BC Ferries Terminal Closures Proposed For Nanaimo, Salt Spring Island

March 19, 2015, 8:55 am

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BC Ferries should consider closing ferry terminals on Salt Spring Island and Nanaimo in order to keep fare increases under two per cent per year, according the independent B.C. Ferry Commissioner.

Yesterday Commissioner Gordon Macatee Macatee proposed limiting annual fare increases to 1.9 per cent a year for four years starting in 2016.

To do that, he wants the corporation to find more than $27 million in efficiencies by 2020. and he's wondering if Nanaimo and Salt Spring Island both need three ferry terminals each.

"We're simply asking them [the corporation] to continue to do their work so we can see what the options would look like," Macatee said, adding the idea would be to avoid costs.

Minister rejects proposal

But Transportation Minister Todd Stone said it's an idea that he's considered, and rejected.

"We have no intentions of closing either of the terminals in Nanaimo," Stone said. "That from our perspective, is not on the table."

Nanaimo has two terminals that provide service to West Vancouver and Tsawwassen, and one smaller terminal for service to Gabriola Island.

Brian Hollingshead, the chair of the Southern Gulf Islands ferry advisory committee, said the debate over terminal closures is not over.

 "It's a bit early in the program for anyone to say, 'No, no, that's not on the table,'" he said.

Hollingshead said an economic analysis will be done, but decisions about closing terminals won't likely not be made until the end of the new ferry service contract in 2020.

Salt Spring Island has three terminals that provide service to Tsawwassen, the southern Gulf Islands, Saanich and Crofton

Last fall when BC Ferries floated the idea of cancelling service between Nanaimo's Departure Bay terminal and West Vancouver's Horseshoe Bay terminal as a cost-cutting measure, that idea was also quickly shot down by Stone.

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We Aren't Kidding That This Is The Most Canadian Photo Ever

March 19, 2015, 11:29 pm

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You could throw in a moose drinking a double double, next to a beaver nursing a beer, but really, this picture is pretty much perfect.



The photo, which was shared online by the B.C. RCMP, has been hailed as "the most Canadian photo ever" — but the Mountie captured in the image says he had no idea how much attention it would get.

"Obviously I didn't anticipate this kind of fanfare but I’m a very proud Mountie and an even prouder Canadian, and I thought 'what better way to capture that,'" RCMP Cpl. Shaun Begg tells The Huffington Post B.C. in an interview.

Begg says the photo was taken on a once-in-a-lifetime trip with his oldtimers' hockey team, the Kaslo AfterBurners, this week.

The team's captain is also a helicopter pilot who helped organize the excursion to Shamrock Lake in a remote area of the East Kootenay region, says Begg.

Begg and nine other teammates pooled their money and took time off work to play some pick-up hockey.

"This was an opportunity of a lifetime to play at 9,000 feet on a glacial-fed lake in the pristine Purcell Mountains. So I thought I’d take my red serge and take a picture for a Christmas card or a screen saver," says Begg, who got his supervisor's blessing to bring his uniform on the personal trip.

On Wednesday, the team flew in a helicopter up to the lake and played shinny against another squad of 10 people from Western Canada. Near the end of the five-hour experience, Begg put on his uniform for a few photos, and even played a couple of shifts in the red serge.

He says he had no idea one picture would reach so many people:

We may be Mounties, but we are all still kids at heart with @NHL dreams pic.twitter.com/8dm7sQ9NA6

— bcrcmp (@bcRCMP) March 19, 2015

Beggs' photo is the latest addition to Canada's "RCMP Officers Doing Awesome Things" album, which already includes Const. Ryan Steel of the Ridge Meadows RCMP:

And he didn't even scuff his boots! pic.twitter.com/hPHj90MfyV

— bcrcmp (@bcRCMP) June 4, 2013

And don't forget Const. Doug Sokoloski from Alberta, who is also known as the "coolest cop ever playing drums in the woods":



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Why Russia Should Be on Your Bucket List

March 20, 2015, 3:04 pm

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Russia has been in the news quite a bit recently.

From Edward Snowden the whistleblower who put his own freedom at stake to reveal shocking abuses by the U.S. intelligence agencies, to the country's successful bid for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, we've seen many sides of this large and complex country.

Here's why now is the time to visit Russia and scratch this intriguing country off your bucket list in 2015!


St. Basil's Cathedral, Red Square. Credit: Maureen Mulligan


Escape the Cold in Sochi

Many Russians are still stunned why they won the bid for 2014 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games held at Sochi since it is often associated with Russia's southern mentality characterized by palms and a hot climate and nothing of the nail biting cold of winter. In fact, Sochi is the unofficial summer capital of many Russians wanting to get a respite from winter cold in mainland Russia.

Caucasian mountainous tribes, who all fell under the control of many great civilizations such as the ancient Greek, the Abkhazian, the Romans, the Ottoman, and the Byzantine empires, once inhabited what is now Sochi. Be sure to visit some of the landmarks of ancient civilizations such as the Bronze Age table-stones and medieval Byzantine temples.

Wander Around the White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg

As in northern destinations around the world, in St. Petersburg the sun shines nearly the entire day and the nights never get too dark. Called the "White Nights," this period typically lasts from June 11 to July 2. Considered a reward for all of the darkness during the winter months, Russians celebrate this period with a series of events and festivals around St. Petersburg.


