CITY STYLE AND LIVING
SUMMER WHIMSY
Colourful artistic plates make the perfect vessel for pretty bites
CSL LIVING
8-9 GARDENING
Grow your own, how to encourage bees in the garden and 5 fruits, veg and flowers we love
CSL FOOD
11 FUSION
Testing the viral 3-ingredient bagel, why we love nut milk and 3 snacks
12-13 IMBIBE
A new 4-D experiential cocktail menu in Vancouver, 2 cocktail recipes, summer sippers, all about Carménère
14-16 KITCHEN
Brunch is one of life’s joys: 2 recipes from a new cookbook
CSL FASHION
19 HELEN OF TROY
Editors Picks: Summer special, plus testing our new mobile phone (selfie) gear
20-23 STYLIST
The hottest runway trends from lingerie and tulle to masculine-feminine and pumped up volume plus CSL fashion editor's favourite new suede jacket
CSL TRAVEL
25-27 PASSPORT
The latest cruise news, how to explore Cognac’s quiet side and South Africa is calling
28-41 7 HIKES WORTH
THE TREK
From Canada to The Canary Islands IN EVERY ISSUE
6 FROM THE EDITORS 43 FINAL THOUGHT
CSL GREEN TIPS Watch the weather and water accordingly – decrease during rainy periods and increase during hot, dry
CityStyleandLiving.com
FOOD FASHION
TRAVEL LIVING
Publisher K & S Media - Earth is a Beautiful Heaven
Editors-in-Chief
Kailash Maharaj and Shivana Maharaj
Editorial Assistant
Emily Hunt
Creative Director
Georgina Wong
Photo Director
Darrel Mellow
Fashion and Beauty Editor
Shivana Maharaj
Food & Travel Editor
Kailash Maharaj
Production Director
K & S Media
Assistant Production Manager
K & S Media
Art Direction and Design
K & S Media
Deputy Art Director
Keith Moon
Designer Chris Schultz
Managing Editor/Director of Advertising
Dr. Rookmin Maharaj
Contributors
Amber Alent Steven Busch
Marc Duncan Natalie Fox
Arianna Grace Genvieve Magbi
James S. Sinclair
Advertising Inquiries
advertise@citystyleandliving.com
Subscription Inquiries: subscribe@citystyleandliving.com ISSN 1913-892X
Publications Agreement No. 41599042
City Style and Living is published four times each year. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means in whole or in part without the prior written consent of the publisher. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy, K & S Media cannot be held responsible for any errors, or omissions that may occur. The magazine assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material. All rights reserved. A proudly Green Magazine.
WELCOME
TRAVEL’S NEW AGE
NEAR
tHE END Of tHIS yEAR, tRAvEl cOMpANIES OftEN distribute lists tracking all the upcoming trends. for 2025, according to these surveys, there's more interest in exploring the world solo (especially women), wellness and multigenerational trips are on the rise and travellers will be enticed by food and drink, events, sports and places like peru and Krabi. Instead of forward-looking predictions, a retrospective may be just as useful. On the ground, travel has changed enormously in the last 10 years alone. Sometimes it's big changes that you notice, sometimes its’ small things but they are discernible once you cast an eye backward to the way things used to be. Here is a little trajectory – personal, subjective and nebulous:
Devices there are scarcely any telephones in hotel rooms any more. With devices so ubiquitous today, many hotels want you to text them for any issue, concern or request which, to us, is highly inconvenient (a phone call is quicker with less ambiguity), not to mention intrusive (privacy). the other concern is – where are the back-ups if electricity, internet or cellphone service cuts out? Or, if, heaven forbid, there's an emergency while the systems are down.
Wifi Using public wifi was regularly regarded as unsafe not that many years ago. there were dire warnings about safety and that others could get access to the information you were sending over that connection. the warning is still there for those who bother to read the fine print, but now, hotels have completely got rid of the old LAN lines. Rarely do they provide a secure wifi connection, and so you're often stuck with public wifi.
Maps At a train station recently, we asked for help as to what train line to take. the fellow responded that he doesn't check the physical map anymore, and just uses a famous search engine. Ease is wonderful, but some of the skills that it takes to read a map and process that information is being lost.
Cash Going cashless has become more acceptable and, while this is convenient, it has several drawbacks – the conversion rates and bank rates are sometimes astronomical, and many of these fees are based on the day of purchase, meaning they fluctuate, so you're at the whim and mercy of the market. Again, in a cashless society, where is the backup? Earlier this year, in the UK, we had a preview of what this would look like – the systems for processing payment went down for a day or so and it was utter chaos.
Texting communication through devices is the norm but somehow the message is often lost. I can't tell you the amount of times, despite people texting constantly, that someone is left waiting for an appointment or reservation for hours with no word. Often, it’s a mix-up in a name, number or some other really simple but vital piece of information. Usually it is easily solved with face-to-face or voice communication.
