CAA Magazine - Manitoba - Spring 2023

CAA

• Take charge! Are you ready to go EV? • Community gardens are driven by good • Travel advice, local hot spots and more!

M A G A Z I N E

SPRING 2023

THE CRETE ESCAPE

LIVE IT UP IN ONE OF EUROPE’S OLDEST CITIES

Fresh new look!

Find out more on p. 7

PHOTO: DUSTIN SILVEY

When your heart needs to race

BLO ODVEIN RIVER

THERM!A BY NORDIK SPA-NATURE

When your heart needs quiet

KAMUCHAWIE LAKE

When your heart needs wild

CHURCHILL

travelmanitoba.com

When it rains, we shine.

There’s nothing gloomy about rainy days. That is, when you have WeatherTech FloorLiners. Laser measured for your specific vehicle, the WeatherTech FloorLiner is guaranteed to provide a perfect fit and the ultimate carpet protection, for as long as you own your vehicle. So when Mother Nature is at her worst, don’t worry because we’re at our best.

SCAN HERE TO FIND YOUR FIT

ROAD MAP SPRING 2023

37 A GREAT DRIVE

30 WHAT DO YOUR GARDENS GROW?

58 DRIVEN BY GOOD

34 CHARGED UP AND READY TO ROLL

The latest on travel, local hot spots and more

FEATURES

MY CAA

TIPPING POINTS

20 CRETE DREAMS

39 CLUB NEWS

DEPARTMENTS 7

A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT

9

CONTRIBUTORS

11

MEMBER LETTERS

13 18

19

She’s a university-level researcher and holder of multiple patents.... How old is Naila Moloo? You’ll be surprised

A look at three community spaces that are making a positive impact

With s finally in the mainstream, here’s how to decide if it’s time to go electric

ON THE RADAR

Figuring out how much to tip can be confusing, especially when you’re travelling

THE HEART OF YOUR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM A guide to your vehicle’s battery— know where your power comes from

32 THE GOOD PLACE

How the Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program is committed to providing much-needed mental health support

PHOTOGRAPHY: (COVER PAGE) TOM PARKER (THIS PAGE) GIANNIS GOUTZAMANIS/UNSPLASH

The perfect day trip to Morden-Winkler

Exploring Chania, a historical destination on the Greek Islands

26 MAGIC OF THE MEKONG

Is river cruising for you? Get a taste on this journey through Vietnam and Cambodia

CAA Member updates, helpful resources and what’s coming next

/ PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Driving Innovation Technology lends a helping hand

AS TECHNOLOGY HAS ADVANCED, so have we, and that has driven some exciting innovations at CAA Manitoba.

In December, we opened our first CAA Manitoba kiosk at the Outlet Collection Winnipeg mall—a bright, inviting space near the Nike Store entrance. The goal is to engage and educate Members on everything that comes with their membership, beyond roadside assistance.

At the kiosk, you can quickly get a passport photo, an International Driving Permit, information on where you are travelling, tips on how to download and take advantage of the CAA App, or perhaps just a chat with a CAA Customer Service Representative who will answer your questions.

If you can’t get to our kiosk or a local store, there’s so much you can do online or in the CAA Manitoba App. Our brand-new travel insurance site will let you buy travel insurance—without intrusive health questions or upselling—by simply answering seven questions. That’s it. You can buy insurance months before you travel or on the day you leave. It’s that easy (find out more at caamanitoba.com).

We partnered last spring with Maple, so our Members have access to a nurse practitioner within minutes. Depending on your level of membership, the online virtual visit is free or discounted (for details, visit caamanitoba.com/maple).

If you need help on the road because your vehicle or bicycle has broken down, you can get assistance via our app, which is available for iOS and Android. With just a couple of taps and some help from GPS, we will come to you.

And speaking of apps, did you know that our latest innovation will save you money? We teamed up with Shell to get all Members three cents off each litre of gas when using the Shell app. Once set up, it’s easy to use. Drive to the Shell station, open the app, tap in the gas station pump number and fill up. The discount shows up right on the pump, so you know exactly what you’re paying. Then drive off. So easy—and you still get your Air Miles.

Not sure how to set up these apps? Come to a CAA Store for assistance.

Or drop by our new kiosk in the Outlet Collection mall. We look forward to seeing you there. CAA

Tim Scott President, CAA Manitoba

Meet Your New CAA Magazine We heard what you’ve always loved— auto advice, travel tips, savings—and we heard what could use a little love, so we’ve redesigned to bring you more of the good stuff! Email us at magazine@caamanitoba.com to let us know what you think.

SPRING 2023 | 7

It’s just like a fairytale.

But if the animals start talking to you, be concerned.

It’s a different world up here.

Learn why.

/ MASTHEAD — CONTRIBUTORS

Contributors Waheeda Harris has been a traveller from a young age, thanks to her road trip–loving parents.

She has since been happily chasing the sun as a freelance journalist. Her assignments have taken her to Europe’s Mediterranean coast, the Caribbean islands and the Pacific coast of the Americas.

She is a regular contributor to The Globe and Mail, NUVO, Travelweek and Vacayou. When not abroad, Waheeda is exploring her home province of British Columbia.

In this issue, Waheeda highlights community gardens making a positive impact (page 30).

Beth Hitchcock

Matt Bubbers is a columnist and car critic for The Globe and Mail and the automotive editor at Sharp magazine. Writing about cars, culture and the (increasingly electric!) future of transportation takes him around the world test-driving new vehicles on racetracks, sand dunes, frozen lakes and Alpine passes. Matt lives in Toronto, where he tries to maintain a small collection of needy old cars and to avoid the streets on CAA’s list of Ontario’s 10 worst roads.

