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This CN Tower Time-Lapse Will Show You Toronto's Whimsical Side

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There's no shortage of nicknames to describe Toronto. "The Big Smoke", "Hogtown" and if you ask certain Drake fans, "The 6" are all viable terms.

But while each of those touch on Toronto's history, none really seem to acknowledge how pretty Toronto actually is. Good thing for time-lapses. Shot from the top of the CN Tower, this video captures Toronto's QEW and the island on a sunny day.

Give the video a watch and let us know what you think in the comments below.

Ukraine Plane Crash Flight Map Shows Airlines Avoiding The Region (TWEETS)

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Planes are largely avoiding Ukraine airspace after Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 crashed over the country, killing all 295 people aboard. The plane was shot down, according to authorities in the county, but both the Ukrainian government and pro-Russian separatists have denied responsibility.

A tweet from Flightradar24, which monitors air traffic around the world, shows planes opting for Bulgarian and Turkish airspace instead.




Airlines said earlier they would stay away from Ukraine.




Flight operators were warned as recently as last spring to stay away from Ukrainian airspace, but a number did so anyway because it was cheaper, according to one expert.

The FAA had cautioned airlines to stay away from areas such as Crimea, the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, and told them to "exercise extreme caution” when flying over cities such as Kiev and Lvov.

MH17 Is The Deadliest Plane Crash Since 9/11

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The crash of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 has claimed at least 295 lives, making it the deadliest plane crash since 9/11.

The plane was travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it was shot down over eastern Ukraine, killing all on board.

The number of people killed in the disaster is second only in the years since 9/11 to the 2,996 people who died on Sept. 11, 2001, Vox reported.

Here's a look at some of the deadliest plane crashes that have occurred since 9/11:

November 12, 2001: 265 people die when American Airlines flight 587 crashes in Belle Harbor, Queens.

May 25, 2002: 225 people die when China Airlines flight 611 crashes in the Taiwan Strait.

Feb. 19, 2003: 275 people die when an Iranian Revolutionary Guard plane crashes into a mountain.

Jan. 3, 2004: 135 people die when Flash Airlines flight 604 crashes into the Red Sea.

Aug. 22, 2006: 170 people die when Pulkovo Airlines flight 612 crashes in eastern Ukraine, on a flight from Anapa, Russia to St. Petersburg.

Sept. 29, 2006: 154 people die when Gol Airlines flight 1907 crashes into another jet as it's travelling from Manaus to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

July 17, 2007: 187 people die when Tam Airlines flight 3045 crashes in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

June 1, 2009: 228 people are presumed dead after Air France flight 447 goes missing over the Atlantic Ocean.

June 30, 2009: 153 people die when Yemenia Airbus 310 crashes into the Indian Ocean en route to the Comoros islands.

June 3, 2012: 163 people die when Dana Air flight 993 crashes into a building in Lagos, Nigeria.

March 8, 2014: 239 people are presumed dead after Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 disappears en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing.

Here are some photos of the wreckage of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17:


CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story stated that Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 disappeared in 2013. It did, in fact, disappear in 2014.

Fear Of Flying Can Be Overcome

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Incidents such as the crash of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 can create an understandable fear of flying.

The flight was shot down over eastern Ukraine on Thursday, killing 298 people in the deadliest airline disaster since 9/11.

Though the crash was devastating, statistics show that the likelihood of dying in a plane crash is very rare.

"If you take one flight a day, you would on average need to fly every day for 55,000 years before being involved in a fatal crash," Arnold Barnett, professor of statistics at MIT told ABC News last March.

The odds are different around the world, but people would still need to take one flight per day for around 10,000 years before they experienced a deadly crash, he added.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Transportation looked at plane accidents from 1999 to 2003 and found that the chance of dying was low, at one in 2,067,000.

By contrast, the chance of dying in a car accident was one in 7,700, while the risk of death by poisoning was one in 18,700.

Research has also shown a high likelihood for surviving a plane crash.

A 2001 study by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board found that 95.7 of plane occupants survived accidents that occurred between 1983 and 2000.

But many people nevertheless have a fear of flying that can keep them out of airplanes for decades, and it's not as simple as a fear of a possible crash.

Many who fear flying are claustrophobic, or scared of not being able to choose when they can leave the plane, writes specialist Dr. Martin Seif.

A self-described former flight phobic, he said "the common denominator for more than 90 per cent of flight phobics is the fear that they will become overwhelmed with anxiety during the flight.

"Usually people experience an unexpected panic while flying, and then they fear the terrifying symptoms will return during their next flight."

Treatments for the fear include breathing techniques to use on the plane, or even virtual reality to help familiarize people with triggers for their anxiety. Group therapy sessions are also held at airports.

