DiscoveryClub

May 21, 2013

Food Etiquette around the world

Posted on by Rachel

In Japan don’t put food in your mouth with a fork
When eating a dish with cooked rice, use your fork only to push food onto your spoon. The worst thing to do when eating a traditional rise-based meal is to use chopsticks.

In the Middle East, India & parts of Africa, do not eat with your left hand
In South India you should refrain from even touching the plate with your left hand. This is due to the fact that the left hand is associated with bodily functions, so its considered to be dirty.

In Mexico, never eat Taco’s with a fork & knife
Mexican’s think that eating taco’s with your fork & knife is silly and even snobby. So when in Mexico, be polite and eat with your hands.

In Italy, only drink a cappachino only before noon
Some Italians think that a cappachino late in the day will upset your stomach and others believe it is a meal replacement

In France, don’t eat your bread as an appetizer before the meal
Instead you are expected to eat it as an accompaniment to your food or with the cheese course at the end of the meal.

In China, don’t flip the fish                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Although you might be used to flipping the fish over once you have eaten one side of it, it is considered bad luck in China to do so. It is similar to saying the fisherman’s boat will capsize.

In Italy, don’t ask for Parmesan on your pizza                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Putting Parmesan cheese on your pizza is seen as a sin in Italy as many pasta dishes in Italy aren’t meant for Parmesan. In Rome for example, the traditional cheese is pecorino and this is what goes on many classic pasta dishes.

Never mix- or turn down- vodka in Russia                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                This beverage is always drunk neat, not even with ice. Adding anything to vodka is seen as polluting the drink’s purity. What is even worse is if you are offered the drink and you turn it down. In Russia, when someone offers you a vodka, it is a sign of trust and friendship, so accepting it would be wise.

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 26, 2013

Explore. Dream. Discover…Western Canadian Spa’s

Posted on by Rachel

Ancient Cedars Spa at the Wickaninnish Inn

If the Wickaninnish Inn is the oyster, its pearl has to be Ancient Cedars Spa. Nestled into the Ocean level of the Pointe building, the Spa is sheltered by the forest fringe, adjacent to the wave dashed-rocks looking out to the open Pacific. Here, the spa practitioners and esthetitians provide a journey into a sense of well-being, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation, inspired by our natural surroundings.

Cedar Sanctuary View

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Willow Stream at the Fairmont Banff Springs

Step back in time and celebrate the Castle’s 125th Anniversary… Reminiscent of the hot springs that beckoned travellers over 100 years ago, the pulsating waterfalls and the mineral pool in the heart of the spa rejuvenate tired muscles and soothe troubled spirits. The intensity of oxygen inspires clarity of thought and renews strength of purpose. Willow Stream brings to life the unique healing powers of the alpine air and the sacred waters.

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The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Nationally recognized as the #3 spa resort in Canada by Condé Nast’s 2012 readers poll, Four Seasons Resort Whistler invites you to indulge in your own quiet sanctuary, including elegant locker rooms and a soothing eucalyptus steam room.

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Grotto Spa at Tigh-na-mara

Take time just for you at Grotto Spa, the #1 Spa in Western Canada. With signature treatments and services, the detoxifying Mineral Pool, Relaxation Lounges for fireside tranquility and Endless Tapas dining at the Treetop Tapas & Grill restaurant, the Grotto Spa offers everything you need to relax and rejuvenate.