Charging then there's the issue of a drained battery – perhaps the greatest of modern inconveniences. We read a piece of advice the other day that recommended having a paper copy of your ticket and not just the digital code saved on your device. that way, the author argued, you do not have to be paranoid about your battery draining and being left in the lurch. I remember when this era was being touted as the paperless age, so much for that. A paper copy will still always save the day.
Planning preplanning used to be imperative. I stood outside a pub recently and watched as a young man pulled out his device and looked up the reviews of the place. "they say it's not great," he reads. Accessing instantaneous reviews, making on the spot itineraries, crowd sourcing opinions was not what you did a decade ago. It is nice sometimes, but travel, like life, is made up of surprises, the good and the bad. you have great experiences and not so good ones and somehow altogether they make a trip. Knowing beforehand what a place is like completely eliminates the element of surprise, or disappointment (some would argue that is the thrill of travel you never know what will happen next). It also takes away your ability to make up your own mind – your experience or taste might be different than the reviews.
the way we travel now is essentially as part of a digital world. But looking back to the analogue age and even now (when we allow it), some of the best moments that ever happen abroad are when you put down the technology and (have to) engage with people and places. Having a perfectly set up, technologically upto-date trip is wonderful, it gives you a sense of ultimate control. But then where are the moments where your mistakes, your fallibility, your sheer ridiculous humanness invites the kindness of others or makes you laugh at yourself? Where is the tension and interplay of the good, bad and sublime? When are the moments that allow mistakes and flaws to unfold and play a surprising part in the travel experience?
- KAILASH AND SHIVANA CSL
#CITYSTYLEANDLIVING
CITY STYLE AND LIVIN g
Living GROW
YOUR Own!
If y OU t HINK growing something like passionfruit in zone 3 is impossible, think again. With a little planning, preparation and (ok, this one’s a bit more involved) a greenhouse, you can grow a wide array of warmer weather plants. the key is to start early, plant seed indoors in late winter. Grow lights will help speed up the process but a sunny windowsill works just fine. A few weeks before the last frost date, acclimatize plants to outdoors by placing them in the greenhouse for a few hours each day. Bring them inside at night. Once the frost date has passed move the plants to the greenhouse permanently over the summer. If fruit or blooms haven’t arrived by fall, once again bring the plants inside and place under grow lights or a sunny window sill.
gARDENINg
FLORA, VEGETABLES, FRUIT, TREES, SHRUBS, TOOLS, TECHNIQUES AND ALL THINGS PLANTS!
AS A SE c OND-GENERAt ION beekeeper’s daughter, co-owner of Dutchman’s Gold, and wellness advocate, I’ve learned that supporting pollinators doesn’t have to be complicated – or require a green thumb.
you don’t need a big backyard to make a difference. A few native wildflowers in a sunny planter, a balcony box, or even a shared green space can help. My rule of thumb? Keep it simple. Wildflowers are resilient, easy to grow, and bloom when pollinators need them most.
5 GARDEN WINNERS
ENCOURAGE THE BEES
through our let’s plant campaign, we’re planting 10 million native wildflower seeds across canada, with support from the Sierra Club Canada. These include region-specific pollinator favourites like Rose Milkweed, Wild Bergamot, Goldenrod, and Evening primrose. you can even download local planting guides from our website to find what thrives in your area.
Skip pesticides with neonicotinoids – they harm bees, even in trace amounts. Instead, try natural options like neem oil or insecticidal soap, or let native plants do the work by at-
Fruits, vegetables, and flowers can all provide beautiful colour in the garden. The trick is to intersperse them to allow for greater biodiversity, deter pests and promote pollination.
tracting the good bugs to manage the rest.
And one important thing to remember: saving the bees isn’t just about bees. Butterflies, moths, and even beetles are critical pollinators too, and they all need our support.
It’s not about having a perfect garden – it’s about making a little space for nature, wherever you can. together, we can plant the change we want to see.
SUMMER BLOOMS
To ensure gorgeous flowers keep the soil consistently moist but never wet, plant at a depth twice the size of the bulb and feed with tomato fertilizer.
HomeHardwareMcKenzieCallaLilyBigDipper FloweringBulbs,$17.99; homehardware.ca
❷ SAVE & MULTIPLY
In fall lift tubers and store in a cool dark place indoors. In spring, divide healthy tubers with eyes from main stem and replant (thereby multiplying).
HomeHardwareMcKenzieDahliaTahitiSunrise FloweringBulbs(30), $11.99;homehardware.ca
LOVES SANDY SOIL
Amend soil with sand, lime and compost before planting crowns in well-drained, deep trenches. Do not harvest spears in the first two years.
HomeHardwareMcKenzieJerseyGiantAsparagus Bulbs-5Pack,$9.99; homehardware.ca
❹ EASY TO GROW
Not fussy about soil, but requires full sun and doesn’t like being wet. Plant after the last frost date in 1-2 week increments for continuous blooms.
HomeHardwareMcKenzieGladiolusTropical BlendFloweringBulbs, $17.99;homehardware.ca
❺ GREAT FOR BASKETS
Opt for a spot with plenty of sunlight, and choose a basket with drainage. Add perlite to soil for even further drainage and remove runners or replant.