Whatever the trigger, be it a crash or claustrophobia, there are resources available to help people overcome their fears.

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22 Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Toronto You'll Want To Eat In

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When you had kids everyone said the same thing to you — say goodbye to nice restaurants and hello to place that only serve grilled cheese. (And also, "you'll never sleep again," but that's a theme for a different story.)

But here's the wonderful thing about a city like Toronto: Plenty of people have kids, and plenty of people still want to go out for dinner with them. The city's restaurants have found a way to make that work in a non-chain restaurant fashion, and it's actually kind of awesome.

After surveying colleagues who live across the city about places they love to eat and can actually bring their kids to without fear of other diners' glares, we've put together a list of some of the best options. Yes, you may have to go at 5:30 to accommodate the kids' bedtimes, but that just means you won't have any problem making reservations!

Check out this list of 22 kid-friendly, fabulous restaurants in Toronto. Have suggestions to add? Let us know below!



Pizzeria Libretto Danforth
Where: 550 Danforth Ave. (at Carlaw)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Pizza, pasta
The fun factor: Crayons, activity sheets
The phew factor: Change table, step stool for sink, boosters and high chairs

Lil Bacci
Where: 892 Queen St. E. (Leslieville) and 2013 Yonge St. (Davisville)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Pastas, pizzas, salads
The phew factor: Kid-sized versions of dishes (you just have to ask), change table in women's washroom, high chairs

Mamma Martino's
Where: 624B The Queensway (Etobicoke)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Sandwiches, pizzas, pastas
The fun factor: Unpretentious and very welcoming to families
The phew factor: Budget-friendly

The Abbot
Where: 3367 Yonge St. (north of Lawrence)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Pub food, like meatloaf, fish and chips and ribs
The fun factor: "Can enjoy a pint and not feel judged for being at a pub with kids," notes one parent.
The phew factor: Kids' menu (with big portions)

Dundas Street Grille
Where: 5238 Dundas Street West (Etobicoke)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Breakfast, brunch (dinner also served)
The fun factor: "Adults can still enjoy a weekend brunch, but in a manner more conducive to being there with kids," said one parent.
The phew factor: Quick and cheap

Mr. Greenjeans
Where: 220 Yonge St. (Eaton Centre)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Grilled cheese, burgers, classic entrees
The fun factor: Colouring activities and milkshakes! And the nostalgia of having come here when you were a kid
The phew factor: Kids under 10 eat free on weekends (one per adult)

Wallflower
Where: 1665 Dundas St. W. (Little Portugal)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Sandwiches, pasta, salads
The fun factor: "It's right by the elementary school and so after it opens at 5, and before the hipsters roll in around 8, neighbourhood parents with little kids go there," explains one parent.
The phew factor: Oysters, grilled cheese and beer. Pretty much perfect for everyone!

Bar Vespa
Where: 167 East Liberty St. (Liberty Village)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Pizza, pasta
The fun factor: "As an adult you still feel cool and hip and you don’t get the stares of disapproval from other patrons if you bring your children in," says one mom.
The phew factor: Kids' menu, lots to see, TVs

The Wren
Where: 1382 Danforth Ave. (east of Greenwood)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Empanadas, burgers, chili
The fun factor: Like others on this list, this place is popular with grown-ups later at night, but very accessible for kids in the early evening
The phew factor: The comfort pub food is easy for kids to love (and there's a serious number of brews on tap)

Udupi Palace
Where: 1460 Gerrard St. E. (Little India)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Vegetarian Indian food, like samosas, pakoras, chaats, etc.
The fun factor: Items like "pizza uthapam" and chocolate dosas for kids, play area in the restaurant
The phew factor: A breastfeeding-friendly policy, "Jain" option (no onion or garlic) which is great for colic

The Beacher Cafe
Where: 2162 Queen St. E. (The Beach)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Burgers, tuna melt — classic diner food
The fun factor: Casual atmosphere
The phew factor: Cheap and easy

Terroni
Where: 1095 Yonge St. (Rosedale), 57a Adelaide St. East (west of Parliament)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Pizza, pasta, Italian entrees
The fun factor: Free sundaes and bottomless drinks for kids
The phew factor: Very patient staff, high chairs, lots to look at

Mexico Lindo
Where: 1618 Bayview Ave. (Leaside)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Guacamole, tacos, quesadillas, etc.
The fun factor: Mexican food! What isn't fun about that? Fun decorations too
The phew factor: Kids' menu, high chairs, booster seats

Red Sauce
Where: 50C Clinton St. (Little Italy)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Italian sandwiches, calzones, pasta
The fun factor: Crayons, negronis on tap (for the adults, of course)
The phew factor: Highchairs, kids' menu, change table, friendly servers

