Lifestyle, Travel

The Metcalfe Hotel Ottawa: A Chic Staycation in the Heart of Canada’s Capital

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When it comes to stylish city escapes, Ottawa is often overlooked in favour of larger Canadian destinations. Yet tucked away in the heart of downtown, the Metcalfe Hotel offers a sophisticated staycation experience that rivals some of the best boutique properties. Whether you’re an Ottawa local looking for a luxurious weekend away or a first-time visitor to Canada’s capital, the Metcalfe is the perfect base from which to experience the city.

Historic Beginnings

What makes the Metcalfe particularly special is its rich connection to Ottawa’s history. The property occupies the former site of the home of Sir George-Étienne Cartier, one of the Fathers of Confederation and a key architect of modern Canada. The site later became home to a state-of-the-art YMCA, which was among the most modern facilities of its era and was once home to renowned portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh, when he was first starting out his career in Ottawa. Today, the hotel seamlessly blends this remarkable heritage with contemporary luxury, creating a unique space that feels distinctly Ottawa.

The Hotel

Following an extensive transformation by Gray Collection, the Metcalfe now offers beautifully designed guest rooms that feel both elegant and inviting. Thoughtful details, luxurious bedding, modern bathrooms, and calming neutral palettes create a refined retreat after a day spent exploring the city. The rooms strike an ideal balance between boutique character and modern comfort, making them equally suited to business travellers, couples, and weekend explorers.

Beyond the guest rooms and restaurant, the Metcalfe’s lobby deserves special mention. Anchored by soaring ceilings and flooded with natural light, it functions as far more than a traditional hotel lobby. It’s the kind of space that invites guests to linger, whether you’re catching up on emails over a morning coffee, settling into a comfortable chair with a good book, or meeting friends for a casual conversation. In an era where so many hotel public spaces feel purely transactional, the Metcalfe’s lobby has been thoughtfully designed as a true living room for guests and locals alike.

The Location

Location is another of the hotel’s greatest strengths. Situated at the corner of Metcalfe Street and Laurier Avenue, guests are within walking distance of many of Ottawa’s most iconic attractions. Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, Confederation Park, the National Arts Centre, Sparks Street, and the city’s thriving downtown dining scene are all just moments away. For first-time visitors, it’s difficult to imagine a more convenient location from which to discover the capital.

The Food

One of the highlights of any stay is dining at the hotel’s French-inspired restaurant, Cocotte Bistro. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that transitions effortlessly throughout the day. Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast before heading out to explore Ottawa, enjoy a relaxed lunch between meetings or sightseeing, or settle in for an elegant dinner featuring classic French flavours with a contemporary touch. During the summer months, the patio becomes one of downtown Ottawa’s most charming spots for al fresco dining, offering a perfect setting for a glass of wine and a leisurely meal.

The Verdict

For Ottawa residents, the Metcalfe offers the perfect excuse to rediscover the city through fresh eyes. For visitors, it provides an elegant introduction to Canada’s capital, one that combines history, design, exceptional hospitality, and an unbeatable downtown location.

Stylish, sophisticated, and unmistakably Ottawa, the Metcalfe Hotel proves that sometimes the best getaway is closer to home than you think.

Lifestyle, Travel

Colombo Confidential: Sri Lanka’s Hidden Gem

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I am back after a long hiatus on this blog! Although I haven’t posted much on my personal website this year, I have been active as a writer and contributor for Style Canada magazine’s Checked-In series.

I’ve also been travelling quite a bit this year and spent a little over a month in Sri Lanka, which brings me to the subject of this article: Colombo.

When most travellers think of Sri Lanka, images of golden beaches, ancient temples, lush tea plantations, and wildlife safaris often come to mind. Destinations such as Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, and Galle frequently dominate travel itineraries, while Colombo is often treated as little more than a gateway city, nothing more than an overnight stop.

But that perception overlooks one of Sri Lanka’s most fascinating and dynamic destinations.

Colombo is not simply a stopover. It is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that offers a captivating blend of history, culture, cuisine, luxury, and modern energy. For travellers willing to look beyond the typical tourist trail, Colombo reveals itself as one of Sri Lanka’s most underrated hidden gems. It’s also my favourite city!