For CAA Magazine, Matt brings us up to date on all things auto (pages 19 and 34).

Editor Dick Snyder Executive Art Director Lionel Bebbington CAA Editor Jacqueline Kovacs Copy Chief Dali Castro Managing Editor Emily Rivas Senior Editors Karen Eull, Jen Mallia Editorial Assistant Alexis Ramlall ART Senior Designer Lauren Livingston Junior Designer Zoë Rod PRODUCTION Production Manager Kim Latreille FINALLY CONTENT President Eric Schneider Creative Director Abi Slone Account Director Tobiasz Woroniecki

is a 25-year veteran of the publishing industry and, most recently, has been named editorin-chief of Canadian House & Home magazine. She frequently writes for national newspapers and magazines, including The Globe and Mail and Chatelaine, and is the co-creator of the best-selling design book series Collected by Sarah Richardson (Simon & Schuster Canada). Beth has an MFA in creative nonfiction writing from the University of King’s College and lives in Dartmouth, N.S. Turn to page 20 to read all about Beth’s experience in Crete.

CONTRIBUTORS Aileen Brabazon, Brendan Burden, Matt Bubbers, Erin Campbell, Candy Chesterton, Emma Davidson, Sean Deasy, Sunny Eckerle, Liz Fleming, Paul Gallant, Peter Grundini, Waheeda Harris, Vawn Himmelsbach, Beth Hitchcock, Valerie Howes, Steve Ketner, Pat Lee, Andrew Penner, Josie Portillo, Sabrina Pirillo, Kate Rae, Debra Smith, Jenn Smith Nelson, Janice Tober, Danielle Tocker, Vivian Vassos Advertising in CAA Manitoba Magazine does not indicate an endorsement by CAA Manitoba. ® CAA, CAA Plus, CAA Plus RV, CAA Dollars, CAA Battery Service, Away from Home, ® Extraordinary Explorations is a registered trademark of CAA Club Group. Approved Auto Repair Services AARSTM is the trademark owned by, and their use granted by, the Canadian Automobile Association. ® AAA, CampBook, Show Your Card & Save, TourBook and TripTik are trademarks owned by, and their use granted by, the American Automobile Association. ®/TM CAA Trademarks are owned by, and are authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. TM Driven by Good is a trademark of CAA Club Group. Subscription rates: Canada $14.95 per year, plus applicable taxes; outside Canada $20.95 per year, no tax. Rates quoted are for non-members only.

Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42494512. CAA Manitoba Magazine is published four times per year by: Finally Content Inc.; 6D-7398 Yonge St, Unit 131, Thornhill ON, L4J 8J2; on behalf of CAA Manitoba. © 2023 All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form without the consent of CAA Manitoba. Printed in Canada by TC Transcontinental.

Vice President, Media Sales Laura Maurice laura.maurice@finallycontent.com National Account Manager Dana Francoz dana.francoz@finallycontent.com Account Manager Rachelle Vaughan rachelle.vaughan@finallycontent.com

SPRING 2023 | 9

*According to IQVIA Consumer Health Insights (Canada) sales report ending December 31, 2022 (last 52 weeks - National incl. NFLD GB+DR+MM)

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/ MEMBER LETTERS

Member Letters AN EXCEPTIONAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE I was shopping alone at a CAA Store and asked for assistance from the staff. They were incredibly helpful, kind and accommodating. our different staff members helped me select items and shared useful information for my upcoming trip to Mexico. They made helpful suggestions on equipment based on the information I provided.

They even agreed to give me opinions on which clothing looked best.

I spent approximately due to the positive and supportive atmosphere. This was one of the best shopping experiences ever.

–Janet RENEWING MY MEMBERSHIP IN A TIME OF NEED I have been with CAA for a long time. owever, since I moved to Moose aw, Sask., I dropped it for no reason. ast year, while I was in Winnipeg, I needed you again. ven with no membership coverage at that time, you sent me service and helped me renew my membership again. Many thanks to CAA and to Adam who helped me out.

–Larry

“

Four different staff members helped me select items and shared useful information for my upcoming trip to Mexico I went on a road trip with family and friends to Montreal, ue. It was nice to know that CAA would be there, just in case.

–Marla I always get terrific service with my CAA travel agent, Christine. I am travelling on my own to another province, and she has made sure I am safe and organi ed for my trip. I love being a CAA Member.

-Cheryl

Have a story or comment you’d like to share? Email us at magazine@caamanitoba.com and you could be featured in an upcoming issue.

Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

CAA Member Janet purchased travel essentials at her local CAA Store for her trip to Mexico.

A SERVICE FOR EVERY OCCASION or many years, we’ve used CAA for in-person vacation planning services, including online discounts at hotels. ast winter, we made good use of the car booster service. Yesterday, I shopped in the store and the service was quick and friendly. Thanks for being there on cold winter days.

–Laura

We buy CAA yearly memberships for our daughter, son and his wife. It gives us tremendous peace of mind knowing they have this valuable tool at their disposal.

–Lillian One new-ish perk, which I really appreciate, is the discount offered at various restaurants.

My husband and I make use of it at Swiss Chalet on a weekly basis. It is our date night out.

–Linda CAA is your best friend when you have car trouble. Over the years, they have unlocked my car, charged my battery and provided me with gas when I ran on empty. A lifesaver.

–Heather

SPRING 2023 | 11

What’s the Buzz?

Ringing, buzzing, clicking, swishing — whether you’re an avid concert-goer, work in a loud environment or are experiencing age-related hearing loss, these symptoms may sound all too familiar. However you experience tinnitus, know that you’re not alone. In fact, the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) found that 43 percent of Canadians ages 16 to 79 have experienced tinnitus at some point in their lives.* Tinnitus is a common issue often described as ringing in the ears with no external sounds present. It can last for weeks, months or even years at a time and can affect people of all ages.