Jawny Bakers
Where: 804 O'Connor Dr. (East York)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Salads, burgers, pasta, smoothies
The fun factor: A treasure chest for kids
The phew factor: Staff who are great with kids, high chairs, lots of parking

Caplansky's
Where: 356 College St. (North Kensington Market)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Smoked meat sandwiches, brunch foods
The fun factor: Colouring activities, lots to look at
The phew factor: High chairs and boosters galore, easy finger foods, casual environment

Uncle Betty's
Where: 2590 Yonge St. (north of Eglinton)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Mac and cheese (but the gourmet kind), sandwiches, hot dogs
The fun factor: Amazing ice cream, very friendly atmosphere
The phew factor: Extensive kids' menu (with free sides), high chairs

Against The Grain
Where: 25 Dockside Dr. (Lakeshore); 87 Laird Dr. (Leaside)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Upscale pub food (with lots for kids)
The fun factor: Colouring activities
The phew factor: Kids' menu (including drink and dessert), high chairs, booster seats, tons of room

Barque
Where: 299 Roncesvalles Ave. (Roncesvalles)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Barbecued foods, grilled cheese, fries
The fun factor: Popcorn instead of bread, colouring books, staff that act as "camp counsellors"
The phew factor: Amazing looking kids' menu (including drink and side), family-themed dinners on Sundays, Diaper Genie in the washroom!

The Ace
Where: 213A Roncesvalles Ave. (Roncesvalles)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Upscale diner food — plus oysters (and an excellent brunch)
The fun factor: Laid-back, comfortable atmosphere, family-friendly, amazing desserts
The phew factor: Extensive kids' menu, high chairs

Kirei Sushi and Bar
Where: 81 Church St. (north of Adelaide)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Sushi and various other Japanese-type dishes
The fun factor: Food made right in front of you at bar seats
The phew factor: High chairs, booster seats, private rooms (if a big party)

Mill Street Brew Pub
Where: 21 Tank House Lane (Distillery District)
The food for kids and grown-ups: Pub food like nachos, fish and chips and quesadillas
The fun factor: Activity page, lots to look at, TVs
The phew factor: Kids' menu (with side, drink and dessert), high chairs, booster seats

Jensen Ackles And Jared Padalecki, 'Supernatural' Stars, Absolutely Love Vancouver

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You’d think after ten years shooting "Supernatural" in Vancouver that stars Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles would be sick and tired of both the series and the city. Nothing could be further from the truth.

"We still get excited about it," says Ackles. "That hasn’t tarnished in 10 years."

The CW series, seen in Canada on CHCH, has been on so long it was originally broadcast on defunct U.S. broadcaster The WB. The simple premise hasn't changed over the years. It’s still about two brothers who hunt down demons, ghosts, monsters and other supernatural bad guys. Winchester boys Sam and Dean have been spiking vampires long before it was the thing to do.
The two actors are now 31 and 36, although Padalecki playfully claims Ackles is really 48.

Both were asked about relocating to Vancouver for what has become a significant chunk of their lives. While Padalecki, a San Antonio, Texas, native, says he does miss home, he doubts the series would have lasted anywhere near this long had it been shot in Atlanta, say, instead of Vancouver. "We remained out of the craziness that is Hollywood," he told reporters attending the summer Television Critics Association press tour in Beverly Hills, California. Padalecki said that distance from Tinseltown allowed the young actors to focus on the work "instead of partying," to have "tunnel vision" to the task at hand. Had he always filmed in the city where he lived, he speculated, it would have exposed him to "too many distractions."

Ackles said Vancouver was also a perfect production centre for the look and tone of the show. "We get nine months a year of overcast, blues and dark [skies] and that really plays into the majority of the show we try to produce." As Padalecki put it, "It’s more fun hunting vampires in the doom and gloom." Had the Winchesters been chasing nasty beasties on a beach in, say, Malibu, "Supernatural" would have looked super silly.

Certainly "The X-Files" set the tone a few years earlier by making the most of Vancouver’s darker skies. "It pulls an audience out of their comfort zone," figures Padalecki.

Ackles added that the cooler weather also helped when trying to conceal guns and other weapons under coats. Had they shot the series in Atlanta, "we’d be a sweaty mess."

A lot of the action on "Supernatural" takes place at night, and Ackles feels Vancouver’s relatively shorter days also buy the cast and crew extra time for night shoots.

He added that a side benefit from their years in British Columbia was the lifelong friendships made with cast and crew members. "It’s a wonderful town full of wonderful people," he said.