Tigh Na Mara 2 20 Aug

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sparkling Hill Resort

Swarovski crystal-infused Sparkling Hill. Astonishing. Over 3.5 million crystals infused within this modern oasis – a most remarkable hotel and wellness centre with European-inspired design elegance. Nestled in the mountains near Vernon, British Columbia, and overlooking Lake Okanagan, your personal journey to whole body health and wellness begins here

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Boathouse Spa & Baths at Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Experience solace by the sea at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, offering a variety of therapeutic spa treatments in your very own oceanfront oasis, the Boathouse Spa & Baths. It starts with sweeping, majestic views of the Pacific Ocean and Mt. Baker. Inspired architecture and decor create a timelessness that draws you deeper into the oasis-like setting
Begin your spa experience with one of our exclusive cleansing scrubs to refresh you before your chosen spa treatment with one of our caring therapists, or soak and sooth your soul in one of our three mineral pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Our well-appointed oceanfront treatment rooms are spacious, tranquil and in a tastefully adapted West Coast style, offering a nurturing space for you to completely unwind as you choose from, and enjoy, a full menu of treatments from our professional team including Registered Massage Therapists.
After an active day of outdoor adventure, soak away sore muscles overlooking the deep blue waters or relax by the outdoor fire pit with a glass of wine with friends and watch the stars twinkle over the water.

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February 20, 2013

Explore. Dream. Discover…Whistler

Skiing/Snowboarding

Whistler and Blackcomb are two side-by-side mountains which combined offer over 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls and three glaciers.

Peak 2 Peak Alpine Experience

Spanning the distance between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola is a breathtaking, 4.4-kilometre journey to infinite possibilities.

Coca Cola Tube Park

Feel the wind in your face as you cruise down this exhilarating tubing hill. Located in the Base 2 Zone on Blackcomb Mountain, the Tube Park offers great fun for the young and the young at heart. There’s no skill or equipment required – just a sense of adventure and a desire for excitement.

Whistler Blackcomb’s Tube Park has multiple lanes offering a variety of sliding experiences. Lanes are 1000′ and a state-of-the-art conveyor lift makes traveling to the top a breeze. Family fun doesn’t have to end when the lifts close because the Tube Park is open into the evening.

Ziptrek Ecotours

Experience the exhilaration of flying as you glide across Ziptrek’s network of ziplines suspended high above the Fitzsimmons Creek that divides Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Ziptrek offers an entertaining combination of high-wire adventure and ecological exploration on a choice of 3 guided zipline tours.

Sleigh Rides

The natural beauty of Whistler’s pristine backcountry or the charm of Whistler Village will delight you as you are lead by the grace and power of our Clydesdale. Join us for a spectacularly unique experience that might prove to be the highlight of your Whistler vacation.

 

 

January 10, 2013

Explore. Dream. Discover…Boston

Posted on by Rachel

Over 18 million people visit Boston annually and there’s plenty of reason to see why. Lets start off with some of Boston’s most popular attractions.

Fenway Park

Fenway Park is the oldest Major League Baseball park in the United States. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this small intimate atmosphere allows guests to feel as though they are truly in the game. On warm summer nights there is nothing better than watching your favorite game with a cold beer.  This park is located right downtown Boston so it is easily accessible. Fenway park tours are available daily as this year they are celebrated their 100th anniversary.

Museum of Science

Along with over 500 interactive exhibits, the Museum features a number of live presentations throughout the building every day, along with shows at the Planetarium and IMAX theater. The Museum is also an accredited member of the Association of Zoo’s and Aquariums and is home to over 100 animals, many of which have been rescued and rehabilitated from various dangerous situations.

Museum of Fine Arts

Founded in 1870,this museum is one of the largest museums in the United States and attracts over one million visitors a year. Containing over 450,000 works of art, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in America. Ranking in at 31st most visited art museum in the world and 5th most-visited in the United States this Museum, this is sure to be a Museum not to be missed.

Walk the Freedom Trail

This trail takes visitors to 16 historical sites in the course of two or three hours and covers two and a half centuries of America’s significant past. Explore Museums and meetinghouses, churches and burying grounds. Learn about the people who shaped the nation. Discover the history of the American Revolution as it began in Boston.

 

December 24, 2012

Your Clubhouse

It is with great pride and gratitude that we have announced the opening of the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.  We celebrated our Ribbon Cutting on December 1st with hundreds of people. From our friends and family and community and even a few Discovery Club members, it was a wonderful day to celebrate what so many of us have worked so hard to achieve.