Fountains at Peterhof, outside St. Petersburg Credit: Maureen Mulligan


Most people can be found walking around this beautiful city, touring the historic city center, the river Neva, and the numerous small canals on foot even after midnight. This is the perfect time to travel to Russia, as you literally have more hours in the day to fit in sightseeing, tours and enjoy the many restaurants late into the night.

Marvel at Moscow's Red Square

When travelers think of Russia, the first image that comes to mind for many is the iconic lit-up fairytale-like domes of St. Basil's Cathedral at the southern end of Moscow's Red Square. Red Square is considered to be the very heart of Russia, and comes to life at night by the glowing red stars atop the Kremlin towers.


The Cathedral of the Annunication (Kremlin) Credit: Maureen Mulligan

St. Basil's came to be in 1552, when Ivan the Terrible captured the Tatar stronghold of Kazan on the Feast of Intercession. He commissioned this landmark church, officially the Intercession Cathedral, to commemorate this victory.


The Ivan the Great Bell Tower (Kremlin) Credit: Maureen Mulligan

Moscow is a thriving city that exudes prosperity and wealth. And with this comes some of the world's best restaurants and nightclubs. Garage, a long time favorite, has since 1998 created a unique atmosphere for a weekly party graced by actors, producers and only the hottest DJs.

Experience Russia History and Culture by Touring the Golden Ring

Located just northeast of Moscow, a series of ancient towns including Vladimir, Suzdal and Kosroma are known as the Golden Ring. With their iconic temples made of white stone, these cities and towns are located relatively close to each other and literally form a ring, making them easy to explore. In addition to history, when visiting the Golden Ring you can experience a more provincial, traditional Russian way of life.

Overall, Russia's highlights are worth seeing for yourself and 2015 is the year to make this trip happen!

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Alaska Airlines Employee Pays To Fly Stranded B.C. Woman Home

March 24, 2015, 12:07 pm

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Miriam Thomas was stuck alone in a U.S. airport, holding a cancelled plane ticket with no idea how to get home to Vancouver — until an Alaska Airlines employee came to the rescue.

On Sunday night, the developer who was in Ontario, Calif. for business, discovered that her Delta Airlines return flight had been cancelled.

Thomas posted what unfolded next on her Twitter account. She said Delta Airlines' support staff told her she couldn't get another flight until the next day.

Thomas got a frustrating runaround until an employee from Delta's sister airline, Alaska Airlines, stepped forward. The woman named Judy handed her a ticket — and didn't reveal that she was paying out of pocket for it.

@nicolb I didn't even realize she was paying for it till her coworkers said "oh Judy!" And she said "It's okay. I'm paying it forward."

— Miriam Thomas (@andmiriam) March 20, 2015

@Pamela_Drouin yeah having an employee pay out of their own pocket for a stranger to get home? Such an amazing experience.

— Miriam Thomas (@andmiriam) March 20, 2015

Hey @Delta forget about 'helping' me. Judy from @AlaskaAir just paid for my ticket to #seattle so that I can get home today. #Alaska4life

— Miriam Thomas (@andmiriam) March 20, 2015

Thomas said Judy simply told her, "You pay it forward too. When you get home, you buy someone a coffee. Take your mom for a coffee," reported Global News.

Now back in B.C., Thomas has tweeted Alaska Airlines to find Judy so she can pass on her thanks.

Back on Canadian soil (15 hrs after I started). I can't believe I get to sleep in my own bed 2nite, thanks to a kind stranger @AlaskaAir

— Miriam Thomas (@andmiriam) March 21, 2015

A Delta Airlines spokesman told CTV News the company is investigating the incident, and will be calling Thomas to offer an apology and full refund.

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Foreign Hunters In B.C. Should Be Forced To Take Bear Meat Home

March 24, 2015, 2:19 pm

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Every year, 350 grizzly bears are killed in British Columbia. Many are killed for their head and their hide, as trophy hunters leave their bodies to rot in the wilderness.

The fact is, British Columbians don't support this practice -- and neither do I.

A McAllister opinion research poll in 2013 found that 87 per cent of British Columbians believe that trophy killing should be banned. Not only that, but 95 per cent of hunters believe that you should not kill an animal if you are not prepared to eat it.

Like the spirit bear in the Great Bear Rainforest, grizzly bears are an iconic species in British Columbia. There is also significant debate about how many are left. It's important that we do what we can to protect them.

That's why for over a year now, I have been using my role as an MLA to advocate for the end of trophy killing of grizzly bears in B.C. I have called on the government to ban trophy killing while at the same time fighting for the rights of British Columbians who are hunting for sustenance.

A few weeks ago, I went a step further. I introduced the B.C. Green Party's first private member's bill with the aim of providing government with the tools it needs to put an end to trophy killing in British Columbia, while at the same time supporting B.C.'s resident hunters.

If passed, the Wildlife Amendment Act would add additional requirements to hunting in B.C. First, it would remove grizzly bears from the list of animals exempt from meat harvesting regulations. Second, it would ensure that edible portions of all animals harvested in B.C. are taken directly to the hunter's residence.

These provisions limit a foreign hunter's ability to come to B.C. for the purpose of trophy hunting, by making them responsible for removing the meat of any animal they kill and taking the meat back to their home, wherever that may be.

At present, a foreign hunter can simply give the meat away to a guide outfitter and fly home only with the trophy.