It’s a good thing he feels that way. "Supernatural" doesn't appear to be shutting down anytime soon. Executive producer Jeremy Carver said the show continues "beyond any of our wildest dreams." He admitted he really didn't have an ending to the adventure in mind at this point, suggesting he was leaving room "for a happy accident" and was open to suggestions from the cast.

"You realize you just invited us to write the ending?" joked Padalecki.


10 Great German Destinations for Year-Round Travel

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Germany must be doing something right: four time winners of the World Cup and an economic and technological powerhouse. As a travel destination, however, Germany is often overlooked and underrated. With a range of possibilities from picturesque castles to culture-rich cities, Germany is an ideal year-round holiday destination.

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©mradlgruber - Fotolia.com



Hotel comparison website trivago.ca has compiled a list of 10 German destinations to show there is more to this country than beer, pretzels, lederhosen and a good soccer team. Some destinations will come as no surprise, such as the fairy-tale castle Neuschwanstein and the ever-popular capital of Berlin, but Germany has some hidden gems. Who knew it was possible to sample some of Europe's finest oysters on one of Germany's 50 islands? See below for facts, ideas and travel inspiration.

1. The Fairy Tale Castle: Neuschwanstein
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©Wikimedia



Just a few hours south of Munich, in the Bavarian Alps, is the inspiration for the castle in Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty. Neuschwanstein belonged to King Ludwig II, an enigmatic character with a grandiose swan-themed vision for his private retreat. The castle was famously never completed following the King's mysterious death, and it can be viewed as it was left in 1886. A short walk through the forest will take visitors to Marienbrücke (Mary's Bridge), boasting panoramic views of the castle and the surrounding mountains.

2. The Religious Beauty: Cologne
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©davis - Fotolia.com



Cologne, (or Köln in German), is the country's fourth largest city. It is the birthplace of Eau de Cologne and there are more pubs per capita here than any other German destination. The main attraction is the intricate Cologne Cathedral, a gothic structure that took 552 years to complete. Although Cologne is a great year-round destination, it is known as one of the best places to celebrate the 'Karneval' (Carnival) festival, when thousands of visitors flock to the street parties and parades!

3. The Romantic Old City: Heidelberg
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©sborisov - Fotolia.com



With its romantic cityscape and scenic setting between the River Neckar and the surrounding countryside, it is no surprise that Heidelberg is a popular tourist destination. The hub is the traditional Altstadt (old city), which leads to the ruins of Heidelberg castle. This large renaissance castle boasts picturesque views over the city, but is perhaps most famed for its 'Grosses Fass', a 58,000 gallon wine barrel which took 130 oak trees to construct. Heidelberg is also known for housing one of Europe's most reputable and oldest universities, boasting associations with 55 Nobel Prize laureates.

4. The Island Getaway: Sylt
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©Marco2811 - Fotolia.com



Although not renowned for its islands, Germany boasts over 50, the largest of which is Sylt. Located off the North coast and just a 30-minute ferry ride from Denmark, Sylt is an anchor-shaped island featuring a 25-mile long sandy beach. There are beaches designated for both families and nudist sun-bathers, or visitors may want to windsurf, visit one of the luxurious sea-view saunas, or party on the beach until sunrise. The island is most famous for its fresh seafood, especially the Sylt oysters, which are amongst the finest in Europe.

5. The Wine Region: Moselle River Valley
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©LianeM - Fotolia.com



Visitors are often surprised to learn that Germany has 13 wine regions, of which the Moselle Region is the most famous. Situated around the Moselle River (the left tributary of the famous Rhine), the region shares borders with France, Luxembourg and Germany. The three towns of the Moselle Region are Trier (Germany's oldest city), the picturesque Koblenz, and Cochem, where Celts and Romans first made wine more than 2,000 years ago. Cochem is renowned as the most romantic Moselle destination and is world-famous for its Riesling, boasting a sweet, flowery taste.

6. The Christmas Markets: Nuremburg
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©Scirocco340 - Fotolia.com



Bavaria's second largest city, Nuremburg, is renowned for its history and medieval architecture. Travellers should consider visiting in December, when the annual Christmas market attracts up to two million visitors. Located in the central square of the city's old town, visitors can enjoy Bratwurst (charcoal-grilled sausage), Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Glühwein (traditional German mulled wine) while listening to brass bands. Christmas shoppers will have plenty of gifts to choose from, including Christmas decorations, jewellery, ornaments and toys.

7. The Artistic and Historic Capital: Berlin
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©Flickr User - La Citta Vita



Berlin has been attracting art, culture and history-lovers for years, due to its 175 museums, 600 galleries and three opera houses. With deep connections to the Second World War, the era of Prussian Glory, and the East/West Cold War divide, reminders of Berlin's past can be found throughout the city. From the turmoil of the past century, the capital has emerged as a unique, alternative haven of art and culture, unchallenged by any other European capital or German city.