We would like to welcome all of our Discovery Club members to view the Oak Bay Beach Hotel as your Clubhouse.  You can expect to receive, as with every Discovery Club affiliate, great value with your membership access. When you choose to stay at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, you have full access to our boathouse spa and baths including use of our mineral pools located right on the oceanfront.  The Oak Bay Beach Hotel has many different food and beverage experiences to enjoy.  Kate’s Café offers delectable goodies along with your favorite glass of wine or a perfectly prepared latte.  The Snug is the neighborhood favorite housing international brews, sprits and wine featuring traditional favorites like fish and chips and steak and kidney pie. We also have fine dining in the Dining Room, which features a fine selection of seasonal gourmet meals prepared from locally grown foods with carefully selected wine choices to compliment your meal, and high tea served in the Conservatory.

We hope you will join us soon to experience all that we have to offer here at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.

 

Sincerely,

Kevin & Shawna Walker

Owners

October 30, 2012

Explore. Dream. Discover…Oktoberfest

Posted on by Rachel

Since 1810 local Germans and travelers alike have been celebrating Oktoberfest, a 16-day festival celebrating Beer.  Yes, a festival to celebrate the art and craft of the perfect pour.  This festival is held annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany and runs from late September to the first weekend in October. More than 6 million people flock to Munich every year to celebrate in the hundreds of beer tents pitched around the city.  The local’s refer to Oktoberfest as “die Wiesen” after the name of the fairgrounds themselves.

Oktoberfest is geld in an area named the Theresienwiese (field or meadow) located near Munich’s city center. Large quantities of beer are consumed with almost 7 million liters served during the 16 day festival.

Beer isin’t the only item on the menu, as traditional German delicacies like Hendl (chicken), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham hock), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), or Wurstle (sausages) are also served up.

A little history…

In 1811, an agricultural show was initiated to promote Bavarian agriculture.  A few years later, carnival booths appeared as did more expensive prizes like silver and porcelain. Throughout the years Oktoberfest has changed its name many different times depending on the state of the country but what always remained the same was the celebrating of people and beer and the coming together of community.  The citizens of Munich, assumed responsibility for festival management in 1819 and it was decided to make the Oktoberfest an annual event.  Later, it was lengthened and the date was pushed forward, because days are longer and warmer at the end of September.

Why the Beer Mugs?

Beer Boots or ‘Bierstiefeln’ in German have over a century of history and culture behind them. It is commonly believed that a Prussian general promised his troops to drink beer from his boot if they were successful in battle. When the troops were successful , the general had a glass maker fashion a boot from glass to fulfill his promise without tasting his own feet and to avoid spoiling the beer in his leather boot. Another tradition is believed that during the first World War, German soldiers began passing around a leather boot filled with beer, as they were lacking glasses. It became a symbol for good luck, as the soldiers would flick the boot before drinking it for good luck, and flick it again after drinking to wish the next soldier good luck.

September 26, 2012

5 days in Beijing

Day 1: The Great Wall at Badaling

The Great Wall at Badaling is located in Yanqing County, which is about 60 kilometers northwest of Beijing. It is widely known as the most representative section of the “Great Wall” from the Ming Dynasty. Well laid out with huge uniform bricks, the wall was built on the ridges of the mountains.

The Great Wall at Badaling consists of the main wall and several subordinate walls. It is flanked by steep mountains and popularly known as the “key to the northern gate.” Now 3,741 meters of the Great Wall at Badaling and 21 beacon towers are open to visitors.

Some facts about the Great Wall:

-Took over two thousand years to build
- constrcuted to protect the Chinese empire
- measures 8,850 km (5,500 mi)

Day 2: Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is a large city square in the center of Beijing, named after the Tiananmen Gate, located to its North, separating it from the Forbidden City. Tiananmen Square is the third largest city square in the world (440,000 m² – 880m by 500m or 109 acres – 960 by 550 yd). It has great cultural significance as it was the site of several important events in Chinese history.

