The Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy are
just around the corner…the
perfect time to watch the skill, the grace, and
the fluidity of the Olympic skiers as they compete for the gold
medal. But how did they get so darned good? Perhaps
through years of practice, perhaps with years of instruction,
and perhaps with the Ski Elite program? You too can ski like a pro with this program at the Four Seasons
Resort Whistler! Take in a day with Whistler Blackcomb’s
premier ski professionals on a one-on-one basis and be first
off the blocks with priority mountain access.
A head-set helmet gives you minute by minute play with your instructor,
along with video tape footage that shows your style and finesse in powder, on moguls and riding
big air. And after your day of hopefully expert
skiing? Enhance your Olympic potential a little more and gather
around
in the library at the resort to get the latest
news and views from Whistler Blackcomb’s finest ski professionals.
The complimentary fireside chats get you up front
and centre with the mountains’ experts, with tips
of the day to local’s knowledge of where the powder lies.
Sip complimentary hot beverages, share stories with other guests
and reminisce about the glorious day. For more
information
visit www.fourseasons.com.
It is not a mystery that the region is flooded with eagles each winter, perched
gloriously in treetops and along
riverbanks. While the eagles in Brackendale have acclaimed fame, and deservedly
so, many have not yet discovered
the collection of eagles in the Fraser Valley, where you may witness the 3rd
largest eagle habitat in North America.
Sandpiper Golf Course is situated in the centre of bald eagle heaven, and there
is nothing more spectacular than
golfing alongside these stately birds. Practice your swing amidst flowing expanses
of green, towering Douglas fir
trees, and the refreshing aroma of Western Red Cedar, with the cries of eagles
filling your ears. Stay overnight at
the charming Rowena’s Inn on the River, in one of 4 secluded cabins,
where you have the opportunity to meet
Betty Anne Faulkner, the granddaughter of Charles Fenn Pretty, who homesteaded
the property. The historical
background of the area will astound you, and sipping tea and hearing Betty’s
amazing tales might even overshadow
the awe of the eagles! Visit www.sandpipergolfclub.com or www.rowenasinn.com for details.
There are fine lines around her periwinkle eyes, a look of
intense concentration on her weathered face as her
hands perform small miracles with a touch of yeast and a ton
of fluffy, white flour. She furrows her brow and
sculpts the oblong loaf into the perfect size, before addressing
the next awaiting batch. Distracted suddenly by
an awaiting customer, her mouth spreads into a wide grin and
the lines deepen around her eyes, carved out of
years of merriment. This is the face of one of the many vendors
at Granville Island, where the baked goods are
only one of many scrumptious delicacies to tempt your palate.
The island is a tourist hot spot in Vancouver, a
must-see on many itineraries. But there are hidden secrets
on the island that many tourists never discover. Now
you can discover these secrets, on an insider’s tour
of the island with Edible British Columbia. Meet the vendors,
learn about unique food products and their producers, and sample
their wares. Then enjoy brunch in False Creek,
asking questions to your heart’s content about food products,
preparation, and the local food scene. Visit www.edible-britishcolumbia.com for information.
It’s nothing like “Where’s Waldo” and “Where
in the World is Carmen Santiago”, you can find Brian
and Jamie
right here in Vancouver, Coast & Mountains! They are
the upbeat, fun-loving leaders of à la carte specialty
tours,
and they are eager to meet you. Not only do they provide
exclusive and personalized tours, they do it with a style
all of their own. Without giving too much away, you just
have to experience meeting these fine gentlemen, and
enjoy a tour with à la carte specialty tours. Another
unique little secret… ils parlent français aussi.
See www.alacartespecialtytours.com for details.
“
Wow, what a small world!” Often spoken in exclaimation
when you discover your childhood friend from 20
years ago is actually the second cousin of your new boss, or
when you run into someone you used to date during
your stint in London while you are living in Wisconsin, or…well
you get the picture. But it really IS a small world
when you can find the Amazon jungle right here in our little
corner of the world! It’s true…meet Chuck Scott,
the
owner/operator of Wild BC Tours. Dengue fever damn near killed
him (we are grateful it didn’t!), and although
he still loves the jungle, his heart and home are here in Vancouver,
Coast & Mountains, where he guides tours to
Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler. Visit www.wildbc.com for information.