Many tourists view Colombo as a typical commercial capital without much appeal but it is far from that. From the grand colonial architecture of the Galle Face Hotel to the sprawling modern marvel that is Cinnamon Life City of Dreams, Colombo offers a luxury travel experience on par with many notable destinations worldwide. Whether you want to go to the beach, spend the day on a yacht or at a beach club, shop like a fashionista, eat like a king or simply watch the sunset, Colombo has got you covered!

Where Old Meets New

One of Colombo’s greatest charms is its ability to seamlessly blend the past and present.

Colonial-era buildings stand alongside sleek skyscrapers. Historic churches, temples, and mosques share the skyline with modern developments. Walking through the city, visitors can experience centuries of history while witnessing the rapid transformation of one of South Asia’s most exciting urban centers.

The historic Fort district and the bustling streets of Pettah offer a glimpse into Colombo’s rich trading heritage, while areas such as Colombo 7 showcase elegant residential neighbourhoods, embassies, galleries, and cultural institutions.

This unique juxtaposition gives Colombo a character unlike any other city in the region.

A Culinary Destination Worth Exploring

Sri Lanka’s food scene is often overshadowed by that of its larger neighbours, but Colombo is quickly emerging as one of Asia’s most exciting culinary destinations.

From authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry to sophisticated fine dining experiences, the city offers an impressive range of flavours and influences.

No visit to Colombo would be complete without dining at Ministry of Crab, one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants and a fixture on international dining lists. Located within the historic Dutch Hospital precinct, it has become a destination in its own right, attracting visitors from around the world eager to sample Sri Lanka’s renowned seafood.

For food lovers, Colombo is a destination that rewards curiosity.

Luxury Without the Crowds

While many major cities around the world have become increasingly crowded and expensive, Colombo offers a more relaxed luxury experience.

The city is home to world-class hotels, elegant boutique properties, oceanfront dining, luxury spas, and exclusive experiences, all often at a fraction of the price travellers would expect to pay in other international destinations.

Among the city’s newest landmarks is Cinnamon Life, an ambitious mixed-use development that has transformed Colombo’s skyline and further elevated its luxury hospitality offerings. At the same time, historic icons such as the Galle Face Hotel continue to captivate visitors with their timeless elegance. Few experiences are as memorable as enjoying afternoon tea on the hotel’s oceanfront terrace while watching the waves roll in from the Indian Ocean.

Whether enjoying afternoon tea, relaxing at a rooftop pool, or discovering the city’s vibrant dining scene, Colombo delivers a sophisticated travel experience without the overwhelming crowds often found elsewhere.

Shopping and Modern Colombo

Many visitors are surprised to discover just how modern Colombo has become.

One Galle Face has emerged as the city’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination, bringing together international brands, local designers, restaurants, and entertainment under one roof. With sweeping views of the ocean and a vibrant atmosphere, it has become a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors.

The city is also looking toward the future through projects such as Port City Colombo, a bold waterfront development that is reshaping Colombo’s coastline and positioning the city as a major business and lifestyle hub in the region.

Sunset by the Ocean

One of Colombo’s greatest luxuries is its connection to the sea.

As the sun begins to set, the city comes alive along the waterfront. Whether enjoying cocktails at Firebeach, where tropical vibes and ocean views create the perfect backdrop for an evening out, or spending the afternoon at Bellevue Beach Club, Colombo offers countless opportunities to embrace its coastal lifestyle.

Watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a drink by the ocean is a reminder that Colombo is far more than a bustling capital city; it’s a destination that knows how to slow down and savour the moment.

The Hidden Gem Most Travellers Miss

In a country filled with remarkable destinations, Colombo often remains overlooked. Yet it is precisely this lack of attention that makes the city so rewarding to explore.

Authentic, energetic, sophisticated, and endlessly surprising, Colombo offers a side of Sri Lanka that many visitors never take the time to experience.

For travellers seeking more than the typical highlights, Colombo may just become the most memorable stop on their Sri Lankan journey.

Sometimes the greatest hidden gems are hiding in plain sight.

Lifestyle, Travel

Meet Me in Memphis

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2026 has been off to a busy start for me, and we have already completed our first trip of the year! This January I got to check off one of my bucket list items, visiting Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. If you know me personally, you probably already know that I am a huge fan of Elvis Presley. I love his music and his movies; I’ve always wanted to visit Graceland. So when my annual leave came up this year, I decided to finally make a trip to Memphis!

