Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Home to some of the country’s hottest designers and artisans, the fashion forward city is a leader in art, couture and cuisine. I decided to spend my first few days in Vancouver’s posh Yaletown district, walking the streets, taking in the sights, and greeting the fresh faces that passed. I filled up on art and culture at the endless museums and galleries that dotted the streets, and ticked some names off my Christmas list with a stroll down Robson Street, Vancouver’s adored shopping avenue.

Since there’s no better way to follow up a day of shopping than with a luxurious facial, I made my way through Yaletown’s upscale boutiques, glassy condos, and yoga centres to the burgeoning Skoah Spa. With all-natural products and a team of well-trained skincare professionals, the stylish spa gave my skin a personalized workout and an all-over glow.

Perhaps one of the best features of Vancouver is its delectable cuisine. Speaking with some of the locals about the best bistros and trattorias, I learned that dinner at Lumière is an absolute must. And I would have to agree. Through an eclectic blend of modern French cuisine and European sophistication, Lumière lets you taste the freshness of the West Coast. With a spectacular chef-selected amuse-bouche menu, I was able to enjoy a little taste of everything, including tender foie gras, ahi tuna sashimi and white onion velouté, each complete with a palette-pleasing wine pairing.

After dinner, I retreated to my hotel for a drink in the swanky Opus bar, and to rest my head in my superbly decorated room. The ultra chic Opus Hotel features 96 guest rooms with vibrant colours, spa bathrooms, and five lifestyle-inspired décor schemes ranging from modern and minimalist, to artful and eclectic. My cranberry red suite was designed for the quintessential business person, equipped with business-savvy reading material and relaxing CDs.

Every year, ski enthusiasts scour the world over in search of the best ski experience, and many end their quest at the renowned Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. A spectacular winter wonderland known for its charming small-town feel and exhilarating skiing, Whistler is the cold weather destination – which is why I made the short trip north to check it out.

I checked into the super-stylish Adara Hotel, where each room boasts a bevy of luxury accommodations, and its own unique décor. Adorned with cozy animal furs, rich-coloured walls, a warm fireplace and wooden beams, I felt like I had my very own ski chalet. The hotel’s lobby was just as charming, as skiers waltzed in and out in full ski gear, and a gracious staff catered to our every whim. Perfectly combining the elements of a boutique hotel and the inviting feel of a winter cottage, the Adara Whistler Hotel captured the true essence of the Whistler experience.

I spent my days swooshing through the powdery snow atop the mountain, and lounging in the Mountain Club chalet to warm up by the fire with a steaming hot chocolate and some tasty après. Later, I soothed my tired muscles at the exotic Taman Sari Spa, the hidden gem of the Summit Lodge, and a haven of zen and tranquility. An authentic Balinese staff massaged my worries away in the candle-lit sanctuary with a relaxing deep tissue massage.

In search of the perfect way to spend my last night, I strolled the village’s cobblestone streets to peruse the various shops and enjoy the live music that came pouring through the bustling pubs and cafés. For dinner, I treated myself to the Confit Fraser Valley Duck and a slice of Pumpkin Spice Cake at the suave Bearfoot Bistro. Most impressive about this bistro was its basement cellar, which houses the most extensive collection of wine and champagne in North America.

As an avid traveller, I hate to admit that I haven’t seen enough of my own country, but my trip to British Columbia showed me just how much Canada has to offer. Both quaint and chic, offering everything you need for serene days and fun-filled nights, there’s no place quite like it. A province overflowing with culture and flair, B.C. brings you the finer things in life.

www.lumiere.ca, www.skoah.com, www.opushotel.com, www.adarahotel.com,
www.tamansarispa.com, www.bearfootbistro.com