There are two types of tinnitus: subjective and objective. If the noises and sounds you hear can only be perceived by you, this would be considered subjective. Ninety-nine percent of tinnitus cases fall into this category. While the categories vary, the leading causes are often the same: noise-exposure, age-related hearing loss, earwax buildup, jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ), and neurological disorders, to name a few.

Don’t let these facts scare you, though.

Dealing with tinnitus can feel overwhelming, but innovative, modern and discreet hearing solutions are available to relieve the condition’s symptoms. Here are two to consider.

CAA Members save up to $2,000 on a pair of Select level hearing aids**, plus more exclusive benefits:

15 percent off everyday listening products Five years of free batteries with hearing aid purchases CAA Members always get our lowest price

Hearing Aids

There is a strong correlation between hearing loss and tinnitus.

Hearing aids can relieve tinnitus symptoms by improving your hearing, so you can better perceive external sounds and shift your attention away from the tinnitus. Depending on the severity of your tinnitus, your Hearing Care Professional will recommend a wireless hearing aid with a tinnitus masker feature to create a sound-enrichment environment that can distract you from the typical ringing or buzzing with pleasant sounds instead.

Habituation

This is a process in which the brain gradually stops reacting negatively to tinnitus and interprets the buzzing or ringing as unimportant sounds. The combination of tinnitus management therapies and sound therapy are very effective to facilitate the habituation of tinnitus. The ultimate goal? To retrain your brain to no longer be bothered by the sounds associated with this condition.

What’s next?

Having your hearing tested is just as important as going to the dentist or optometrist. With locations across Canada and innovative hearing solutions available for every budget, Connect Hearing makes it easy to take your health into your own hands.

Book your hearing evaluation today. Visit connecthearing.ca/CAA or call 1.888.486.0177. *www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2019003/article/00001-eng.htm ** Visit connecthearing.ca/caa for complete terms and conditions.

/ ON THE RADAR

ON THE RADAR Epic Canadian Day Hikes Five hikes you can do in a day

By Andrew Penner Ask our CAA Travel Consultants about insurance plans for interprovincial trips.

A day hike in Yoho National Park is a day well spent. K

From rugged, wavesmashed coastlines to beautiful boreal forests, our country is a hiker’s dream.

And, given the incredible variety of terrain, there’s something for everyone who loves to saunter. Here are e abulous ull day treks you’ll want to lace your boots up for.

1

2

3

Iceline Trail, Yoho National Park, British Columbia

Crypt Lake, Waterton National Park, Alberta

Mont Albert Loop, Centennial Ridges Gaspésie National Trail, Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario Park, Quebec

om sta t to nish Yoho’s signature hike se es u a buffet of stunning scenes.

Glaciers, thundering waterfalls, alpine valleys—the list goes on.

This adventure requires a boat ride to the trailhead.

Once hikers disembark, it’s a day-hiking wonderland with scenery that makes the moderately challenging course oh, so worth it.

True, given the kaleidoscope of colour, this is a fantastic fall hike.

But, thanks to dozens of scenic lookouts from the rocky outcrops, it’s beautiful in every season.

It’s knock-your-socksoff scene y th oughout this challenging wilderness trek.

A caribou sighting will ice the cake.

Sea stacks, sheep, beaches, ladders, waterfalls, mountains —what more could you want? Bring good lungs and legs for the journey home.

21.7 km 1,053 m elevation gain

18.8 km 878 m elevation gain

10.9 km 482 m elevation gain

20.4 km 1,101 m elevation gain

11.3 km 414 m elevation gain

Houseboating on rivers and canals redefines “taking the scenic route.”

4

5 Green Gardens Trail, Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

Have Le Boat, Will Travel TAKE TO THE RIVERS of Europe or stay closer to home on the Rideau Canal. Le Boat houseboats are simple to operate—even for those without boating expertise—and give the opportunity to experience a destination in a way you just can’t enjoy from the road. There are options for two to 12 passengers, so you can keep it intimate or invite the whole gang. Talk to a CAA Travel Consultant for details on combining your e oat cruise with ights, pre/post-trip hotel nights, ground transfers and travel insurance to complete your vacation.

Cruise into savings Members pay less for Le Boat when booking with CAA. Your Member discount applies even to promotional rates.

SPRING 2023 | 13

ON THE RADAR /

Step into The Heyday of Modernism in Palm Springs

The Localer: Rick Lee Building community through nutritious food

“

It’s heartwarming to know we are able to help and do our part by donating nutritious food from our own farms

YOU’D BE LUCKY to have someone like Rick Lee as your neighbour. He’s the kind of guy who has your back.

On his farm in Holland, Manitoba, this third-generation farmer and his family produce about 2.5 million eggs a year, which are shipped to grocery stores throughout the province. Lee also donates eggs to various events in his community. “Being an egg farmer is rewarding, he says, as we are producing affordable, healthy food for the world to enjoy.”

Farming never stops and neither does this father of three. He’s the councillor for the rural municipality of Victoria and sits on multiple committees, including the board of directors of Manitoba Egg Farmers (MEF). Lee has also been literally building community, alongside his father, Don, with their company Tiger Homes. The Lees have constructed more than 200 homes as well as Holland United Church and the local minigolf course.

But let’s get back to those eggs. In his role at MEF, Lee was involved in the “easy decision” last fall to give 144,000 eggs to food bank network Harvest Manitoba—a number far exceeding MEF’s average monthly donation of 20,000 eggs.

After the pandemic and with the rise in in ation, more people are relying on food banks,” Lee explains. “It’s heartwarming to know we are able to help and do our part by donating nutritious food from our own farms.”