The flights

Sashien and I used Aeroplan points to book our flights to Memphis from Ottawa. It was a long journey, and we ended up taking 3 flights to get there, as we had to connect from Ottawa to Toronto to catch our flight into the United States. We flew into Chicago O’Hare Airport and had close to a 5-hour layover before our final flight to Memphis. Considering our flight from Ottawa to Toronto left at 10 am and we didn’t get to Memphis until 10PM CST, this made for a very long travel day. However, it was very economical, and the whole journey cost us just under $200 plus 10000 Aeroplan points. Pro tip: Sign up for an Aeroplan credit card if your bank offers one; most have a welcome bonus of at least 25000 points!

Since most of our trip was with Air Canada and Sashien and I both have the Air Canada Reserve Amex Card, we had access to the Maple Leaf Lounges in Ottawa and Toronto. However, we did not have lounge access in O’Hare as there was no Amex Lounge there. Personally, I found this airport inconvenient, as there were limited lounges and food outlets; however, we were catching a domestic flight, so it could be just that specific terminal that was lacking. We ended up paying to access the United Club lounge; it cost us $59 each, which was a total of $164 CAD, but with a long layover, it was well worth it to have access to food, drinks, and space to relax.

Accommodation

We stayed at the Aloft by Marriott, located a short distance away from Beale Street, the main tourist hub in Memphis. There is a luxury hotel called the Peabody located right off Beale Street, but this area can get very busy and is subject to a lot of foot traffic, so we felt safer being a little further away from the crowds. The Aloft is a newer property which offers modern rooms and furnishings, a 24 hour fitness center, a golf simulator, and a grab-and-go shop. The hotel also offers complimentary tea and coffee in the mornings.

Graceland

Graceland is located about a 20-minute drive away from the Beale St. area. We took an Uber from our hotel and since we were visiting on a weekday there wasn’t much traffic.

Pro-Tip: Purchase your Graceland tickets online ahead of time!

There are a number of different tours to choose from, but we chose the Archives Ultimate VIP Tour. This tour, along with the Ultimate VIP Tour, includes lunch if you book a timeslot before 1:30pm. The Archives UVIP Tour is long so most days they don’t run the tour past 1PM. We chose an 11:15 timeslot and arrived early to explore the other exhibits.

Tours range in price from $53 to $260 USD. Our tour was $260 per person; however, it was worth it since we got to see all the exhibits, hold personal items worn by Elvis Presley, and go behind the scenes at the archives, which is a restricted area. Our tour was also much smaller, with us and another couple; this allowed us to take as many photos as we liked and get all our questions in. As we booked an 11:15 tour, we stopped for lunch at the end of the tour at Vernon’s Smokehouse, which is a BBQ restaurant. The lunch included a main, a dessert, and a drink, and the portions were generous!

Now let’s get to the goodstuff! We got to explore the Graceland Mansion which is located across the street fron the main entrance to the Graceland complex and ticket office. A shuttle picked us up and drove us over to the mansion. Here we explored the main level of the house, which consists of the living room, dining room, kitchen, and jungle room, along with the basement. The upstairs houses Elvis’ bedroom, which is closed to the public. There are many other buildings located on the property, such as the garage, the office, and the squash court. The tour of the Graceland property itself takes about 90 minutes and includes a look behind the scenes at the archives, housed in a building on the property.

After this, we made our way back across the street to view all of Elvis’ cars at Elvis Presley Motors.

Then we went through a number of different exhibits, including the Icons display, which showcases modern artists who were inspired by Elvis. The guided portion of our tour ended here when we stopped for lunch at Vernon’s.

 

After lunch, we explored the Elvis the Entertainer exhibit, which chronicles Elvis’ career and includes a display of many of his outfits and famous jumpsuits. We wrapped up our day at Graceland by visiting his planes which are open for public viewing.

We ended up spending most of our day at Graceland and decided to have dinner nearby at Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant.

Pro’Tip: if you walk over to the Guesthouse at Graceland hotel, and give Marlowe’s a call, they will pick you up in a pink Cadillac and drive you to and from dinner.

Dining at Marlowe’s is an experience in itself and it’s a great continuation of all the Elvis memorabilia. It’s a very popular BBQ spot but beware portions are generous so pace yourself!