Hunters are already required to remove the edible portions from black bears. This bill would bring meat-harvesting standards for grizzly bears up to the same level. These changes would create substantial logistical challenges that would make foreign trophy killing significantly more difficult to do. And most hunters do not hunt grizzly bear for meat as it is often contains parasites that can lead to Trichinosis if not well cooked.

Let me be clear: The Wildlife Amendment Act isn't a silver bullet. It will not end trophy killing overnight. But it would be a substantial step forward.

There will always be people who will ignore our laws. The challenge with any piece of legislation is that its effectiveness relies on the government adequately resourcing and enforcing it. So far, the B.C. Liberal government has actively supported trophy killing, going so far as to ensure that foreign hunters are given even more opportunities to kill grizzly bears. This bill is an opportunity to open the dialogue once more on how we can pressure this government to amend their position on trophy killing.

I understand and empathize with the frustrations of groups like Raincoast Conservation Foundation, who have been working hard to ensure the long-term survival of grizzly bears in the Great Bear Rainforest. Preserving the pristine nature of the world's last great temperate rainforest is also a goal of mine. We are merely trying to accomplish it through different strategies.

If passed, this bill would send a very clear message. British Columbians do not condone any form of trophy killing, not just of grizzly bears in the Great Bear Rainforest.

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Air Canada Ad Calls Atlantic Canada A Whole Other Country

March 25, 2015, 10:14 am

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Atlantic Canada is a little different from the rest of the country. But that doesn't make it a different one altogether!

Tell that to Air Canada, which recently sent an ad via email pitching discounted flights between "Canada and Atlantic Canada," reports CBC News.

Dear @AirCanada,
I'm in #atlantic #Canada & want to get to #Canada. Is there a flight for that?
Signed,
Confused pic.twitter.com/8BlrlzqwQK

— Patricia (@pgzwicker) March 25, 2015

The snark came fast and furiously on social media in response.

Wow! @AirCanada now makes it even cheaper to fly from Canada to canada! What a savings to go where I am!!! pic.twitter.com/mR7Zs0BCpr

— Mark Critch (@markcritch) March 25, 2015

@markcritch @AirCanada Quebec is going to be pissed when they find out we left before they did...

— Chris Thurrott (@Sileed) March 25, 2015

Why did Quebec waste all that time on referenda? They could've asked @AirCanada to separate them! #LastRT

— Suzette Chan (@SuzetteChan) March 25, 2015

FREEDOM! "Air Canada ad suggests Atlantic Canada is a separate country http://t.co/DRoqbGuswT"

— Keith Dunne (@KeithDunneNL) March 25, 2015

Time to update the passport, I guess! "@CBCNS: Wait, since when did we separate? #cbcns pic.twitter.com/OaHJxmdogp"

— Chickadee Comms (@ChickadeeComms) March 25, 2015

Ah, the Newfoundland Separation Federation finally got what they wanted. http://t.co/XgebED8lTy

— Julian Rossi (@JulianJRossi) March 25, 2015

.@AirCanada - I have a flight from St. John’s to Canada in June.
I’ll be paying in NL dollars (rocks) Thanks! pic.twitter.com/ssRMDHRspx

— Kurtis Billard (@KCBillard) March 25, 2015

I blame Ted Cruz: RT @CBCNS: Wait, since when did we separate? #cbcns pic.twitter.com/6yhh4vVNPT

— James Baker (@GrumpusNation) March 25, 2015

Who fell asleep in CDN Geography class & didn't pass in their Confederation homework? @AirCanada pic.twitter.com/3zOuqJYwj8

— Mark Rose (@markrose14) March 25, 2015

And Air Canada was doing so well!

The airline has generated plenty of goodwill on social media in the past few months after offering Canadians in London a free flight home for Christmas.

The Air Canada Foundation also released a touching video this week that showed Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price receiving a gift from a boy from his hometown of Anahim Lake, B.C.

We're sure Air Canada, or the ad agency it hired, made an honest mistake here. But really, they should know their consumer base better than this!

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9 Times Canada's Northern Lights Basically Owned The World

March 25, 2015, 3:22 pm

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We love the northern lights in Canada.

When they show up in winter, they provide a pleasant distraction from icy roads, slushy sidewalks and snow piled so high that you can't reach your car.

But how do our auroras stack up against the rest of the world?

We've had some amazing shows this winter and beyond, and some incredible photos by people such as Thunder Bay photographer Justin Stevens.

We want to see how they stack up against other countries.

Here are some northern lights displays as seen in Canada, compared with shows across the globe:

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

Narcissus is a mythic figure who fell in love with his own reflection. We imagine these northern lights might do the same.

Oregon


(Photo: Brad Goldpaint via Imgur)

This isn't bad. But we prefer the contrast we find up north.

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

Now that's a beautiful light display. Let's see how things are going in ...

Scandinavia

(Photo: June Grønseth via Imgur)


Ha! Green! That's all you can muster? Try again!

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

OK, so our northern lights aren't always multicoloured. But when they're not, they're still spectacular. Whereas in ...

Alaska

(Photo: Reddit user Kootznoo_wootwoot via Imgur)


You don't need a more intense solar event! You're just weak! Weak!

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

It's like a supernova exploding behind a forest. Then you look at ...

Norway

(Photo: Reddit user linksdrall via Imgur)


Sorry, we can't see the auroras for the trees.

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

Incredible. Transcendent. Let's see what you got ...

Finland

(Photo: Imgur)


Oh, COME ON! Red turning to green, and that's all? What is this, a traffic light? Be a little more creative!