–Aileen Brabazon

Nominate a Localer Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to make the world a better place?

We’d love to hear about them; they could be our featured Localer in an upcoming issue. Send nominations to drivenbygoodmb@caamanitoba.com

14 | CAA MAGAZINE

Modernism has a stylish home at this new Palm Springs museum.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (OPENING PAGE) LINFORD MILES/UNSPLASH, (BOTTOM) LE BOAT, (UPPER LEFT) COURTESY RICK LEE, (BOTTOM RIGHT) JARROD RIGGS

Rick Lee builds communities—literally, as a contractor, and, nutrition-wise, as a donor egg farmer.

ake a s lash in ayne ans eld s hea t sha ed tub, be the host with the most in a candy-colour kitchen or chill out in a groovy rec room. Step into the display “vignettes” to play and pose in the newly opened Modernism Museum in downtown Palm Springs, California. Curated by artist, designer, philanthropist and local style maven Tracy Truco, the museum showcases 12,000 square feet of bold design from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. psmodernismmuseum.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: (UPPER RIGHT) COURTESY RUSSIAN MINTS, (BOTTOM LEFT) COURTESY YUK YUK’S

/ ON THE RADAR

Melt-in-YourMouth Mints From Mordens’ Of Winnipeg Take a bite of something local and delicious. Mordens’ of Winnipeg has been crafting confections since 1959 and these velvety chocolates are an enduring favourite.

Award-winning meltaway-centre “Russian-style” chocolate mints.

100% crafted by Winnipeg’s first chocolate-making business.

Tempted? These treats are available at shop.caamanitoba.com at a discounted rate for Members.

Yuk Yuk’s at The Fort Garry Hotel Are you ready to laugh, Winnipeg? Venerable comedy club Yuk Yuk’s is now open at The Fort Garry Hotel. It joins the dozen other Yuk Yuk’s locations as part of the chain that has been a staple of the Canadian stand-up scene since 1976. The club is the latest addition to the hotel, which is presently undergoing an overhaul of its restaurant and entertainment spaces. Yuk Yuk’s hosts comedians Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights in the downstairs club room. For more information, visit yukyuks.com/Winnipeg.

—Janice Tober Stand-up comedy is back in Winnipeg, with Yuk Yuk’s at the Fort Garry Hotel.

SPRING 2023 | 15

ON THE RADAR /

usic ows in the eins o inni ege Dave Landreth, who, with brother Joey, heads up Juno award–winning The Bros.

Landreth. From babies in bassinets at their dad’s gigs to hearing their song “Made Up Mind” covered by Bonnie Raitt, these guys are living the life of roots music and harmony-heavy soul. In the van between gigs, Dave says they each escape to their own “musical bubble.” His tastes are unapologetically all over the map. Here’s what he’ll be listening to on their upcoming tour:

Roll with the Punches Dawes

About Damn Time Lizzo Signs of Life Foy Vance Nick of Time Bonnie Raitt Only Children Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit Beats Begonia LAUNDRY Roman Clarke

CAA sits down with playwright Mieko Ouchi, author of Burning Mom A YEAR AFTER Mieko Ouchi’s dad passed away, her mom announced that she was going to Burning Man. This massive art festival in the Nevada desert is normally the scene of carefree young adults. Not the place you’d expect to see a 63-year-old woman grieving the loss, a year earlier, of her husband. But go she did, and Ouchi wrote the play Burning Mom 10 years later.

CAA Magazine: Why write about your mom’s road trip to Burning Man? Mieko Ouchi: When my dad passed, my mom became sort of obsessed with going, based on an offhand comment my dad made that they should go. er journey unexpectedly turned into a pilgrimage that let her find her way back to life.

Why is humour so effective at helping us deal with grief?

Humour realistically paints those awkward moments we all go through during the bi arre, absurd situations we find ourselves in as we navigate through grief. And if we weren’t laughing, we’d be crying.

What are you hoping an audience takes away with them?

When hard things happen to us, our capacity for happiness stops, and it feels like it’s stopping forever. ut you do find that new normal and live again. I hope people see this.

–J.T.

See the Show Burning Mom will be at the oyal anitoba heat e ent e April 26 through May 20. royalmtc.ca

Growing Up Can Be Overrated This spring, Peter Pan takes a trip back to Neverland, aka Winnipeg. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s (RWB) original production of Peter Pan, choreographed by former RWB dancer o den o is was a hit in anada and the . . when it st layed thanks to its ene getic ght scenes ac obatic e o mances and anci ul sets. ith its etu n in ay this same picture-perfect production will take audiences for a magical ride back to childhood, and all the poignant moments along the way. Peter Pan will be at RWB, May 3–7. rwb.org –J.T.

You Were Field Guide Your Power Billie Eilish Drive All Night The Bros. Landreth

16 | CAA MAGAZINE

Save on tickets CAA Members can Peter Pan plays up the magic of childhood through the dynamic choreography of the RWB.

use promo code CAARWB23 on online ticket purchases—no pixie dust required.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (UPPER LEFT) COURTESY DAVE LANDRETH, (UPPER RIGHT) HEAVY META, THE FIRE-BREATHING DRAGON, BEING LED BY ARTIST MARIE POLIAK @JAMENPERCYBURN, (BOTTOM RIGHT) RWB DANCERS ALANNA MCADIE AND YOSUKE MINO WITH RWB SCHOOL STUDENTS

What Are You Listening To, Dave Landreth?

Burning Up the Stage

PHOTOGRAPHY: (UPPER LEFT) COURTESY PEDEGO, (TOP RIGHT) SAMSON KATT/UNSPLASH, (BOTTOM RIGHT) SPOOH/ISTOCK

/ ON THE RADAR

Anatomy Of an E-bike Put some pep in your pedal with an electric-assist bike WINNING THE TOUR DE FRANCE may not be in your future, but getting from the garage to the grocery store in record time with an electric-assist bicycle (aka the e-bike) may be the next best thing.