Other Memphis Attractions

Besides visiting Graceland, we spent an additional 2 nights in Memphis where we explored Beale St. We took in some of the blues clubs and visited B.BB. King’s club. We also check out some of the local cocktail bars for happy hour. If you love blues and soul then there are lots of places in Memphis to listen to live music as you take in the sights and sounds. Although our time here was brief we really enjoyed it and we were off to Miami from there!

 

Travel

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon

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Following our luxurious stay in Colombo, we made our way to Sri Lanka’s stunning east coast to the town of Trincomalee. It was our first time visiting this part of the island. We stayed at another Cinnamon Hotels property, Trinco Blu by Cinnamon, a laid-back seaside retreat where the ocean is never more than a few steps away.

The Room

We stayed in one of the resort’s Premium Beach Chalets, and it truly lived up to its name. Every morning, we could slide open the glass doors and walk straight out onto the sand with the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean just a few meters away. The room was bright, breezy, and decorated in calming shades of blue and white, perfectly echoing the coastal vibe of Trincomalee.

The Food

Our culinary journey at Trinco Blu was nothing short of exceptional.

We enjoyed a relaxed lunch at The Crab, where fresh seafood took center stage. From lagoon crabs to prawns grilled to perfection, every dish celebrated the region’s rich coastal flavours. Later that afternoon, we indulged in a delightful afternoon tea overlooking the ocean, a Cinnamon signature that always feels both familiar and special.

Dinner was another highlight: a seafood feast under the stars, with the scent of salt air mingling with the aroma of grilled fish and spices. It was the perfect way to end the day: toes in the sand, a cool breeze, and the gentle rhythm of waves setting the mood.

Exploring Trincomalee

Beyond the resort, we explored this beautiful part of the island, known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and serene temples. Trincomalee feels untouched, a place where you can still find quiet coves, fishing boats bobbing in the distance, and a slower pace of life that’s rare to find elsewhere.

Whether you’re snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, visiting Koneswaram Temple perched high above the bay, or simply taking a sunset stroll along the beach, Trinco has a way of capturing your heart. One of my favourite places we visited was the deer park. You can park your car on the side of the road and step into an oasis surrounded by wild deer who eagerly come up to you, expecting a treat.

The Verdict

Our stay at Trinco Blu by Cinnamon was a beautiful blend of relaxation, coastal charm, and Cinnamon’s signature warmth. It’s a destination that feels both authentic and indulgent perfect for those who crave the simple luxury of waking up by the ocean and experiencing Sri Lanka’s east coast at its most enchanting.

Travel

Cinnamon Life

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After our stay at Cinnamon Grand Colombo, we made our way just next door to Cinnamon Life, the city’s newest and most talked-about luxury hotel. I’d heard so much about this property, and I couldn’t wait to experience it for myself. The moment we walked into the grand glass lobby, we knew this was something special, modern, elegant, and full of life.

The Room

We stayed in a premier oceanview room overlooking the Colombo skyline and Beira Lake. The room was bright, spacious, and beautifully designed with a mix of sleek modern finishes and warm Sri Lankan accents. The views of Colombo were stunning!

The Food

Cinnamon Life has an incredible collection of restaurants and bars, and we made it our mission to try as many as we could during our stay! We started off with brunch at Bistro de Marées, a chic, light-filled restaurant offering an impressive buffet with everything from local favourites to international classics. The seafood was fresh, the desserts were divine, and the live music gave it a lovely relaxed vibe.

For dinner that evening, we headed to Staten, the hotel’s elegant steak and seafood restaurant. The atmosphere was stylish and intimate in a nod to a classic New York style steakhouse. The food was equally impressive; my steak was cooked to perfection, and the sides were just as memorable. After dinner we stopped by Gatz Bar, a sleek and modern spot for cocktails and conversation inspired by the Great Gatsby.

The next morning, we checked out the pool, which offers a peaceful escape from the city with comfortable loungers and skyline views. After a quick dip, we enjoyed breakfast at Quizine, the hotel’s main all-day dining restaurant. The buffet had everything you could possibly want: milk rice, fresh tropical fruit, and made-to-order eggs. There were so many stations featuring different types of cuisine.

This stylish spot features two bars, one on the main level that also houses a stage for the live band and a second more intimate cocktail bar perfect for a private event. Before checking out, we had lunch at Sapphire Dragon, the hotel’s Asian restaurant. From the dim sum to the stir-fried noodles, everything was flavourful and beautifully presented. The décor was stunning too.