8. The Restored Treasure: Dresden
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©World travel images - Fotolia.com



Germany's eastern gem lies along the Elbe River close to the Czech border. Dresden is a lively and alternative city, boasting interesting buildings and impressive museums. Historically, Dresden played an important part as the royal residence of the electors and kings of Saxony. The majority of the city centre was destroyed during the Second World War and it was only after the reunification that Dresden regained its prominence in Germany and Europe. Saxony's capital is well known for hosting Germany's longest-running Christmas Market, dating back to 1434.

9. The Glorious Gardens: Munich
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©Flickr - Mirella Matthiesen: mikix.com



Although Munich is primarily known for its Oktoberfest celebrations, the Bavarian capital is a great year-round destination. The English Garden in Munich city centre is one of the most impressive urban parks in the world, larger than New York City's Central Park. It is known for its five-storey Chinese Tower pagoda, home to Munich's second largest beer garden. During the summer months, the English Garden is used as a beach-like getaway, popular amongst swimmers and sunbathers. A must-see is river surfing in the Eisbach, which is a made possible by a manmade wave under the main bridge of the park.

10. The Maritime City: Hamburg
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©Marco2811 - Fotolia.com



Hamburg is Germany's second largest city, its maritime capital, and the second largest port in Europe. It is also a hub for Germany's top media, as well as many other important industries. The best way to appreciate this affluent city is on a harbour boat cruise, where many of Hamburg's finest hotels and restaurants are located. Hamburg best nightlife can be found around the Reeperbahn (red light district), home to numerous bars, clubs, pubs and concert venues. The Beatles used to play here back in the early 1960s, before finding worldwide fame.

Inspired to visit wonderful Germany and need a place to stay? Find your ideal hotel at the best price here.

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Trailer Park Boys And Snoop Dogg, Together At Last (PHOTOS)

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*** NOTE: Foul Language Ahead!" ***

You'd think this would have happened a looong time ago.

The Trailer Park Boys — Robb Wells (Ricky), J.P. Tremblay (Julian), and Mike Smith (Bubbles) — hit the Pemberton Music Festival in British Columbia, and so did rapper Snoop Dogg, as it turned out.




Snoop got up-close and personal with Wells, even flashing his grill:




They also flashed their ... erm ... marijuana. Not that they smoked it or anything.




In all seriousness it's unclear whether or not they used the drug together, but the red eyes in the second photo are pretty incriminating.

You can watch Seasons 1 - 8 of "Trailer Park Boys" on Netflix Canada, and the boys just came out with their third movie, "Trailer Park Boys: Don't Legalize It."


Air Canada Named Best North American Airline, But That's Not Saying Much

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With so much attention focused on the air tragedy in Ukraine, it’s easy to forget flying remains the safest form of travel.

That’s something attendants at this year’s admittedly ill-timed Farnborough International Airshow (it wrapped up three days after the Ukraine crash) want people to remember. The air show is the annual venue for the Skytrax World Airline Awards, which this year named Air Canada North America’s best airline.

The awards are based on a customer survey of business and leisure passengers, which this year involved nearly 19 million surveyed passengers around the world.

Other Canadian airlines placed in the rankings as well, with WestJet claiming second spot and Porter landing in sixth. Porter also won the award for best regional airline in North America.

But all of that doesn’t seem to be saying much, because being the best airline in North America was only good enough to rank Air Canada 24th in the world overall. Clearly, North American airlines aren’t held in very high esteem by their passengers.

That honour belongs to Asian airlines, which dominated the list, taking nine of the top 10 spots among airlines worldwide. Germany’s Lufthansa, in 10th place, was the only non-Asian airline to make the list.

Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific won the “airline of the year” award, taking top spot. Qatar Airways took second place, with Singapore Airlines taking third place.

Check out the top 10 airlines in North America.

How To Win 'Amazing Race Canada': Top Tips For Teams To Score Big (VIDEO)

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Have you ever aspired to be a contestant on "The Amazing Race Canada"? Are you one of those couch-sitting viewers shouting things at the teams?

In 2013, two members of the Huffington Post Canada editorial team participated in the "Amazing Race Canada" media challenge, and emerged victorious after a gruelling four-hour race. We learned a lot from the experience, and thought we'd share our top tips with you, in case you ever decide to audition for the show yourself.

Watch and learn!

Vancouver Real Estate: Movie Set House On Peninsula Is Unbelievable (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

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Multi-million dollar homes with luxury features are a dime a dozen in the Vancouver area. But a stunning house that's situated on a peninsula with two private beaches and its own seawall doesn't come along very often.