HomeHardwareMcKenzieEverbearingStrawberry Bulbs,$8.99;homehardware.ca
Angela Ysseldyk is a second-generation owner of Dutchman’s Gold, a Canadian line of honey, maple syrup and beehive wellness products. dutchmansgold.com/letsplant
Pretty Plate
Delicate ravioli are stuffed with braised lamb, and topped with delicate sprigs of dill for a light lunch.
CITY STYLE AND LIVIN g Food
GOING NUTS
Plant-based milk is everywhere at the moment, but they aren’t all created equal. CSL’s food team should know, having tested many over the years. Some, use a disproportionate amount of water to dilute the product, resulting in a – you guessed it – watery taste. CSL’s current obsession is Elmhurst 1925 plant-based range of nut (walnut, almond, cashew, hazelnut, and cashewcoconut) and oat milk, which use approximately four times more nuts than other brands on market. The result is super creamy, nutty undertone without the use of gums, fillers and emulsifiers which can sometimes cause allergic reactions. Swap out for traditional dairy in everything from morning porridge to baking (a decadent chocolate cookie using walnut milk for added moisture was an office favourite). A new pantry staple. elmhurst1925.com
5 Ways CSL Loves
√ Add to coffee, tea
√ Blend into smoothies
√ Use in Baked Treats
√ Make a creamy salad dressing
√ Finish soups
√ Add to bechamel for a rich sauce
3 Ingredient Bagel
SNACK MUNCHIN g
If you’ve noticed your social media feed being taken over by a 3-ingredient bagel, you’re not alone. While traditional bagels take hours to make, and involve proofing, kneading and boiling dough, before baking, this easy variation (often loaded with fibre or protein) can be made in less than an hour. Here’s how:
1. Preheat oven to 400F. 2. In a bowl, combine 1½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp. of whole psyllium husks, 1½ cup cottage cheese, 1 tbs. baking powder and 1 tsp salt. 3. Knead dough for a few minutes until combined. 4. Bake for 30 minutes, until golden. 5. Cool. Makesabout6bagels.
Road trips, picnics and getting outdoors, summertime was made for snacks. Here are a few of CSL’s new favourites that can be packed in lunchboxes or purses for a (healthy) energy blast.
CSL testers loved the pure sweet taste of these unroasted, unsalted pumpkin seeds, packed with protein (15g per serving), iron and rich in zinc and magnesium. The organic and regenerative pumpkin seeds were developed by a grower in Quebec and because no heat is applied, all of the nutrients remain intact. Throw into salads, baked goods or home-made trail mix. We love the eyecatching green packaging and sustainable ethos of this Canadian company. (Pumpkin Seeds,1kg, $29.99; pranafoods.ca)
The beloved Canadian retailer has teamed up with DoorDash for same-day delivery (in an hour or less) and the same prices online as in-store, so shoppers can pick up essentials (like these Trophy Deluxe Mixed Nuts) from the comfort of home. (908g; $19.97; gianttiger. com; doordash.com)
One of the most nutrient-rich tree nuts, almonds are a versatile snack, packed with protein, fibre and healthy fatty acids. CSL loves these raw and unsalted treats, that retain all their antioxidants. Their addictive crunch is hard to beat and also make a delicious fresh milk. (454g, $21.49; nowfoods.ca)
cSL TESTS THE VIRAL
PRANA ORGANIc
NOW FOODS
GIANT TIGER PARTNERS WITH DOORDASH
TIP Now Foods Whole Psyllium Husks for added fibre (454g; nowfoods.ca)
IMBIBE
WHAT’S NEW AND GREAT IN THE WORLD OF WINE, SPIRITS AND NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS
Molly's Irish Cream
Straight from Ireland, fresh Irish dairy, whiskey, spirits and chocolate are combined to create an authentic Irish cream with depth, and that isn’t too sweet yet feels indulgent. We love pouring over ice, drizzled on top of ice cream or added into ganache to spread over chocolate cake.
