Westwood Lake in Nanaimo is a man-made recreational oasis with 5.5km of hiking and walking trails, a playground, a dog off-leash area, and a sandy beach. It’s located just up the hill from the Harbour City, across the highway and at the base of Mount Benson. On its shores you’ll also find the Westwood Lake […]

Situated in the bountiful Cowichan Valley (Cowichan Bay being North America’s first Cittaslow designated region) Duncan is at the epicentre of farm-to-table goods on Vancouver Island and Chef Daniel Hudson is definitely taking advantage with his new restaurant Hudson’s on First. Fresh off an appearance on Top Chef Canada where he competed for five weeks, […]

Sounds of a city rushing by outside fades as you step into Cibo Trattoria located inside the Moda Hotel in the heart of Vancouver’s entertainment district. This boutique hotel’s Italian-themed culinary gem offers a comfortable and romantic oasis with candles, smooth music, and bottles of wine adorning the walls. John and I were recently invited […]

Yesterday the winners of Vancouver Magazine’s 24th Annual Vancouver Restaurant Awards were announced during a ceremony at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. Hosted by Fiona Forbes and Michael Eckford, industry members and media were on hand to sip, sample, and tweet about the winners. There are over three dozen categories, with all those honoured listed […]

Grain Tasting Bar is the latest main lobby attraction at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver that combines rustic and contemporary elements with chic ambiance. Local craft beer specials on game nights, wood-fired pizzas, and featured BC growers, distillers, and brewers make this new hot spot shine. Photo courtesy of Grain Tasting Bar Chef Thomas Heinrich is […]