Perhaps the most notable events are protests during the May Fourth Movement in 1919, the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China by Mao Zedong on October 1, 1949, the Tiananmen Sqaure protests in 1975 after the death of premier Zhou Enlai, and the  Tienanmen Square protests of 1989, which resulted in military suppression and the deaths of multiple protestors. The Communist Party of China forbids discussion of the Tiananmen Square protests.

Day 3: Capital Museum Beijing

 

 

 

 

The Capital Museum was established in 1981 with a collection of 83,000 objects.Although initially the Museum pales in comparison to the visitors received in other major art museums in Beijing,it has since then became one of the leading cultural institutions in the city, with the first five months of 2007 receiving more than 166,000 visitors.

The Capital Museum’s building’s massive roof and the gradient at the entrance square was influenced by the design from ancient Chinese architecture and the stone-made exterior wall was meant to symbolize imagery of the city walls and towers in ancient China.A piece of danbi(a massive stone carved with images of dragon, phoenix and imperial artifacts) is embedded on the ground in front of the north gate of the museum, whereas a decorative archway from the Ming Dynasty is set in the reception.

Day 4: Museum of Qin: Terracotta Warriors

 

 

 

 

The Terracotta Army or the “Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses”, is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is a form of funerary art buried with the emperor in 210–209 BC and whose purpose was to protect the emperor in his afterlife, and to make sure that he had people to rule over.

The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots and horses. Current estimates are that in the three pits containing the Terracotta Army there were over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which are still buried in the pits near by Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum.  Other terracotta non-military figures were also found in other pits and they include officials, acrobats, strongmen and musicians.

Day 5: Ming Tombs

 

 

 

50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest from Beijing City, at the foot of Tianshou Mountain, are the Ming Tombs.  Here lies the mausoleums of thirteen emperors of Ming dynasty (1368 – 1644). Since 1409 when Zhu Di, the first emperor of Ming Dynasty, built his Changling Tomb here, the succeeding twelve emperors had their tombs built around Changling during the next 230 years, covering a total area of over 120 square kilometers (46.3 square miles). This is the best preserved tomb area with the most emperors buried. Every year millions of tourists come to the site to appreciate its long history and palatial architecture.

 

August 1, 2012

Top 5 places to visit in Australia!

Posted on by Rachel

1. Sydney

Soak up the city’s gorgeous inner harbor and outdoor beauty.  Visit the famous Sydney Opera house or climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge for a great view.  Not far from Sydney is Bondi Beach where you can learn to surf, and in the afternoon shop Sydney’s markets, shops, cafes & boutiques.  Sydney is also known for their fabulous cuisine, festivals and 24/7 fun.

2. Byron Bay

Australia’s eastern most town is known for its surf culture, alternative philosophies and hedonistic indulgence. Known for its beautiful beaches, trademark light house and lush rainforests, this town is great if you want to meet other travelers, take part in a yoga session on the beach or experience Australia’s best regional dining!

3. Noosa

One of my favorite spots while I lived in Australia was a small town called Noosa. This region of eastern Australia is known for its stunning coastal national park, pristine river and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Noosa is also a great spot to start your journey over to Fraser Island (the largest sand island in the world).

4. Melbourne

Culture buffs, foodies and fashionista’s can all find a place in Melbourne.  Sports enthusiasts can feel at home in a city filled with Formula One racing, the Australian open, horse racing and the Australian Football league. If sports isn’t your thing, why not drive the famous Great Alpine Road through the Australian Alps or take a quick flight or ferry over to Tasmania

5. Perth

Australia’s western most city sits on the swan river framed by Indian ocean beaches and Swan valley vineyards. Drive south to the wineries, waves, caves and tall forests of Margaret river or north to Monkey Mia and Nigaloo reef.