Walls of glass provide magnificent views of the ocean. A family of seals visits every evening and eagles are common neighbours, yet this new gated listing in Lions Bay, B.C. is just a half-hour drive from Vancouver.

You may recognize this $5.98-million property from several Hollywood movies. Check out the video above to see who's passed through its doors (and stunning ocean-side pool).

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Durable Digital Cameras That Can Handle Water, Drops And More

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Just in time for your summer vacation, here is a selection of five fearless cameras made to withstand being dropped, submerged in water and exposed to extreme temperatures. These tough devices allow you to take pictures at the beach, in the mountains or even underwater without damaging your equipment.

Nude Beach Etiquette: 6 Guidelines To Staying Nude, Not Prude (VIDEO)

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It's the middle of the summer and that means it's prime time for hitting the beach. Sun, surf, and sand abound, but beach season also comes with its own set of problems.

After all, who really enjoys bathing suit shopping, awkward tan lines, and kids running around kicking sand in your face? Instead of those unpleasantries, consider a nude beach.

Yes, you read that correctly. Nude beaches typically mean no kids and no clothes, but they still keep all the fun in the sun.

Before you strip down to your skivvies, though, consider the following rules in the video above for staying nude, not prude, at your next clothing-optional beach.

Gander International Airport On 'Endangered' List, But Officials Say Otherwise (VIDEO)

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The Gander International Airport Authority (GIAA) is challenging its "endangered" status after Heritage Canada The National Trust put it on a top ten list of "at risk" places.

Low passenger volumes have forced the authority to consider construction of a smaller facility that's more suited to its traffic, The Canadian Press reports in the video above.

And though that means a new airport building may be on its way, the authority protests the trust's statement that the facility faces "imminent destruction."

"The current air terminal building’s size and inefficiencies make the operating costs untenable going forward," the GIAA said in a Facebook post.

"The authority supports any viable proposal to preserve, protect or re-purpose the old terminal building so long as that endeavour is sustainable and cost-neutral to the airport authority."

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Take A Gander At This 'Endangered' Retro Airport (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

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Have you ever wondered what airports looked like when your grandparents travelled? The departures lounge at Gander International Airport in Newfoundland and Labrador gives us a few ideas.

Recently named on a "Top Ten Endangered Places" list by Heritage Canada The National Trust (though the airport authority has challenged that status), the lounge is a trip into the past.

With terrazzo floors and a 22-metre mural that was painted on site, the building looks like something straight out of "Mad Men." We can imagine Don Draper going over sketches on its designer furniture en route to a meeting with clients.

You can have a look at this incredible modernist design thanks to Flickr users Zach Bonnell and Fuzzy Gerdes, who posted the spectacular photos you'll find below.

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Zach Bonnell

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Fuzzy Gerdes

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Fuzzy Gerdes

gander airport
Credit: Flickr user Fuzzy Gerdes

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'Amazing Race Canada' Season 2, Episode 3 Recap: To Hong Kong

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WARNING: Spoiler Alert! Do not read on unless you've seen "Amazing Race Canada" Season 2, Episode 2. Unless you like spoilers, then go right ahead!

Are you a Kung-Fu master, or a "Master Chef" (Canada)?

Whatever your flavour -- "The Amazing Race Canada" is in China, and international, for the first-time ever, giving the show a necessary energy boost. For the past two years, the second episodes of the series were set in Vancouver or Tofino, B.C., and were a snore at best, due to dull task selection and an overdose of reality-show cheese.

Even though the Hong Kong leg certainly was cheesy, the all-new environment lit a fire in the racers' bellies.

"Oh my god, we're going to China!" shouted Jinder, who always seems surprised that he's on-camera.

"Being the first 'The Amazing Race Canada' racers to fly outside of Canada is very exciting," said Meaghan.

"Back in 2010, Jackie and I went to Asia, and that's where we got engaged," said Laura. "So, it's a very special place to us."

A special place, sure, but perhaps Laura and Jackie were more keen on sightseeing and travelling together than succeeding in the race. Bested by "Master Chef Canada" judge Alvin Leung, the two stumbled in the Detour task and could not recover, resulting in their elimination. But, at least Laura got to have a fangirl moment in front of her favourite reality show judge. Sure. Seems like CTV's brand integration is everywhere, even in Hong Kong.

Looking to make up for lost time after taking a six-hour penalty last week, Rex and Bob dedicate the rest of their race to Jen and Shawn, who were removed due to injury. Of course, what better way is there to race than to pirouette through an airport, right?