Molly’s Irish Coffee
▶ INGREDIENTS
2 oz Molly's Irish Cream
3.5 oz Coffee
1 oz Chocolate Liqueur Whipped cream
▶ METHOD In a coffee cup mix together the ingredients. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. mollysirishcream.com
Maple Ginger
Sour
A sweet-heat-tang combination in a sip
▶ INGREDIENTS
2 oz 12-year old scotch whisky .75 oz Lemon juice
oz Maple syrup
oz Ginger syrup
oz Blood orange juice 2 dashes Angostura bitters
TREND ALERT
One of 2025’s hottest cocktail trends? 4-D experiential cocktails that go beyond simple sips. At Botanist Bar, vancouver’s award-winning cocktail destination, creative Beverage Director Grant Sceney and Executive chef Hector laguna have created a water-inspired experiential menu, the Water of life (Eau de vie), blurring the line between art and science. A selection of four cocktails include nods to the pacific Northwest, like ‘Raincouver,’ a light vodka base with hints of yuzu, pine, aperitif wine and citrus topped with a slash of perrier, is served with an edible cherry blossom cloud that floats above the cocktail. fairmontpacificrim.com
METHOD Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into ice filled rocks glass
RAISING THE BAR
Hotels bars are grounds for innovative new programs from mocktails to conservation
SecretS Moxché Playa Del carMen
Bar manager David Ramos of Dos Almas created the DosAlmas mocktail for sober curious guests. The non-alcoholic sipper showcases ingredients sourced from Mexico like Lima Yucateca, Raíz de Oro (a wild medicinal plant), and Nanche, a fruit from Nayarit. moxcheplayadelcarmen.com (Get the mocktail recipe at citystyleandliving.com)
KiMPton Koh SaMui
From sous vide to forced carbonation and clarification, bartenders are borrowing innovative techniques from the kitchen and applying them to the bar (think: homemade sparkling coconut water, and salted plum syrup) ihg.com/kimptonhotels/hotels/us/ en/koh-samui
roSewooD BerMuDa
Interactive beverage classes are another hot trend. A nod to Bermuda’s British roots, The Conservatory Bar, is offering weekly complimentary tastings, walking guests through botanical profiles and tonic pairings. The initiative hones in on the Juniper Initiative, supporting the replanting of the island’s endangered juniper trees. rosewoodhotels.com/en/bermuda
cARMÉNÈRE CURIOUS?
Chile’s signature grape is the perfect marriage for summer BBQs, with ripe, dark fruit, herbal and peppery aromas and luscious soft tannins
cHARAcTERISTIcS
Made from grapes from the Aconcagua Valley and aged in French oak, atypical red fruit (cherry, red currant) dominate on the palate, with backnotes of strawberry, and hints of chocolate and balsamic and pepper. arboledawines.com
TARAPACA
A full-bodied wine with deep dark fruit, floral notes, spice and herbs. Like wines from the Maipo, this somewhat lighter style is well balanced with smooth tannins and a long finish. tarapaca.cl
From the oldest house still in operation in the Rhone valley, juice from 100% Marsanne from AOP SaintPéray, is pressed slowly to preserve its quality and perfumed aromas. Luscious orchard-forward fruit (pear, apple) combine effortlessly with floral acacia and honeysuckle and a touch of delicate ginger. A perfect full-bodied wine for a meal or sipped on its own. vidal-fleury.com
Before the 1870 phylloxera infestation in France, this slow ripening grape (its parent is Cabernet Franc and siblings Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) was a top Bordeaux blending grape. Plantings were brought to Chile in the mid 1800s where it flourished, becoming the flagship varietal of the region (though long mistaken for Merlot, until 1994). The grape is loaded with methoxypyrazines which accounts for notes of pepper, mint, peppercorn and cocoa. Its full-bodied style, moderate tannins and balanced acidity make this red, readily food-friendly.
Though Jamet is regarded as the reference for exceptional Cote-Rotie reds, this white blend shouldn’t be discounted. While Viognier and Roussane are fermented in stainless steel, Marsanne, and Grenache Blanc from Northern Rhone are combined in new oak, then blended for further ageing. A flavour bomb of apricot and honey, and burst of citrus freshness. cote-rotiejamet.com
The fairly robust variety, pinot gris, is planted on the western slopes of Heimburg to obtain the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. A lovely dry-style medium bodied Alsacian Pinot Gris, with delicious ripe fruit, present minerality and touch of smokiness, from biodynamically grown grapes. Lovely yellow, with a nose of flowers, herbs that begins with silky light sweetness and finishes dry. A great wine for ageing. zindhumbrecht.fr
A RBOLEDA
Vidal-Fleury Saint-Péray Blanc
Domaine Jamet c ôtes Du Rhône Blanc
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Alsace Pinot Gris Heimbourg
Coffee Thyme
Black Pepper
Blackberry
Cherry
Chile's Aconcagua Valley stretching from the Andes to the Pacific Ocean offers the ideal climate for growing careménère
DELICIOUS RECIPES TO TRY AT HOME
BRUNcH SEASON
Brunch is a lovely way to celebrate with friends and family, and a great way to make any midday or mid-week dining special.
Baby Vidalia Casserole with Bacon
Thisisadishwealwayshadonthe tablegrowingup,mostcommonly pairedwithasteakmydadwouldgrill. Thisalsogoesgreatwitheggs.Youcan useregularVidaliaonionsifyoucan’t findbabyVidalias.
Serves 8 to 10
¼ pound (about 1 cup) bacon, sliced
2 pounds baby Vidalia onions, green tops cut off and reserved ¼ stick unsalted butter
4-5 sprigs whole thyme, plus more for garnish
3 tablespoons heavy cream
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
36 whole wheat Ritz crackers, blended in a food processor
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Cook the bacon in a large saute pan over medium-low heat until it renders and is crispy. Drain the bacon on paper towels and then crumble.
Slice the baby Vidalias in half lengthwise and slice into half-moons. Place in the pan with the bacon fat, add the butter, thyme, and cream, and saute until limp, but not brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove thyme sprigs and discard.