Canada



It's like heaven is beckoning us just over those mountains. But let's see what we find in ...

Michigan

(Photo via Imgur)


Not bad. For Michigan.

Canada

(Photo: Getty)


See, in Canada, our northern lights contort themselves into recognizable shapes. Here, we see something that looks like the skeleton of a Great White Shark's jaws. Whereas in ...

Finland

(Photo: Getty)


Faint. Fluid. Lamesauce.

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

Like a neon green sunrise. Which is more than can be said for ...

Sweden

(Photo: Getty)


A green band of light. How original.

Canada


(Photo via Flickr user Justin Stevens/License)

It's like a rainbow cascading across the sky. Whereas in ...

Norway

(Photo: Diane Robinson via Imgur)


It's like a jumbo jet streaked through the air leaving a trail of neon green fuel. Impressive on its own, but in context, not as much.

So for those who weren't keeping score:

Canada - 9; World - 0.



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Martin Gary Atwood Death: Slain Man's Remains Returned To Canada

March 25, 2015, 3:32 pm

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UPDATE - March 26, 2015: Family friends say that Martin Gary Atwood's remains have been returned to his relatives in Nova Scotia.

Mexican officials were apparently having difficulties locating family of a Vancouver man who was found dead on a resort beach.

Martin Gary Atwood, 50, was discovered in Los Cabos on March 18. His cause of death was severe head trauma and a skull fracture, said prosecutors in the state of Baja California Sur. It appeared Atwood was beaten with a blunt object.

A local Mexican news blog, Colectivo Pericú, posted a photo of Atwood's B.C. driver's licence this week, reporting that no one has yet claimed the body.

Atwood's Vancouver address appears to be a low-income residence in Chinatown.

CBC News reported that he was originally from Cape Sable Island, N.S., but had more recently worked in Alberta.

John Babcock, a spokesman with Foreign Affairs, did not comment on the Mexican identification process.

"Canadian consular officials are in touch with local authorities and are providing consular assistance as required," Babcock said in a statement to The Huffington Post B.C. "For privacy reasons and out of respect for the family, we are unable to provide further information on this matter."

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Travelling Through the Lens of Canada's Top Instagrammers

March 26, 2015, 5:38 am

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It's safe to say this year's winter definitely had us looking forward to spring! We may have theoretically passed that long-awaited first day of spring, but in Canada, Mother Nature doesn't seem to be ready to give up with grace. To beat back our late winter blues, trivago.ca rounded up top Canadian Instagrammers who've been capturing the beauty of Canada and the rest of the world, whatever the season.

These Instagrammers not only help us forget how harsh our winters can be with beautiful shots of Canada's snowy landscapes, but also inspire us to travel to new places around the globe with their recommendations of where to stock up on sunlight! It's officially time to start planning your liberation from the cold!

Rishad Daroo (@freerishad) - 72.7k followers

Winter home: Vancouver, British Columbia
Summer escape: "To break the cold spell, this past winter I spent some time in Vietnam. The culture, food, and photographic opportunities are equally impressive. This image was taken in Halong Bay the Quảng Ninh Province of Vietnam." - Rishad


Jeff Frenette (@dezjeff) - 42.1k followers

Winter home: Québec-City, Québec
Summer escape: "As for my favourite place to escape the winter, I didn't get to choose Hawaii, Hawaii chose me! I had the opportunity to be on a one week press trip to cover food and adventure on Maui!" - Jeff


Scott Bakken (@scottcbakken) - 124k followers

Winter home: Emerald lake, British Columbia
Summer escape: "This (right side) was taken by myself last week in San Diego and would say that is my favourite summer spot!! San Diego offers it all. Sunny days, beautiful beaches and great community. It's a city that is easily enjoyed without the stress of congested traffic. It's an amazing place to enjoy it all!" - Scott


Callum Snape (@calsnape) - 126k followers

Winter home: Peyto Lake, Alberta
Summer escape: "My favourite place to travel in the summer is Tofino, British Columbia. Exploring the starfish filled shores of Chesterman Beach as the Earth's Shadow fades away in the distance taking the moon with it." - Callum


TonoAriki (@tonoariki) - 65.7k followers

Winter home: Toronto, Ontario
Summer escape: "My favourite winter getaway destinations are Krabi and Koh Samui in Thailand. Friendly people and relax pace." - Rajeshta (TonoAriki)


Victor Cheng (@veeceecheng) - 38.2k followers

Winter home: Toronto, Ontario
Summer escape: "Hong Kong. Where can I start? It's obviously the most photogenic city in the world for the Instagrammers. With the convenience of the efficient transportation methods, you can basically discover the city on your own without any tour guides. That being said, I recommend anyone who has not been to Hong Kong to start thinking about it as your next travel destination!" - Victor


Ali (@inayali) - 59.4k followers

Winter home: Montréal, Québec
Summer escape: "That photo (right side) was taken at Cleveland Dam. I loved that area, because it's very peaceful, beautiful but also accessible! It's half an hour bus ride from Vancouver and you can go there with your friends to take a walk in the forest around." - Ali


Taha Muharuma (@tahaphoto) - 31.7k followers

Winter home: Toronto, Ontario
Summer escape: "Travelling to Italy exposed me to the kind of beauty that literally stops you in your tracks. When you add food, drink and history to these views, the experience is second to none." - Taha