It must have worked -- because Rex and Bob were in first, for a moment. Using Hal Johnson's tactics from last season, they called for a cab before their arrival in Hong Kong, as others were stranded on arrival. Sukhi and Jinder even tried to hail a bus to help them out, which was about as successful as you would imagine it to be.

Then, with another even-steven catch-up, they remained at the top of the pack with the hockey players, before receiving their morning blessings at 8 a.m. Heading into the Detour, Rex comes face-to-face with my favourite reality TV show trope: hubris.

"I'm Rex Harrington, I have a star on the Walk of Fame!" said Rex. "I have an Order of Canada for my dance career!"

Naturally, when Rex hits up the "Kung Fu Master" Detour, he hits a wall, much like "Survivor: Borneo's" Kelly Wigglesworth before him (a river rafting guide who lost a rowing competition to Gervase Peterson, someone who "couldn't even f**king swim!").

Eventually, they succeed, as do Alain and Audrey, despite the former's prediction that his years of martial arts training would give him any advantage. It didn't. But after three episodes, Natalie and Meaghan are getting harder to beat. They're racing smart, using their Express Pass to skip the challenging Detour, and Meaghan drank the #SnakeShots like a champion. She even gave herself a victory spanking, as she should.

How about that Road Block? "etalk" and "The Social's" Lainey Lui insists she was "bottle-fed on that s**t," but it didn't make the constant shots of snake gallbladder and reptile cages any more appetizing to the viewer. Once the teams worked through their fear factor, they were on to the next task, which was suspiciously easy (and possibly cheap for the producers): to pose in front of a Bruce Lee statue while giving their best "Enter the Dragon" stance.

Once again, Natalie and Meaghan land at the mat in first place.

"Ladies, that's a hat trick!" said Jon. Clever.

Despite the Olympians' seemingly-unflappable dynamic and frontrunner status, some of the other pairs are starting to crack under pressure. We now know that when Alain and Audrey are upset, or frustrated, they will yell at each other in French. We also learn that Pierre and Michel will misdirect teams to keep a minimal challenge advantage. Perhaps they're not afraid of karma, like last season's Brett and Holly. We know how that worked out.

Plus, there's our first real look at Ryan and Rob. The bromantic bartenders have had little-to-no screen time so far, and when we hear from them this time, it's strictly strategy only. Maybe they'll show some more personality as the show continues, since the sophomore season is finally hitting its stride ... just like Rex, who gets recognized on the streets of Hong Kong.

Episode 2 Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Episode 1 Review

"Amazing Race Canada" Season 2 airs on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on CTV.


Private B.C. Island, Houses Listed For Sleek $4 Million (PHOTOS)

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Talk about privacy.

A small B.C. island is on sale for the first time in more than two decades and could be yours for a sleek $4 million.

Lamb Island is located two hours from downtown Vancouver and only 20 minutes from the town of Sechelt.

The one-acre private island is about 500 feet from the shore and is accessed by a pontoon boat that is included in the sale; you'll also get a private dock on the mainland.

The main house is 2,365 sq.-ft. with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, heated electric baseboards, a large wood burning stove, and full electricity, water, telephone, cable, and Internet. The house is surrounded by over 2,200 sq.-ft. of open patio space and gardens, plus multiple seating areas, a hot tub with a killer view, and outdoor dining areas.

Oh, there's also a 724 sq.-ft. guest house on the other side of the island with two bedrooms, one bathroom, 220 sq.-ft. of patio space, and its own outdoor hot tub. This building currently doubles as a bed and breakfast, and short-term rental property during the summer.

Has your jaw hit the floor yet?

Take a peek at the island and its property:



h/t Curbed Vancouver

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Tyrannosaur Fossil Footprints Found In B.C. Paint New Picture

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VANCOUVER - They were the king of the carnivores that ruled the Earth 70 million years ago but maybe tyrannosaurs were friendlier than their reputations have allowed.

A trio of fossilized footprint tracks discovered near Tumbler Ridge, in northeastern British Columbia, offer compelling evidence that the beasts were not solitary but travelled in packs.

The footprints were found by a local guide outfitter in October 2011.

"I was hunting with a client and we were just walking along, and I didn't want to cross the river again for the millionth time," said Aaron Fredlund.

As he made his way across a ledge along the river, he stumbled across two unmistakable footprints etched into the rock.

"These tracks are really distinct. There was no doubt what we found," he said.

That was almost the end of it.

Fredlund began to leave, thought better of it, and went back for photos. A few days later he showed his wife the photos and she urged him to report his discovery.

Those photos set Richard McCrea's heart racing half a world away.

McCrea, curator of the Peace Region Palaeontology Research Centre in Tumbler Ridge, was in Australia at the time. The picture showed Fredlund's own foot beside the half-metre dinosaur fossil.