In a casserole dish, layer half of the onions, crumbled bacon, cheese, and the cracker crumbs. Repeat layers. Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly browned. Garnish with sliced reserved green tops and fresh thyme sprigs.
Recipes excerpted from Brunch Season: A Year of Delicious Mornings from the Buttermilk Kitchen by Chef Suzanne Vizethann. Photographs by Kelly Berry. Reprinted by permission of Gibbs Smith Books.
Brunch Burgers with Cheddar and Pancetta
Ilovethesmellofaburgergrillinginthe summertime.Iactuallylovethesmellofa burgeranytime.Itremindsmeofcooking outwithgoodfriends,listeningtomusic, andgatheringaroundthetable.Ilikeusingthinlyslicedpancettabecauseitgets socrispyintheoven,makingittheperfect accompanimenttothejuicyburger.
Makes 4 Burgers
FOR THE BURGER SAUCE
½ cup ketchup
½ cup Duke’s mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1-2 tablespoons minced onion
1 teaspoon paprika
FOR THE PANCETTA
¼ pound thinly sliced pancetta
Thyme sprigs
Brown sugar
FOR THE BURGERS
1 ½ pounds ground beef (80⁄20 percent fat)
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil
4 thick slices sharp cheddar cheese, or cheese of choice
4 burger buns
½ stick butter, room temperature
Burger sauce
4 eggs, fried to taste
Prepare the burger sauce by combining the ketchup, mayonnaise, pickle relish, honey, vinegar, onion, and paprika in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Lay the pancetta on a baking sheet. Place a sprig of thyme over each slice and sprinkle with brown sugar to taste. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
To prepare the burgers, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and form into patties about 1 inch thick and 4 inches in diameter. Liberally season each patty with salt and pepper.
Preheat a cast-iron skillet or a grill over medium-high heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and place patties, leaving space
between each one. Lightly apply pressure with a spatula to the patty tops but not so much that juices run out. Cook for 6 minutes on each side for medium rare. Put the patties on a baking sheet and top each patty with a slice of cheese. Place under the broiler until the cheese is just melted (about 30 seconds).
Open the burger buns and slather each piece with butter (about 1 tablespoon for each half) and toast well in the skillet or on the grill. Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons sauce on the bottom buns, place the patties on top of the sauce, add the eggs and pancetta, and close with the tops.
KITCHEN NOTES
► I love the taste of the grill, but burgers are juicier when prepared in a cast-iron skillet, which catches all the juices released from the meat.
► The burger sauce ingredients make almost 2 cups, so you will have leftovers.
► I like the accompanying eggs runny so I can sop up the yolk with the bun.
Easy Breezy
Whether strolling a ruelle in the south of France, a Mexican zocalo or simply over to a friend’s barbecue, this breezy linen suit at Khaite channels the casual cool of the 90s.
Fashion
HELEN OF TROY
WHAT’S NEW AND GREAT IN THE WORLD OF SKIN, BEAUTY, MAKEUP AND WELL-BEING
SITTING PRETTY
Beauty looks created by Lynsey Alexander, Global Creative Makeup Artist at Prada Beauty emphasized harmony and simplicity.
▼ Soft and unscented, this clay mixes beautifully with yogurt, water, honey or any other of your favourite natural liquids for a cleansing mask. Just add sugar, oatmeal or semolina to create a scrub.
Now Foods European Clay, 170g, $8.24; nowfoods.ca
All the latest faves from CSL's beauty editors
EDITORS' Favourites
◀ Consistently one of the most effective product lines CSL has tested, Osea uses hand-harvested seaweed infused in oil to make this deliciously scented bottle of goodness. Whether you use it as a massage oil, moisturizer or tuck a little in an airline approved-sized-carry-on as a little on board pick-me-up, it'll leave you feeling brighter.
Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil, 9.6 fl oz., $84 USD; oseamalibu.com
Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment, 5 fl oz., $107; muradskincare.ca
▼ There are only two ingredients in this wonderfully rare rose water. Hailing from France, it is a natural fragrance mist, cooling freshener for summer and makes a lovely present.
Chantecaille Pure Rosewater Limited Edition, 125 ml, $117.00; chantecaille.com
SELF(IE) OBSESSED
I tried ShiftCam’s case, lenses and LED light and turned my iphone into a professional camera.
Pro LED RGBWW Panel CSL loved the adjustable colour brightness, colour temperature and 15-hour battery life. Use CCT mode for selfies, portraits and vlogs; $129.99
If you’re looking to up your photo and video content using your iphone, this versatile range of lenses, lights and accessories are a great starting point. first, the camera cases are the best option for mounting the lensUltra range (we tested the 60mm telephoto and 10x traditional Macro). On my iphone 15 pro Max, the lenses screwed in seamlessly and both lenses offered amazing clarity and sharpness from subjects ranging from plants and landscapes to people, all thanks to coated fluorite glass. I especially loved the soft bokeh
effect (blurred background), typically reserved for DSlRs, that I was able to achieve with both still and video capture. It upgraded my content making it look professional. I also used the universal lens mount with the pro lED RGBWW panel ($39.99) for additional lighting. this style of mount can also be clamped onto laptops and tablets. though lenses come with a cushioned pouch, overall, the small downside is that you’ll probably need to invest in a separate carrying case for all the additional gear.
and
shiftcam.com
LensUltra 60mm Telephoto, $174.99
camera case with lens Mount, $72.99;
STYLIST!