Alen Palander (@alenpalander) - 45.4k followers

Winter home: Toronto, Ontario
Summer escape: "Barcelona, Spain is by far one of my favourite places to visit when I want to escape Canada's harsh winter. I helped create and instruct an international architecture program in Barcelona for four years now. This program has induced my appreciation for travel as well as my love for Barcelona." - Alen


Dan Lum (@dudelum) - 60k followers

Winter home: Buntzen Lake, British Columbia
Summer escape: "As for my favourite destination, there are so many places I haven't been to yet. One place that I've spent the past few summers is in San Francisco. There are many incredible locations in the SF Bay Area to explore and photograph. One place that consistently delivers is Mt. Tamalpais across the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County." - Dan


Rose (@gummything) - 27.9k followers

Winter home: Toronto, Ontario
Summer escape: "If it wasn't so far away, I'd visit Japan often, any time of the year. The culture is so inspiring, there are endless places to explore, and so much to photograph. I love the Tokyo vibe in particular. That city makes me feel like I've been transported both into the future and the past, especially when walking through Harajuku and visiting ancient temples nearby." - Rose


Maurice Li (@maurice) - 105k followers

Winter beauty: Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, British Columbia
Summer escape: "I love traveling to Hong Kong because of the vibrant culture, fantastic food, and jaw-dropping architecture. One of my favourite things about the densely packed city is its close proximity to nature in the form of parks, islands, and beaches. The incredible mixture of people, city and nature makes Hong Kong a photographer's dream." - Maurice


Jongsun Park (@jongsunpark_) - 62.9k followers

Winter home: Buntzen Lake, British Columbia
Summer escape: "I have my favourite getaway place in Vancouver for summer time. This is photo of my backpacking trip to Garibaldi lake this summer. I just love jumping on the freezing glacier lake in hot summer days." - Jongsun


SoTeeoh (@soteeoh) - 30.8k followers

Winter home: Toronto, Ontario
Summer escape: "The National Parks in Alberta have some of the most breath taking views I have ever seen so even though its relatively close to home, that's a must-visit spot in my opinion." - SoTeeOh


Lori Andrews (@theoriginal10cent) - 19.6k followers

Winter home:Banff, Alberta
Summer escape: "My favourite escape from the cold is Palm Springs! It's only two hours away by air and I love the desert and especially Joshua Tree national park." - Lori


Jeff Bartlett (@photojbartlett) - 84.9k followers

Winter home: Athabasca Falls, Alberta
Summer escape: "As an avid skier, I rarely try to escape the cold. Even in the summer time, I use the favourable weather to venture closer to the earth's poles into what are often considered extreme climates. I was just in Iceland for the first time and I will definitely make a return visit. That country is spectacular!" - Jeff

For more travel inspiration, check out our blog trivago checkin!

How to Prepare for Injuries While Travelling

March 26, 2015, 9:28 am

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No one ever plans on getting hurt or injured while on a trip. While planning vacations we prefer to think about exploring new destinations or relaxing on the beach. But it's important to take a little time to prepare for the unfortunate situation of getting injured while traveling.

Proper Preparation is Important

Begin by investing a small amount of time and money in purchasing medical travel insurance. Typically, it's cheaper than you may think.

Look for a policy that includes medical expenses plus emergency evacuation. Before buying a special medical insurance policy for your trip, be sure to check with your medical insurer as you might already be covered by your existing health plan.

Then, organize phone numbers and contact information for all doctors and other medical offices you use and bring this with you so you can quickly reach out in case of an emergency.

Finally, pack an emergency medical kit with an antibiotic, anti-diarrheal, antihistamine and painkillers (at least over-the-counter, though some doctors might prescribe something stronger to have in reserve).

Consider Booking with a Tour Operator

Tour operators, particularly higher end operators, often include travel-medical and evacuation insurance in their packages. Additionally, their local trip leaders are also well prepared for mishaps. If you are injured while traveling, having a local guide who speaks the language and knows where to head in case of an emergency can significantly reduce the stress of the situation. If you are injured while traveling, booking through a tour operator that carries liability insurance can also help cover any expenses incurred.

While accidents abroad can have very complicated aspects, particularly in respect of time limits for pursuing claims abroad, keep in mind that it is important to obtain evidence in respect of holiday incidents which happened thousands of miles away. A good local guide and tour operator can assist with this in the event of an injury while traveling.



Deal with the Stress in a Healthy Way

Getting injured is stressful. Getting injured while traveling is even more stressful. If you've taken the time to plan properly by purchasing travel insurance and have booked travel with a trustworthy tour operator or travel guide, the situation will be much less stressful.

Either way, all travelers have certain expectations when it comes to travel and when things don't go according to plan or as anticipated, stress can occur. This stress results in high cortisol, strain on the body system and other negative physical reactions.



A simple way to immediately reduce stress is to perform diaphragmatic, or "deep breathing" exercises. Lie face down on the floor and begin breathing deeply and slowly, with your hands resting under your face. Do this for five minutes.

Alternatively, you can sit in a reclining chair. Put a hand on your abdomen and a hand on your chest. As you breathe, make sure the hand on your abdomen is moving up and down rather than one on your chest. If the hand on your abdomen is moving you are breathing deeply and slowly.

Travel should be fun and carefree, however it's best to plan ahead for the unexpected event of being injured while on the road so you're in the best position possible to quickly recover.

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5 Best Foods To Avoid Jet Lag

March 26, 2015, 12:37 pm

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From popping pills to putting on sunglasses, most travellers are desperate to find ways of reducing the effects of a long flight.