If you’re a wine lover, you can also check out Cloud Wine, the hotel’s wine bar located on the 23rd floor. The space features stunning views of the city along with an impressive wine cellar that doubles as a private dining room. Be sure to stop by Cloud Wine and ask their resident sommelier for some advice on choosing your new favourite wine.

The Verdict

Cinnamon Life Colombo is truly a modern masterpiece. With its stylish design, thoughtful details, and an incredible lineup of restaurants, it’s easily one of the best new luxury hotels in the city. Whether you’re travelling for business, a weekend getaway, or just looking to experience the new face of Colombo, this property is a must-visit. The hotel is also home to numerous pieces of art and can easily double as an urban gallery. We loved our stay here and we will surely be back.

A huge thank-you to the wonderful team at Cinnamon Life Colombo and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts for their warm hospitality and for making our stay so memorable!

Travel

Cinnamon Grand Colombo

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I’m back! I took a bit of a break from blogging to travel get back into work mode and pursue a doctoral degree, but I’m back in and ready to write about my adventures. We went on a month-long vacation to Sri Lanka and have lots of fun experiences to share.

First up in our whirlwind country tour was a stay at one of my favorite hotels, Cinnamon Grand Colombo. I first visited this property in 2008 with my family and have been going there ever since. We even had our wedding reception there last year.

We received an amazing VIP welcome from their PR team. This was such a lovely surprise after more than 24 hours of travelling.

The Room

We were treated to a stay in a beautiful executive suite, which featured two bathrooms, a bedroom, a dining area, and a workspace. There was more than enough space for the two of us and our 6 bags! The executive rooms are located on floors 8 and 9 in the premium wing of the hotel. Cinnamon Grand has two wings, a deluxe wing which offers more traditional accents and a premium wing with more modern finishes. Executive floor guests can access the executive lounge, where they offer a daily service of breakfast, afternoon tea and a happy hour.

Dining

The hotel offers 9 restaurants and lots of dining options. We tried out the main buffet restaurant, Plates for breakfast every day. This restaurant has a large selection of different types of cuisines, and there truly is something for everyone.

On our first night at the hotel, we had dinner at Nuga Gama. Known as the village in the city this outdoor restaurant is built like a traditional Sri Lankan village and offers authentic local cuisine. Dinner is served buffet style but you can also order a la carte. Nuga Gama also offers visitors a cultural show with Sri Lankan music and dancing. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Colombo and it’s a great way to get an authentic Sri Lankan meal without leaving the city.

The next day we had a wonderful seafood lunch at Lagoon. This restaurant offers diners a unique experience as you get to choose your own fresh fish and seafood and decide how you would like it cooked. This is one of my favourite restaurants at Cinnamon Grand.

Last but not least we had an amazing steak dinner at London Grill, a traditional British-style steakhouse. London Grill offers a fine dining experience and a wide range of meat, poultry, and fish dishes to choose from. I would definitely recommend this restaurant if you’re in Colombo. The service and the food is impeccable!

In addition to these restaurants, the hotel has a daily afternoon tea service, served in the Tea Lounge, an on-site pub, called Cheers Pub, an outdoor pool bar, Breeze Bar and a coffee shop.

Colombo Fashion Week

We were in Sri Lanka during Colombo Fashion Week and got to catch some of the shows on the last day of the event. I really enjoyed seeing the innovative designs by local designers. This was a special treat, as some of the festivities were held at Cinnamon Grand.

The Verdict

Cinnamon Grand offers guests a five-star experience featuring 2 pools, a gym, tennis courts, and ample common spaces. The executive floor also offers butler service, which is great if you’re travelling on business or just want an extra bit of luxury. The staff are attentive and always willing to help. I’ve never been disappointed with a stay at this hotel and I would highly recommend it as a great choice for a luxurious stay in the city of Colombo.

A huge thank you to the staff at Cinnamon Grand and the Cinnamon Hotels team for hosting us!

 

Lifestyle, Travel

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar

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I’m back with my first blog post for 2025! Can you believe it’s already February? Where did January go? I’m happy to report that I’ve already made one trip this year. We decided to take a quick getaway to Varadero, Cuba to spend New Year’s Eve in a tropical destination.