HOW TO STYLE YOUR FAVOURITE OUTFITS AND ACCESSORIES
TULLE TIME
bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca
An extension of the ballet-core phenomenon, ethereal pieces go beyond skirts with designers interspersing sheer buttondowns and maxis anchored with denim.
BANANA REPUBLIc Cashmere Square-Neck Sweater Tank, $130;
LOEWE
Paula's Ibiza Flower cat-eye sunglasses, $490
ARITZIA Wilfred New Twirl Pleated Skirt, $150; aritzia.com
SUSAN FANG
Smocked tulle top, $565
cHLOÉ Nama suede wedge sandals, $1 170
BALENcIAGA
Carrie Small leather shoulder bag, $3,450
MASCULINE FEMININE
Menswear inspired blazers, tailored trousers, and structured shirts are given a soft feminine touch (think diaphanous fabric, nipped waists and gold accessories).
bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca
BANANA REPUBLIc Angolo Leather Belt, $75;
OD'S Gommino tweed driving shoes, $780
THE ROW Belvedere leather tote bag, $7 910
GREAT LINGERIE
Naked dressing has become a staple on the runways over a few seasons. Instead of shock value, sheer fabric are being layered for a more wearable aesthetic.
MICHAEL KORS
TOM FORD Padlock 105 snakeeffect leather sandals, $ 1 825
ARITZIA Contour Tube Top, $40; aritzia.com
NENSI DOJAKA Sheer bustier, $1 140
CHANEL
Flamenco Large Leather Shoulder Bag, $5 642.00
BIRKS Pebble ® Silver Lariat Necklace, $ 680; maisonbirks.com
Bubble skirts, oversize silhouettes, and puffy shoulders were everywhere. Head-totoe volume is the best way to make a statement this season.
EDITORS FAVOURITE CSL
FESTIVAL Season!
This investment piece will take you through summer – from cool-girl festival vibes to edgy polished office
THE RUDSAK MegoJacketMoto
AscSl’s style editor, I’m always looking for the best classic pieces that can work in multiple ways – from the office to the skies and everything in between. Wherever I go, I always pack a coat (thanks Mom!) because you never know when a chill may hit. One of my favourites is suede, it’s a perfect allseason material that looks stylish too. that’s why this Rudsak moto
RUDSAK
Mego Suede Moto Jacket $895; rudsak.com
jacket is my current obsession. the super soft goat leather is buttery soft and malleable to the body (ie. no stiffness), while the silky lining has a cooling feel on warmer days. I’ve thrown it over a silk dress for dinner, worn with a loose tank and pants to meetings, and on weekends, I love wearing it with oversize jeans and loafers. And I love supporting canadian brands, so it’s a no-brainer.
BURBERRY
Carousel EKD Silk Scarf, $670
MAGDA BUTRYM Crystal-embellished satin ballet flats, $1 230
Travel
The Tide is High
Exploring England’s stunning Jurassic Coast, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a thrill any time of year.
CRUISE CONTROL
Think you’re not a cruise person? Requests for high-end experiences like expedition cruises have increased 89% for Virtuoso advisors, and according to its Luxe Report, river cruising is also a top trend. Not to mention a recent Cruise Lines International Association report that Generation Z and millennials make up 14% and 22% of passengers respectively. With so many choices, from culinary focused cruises to intimate yachts, you’re bound to find one for your taste. Here are three of CSL’s favourites.
1 Oceania cruises' Riviera
The 1,250-guest ship Riviera is set to sail its first-ever Australia and New Zealand season of voyages from November 2025 to March 2026 and will be the only Oceania cruises vessel in the region to offer exclusive itineraries with a gourmet foodie focus. Guests can immerse themselves in the local culinary scene through a broad array of smallgroup shore excursions including visits to local markets, rice fields, and truffle farms, incorporating everything from Australia's globally revered seafood to New Zealand's world-famous lamb.
2 House of Nine
Beginning May 2025, guests aboard the House of Nine superyacht cruise can experience the tuscan coast aboard two lovingly restored vessels. the Superyacht cruise builds on the brand's reputation for creating unique, immersive experiences with itineraries designed to reveal the region's most authentic beauty and secluded destinations including Elba Island, Giglio Island, Giannutri Island and capraia Island.