Equipped with a motor powered by a rechargeable battery, an e-bike helps you go farther, for longer.

These days, you have a lot of choice. Range, speed and capabilities vary by manufacturer, but there are some key similarities, including that a more powerful motor (which can help you keep step with tra c and haul cargo) means you’ll burn through the battery faster and have a shorter range of travel.

Like conventional bicycles, e-bikes are categorized as mountain or road, urban or cargo.

Expect to pay around $2,000 and up, and be sure to ask how many pedal-assisted kilometres the e-bike will deliver (generally between 30 and 120); the number of watt-hours (Wh) the battery carries before needing a charge; and the size of the motor. But most of all, choose something that will take you from A to (and any other letter) in comfort—a fit and feel that’s right for you will make all the difference.

Help for two wheels It’s roadside assistance, for bikes! Your CAA membership includes Bike Assist®, which gets you and your bike a ride in the event of a breakdown.

Visit caamanitoba.com/bike-assist for more information.

Air Passenger Rights: Making a Complaint AIR PASSENGER Protection Regulations (APPR) cover ights to, from and within Canada and address delays, overbooking and lost or damaged luggage. In September , rules came into effect stating that, in some cases, airlines must rebook, credit or refund a delayed ight. If you find yourself stuck, what should you do?

’Tis the season for pets to be sneezy, too.

Seasonal Allergies in Pets

Insurance for Fido and Fluffy Cover your fourfooted friend with pet insurance through CAA and Pets Plus Us. Members save 12% (1-833-323-2605).

CAA Members receive a e e ed ate o off.

Visit caamanitoba.com/pets for full details. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance policies are underwritten by Northbridge General Insurance Corporation.

Itchy skin, watery eyes, sneezing and wheezing t s not ust humans who can suffe om seasonal allergies. Pets can, too. According to VCA Animal Hospitals Canada, the most common allergy symptom in dogs is skin reactions itchiness hi es in amed o ed skin . hey may also have swelling of the face, lips, eyelids o ea a s and unny eyes. ats with seasonal alle gies can also suffe these sym toms.

If you notice your pet scratching or licking itself more than usual, sneezing or showing signs of swelling this spring, a visit to the vet may be in order. Your vet may want to rule out other possibly serious causes before diagnosing the problem as a seasonal allergy.

Luckily, you can help alleviate the misery by limiting your pet’s exposure to allergens, like pollen or snow mould, and with prescription medications. Your vet will be happy to advise.

TALK TO THE AIRLINE. They may be able to resolve your problem without needing to go further.

SUBMIT A COMPLAINT TO THE AIRLINE IN WRITING. You must allow 30 days for them to respond.

IF YOU ARE STILL UNSATISFIED, file online with the Canadian Transportation Agency at rppa-appr.ca.

CAA is advocating for ways to make travel smoother for Canadian air passengers.

SPRING 2023 | 17

TRAVEL /

Tipping Points Figuring out how much to tip can be confusing, especially when you’re travelling

By Paul Gallant | Illustration by Josie Portillo

YOU POP INTO an airport store to grab a bottle of water before your ight and the debit card reader prompts you to leave a tip.

What, exactly, is the service you’re tipping for?

The rise of the chip-card reader is just one of many factors complicating the already-befuddling custom of tipping. Prompts can show up in unexpected situations—not just for takeaway food, but also retail and other services. Often we’re faced with a range of tip options, the lowest sometimes set to more than we may think is appropriate. Add to that the pandemic trend of tipping generously to support struggling businesses and it’s hard to know what to do, especially when travelling.

There’s no shame in manually entering an amount on a pin-card reader, according to business etiquette expert ulie lais Comeau at etiquettejulie.com. That includes choosing to tip on the pre-tax amount, which is the norm, even if the card reader suggests a tip on the full amount. Tipping for counter service remains optional. The main considerations should be the local tipping custom and the quality of the service provided, notes lais Comeau.

Americans are seen as among the world’s most generous tippers, and Canadian tippers are not far behind. According to a survey conducted by Restaurants Canada in April , Canadians tip between and percent. In the .S., the norm is closer to percent.

When you’re travelling outside of Canada and the .S., research local customs, as gratuities protocol varies from country to country. or instance, in apan, tipping may be considered insulting. In Australia, gratuities used to be optional, though chip-card readers are gradually changing that now. Gas-station attendants and grocery-store baggers in Mexico are often given five to pesos.

Meanwhile, in uropean restaurants, the service charge is not

included in the total, so a tip often means rounding off the bill with a few extra euros. In ra il, you may see a percent service fee added to your restaurant bill, but you can refuse to pay it if service is lacking. Tipping is never mandatory, but is sometimes expected.

When you’re booking a resort, cruise or spa, lais Comeau recommends budgeting for gratuities. When all-inclusive accommodations

“

The main considerations should be the local tipping custom and the quality of the service provided

offer the option to tip in advance, she suggests doing so—it might increase the level of service you receive.

If you’re worried about being rude for tipping or not tipping, it’s always fine to ask a worker or manager what is expected locally— few will take exception to Canadian tipping practices. Or generosity.

If you can afford it and impact that person’s livelihood, do it, says lais Comeau. If it will bring a smile to their face, do it.

You’ll feel good, too. CAA

A CAA Travel Consultant can help you book travel plans to suit your budget. Go to caamanitoba.com/travel to learn more.

