AND THE GOLD MEDAL GOES TO…YOU???
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.

BALD, BEAUTIFUL, MAJESTIC, AND WHAT A SWING!

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.

CULINARY ENTHUSIAST SECRETS

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.

WHO ARE BRIAN AND JAMIE?
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.

THE JUNGLES OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
“ 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.