 

May 22, 2012

New Affiliate: Watermark Beach Resort

Posted on by Rachel

Replenish yourself in the definition of hotel luxury where attention to detail can be found everywhere you look. Let your stress dissolve away as you softly flow through the intricate textures of the hotel itself. Experience the geography outside first hand as the wavy sand rolls from the soft beaches dance their way indoors making their way across the wall behind the main desk. Touch the wallpaper leading to your room and feel the elaborate contours of the surrounding hills, guiding you to your luxury suite where you will find the perfect match of form and function as plush designs wrap themselves around you, providing you the ultimate sense of relaxation that you deserve.

Top 5 Family Destinations

Posted on by Rachel

Backroads: Canadian Rockies

Imagine taking your children on the trip of a lifetime, with no technology in sight! This amazing package offers families a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with the Canadian north, exposing them to Deer, Elk, Moose and Bald Eagles, your children will never forget this vacation. Biking from Banff through the Canadian Rockies, hiking along the glaciers and white water rafting along the Kicking Horse river, this trip provides awe-inspiring experiences that the whole family can take part in.  Providing experienced Backroads leaders and support vans if you get tired, this company has got your best interest at heart.  Why not take your family on a different kind of vacation this year?

Churchill Wild: Polar Bear Tours

“It’s like watching your favorite nature channel, without the television”

It’s not everyday you get the opportunity to see a Polar Bear in its natural habitat. With Churchill Wild, regardless of the package you choose, there is an adventure waiting for you. The “Birds, Bears & Beluga’s” adventure in July & August combines the thrill of seeing and hearing beluga whales with summer polar bear viewing. Or you can try the “Black & White Adventure”, which combines Black & White bears as well as Black & White whales! Churchill Wild will even let you create your own adventure. Local adventure specialists have hosted families as small as two people to large corporate groups.The location, the local knowledge and the incredible hospitality will ensure you and your family have an unforgettable experience.

 

Collette Vacations: Kenya Family Safari

The thrills of the African plains will captivate the entire family. Set out in search of the legendary “Big 5” along with giraffes, zebras, antelope and more! Wake up with the sun in the Masai Mara, feed a Rothschild giraffe, and visit an elephant orphanage. Stay at the world-famous Sweetwaters Tented Camp and spot animals drinking from the watering hole. Visit a Chimpanzee Sanctuary to see this highly endangered animal. Discover a different way of life  inside a Masai village.  Explore the teeming biodiversity of the Kigio Wildlife Conservancy. Expert led hikes, local conservation efforts, tales of Masai warriors, breakfast in the bush – every day is an adventure as the spirit of Kenya envelops you!

 

 

Collette Vacations: Costa Rica Family Adventure

Pack your cameras and sense of adventure; Costa Rica has something for every family member! Search for wildlife during a Tortuguero canal cruise and jungle nature walk. Don your chef’s hat to learn how to create a local dish and taste a fresh pineapple during a plantation tour. Embark on a white water rafting adventure. Explore the rainforest canopy during your choice of hanging bridge walk or zip line adventure. Enjoy waterslide fun and a healing soak in Arenal’s hot springs. From the tropical rainforest and mighty volcanoes to eco-lodges and local villages, you are sure to be amazed!

CMH: Family Adventures

 

Looking for an active adventure vacation for your family this summer? CMH Summer Adventures offers the perfect combination of fun, physical activity and quality family time.
We know how most kids feel about hiking (many of us are parents too), so when crafting our Family Adventure we removed the boring bits! Kids will boast to their friends about:

•    Awesome helicopter flights
•    Million-year-old rocks
•    High mountain ridges
•    Mysterious ancient forests
•    Brilliant glacial lakes
•    Explosive waterfalls
•    Ancient glaciers
•    Rock climbing: Indoor & Out
•    Playing crazy games with new friends from around the world

 

 

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