In the video above, Buzz60 reveals the best foods to eat before and during your next trip. Foods like bananas can reduce cramping, while tart cherries will help you catch a few Zzzs on board. The easy-to-pack food list includes a mix of nuts, fruits and teas that you can sip on after the plane lands.

If you're not a fan of in-flight snacks or nap time, sunlight can also help cure the fogginess caused by jet lag. Doctors say that the key to avoiding extreme jet lag is light exposure, but knowing when and how long is important. Thankfully there's a new app called Entrain developed by medical students specifically for jet lag that can do those calculations for you.

Watch the video above to find out which foods will help you feel your best after a long flight.

Tofino House On Chesterman Beach Oozes West Coast Style

March 26, 2015, 2:15 pm

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Tiny Tofino, B.C. has been much praised for its gorgeous sand beaches, rocking ocean surf, and mouth-watering restaurants. Now you can live there in style.

A stunning beachfront home listed for just under $5 million offers not only location, location, location, but also beautiful native West Coast art. Take a look at that grand entrance!



The five spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms are ideal for a family, or for indulging in the most impressive vacations ever. Foodies will love the high-end kitchen, complete with an authentic pizza oven.

The 9,600 sq-ft. property fully exploits its perch on Chesterman Beach, with walls of windows overlooking Tofino's famous waves and sunsets. Not only that, you can literally walk out of the house, onto the sand, and surf your troubles away.



Check out more photos of the ultimate beach house:




(H/T Luxury BC)

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Whistler Treetop Estate Features Quite The View From Infinity Pool

March 27, 2015, 11:30 am

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Whistler is internationally renowned as one of B.C.'s best tourist spots, as a hiking and mountain biking summer mecca, and a ski and snowboard winter paradise.

Now consider living the Whistler lifestyle year round, with a treetop estate as your home base.

Listed for $13 million, the 12,000 sq-ft. chalet overlooks Whistler Village and wilderness below. You can take it all in from your infinity pool:



Inside, choose from four fireplaces for those who prefer to curl up in the chilly winter months. There's also a chef's kitchen and temperature-controlled wine cellar, as well as a full-blown gym to work it all off.

And yes, there is plenty of space for friends and family among the 10 bedrooms and eight bathrooms.

Enjoy all of it in peace on nearly 30,000 sq. ft. of secluded land.

See more photos of the estate below:




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Chad Brownlee Lets You In On His Best Of B.C.

March 27, 2015, 4:35 pm

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Kelowna-born Chad Brownlee is an award-winning country singer, songwriter, philanthropist, and former NHL draft pick — and he's only 30.

He's also one proud B.C. boy.

Brownlee was drafted to the Vancouver Canucks as a defenceman in 2003. But plagued by injury, he left his hockey dreams behind to pursue music. And he hasn't looked back.

The singer has released three albums and was nominated for a Juno for country album of the year in 2013. He was named the Canadian Country Music Association's rising star in 2011.

Brownlee strives to give back too. During his current "When The Lights Go Down" tour, Brownlee has been playing a unique guitar made out of 22 Sher-Wood hockey sticks. When the tour is over, he'll auction if off and donate proceeds to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation — which sends underprivileged children to camps across the country.

Brownlee, who lives in Langley, took some time out off stage to answer HuffPost's "My B.C." questions. Here's what he had to say about his home province:




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18 Times Jasper National Park Stunned Us With Its Rugged Beauty

March 27, 2015, 4:46 pm

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When people think of Canada, they often imagine rugged geographic features such as mountains, forests and glaciers.

You can find all of this (and more) in Jasper National Park.



Jasper is the biggest of all national parks in the Rocky Mountains. It spans over 11,000 square kilometres, from just south of Grande Hache, Alta. to the northern tip of Banff National Park.

It is home to some incredible features, such as Alberta's tallest mountain; Maligne Lake, the biggest glacial-fed lake in the Rockies; and diverse animal species such as wolverines, elk and bighorn sheep.

It's a place where you can bike, camp, fish or hike, all the things that Canadians love to do in the great outdoors.

The park also gives you a first-hand look at the effects of climate change with the Athabasca Glacier, which, it's been said, could disappear in a generation.



What better reason is there to see Jasper National Park right now?

Here are 16 more photos that testify to Jasper National Park's rugged beauty:

Athabasca Falls



Athabasca Glacier



Athabasca River



Horseshoe Lake



Jasper Lake



Maligne Lake







Medicine Lake



Miette Range



Mount Kitchener and the Sunwapta River



Peyto Lake



Pyramid Lake





Roche Miette



Wilcox Pass Trail



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Chad Brownlee Lets You In On His Best Of B.C.

March 27, 2015, 4:35 pm

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Kelowna-born Chad Brownlee is an award-winning country singer, songwriter, philanthropist, and former NHL draft pick — and he's only 30.

He's also one proud B.C. boy.

Brownlee was drafted to the Vancouver Canucks as a defenceman in 2003. But plagued by injury, he left his hockey dreams behind to pursue music. And he hasn't looked back.

The singer has released three albums and was nominated for a Juno for country album of the year in 2013. He was named the Canadian Country Music Association's rising star in 2011.

Brownlee strives to give back too. During his current "When The Lights Go Down" tour, Brownlee has been playing a unique guitar made out of 22 Sher-Wood hockey sticks. When the tour is over, he'll auction if off and donate proceeds to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation — which sends underprivileged children to camps across the country.