3 Luminara
the Ritz-carlton yacht collection is set to welcome its third superyacht, luminara, to waters in July 2025, sailing the Mediterranean and caribbean with further itineraries in the Asia-Pacific to come. Onboard, guests can experience evolving world-class dining, an extensive wine collection, a signature Ritz-carlton Spa, and an expanded dynamic marina providing direct access to the sea. Its upper-suite categories will include a Residential Suite with interior design by chapi chapo Design, AD Associates and DpA.
cOGNAc
Synonymous with elegance, history, and its namesake spirit, Cognac’s rich heritage is best explored through its renowned distilleries like Hennessy, Martell, and Rémy Martin. But the town offers charming cobblestone streets, halftimbered houses, and the stunning Château de Cognac, which offers exceptional tasting sessions in the King’s private apartments.
cOGNAc'S QUIEt SIDE
Beyond its signature libation, this French region offers rich cultural experiences, beautiful naturescapes and charming towns
Defined by rolling vineyards, historic towns, and picturesque countryside, the breathtaking landscape of cognac, in france’s southwest, a 3-hour train ride from paris, is a tranquil backdrop to the area’s vibrant life. the beautiful charente River meanders through the heart of the region, passing charming towns such as Jarnac, with gentle waters perfect for leisurely boat trips, kayaking or paddleboarding. Along its banks, you’ll find ancient mills, elegant châteaux, and riverside restaurants serving regional delicacies. from history enthusiasts and nature lovers, to epicureans and connoisseurs of fine spirits, the charentes region promises an unforgettable and immersive journey for visitors.
OLÉRON ISLAND
The largest French island on the Atlantic coast, is a breathtaking destination renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, stunning beaches, pine forests, colourful fishing villages and Marennes-Oléron oysters.
SAINTES
Located in the CharenteMaritime, Saintes is a historic town renowned for its rich Roman heritage including the Germanicus, impressive Roman amphitheater, and stunning Saint-Eutrope Basilica. The serene riverside setting is great for leisurely strolls, while the vibrant markets and local gastronomy provide a taste of traditional Charentais flavors.
BEST BEACHES: SOUTH AFRICA
SouthAfricahasmorethan1770milesofcoastline,andthere’slotsofvarietyto choose,fromwhalewatching,surfing,sunbathingorjustaquick swim in a tidal swimmingpool.We’veroundedup3ofthebestbeachesforyournexttrip.
PORT ST JOHNS (EASTERN cAPE)
Best for: the Sardine Run
The Sardine Run is an annual spectacle where thousands of marine predators feast on megashoals (often more than four miles long) of smaller fish, taking place over more than one thousand kilometres of ocean.
THOMPSON’S BEACH (NEAR DURBAN)
Best for: getting in a lengthy lap-swim
On Durban’s Dolphin Coast, is Thompson’s Bay, a beautiful rocky beach protected by shark nets and lifeguards. This beach is adjacent to an Olympic-sized tidal pool, an ideal spot for morning lengths as the sun rises over the waves. It’s also well known in the area for snorkelling and marine life.
FALLING FOR VICTORIA FALLS
From mid-August to December, visitors can immerse themselves in Zambia’s natural beauty and rich culture without the crowds
Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, the 173 luxurious rooms and suites
Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara blends Victorian elegance with natural beauty, near one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offering world-class dining with unparalleled wildlife viewing and activities. Go white-water rafting on the Batoka Gorge, swim beneath the iconic Victoria Falls, visit nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and spot antelope, zebra, giraffe and the endangered white rhino. For those seeking a quieter connection with nature, birdwatching excursions reveal Zambia’s diverse winged species, with over 415 types of birds recorded in the area or guests can unwind with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River where hippos can be seen surfacing among water lilies while elephants gather at the river’s edge. anantara.com/en/royal-livingstone
PLETTENBERG BAY (WESTERN cAPE)
Best for: swimming in warmer waters
Robberg 5 is known as the finest beach in Plettenberg Bay for its warm, calm waters and the flower shaped seashell, the pansy shell, endemic to the area. The beach is also popular for onshore whale watching in the winter.
Hikes Worth the Trek
Whether you call it hiking, walking or trekking, it’s the activity most sought after by adventure travelers on guided trips according to the Adventure travel trade Association.
Edited By CSL Staff
Lake Louise, Canada THE BIG BEEHIVE
this challenging self-guided 10 km hike is ideal for summer and early fall as, in winter, it is avalanche prone. through alpine forest, past a waterfall there are glimpses of lake louise and Mirror lake. Indeed, spectacular views throughout the hike are one of the reasons for its popularity. So too a stop at lake Agnes tea house, which is a particular draw for travellers in summer. long an indigenous place of reverence, the Canadian Pacific Railway was instrumental in establishing the reputation of the area beginning in the late 19th century with the construction of the railway. Ever since travellers seeking mountain views have flocked here. though the last part of the hike is strenuous, the reward is a magnificent picture-postcard view of the glacial lake.
Lake Louise, Alberta in Canada.
Join local Norberto Crespo for a guided and sustainable hike.