We spent a lot of time researching where to go, and with another big trip coming up this year (more on that later), Varadero seemed the best value for money. We chose the all-inclusive adult-only option and stayed at Paradisus Princesa Del Mar, a Melia Hotels Property.

The hotel offers different classes of rooms. Initially, we were in a regular more traditional style room but we learned about the Royal Service upgrades while at the resort. The next day we purchased the Royal Service package and upgraded our room to a more modern one. The Royal Service package has its own check-in area and lobby, exclusive restaurants and bar options and butler service. We found our new room to be more comfortable and in line with what we would expect at a hotel in Canada.

Amenities

The resort offers three large pools: the main pool, the royal service pool and the hilltop pool located at various areas around the property. The hilltop and royal service pools are exclusive to royal service guests who also get their own designated beach area.

There are many restaurants located throughout the property. We really enjoyed the 24-hour snack bar, Rock House. There’s also an international buffet, Marseille for French cuisine, Firenze for Italian food and Sakura for a teppanyaki experience. Royal service guests also have their own breakfast and lunch buffet called Miramar and a fine dining restaurant called The Hill Top.

We were celebrating our first civil wedding anniversary and the hotel prepared a special dinner for us at the Hill Top.

The hotel also features a spa with beauty and wellness treatments. We opted for a massage and enjoyed the experience. Make sure you book your appointment early as space at the spa is limited.

Entertainment

As with any all-inclusive resort, there are nightly shows and daily activities. We enjoyed the Cuban Day theme which featured various food and a rum tasting. We also enjoyed the theme nights, there’s even a Canadian night at this resort.

Our favourite spot to visit in the evenings was the piano bar. The bartender Yusmila makes the best drinks at the resort and is a social media celebrity, thanks to the many guests who post about her on Facebook. The atmosphere at the piano bar is amazing and it’s a must-do at this resort.

Excursions

We didn’t do many excursions on this trip as it was our second time in Varadero. We opted for the one-day Havana tour. While we enjoyed visiting certain sites in Havana like Old Havana, and Hotel Ambos Mundos (where Ernest Hemmingway stayed)  and spending some time wandering around, the experience as a whole wasn’t great. If you’re looking to do a tour, always opt for a private tour. The bus driver was slow and we had to wait at many hotels to pick up passengers.

We did meet some other Canadians on the tour and that was the highlight for us.

We also did our own excursion into Varadero. You can take a bus or take a taxi. We met a couple waiting for the bus and we grabbed a taxi with them into Varadero town. The city centre is busy with lots of souvenir shops. There’s not much to see there but it’s worth exploring for a morning or afternoon.

The Verdict

Cuba was a great escape from the winter weather for us. It’s economical and just a 4-hour direct flight away. We enjoyed our time there but we knew what to expect. We would definitely return. If it’s your first time in Cuba make sure you do your research and take some time to understand the country’s history and culture before you go. There’s a lot to see and enjoy!

Pro-Tip – You can purchase a pass to the VIP lounge from the Sunwing representative at your hotel. I highly recommend it as it allows you to skip the line to check-in, offers a bit of a fast track through security and you get to relax in a lounge with food and drinks before your flight. The main terminal at Varadero Airport can get quite crowded and the lounge provides a more tranquil environment.

Lifestyle

Getting into the Christmas Spirit

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Christmas is my favourite time of the year. I’ve always enjoyed it since I was a child and through the years I’ve found different ways to get into the Christmas spirit through fun getaways, local activities and of course baking. Here are a few places to visit in and around the Ottawa area that will help you get into the holiday season.

Tinseltown Christmas Emporium

This hidden gem of a year round Christmas store is located in Wellington West. You can’t miss it as it’s got a wonderful yuletide facade complete with toy soldiers outside. Inside, the store offers all kinds of Christmas ornaments, big and small. It’s a great way to get decor ideas for your own Christmas tree or just admire the decorated trees inside. Be sure to check our their display in the basement, there’s a whole room full of beautiful trees.

Winter Getaway to Fairmont Le Château Montebello

 

Located just a short drive away in Montebello, Quebec is the world’s largest log cabin. Fairmont Le Château Montebello is a beautiful property any time of the year but it’s especially magical during the holiday season. You can visit for the day and dine at one of their restaurants or treat yourself to a stay at this iconic Fairmont property. The huge six sided fireplace in the hotel lobby is beautifully decorated. This place will have you feeling like you stepped into a hallmark movie as you sip some hot cocoa or cider by the fire. The hotel also offers many outdoor winter activities such as horse-drawn carriage rides, dogsledding and cross-country skiing. It’s a perfect way to enjoy winter and the holiday season in Canada.