18 | CAA MAGAZINE

/ VEHICLE TIPS

The Heart of Your Vehicle A happy battery makes for a happy vehicle

By Matt Bubbers | Illustration by Peter Grundy

A D AD ATT RY is one of the most common reasons drivers call CAA for help. It’s no surprise really. Canada’s sub- ero winters are like kryptonite to your car’s battery, and high-tech features—like cameras, keyless entry and automatic engine stop/start—can put additional strain on the system. aving a little knowledge of your car’s battery and electrical system can go a long way to preventing problems down the road and help you feel better equipped to interact with your mechanic or CAA professional.

HOW IT WORKS In a traditional vehicle, a -volt battery— often located in the engine bay or under a cover in the trunk—is responsible for supplying juice to a starter motor that spins the engine to life. Once the engine is running, it powers an alternator, a tiny generator that turns the engine’s rotating mechanical force into electrical energy. The alternator usually

powers accessories, such as headlights and wipers, while the vehicle is on the move, and it recharges the battery. lectric vehicles ( s) are powered by massive lithium-ion batteries—often positioned under the car’s oor—but they also have a smaller -volt battery to power accessories such as headlights, windows and wipers.

KNOW THE SIGNS A -volt lead-acid battery (found in most cars) usually has a lifespan of three to ive years, but drivers should always be on the lookout for signs of failure. Those include slower cranking, warning lights on the dashboard, dim headlights, a sulfur or rotten-egg smell, a weird-sounding horn, and corrosion, which looks like white or blue-green gunk on the battery itself.

A dead or dying battery can (although not always) point to a problem with the alter-

nator. Alternator failures are less common than battery issues, but signs to watch out for include a whining or growling noise from the engine bay, a burnt-rubber smell, and ickering or dim headlights.

BATTERY TIPS To avoid battery problems, don’t run your vehicle’s accessories for an extended period while the engine is off, and check that you haven’t accidentally left the vehicle’s lights on before walking away. If your car will be parked for an extended period, consider installing a smart battery charger/maintainer to keep it in good shape. The best way to prevent a dead battery, however, is simply to use your car. Try to drive for at least to minutes once a week.

If all else fails, CAA Mobile attery Service will test, replace and recycle your old car battery at your home, workplace or even from the side of the road. CAA

CAA Battery ServiceTM is available in Winnipeg and Brandon only. Visit caamanitoba.com/battery to get a quote or call 1-866-740-6421 to have your battery delivered and installed.

SPRING 2023 | 19

TRAVEL /

20 | CAA MAGAZINE

/ TRAVEL

Crete Dreams One of Europe’s oldest cities, Chania is a sun-splashed destination on the coast of Crete that combines ancient charm with modern comforts. And, yes, (almost) all roads lead to the beach

By Beth Hitchcock | Photography by Tom Parker

FOR SUN-SEEKERS, the city of Chania was once a means to an end—a stopover en route to the world-class beaches of Crete, Greece’s largest and southernmost island. Now, this bustling city on Crete’s northwest coast has earned the spotlight on its own merits. ust an hour’s ight from Athens, Chania (pronounced hahn-yah ) is both a destination, thanks to a historic harbour and local delicacies, and an ideal jumping-off point to explore the culture, geographic diversity and this lush island’s Instagrammable beaches.

For admirers of history and architecture, Chania itself is an irresistible draw. First inhabited around 1700 B.C. by the Minoans it was later claimed by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans, which helps explain the city’s wide-ranging historic architecture. Walking into town from the enetian lighthouse (a listed archaeological site) at Chania’s port, you’ll pass a fascinating mix of neoclassical buildings, y antine castles and monasteries dating back to the 11th century.

It’s at the new Archaeological Museum in the nearby suburb of Chalepa that you begin to understand how the city’s traditional spirit and contemporary edge coexist so comfortably. ere, inside a modern building designed according to sustainability and bioclimatic principles, you can view artifacts and learn about Cretan life from prehistoric times.

Chania's 16th-century Venetian lighthouse was rebuilt in the form of a minaret during the Ottoman Empire.

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Reserve a table on the sand at Thalassino Ageri, a traditional fish tavern in Chania overlooking the turquoise water. Local specialties include grilled octopus and astakomakaronada (pasta with fresh lobster).

MARKETS AND SHOPPING Though the city’s historic covered central market is closed for renovation until late 2023, there are open-air farmers’ markets to discover and picturesque alleys to wander, all populated with shops purveying local delights—artisanal leather goods, ceramics and hand-embroidered textiles, olive oil, tea and honey.

Kurkuta is a fun souvenir shop full of kitschy novelty items, while Mitos Art has more sophisticated offerings that range from modern gold and silver jewellery to ceramics and bronze sculptures created by local artists and designers. Roka Carpets Weaving Shop is where master weaver Mihalis Manousakis and his wife, Annie, craft intricate traditional rugs on their 400-year-old loom.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK Don’t miss the chance to sample Cretan delicacies, like kalitsounia, a salty or sweet cheese pastry, and dakos, a fresh salad of tomatoes, creamy sheep’s- or goat’s-milk cheese atop barley rusks soaked in olive oil. Kolokithokeftedes is another item you’ll see on menus—traditional zucchini, feta and mint fritters popular on the island.

Raki, a Cretan brandy distilled from grapes, is served at just about every taverna and enjoyed neat alongside mezes (a selection of small appeti ers or snacks).

One of Chania’s most famous pastry shops is a family business that has been baking fresh bougatsa—a phyllo pastry with a sweet or savoury filling—for years.

Stop by Bougatsa Iordanis any time after a.m., when the oven gets fired up, for the original sweet version—with a creamy custard filling—dusted with cinnamon and

22 | CAA MAGAZINE

sugar, and best enjoyed with a strong coffee. or a more modern take on breakfast (or lunch or dinner), head over to Ginger Concept, a chic bistro in the Old Town—and an idyllic place to start the day with kagianas (an eggs-and-tomato dish) and people-watching.