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
JUELGUESPINAR DE LA ESPERANZA
Jutting into the Atlantic, the volcanic canary Islands near the coast of Morocco and south of Madeira offer mild temperatures and plenty of blossoms throughout most of the year. tenerife, the largest island in the chain, is home to the Bosque del la Esperanza. the largest contiguous forest on the island with pine, cypress and eucalyptus trees, it sits in the north-east corner of the island and rises 1 000 metres above sea level. the dense forest traps moisture from passing clouds fuelled by trade winds, making it spectacularly lush from yellow brassicas framing views of volcanic peaks to tenerife bugloss with its stunning red blooms dotting an otherwise Martian landscape. there are a number of trails with lookouts to nearby la laguna, the Anaga Mountains (a UNEScO Biosphere Reserve) and the neighbouring island of Gran canaria. Juelgues - pinar de la Esperanza, is an easy to moderate 12 km hike that takes around five and a half hours. Opt for a guided sustainable hike where plastic-free lunch, reusable water bottles and paper-free specs are all part of the experience.
Guided hikes available through OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel part of the Green Pearls network, 1 week in a superior double room incl. half board from €1,064.00; oceanotenerife.com
Mallorca, Spain cAMí DE S’ARxIDUc
While Mallorca is a playground for sun and beach-seekers, there’s another, less-explored side to this Balearic Island, the tramuntana mountains. the UNEScO World Heritage Site runs along the western coast from Andratx to Pollença offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Although often visited by car, Sóller train or tour bus, hiking offers an opportunity to experience the wine scene, cuisine, and lively communities up-close. And, the camí de s’Arxiduc (the Archduke’s path) is a well-established trail with stunning vistas that links the historic town of valldemossa and the coastal village Deià. the nearly 14.4-kilometre trail (around 5-6 hours) is moderately challenging but rewards hikers with stony paths, storied olive trees, and historical caves.
Wilderness Travel limited-edition Hiking Mallorca and Menorca will take place October 7-18, 2025 (taking advantage of the off season for more favourable weather and fewer crowds). Priced from $8,195 per person. wildernesstravel.com
Cairngorms National Park with heather in the foreground. Photography
By Glen Feshie.
Scotland, UK cAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK & ROYAL DEESIDE
Mid-way between Inverness and Aberdeen, in the eastern Highlands of Scotland, lies the UK's largest national park. cairngorms National park features castles, distilleries, and mountain sports but the real attraction are the cairngorms themselves, a mountain range featuring 5 of the UK's tallest peaks. the landscape is dramatic with legendary lochs, shaggy highland cattle, and forests replete with caledonian pines. Over 4 500 square kilometers of serene countryside, easy hikes wind through high plateaus overlooking charming villages, and past the Royal Deeside home to the royal family’s Scottish residence at Balmoral castle.
Wilderness Scotland, May 2430, 2025, guided tours from US$3,560.00 per person; wildernessscotland.com
Machu Picchu, Peru
THE UNKNOWN TRAIL
With a maximum of 8 travellers, this guided tour follows a lesser-known, pre-Inca trail through the vilcabamba Mountain range and the Sacred valley to Machu picchu. Beginning in the foothills surrounded by an ancient corn plantation through grassland (puna) and up to the Andean mountains toward the world-renown 15th-century Inca citadel, this is a moderately challenging adventure hike through a variety of landscapes. Expect to see the hidden Ancascocha lagoon, hike through the cloud forest of the Misquiyaco Natural Reserve home to orchids, ferns, and butterflies and camp in tents near remote villages.
Explora Lodges, 9-day small group guided tours, First Departure May 10, 2025, September 6 departure exclusively for women; 1-800-8389120 or explora.com.
Australia and New Zealand
TE PUIA VALLEY & KANGAROO TREKKING
this month-long antipodean adventure showcases two icons in one trip. Begin with an easy trek through coastal bushland around Arrawarra in Australia to spot kangaroos and their joeys. then head to New Zealand for an easy walk through the te puia thermal valley in Rotorua. Here, in the otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud and geysers, a local guide will explain the significance of this volcanic activity to Māori culture. then you'll use the geothermal energy of a natural hot spring to cook a traditional kāinga waru (corn and sweet potato steamed pudding).
G Adventures Australia and New Zealand: A Month Down Under, from $9,249 CAD pp for 38 days, excluding international flights. Departures from 12 April; gadventures.com.
Fukushima, Japan SPIRIT OF AIZU
Marrying a series of easy hikes and cultural touchstones, this self-guided tour with six-and seven-day options, weaves through an off-the-beatenpath area of northern Japan. Situated in the mountains of the Tōhoku region, Aizu played a prominent role in the Boshin War and has preserved samurai values and traditional ways of life. It's a land of volcanic lakes, alpine marshlands and maple, ginko and cherry blossom trees set beside ancient shrines, shōgun castles and historical villages with thatchedroof houses. from exploring Oze National park to staying at onsen ryokans (guesthouses with a hot spring), these gentle hikes are no more than 7.8 miles (12.7 km).
Oku Japan, OkuJapan.com.
“Do anything, but let it produce joy. Do anything, but let it yield ecstasy.”
― HENRY MILLER
