual gifts for the folks back home!
To Stay – Whistler, British Columbia
If you find salvation on the slopes, then the ultimate Canadian ski resort has to be Whistler. Situated 121 km north of Vancouver in British Columbia, it’s a blend of traditional charm and luxe living. There’s a variety of Whistler accommodations to suit all needs and budgets.
Whistler has more to this destination than just skiing. Even if you’re not too fond of the slopes, there is plenty to do. Snowboarding, hiking, cookery classes, whatever you enjoy doing there is something to suit everyone. And if you don’t want to do anything at all, you can experience some serious pampering at the spa!
To Eat- Raymonds Restaurant, Newfoundland
Raymond’s Restaurant was voted the best restaurant in Canada in 2015. The prices are what you’d expect to pay for such fine dining, but you won’t be disappointed. Drawing heavily from local, fresh seasonal produce, the menu is outstanding. There is a whole selection of delicacies for to tantalize your taste buds. The menu features specials which change daily. One of the must-try starters is the smoked Moose Heart. Why not follow that with local wild Newfoundland rabbit loin? That comes served with purple beets, juniper, dates and pickled chanterelle mushrooms. That’s along with the cabbage, partridgeberries, Jerusalem artichoke purée and rabbit jus! The level of artistry shown here surely has to rival some of the finest restaurants in the world! And as for the dessert menu? You need to find out for yourself.
To Drink – Le Mal Nécessaire, Montreal
It’s worth a trip here alone just to see the beautiful bar. Constructed from 3,700 pieces of walnut cut to a thousandth of an inch. The craftsmanship and finish are outstanding and a real conversation starter. Which is handy, Le Mal’s seating is big comfy communal wooden booths. The bar, tucked away in Chinatown, has a distinctly Mexican feel. The house cocktail, (named after the establishment itself ), is delicious! It’s a mix of bourbon, Fernet-Branca, Bowmore, pineapple, cinnamon, and herbs. Le Mal Nécessaire is glamorous drinking at it’s finest.