And for the freshest seafood and best sunset views, book a dinner reservation at Thalassino Ageri, or try Salis, where the creative chef reimagines old classics with seasonal local twists.

WHERE TO SLEEP Take your pick of accommodations—coastal, city or countryside—to suit your personal preference and itinerary.

Just outside of Chania, on an organic farm, is Metohi Kindelis, with its rose-coloured exterior and three spacious guest houses, replete with fully equipped kitchens (and fridges stocked with local goodies) and private saltwater pools.

With its clean-lined beach house interiors punctuated by primary colours and cheeky pop art, Ammos hotel is the physical embodiment of a wink. This beachfront favourite just 5 kilometres from the Old Town features cozy studio rooms as well as larger suites to accommodate families of four. outique luxury hotel Casa Delfino is housed in a refurbished 17th-century Venetian mansion and has 24 elegant guest rooms with stunning views of Chania’s Old arbour.

Contemporary accommodations are available at the centrally located Samaria otel, which is close to the Old Town and shop-lined cobbled streets.

IT’S WORTH THE DRIVE Rent a car and venture out from Chania to

High style by the seaside, Ammos hotel is like a mini-resort just outside of the city.

/ TRAVEL

For a more modern take on breakfast (or lunch or dinner), head over to Ginger Concept, a chic bistro in the Old Town—and an idyllic place to start the day with kagianas (an eggs-and-tomato dish) and peoplewatching

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view more of the breathtaking landscapes and explore the local attractions. The roads can be narrow and winding, but most are clearly marked with signs in English—and you ll find plenty of friendly locals who will help steer you through a tight spot.

FOR THE HISTORY BUFF The jewel in Crete’s historic crown is Knossos, believed to be Crete’s largest ron e Age archaeological site and Europe’s oldest city.

You can still experience the tiered platforms of the palace, the restored fresco depicting a charging bull, and the majestic Minoan columns constructed from the trunks of cypress trees—all just a scenic two-hour drive away. Break up the trip back to Chania with a stop at the Arkadi Monastery, a th-century church that blends Roman and Baroque elements and was a refuge during the Cretan resistance to Ottoman rule in 1866.

FOR THE ACTIVE HIKER A hike at Samaria Gorge is a must. The 16-kilometre trail will lead you past abandoned villages, tight passages (one is only three metres wide and metres high) and 450 species of plant and animal life, which makes the gorge a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve. For a shorter hiking alternative, check out the Imbros Gorge, an 11-kilometre canyon trail about an hour’s drive from Chania.

FOR THE TREASURE HUNTER Crete has a deep tradition of pottery and nowhere is it more evident than the village of Margarites, in the centre of Crete’s rolling Rethymno region. Stroll the winding streets and you’ll notice artists’ hand-thrown pots displayed outside, spilling onto the sidewalks and window sashes, and indoors.

At eramion, you can observe Minoan-era firing techniques and embellishments on the humble-yet-stunning vases, jugs and plates. And if you’re artistically inclined, consider taking a short workshop to learn how to throw clay on a wheel or hand-build a pottery piece.

BEACH DAYS When you’re ready to cool down with a

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swim at the beach, Chania offers bountiful options. There are lots of lovely beaches near the city, but the real gems are just a short trip away. Many beaches are family -friendly but some are hard to access— do some research if you're travelling with small children or have mobility issues.

Prepare to swoon at the shimmering pink sands (thanks to crushed shells) and crystalline waters at alos. Apart from its otherworldly appearance, what sets Balos apart is its shallow lagoon that’s perfect for hours of wading. Though you can drive the 51 kilometres to Balos, some of the roads are rough, as is the final hike to the beach.

The easiest arrival is via the Kissamos ferry.

There’s a beach bar, but items are limited and go fast, so packing your own water and snacks is the best way to enjoy Balos.

If one pink beach isn’t enough, venture to Elafonisi. Shallow turquoise waters dotted by islands and coves make the one-kilometre-long coastline a popular spot for watersports, relaxation and photography. lafonisi offers sunbeds and beach umbrellas, a couple of small beach bars and, during the busy season, lifeguards.

Falassarna, located at the western base of the scenic Gramvousa Peninsula, is another crowd-pleaser, thanks to an abundance of rental umbrellas, snack bars and volleyball courts.

Where there are great beaches, there are bound to be great water sports. With a plethora of equipment-rental companies operating at most sites, you can easily find canoes, stand-up paddleboards, windsurfers and jet-skis. If you’d rather enjoy the ocean by boat, head to nearby ora Sfakion and take a trip to Loutro, a charming seaside village inaccessible by car. Or drive to Kalypso Beach in Rethymno—a rocky cove with inky blue waters that once served as a pirate hideaway. Rent scuba or snorkel equipment and marvel at the marine life in the Libyan Sea. Whether you’re Greek island-hopping or plan to spend your whole vacation on Crete, you’ll find plenty to do and see—with sweeping seaside vistas so stunning, it can be hard to keep your eyes on the winding cliffside roads. CAA

J Elafonisi, with its pink dunes and clear blue water, is frequently listed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Money Matters Minimize currency exchange fees and buy euros at your bank before your trip. While in Greece, pay with cash or use a credit or debit card with low or no foreign transaction fees. No matter what, avoid airport kiosks at both the beginning and end of your journey; they charge a premium for the convenience.

Don't Forget a Permit Since some foreign car rental agencies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP), check with your intended provider before setting out on Crete’s winding roads. The IDP is valid for one year after purchase, so it’s handy if you plan to extend your trip to other destinations—or have additional trips planned in the coming year.