Visit the Ottawa Christmas Market

Dreaming of Christmas markets in Europe but don’t want to travel? The Ottawa Christmas Market has got you covered for all the European market feels right here at home. From November 22-January 5th this year’s market features 25 days of programming over consecutive weekends. The market opens each Friday at 5pm and runs through Saturday and Sunday. Sip on the viral marshmallow rim hot chocolate browse over 50 vendors as you sample local delights and maybe get some last minute Christmas shopping done. There are also lots of restaurants nearby if you need to pop inside to warm up. Don’t forget to take some photos at the many installations and activations located throughout the market.

Holiday Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Château Laurier

One of my family’s Christmas traditions is the afternoon tea at Zoe’s inside the Château Laurier hotel every Christmas. Each year’s menu is different but offers a lovely selection of holiday delights. Be sure to check out the beautifully decorated Trees of Hope located throughout the hotel’s lobby. Don’t forget to make your way to peacock alley to visit the Elf’s Pub, the hotel’s very own Christmas themed speakeasy! It’s a must-do for everyone in Ottawa during the holiday season!

I hope you get the chance to visit some fo these Christmas themed places this year. Are you in the holiday spirit yet?

Lifestyle, Travel

Honeymoon Part 3: Dubai

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It has been quite a while since my last honeymoon post as I’ve been very busy with Instagram campaigns and a few travels ( I will write about them soon).

The third and final stop on our honeymoon was Dubai. I had been to Dubai in 2018 and did a 5 part series on it called The Dubai Diaries, so this post won’t be as elaborate. I’ll focus on the highlights of our trip to Dubai.

Getting there

In my last post we were in Thailand, and our original plan was to go to Bali and then Dubai on the way back to Canada. However after spending a lot of time at resorts we decided we wanted to do something more fast paced and decided to skip Bali and leave it for another trip. On a whim we booked a first class ticket on Emirates straight to Dubai. It was totally spontaneous but so worth it! The first class experience onboard the Emirates A380 definitely lives up to the hype.

A first class ticket comes with chauffeur service to and from the airport so our journey started with a luxury pickup straight from our hotel. We were treated to bottomless glasses of Dom Perignon, the very best onboard amenities, gourmet food and a hot shower at 35 000 feet! This is definitely a bucket list item! Both Sashien and I had always wanted to try out the Emirates First Class experience and it was well worth it.

Accommodations

We spent a week in Dubai and stayed at three different hotels. Our first hotel was The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle and we were there for 2 nights. This 4 star hotel was clean and offered amenities such as a gym, rooftop pool and easy access to transportation, however it was a little far from many of the attractions.

Our next hotel was Atlantis The Palm which was a family friendly resort located on Palm Jumeirah. Having visited Atlantis Paradise in the Bahamas I was quite familiar with this brand of resort but I found The Palm a lot more noisy, unruly and a little  disappointing.

Our last and final hotel was St. Regis the Palm Dubai, also located on Palm Jumeirah. This was probably the most relaxing hotel and our favourite out of the three properties. We enjoyed the butler service which the brand is known for, proximity to shopping and beach club access at this hotel.

Excursions and Activities

We spent a week in Dubai and since this blog is the Weekend Fashionista, ofcoruse we went shopping, a LOT! However almost any mall in Dubai is wonderful and it was very hard to choose a favourite so I won’t focus too much on the shopping we did. Here are the highlights of our excursions in Dubai

Visiting the Souks

No visit to Dubai is complete without a stop at the Old Souk and Gold Souk areas. We loved visting the Old Souk and walking through the marketplace. We found the vendors particularly amusing as they kept hawking at us and yelling things in hindi at us, for the record, neither of us are Indian. I would also recommend taking an abra (traditional water taxi ) ride across the Deira Creek. It costs just 1 dirham and is a nice experience.