Brownlee, who lives in Langley, took some time out off stage to answer HuffPost's "My B.C." questions. Here's what he had to say about his home province:




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The Most Unforgettable Hockey Game Requires The Most Unbelievable Rink (PHOTOS)

March 28, 2015, 12:12 am

≫ Next: Alberta Photographer Of The Month: Randee Armstrong (PHOTOS)

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A four-month contest to reward Canada's most dedicated hockey players could only end in a place like this.

The lucky winners of Molson Canadian's #AnythingForHockey campaign were flown by helicopter this month to a professionally built rink on a glacial B.C. lake to play an epic game of shinny.



(If the spot looks familiar, that's because it's the same rink pictured in the recent "most Canadian photo ever.")

Thousands of Canadians submitted their hockey-obsessed stories to prove their unbreakable dedication to the sport, but only 11 were chosen for the trip to Shamrock Lake in the Purcell Mountain range just outside of the Rockies.

It took Molson Canadian two weeks to build the rink, and the result is the most unreal ice we've ever seen:





Vancouver helicopter pilot Bradley Friesen was among the winners who were awe-struck when they spotted the outdoor venue.

"When we all first saw it, we lost our minds," Friesen told The Huffington Post B.C. in an interview. "It was spectacular."

Friesen, a pilot for over 20 years, has been the stairway to heaven for many of his passengers. He flies hockey players, explorers, and even figure skaters to secluded frozen lakes in B.C.'s outback for some unbelievable ice-time.

But one of those trips nearly cost him his life.

Last year, Friesen had flown some hockey players to a rink he made on a remote frozen lake, but when it came time to leave, his helicopter wouldn't start. The group was stranded on a mountain with a wind chill of around -60 degrees Celsius for several hours until a search and rescue helicopter rescued them.

Because of his commitment to helping others achieve their wildest skating dreams, Friesen was chosen to live out one of his own.

"That setting in the Rockies is way bigger country than what I fly in," he said. "We were at 8,300 feet and looking up another 1,000 feet to the top of the mountain."

A former referee officiated the game, and Molson even flew in a beer fridge.

Story continues after slideshow:




But the ultimate reward was found in the strangers who turned into teammates.

One of the winners was former NHL defenceman Don Dietrich. The 53-year-old beat cancer three times and now lives with Parkinson's disease, but none of that has stopped him from playing the sport he loves.

"We would all just gather around Don to listen to him speak," Friesen said. "To hear a man who's been through that say, 'I'm lucky that I have Parkinson's because otherwise, I never would've gotten to do this'... it was pretty incredible.

"It was something we all realize we're never going to get to do again," he added. "I don't think it was lost on anyone how incredible and special it was."

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Alberta Photographer Of The Month: Randee Armstrong (PHOTOS)

March 28, 2015, 7:27 am

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Never before have we seen such a dreamy Alberta.

We became introduced to Edmonton wedding and lifestyle photographer Randee Armstrong's work a few months back and could not wait to feature her creative and emotional work as March's Alberta Photographer of the Month.

Randee's photography is a bit of a departure from what we've featured in the past — and it's totally refreshing!

We love the dream-like quality of her photos, not to mention her stunning models. The stark Alberta fields and skies take centre stage in many of her photographs, setting the tone for these ethereal images.

Randee was awesome enough to share some of her photos with us and answer a few questions:

Q: Where did you grow up and where do you currently live?

A: I grew up in Terrace, B.C. but have lived in Edmonton for about 10 years now.

Q: How long have you been shooting photos?

A: When I was 15 my dad gave me his old Canon T70 film camera, before that I used to buy disposable cameras pretty much weekly.

Check out more of Randee's work. Interview continues below:

Q: Do you shoot photos professionally, or just for fun?

A: Both, I have a wedding/lifestyle photography business with another really talented photographer, Zach Ayotte, and then I take photos for myself as much as possible. I am really into putting people in different nature settings and seeing what I can come up with.

Q: What about Alberta inspires you?

A: The emptiness of the landscapes are something I am absolutely in love with, the prairies have such a weird calm, yet eerily beautiful effect on me. But that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate the mountains as well, I LOVE the mountains, I grew up in the mountains and try to get out to Jasper/Banff as much as possible but I had that back home as well. So for me, for sure the never-ending fields are just so beautiful.

Q: What's the most unusual, remarkable thing you've ever had happen while taking photos?

A: That is a hard question. I guess sometimes everything just lines up the way you need it to and I always find that quite remarkable because that is not the case a lot of the time. As far as unusual, once when I was taking photos of girls without pants in the river valley people were walking by and some of them would slow down and stare but some would RUN! I am not even kidding you. I guess I was going for creepy beautiful but I didn’t think we would actually be creeping people out.

Q: Have you ever found yourself if a scary situation while shooting?

A: I am known for being quite klutzy so really everything is scary for me. Anytime I step out onto a little cliff or stand near the water I think to myself ‘DO NOT FALL’.

Q: What do you like to do when you're not taking photos?

A: Anything with my daughter, she is six and SO much fun. We like to be outside and we like to eat. Sometimes we combine the two. She usually serenates us for whatever it is we are doing which makes everything more fun.

Follow more of Randee's work here:

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Wedding/Lifestye
Instagram

Are you interested in being Alberta's Photographer of the Month? Email us and we can chat!