By the end of the month, McCrea and his colleagues were at the site themselves. Over the next year, they found five more prints belonging to three tyrannosaurs. In total, the site has 30 to 40 dinosaur footprints, including hadrosaurs, or duck-billed dinosaurs, and a smaller dinosaur called Szurexallopus cordata.

And the fossils are close to perfect, McCrea said.

The surface the animals trod was "pretty much the consistency of Play-Doh," he said, with a very high clay content. That was then covered by a thick layer of volcanic ash.

Conditions were so ideal that impressions of the dinosaurs' rough skin are clearly visible.

"This is the most ideal situation you could almost ask for," he said.

Once believed to be solitary creatures, evidence has grown that tyrannosaurs were more "gregarious" than thought, according to McCrea's study published in the scientific journal PLOS One.

Many solitary tyrannosaur tracks have been unearthed but these are the first trackways with multiple prints that show several travelling in close proximity.

"We have extremely compelling evidence that tyrannosaurs travelled in groups. This was suspected and this is probably the most definitive evidence to come out to date on that topic," McCrea said.

The trackways also provide the first record of tyrannosaur's walking gait, which the team calculated to be about 8.5 kilometres an hour.

Paleontologists estimate the three were 25, 26 and 29 years old and stood about 2.35 metres high at the hip. They would have weighed about three tonnes each.

At the time the footprints were made in the Cretaceous period, the area was about 1,100 kilometres further north than it is now but the temperature much milder. It was also closer to sea level than it is now.

McCrea believes the discovery was serendipitous. The tracks survived millennia because they were covered by earth and they may not have made it through a freezing northern British Columbia winter exposed to the elements, he said.

The team made castings of the footprints but the centre, which is locally funded, cannot afford to excavate the site.

The team covered the tracks to protect them from treasure hunters and the weather and McCrea is searching for grants to retrieve and permanently preserve them. That would involve cutting the rock and flying the fossils out via helicopter.

The location is a well-guarded secret.

Unfortunately, despite numerous fossil beds throughout the province, British Columbia does not have a management plan for paleontological sites. The area is not protected under the law.

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Vancouver Fireworks Celebration Of Light: What You Need To Know

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The Honda Celebration of Light is fast approaching — are you ready?

The annual fireworks event kicks off on July 26 and also runs July 30 and August 2. As the chance to watch the U.S.A., France, and Japan compete for the winning title draws closer, here's what you need to know:

-There will be car access restrictions starting at 6:30 p.m. in Kits Point and 7:30 p.m. for the West End, meaning only residents with parking decals for the neighbourhood, or with car registration displaying the neighbourhood, will be allowed through

-If you're walking, exit routes will be posted in the West End:
—Burnaby Street to access the Burrard and Waterfront Stations
—Beach Avenue to access Yaletown Station
—Guilford Street to access Georgia Street bus routes

-There will be complimentary bike valet service at Sunset Beach

-Boaters must carry their license with them at all times

-There will be recycling and garbage bins set up on the beaches, so use them!

-Open alcohol is not permitted on the beaches, on streets, or in parks

-Smoking is not permitted on beaches or in parks

-To help you meet up with friends and family, there will be large letter signs placed along English Bay

-Be aware of the tide schedule (signs will be posted along the beach to indicate where high tide will hit):
—July 26: High tide: 14.4 ft at 7:30 p.m.
—July 30: High tide: 14.4 ft at 9:15 p.m.
—August 2: High tide: 14.1 ft at 10:43 p.m.

-Have fun!

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Great White Shark Spotted In New Brunswick Waters (VIDEO)

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People on a whale watching boat saw more than they expected when they witnessed a great white shark swimming in the waters off St. Andrews, N.B. on Monday.

Approximately 20 passengers were on a boat belonging to Quoddy Link Marine when they saw the large shark in the Bay of Fundy, TC Media reported.

A video uploaded to YouTube shows the great white in the water right next to the boat as people can be heard shrieking excitedly in the background.

The shark, whose size was estimated at anywhere between 3.5 and six metres long, may well have been staking out its dinner, researcher Steve Campana told CBC News.

"A typical shark is really only driven by a couple of things; one is sex and one is food," he said.

"In this case, there’s no indication it was mating. It was probably cruising around in appropriate water temperatures to look for food. ... It was probably just exploring."

There may be thousands of these sharks swimming near Canadian shores after their numbers grew by an estimated 10 to 20 per cent in the Atlantic Ocean over the past 10 years. But Campana said people have nothing to be scared of.

"Nobody has been bitten by a shark of any kind in Canadian waters," he said. "These whites are not particularly interested in people."

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