Dining at At. Mosphere

At. Mosphere is a fine dining restaurant located at the Burj Khalifa. I had posted about dinner there on my previous visit to Dubai so I was curious to see this restaurant during the day. Located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa this restaurant offers the most beautiful views of Dubai along with one of the most luxurious dining experiences. The staff pride themselves on allowing guests to dine in the clouds. One of the most iconic moments from our lunch was the cocktail I ordered which came with dry ice, fruit and my very own bottle of perfume as a souvenir! Add dining at At. Mosphere to your Dubai must do list!

Touring the Burj Al Arab

Dubai is almost synonymous with the Burj Al Arab, the famous hotel shaped like a sailboat. I had previously visited this property for a high tea but Sashien and I wanted to do a tour and see the most opulent parts of this luxurious hotel. There are various tours you can sign up for and we opted to try a golden espresso martini at the end of the tour. This is probably the best espresso martini I’ve ever had, it had gold dust on it! There are many different yours to choose from or you can simply make a reservation to dine at one of the restaurants onsite as well.

Desert Safari

No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari, dune bashing and dinner at a bedouin camp. This was one of the most fun experiences on our trip. We really got into this one and decided to wear some traditional attire for our day in the desert. There are many different tour companies you can book with but we booked through a company called Orient Tours

Our afternoon included transportation to and from Sharjah, dune bashing, camel rides, an outdoor buffet dinner, traditional show and activities such as henna tattoos, photos with a falcon and a Shisha station. This was such a fun experience and I would highly recommend it. I had been on a desert safari before and I’d definitely do it again!

Have you been to Dubai yet? If so what did you enjoy most about your visit?

Lifestyle, Travel

Honeymoon Part 2: Thailand + W Koh Samui

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I’m back with another post about our honeymoon travels. Our first stop was the Maldives and we really enjoyed our time there. Soon after we left for our second location – Thailand!

I had never been to Thailand before so I was really excited to visit a new country. We flew Bangkok Airways from Male to Bangkok. The flight was just ok, I wouldn’t say they are the best airline as the plane was old and the seats/decor were dated. We upgraded to business class but the food and entertainment weren’t up to par. There was no in-flight entertainment system. However the crew was friendly and kind.

Bangkok

We arrived in Bangkok in the evening and there was quite a long line for immigration at the airport. It took us about 45 minutes to get through, so by the time we got to our hotel we were very tired. We were in Bagkok for 3 nights and we stayed the the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.

The hotel was centrally located close to shops, malls, other hotels and the Erawan shrine. However it was not well maintained. The lobby of the hotel was beautiful but the rooms were dated with stained carpets and generally dingy looking. Although this hotel is rated as a 5 star property I did not feel it was at that level of service, but keep in mind this is just our personal experience. We upgraded our room status to a Club room to have access to the Club Lounge which offered breakfast, tea and cocktails.

We took a tour from the hotel on our first full day in Bangkok and visited the Royal Grand Palace and temples around it. We booked our tour via the hotel concierge and the tour guide, Alex was great. I’ve linked his account here if you wish to find out more about the tour. In addition to the temples we also visited the canals and took a longtail boat ride along the canal. This was definitely the highlight of our time in Bangkok. Our hotel was located close to many different shopping malls so we threw some shopping into our itinerary as well.

 

W Koh Samui

Our next stop was the island of Koh Samui. We took another Bangkok Airways flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui, this short flight was quite pleasant. We stayed at the W Koh Samui.

I liked this hotel much better than the one we stayed at in Bangkok. The hotel consists of villas and we really enjoyed our tropical oasis villa which featured a private pool, garden and outdoor shower.

W hotels are known for their whatever whenever service, which means the staff will go out of their way to accommodate guests and the W Koh Samui was no exception. The staff were so helpful and drove us around the resort in golf carts as the grounds were quite extensive.

A few features of the resort that we particularly enjoyed were:

  1. The personalized service + pick up and drop off at your villa
  2.  The Sweet Spot – these were little kiosks located throughout the resort where guests could grab water, beer or ice cream. This was a complimentary service for hotel guests.
  3. Lobby lounge DJ and nightly fire show

In addition to this the hotel also featured an afternoon tea in the lobby which had a very unique design featuring a giant pool with seats actually in the water. This was one of the most instagramable hotels I’ve ever visited, there was so much to see and do here.

I would definitely recommend adding Thailand to your honeymoon itinerary, especially Koh Samui we really enjoyed our time there.

Stay tuned for our third and final destination!

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