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5 Things to Do in Sarasota

March 29, 2015, 1:22 pm

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Because it's not all about that beach ...
As a winter-spring getaway, Sarasota County is a classic. It's known for its beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches -- Siesta Key, with its long crescent of fine white quartz sand, has been named #1 in North America -- along the string of barrier islands that dot the county's coastline.

And on this artsy stretch of Florida's West Coast, it's not all about the beach. You can be as busy as you want with a whole different playlist of things to do. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Circus Sarasota


The Fabulous Wallendas - Photo: Lin Stranberg

Sarasota is the circus capital of the world, so it would be crazy to miss out on some big top magic. The non-profit Circus Arts Conservatory stages Circus Sarasota, a European style one-ring show with global acts and local superstars the Fabulous Wallendas; Cirque des Voix, with a live orchestra and huge vocal chorale, and Sailor Circus, with young performers in the "greatest little show on earth."

2. Spend a day in old Florida


Photo: Lin Stranberg

Well, not really, but Myakka River State Park will help you imagine the pre-Disney Florida experience. Myakka lives up to its title as one of Florida's Wild and Scenic Rivers, with almost 60 square miles tailor-made for kayaking, fishing, canoeing, camping, hiking and cycling. There are airboats and alligators and exotic birds, oh my. Take an airboat ride for some birding and gator-spotting around the lake.
And if you're a savvy planner, you may be lucky enough to snag a reservation for a 2016 stay in one of the palm log cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s (they're now undergoing major renovations).

Photo: Lin Stranberg

3. Get fresh -- eat fish

Old Florida-style waterside fish joints are getting scarce, but there are still a few spots in Sarasota County where you can sit on patio sets near the water and order up what could be the best fresh snapper and grouper in the state. Blackened, grilled, broiled or fried, who cares? It's all good. Try the Casey Key Fish House for Chef Willie's fabulous fish at really reasonable prices, and the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill on Longboat Key for their great grouper sandwich.
If you want a more elegant take on the fish house experience, head straight to Jack Dusty at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, where you can sit out in style. Gaze out at the marina, get pampered by the amazing service, and bliss out on a perfect grouper sandwich by Chef Caleb Taylor.

Photo: Lin Stranberg

4. Reboot your body, soothe your soul

Do a little Googling and plug into your choice of yoga (ground or aerial), Pilates, barre, crossfit, and gyms galore. For a total body blast, reserve a Megaformer/Lagree Fitness workout at Mantra SRQ, then slink off to the L. Spa for a soul-soothing treatment or two. (It's your body we're talking about here, so don't save it up for a rainy day.)

5. All things Ringling

When John and Mabel Ringling wintered here in the early days of the 20th century, they brought more than the circus. Today, the John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art, the Asolo Theatres and the Ringling College of Art and Design form a kind of cultural must-see zone on the funky North Tamiami trail.

The museum's permanent collection shows off Ringling's trove of works by Velasquez, Rubens and Hals and, in the formal gardens, a Neapolitan bronze of Michaelangelo's David. But the real eye-opener is Joseph's Coat, a magnificent and mysterious James Turrell Skyspace (bring a blanket and lie on the floor for an hour-long sunset viewing). The circus museum has ogle-worthy costumes, wagons, and the Ringlings' own railway car as well as the biggest miniature circus in the world. The whole visual picnic is laid out on over 50 acres of rose gardens and banyan trees right on Sarasota Bay. www.ringling.org

Joseph's Coat, Courtesy of the Ringling Museum - Photo: Giovanni Lunardi

The Asolo Theatres
The Historic Asolo Theatre is a little jewelbox just inside the museum entrance. Built in Italy for the Queen of Cyprus in 1798, it was imported to the U.S. as Florida State University's theatre in 1949 and reopened to the public almost a decade ago. This season's heavyweight is the five-part contemporary "New Stages" series, including Julian Barnes's brilliant one-man tribute to Harold Pinter, directed by John Malkovitch.

A stone's throw away is the impressive Asolo Repertory Theatre, part of the FSU Center for the Performing Arts and known for its excellence. Best bet: any of the productions in the "American Character Project," a look at the many facets of American culture. Next season: the regional premiere of Living on Love, which opens on Broadway in April 2015.

The Ringling College of Art and Design


Photo: Lin Stranberg

The Ringling College of Art and Design, with visionary president Larry R. Thompson, is a leader in computer animation and game design (31 alumni worked on Oscar-winning movies this year). Its galleries always put on some of the most interesting exhibits around. And it's all set to open a new Sarasota Museum of Art early next year.

For more info: www.visitsarasota.org

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WestJet Passenger Arrested At YVR After Allegedly Punching Flight Attendant

March 30, 2015, 11:05 am

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An unruly passenger is accused of striking a WestJet flight attendant in the face during a trip from Toronto to Vancouver.

The woman began making demands about an hour before flight 701 landed on Sunday night, fellow passenger Darlene Jerome told Global News.

"The next thing I knew, there was a sandwich that was thrown backwards," she said.

"The stewardess came up and touched her gently, and said, 'You can't be doing that.' The lady started yelling at her and said 'You touching me, I'm going to charge you with sexual assault.'"

A WestJet spokeswoman confirmed via email that a passenger was arrested after an incident where a crew member was struck, but could not comment further because it's now before the courts.

In 2014, an Australian man was reportedly screaming, running down the aisles, and trying to throw punches at the flight crew and passengers on an international flight to Vancouver.

Abdul Zain Ali, 25, was eventually charged with causing a disturbance, mischief and assault.

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