Only CAA is authorized to issue an IDP, whether you’re a Member or not. Go to caamanitoba.com/travel/idp to nd out mo e.

/ TRAVEL

We can help you to book ights hotels ca s and activities for your next big adventure.

Visit caamanitoba.com/travel to learn more.

Packing Guide Travelling light is an art form, whether you’re visiting Greece for a week or a long weekend.

Here’s how to carry-on the essentials and still explore your destination in style:

Wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane: jeans, sweater, jacket and comfortable walking shoes or boots.

Limit packed footwear to a pair of casual shoes or shoes that can be d essed u lus at sandals o i o s o the ool and beach.

Check what amenities your hotel provides, so you can leave unnecessary toiletries at home.

Choose versatile clothing—lightweight trousers, skirts, good-quality tees—that can be layered to suit the temperature or occasion.

Bring a selection of small accessories (think scarves, jewellery, sunglasses) to smarten up your basics. And don’t forget a hat for sun protection!

Shop with us at shop.caamanitoba.com for travel and safety needs

SPRING 2023 | 25

TRAVEL /

26 | CAA MAGAZINE

/ TRAVEL

The Magic of the Mekong A luxury cruise on one of the world’s grandest rivers pampers the body and soul

By Erin Campbell

TO THE SOUND OF VIGOROUS DRUMMING and clashing cymbals, a traditional lion dance lights up the upper deck of our ship as it crosses from Vietnam into Cambodia. We are at the halfway point of our cruise on the Mekong River, and the colours and cacophony of the dance—múa lân in Vietnamese—are both a delightful spectacle and a blessing for our journey. A lion dance is performed to mark a special occasion. In our case, the animated movements are intended to bestow happiness, wealth and good fortune upon the guests on the ship.

And we can feel the results—guests relax and sip local Angkor beer while taking in a view of the silk-producing town of Tân Châu. A sense of calm and relaxation melds with the excitement for everything that the mighty Mekong will allow us to experience.

A river cruise feels like the perfect way to travel, as our ship meanders the seemingly endless waterway. Just a few days earlier, when we departed at sunset from bustling Ho Chi Minh City, we were a group of strangers setting out on an adventure, full of anticipation but not entirely sure what to expect.

The Mekong River is the world’s second-most biodiverse river system after the Amazon basin.

It travels 4,350 kilometres south from China to the Mekong Delta in southwest Vietnam, passing through Myanmar, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia along the way. The surreal and misty landscapes that we casually drift past are home to innumerable small villages and rice paddies that yield 25 million metric tons of rice a year. The aquatic biodiversity rivals that I Lush jungle views on the Mekong.

SPRING 2023 | 27

Buddhist monks from all over the world pilgrimage to the magnificent Angkor Wat.

Take your time Booking extra days before and after your cruise lets you experience more of the region and helps you acclimate before the cruise and unwind afterwards. For example, before departing on a Mekong cruise like this one, take the time to navigate Ho hi inh ity s sea o moto bikes. isit the aigon ent al ost ce and the neo-Romanesque Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, whose 19th-century architecture evokes the French Indochina era. See the Independence Palace, which was captured in 1975 by North Vietnamese forces to end the Vietnam War. There is so much to see—get in touch with CAA Travel to arrange the perfect “extra” days on your vacation.

Sip a gin cocktail (made with your pick of over 100 brands in their “ginventory”) at the historic Elephant Bar of Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh.

28 | CAA MAGAZINE

of the Amazon and is the most concentratbuds. Built in 1929, the hotel showcases ed per hectare of any river in the world.

French colonial architecture accented by The waters host more than 1,200 species, the works of local artisans. Tea at the including the remaining global populations Elephant Bar pairs scones and clotted of Irrawaddy dolphin and the giant freshcream with a cognac-and-champagne cockwater stingray, which can weigh as much as tail called the Femme Fatale, created for 590 kilograms.

Jackie Kennedy when she visited in 1967.

We discover all of this as we journey.

This is the beauty of our river cruise—the The ship—and all its glorious trappings—is ability to combine luxury indulgence with one thing. The shore is something else. visits to significant sites and monuments.

Most river cruise itineraries include daily We wander the gilded century-old Throne trips ashore. This is the time not only to Hall at the Cambodian Royal Palace, stretch your legs but also to immerse yourdecorated outside with statues of Buddhist self in the local culture. deities and inside with ornate thrones and In Sa Déc, once the largest city on the golden busts. An exhilarating 300-step Mekong Delta, we savour lotus tea and climb brings us to the seventh-century candied ginger at the home of Mr. Huynh hilltop temple at Wat Hanchey and the sight Thuy Le, the inspiration for Marguerite of cheerful young monks, their orange robes Duras’ 1984 novel, The Lover. At the nearby contrasted against a striking blue pagoda market, vendors sell fresh At the ruined temple watermelons and bamboo of Ta Prohm, giant tree shoots, live river prawns roots cling to the walls and mangrove crabs. We and doorways of this enjoy local ingredients 12th-century Buddhist both on land and back on site, to eerie effect. the ship, where the menu Finally, to close out our A river cruise feels re ects regional cuisine, adventure, we visit like the perfect such as duck breast with Angkor Wat—at 162 hectway to travel, as red cabbage and tamarind. ares, the largest religious our ship meanders Fresh, fruit-centric desmonument complex in the seemingly serts are irresistible: the the world and a UNESCO endless waterway mango sticky rice with World Heritage site. coconut sorbet is a parThis is a lot to take ticular guest favourite. On in over the course of a another day, a visit to the 850-hectare Tra week. But the adrenaline surge that results Su Bird Sanctuary presents a visual feast, from visiting these iconic sites becomes a with hill mynah birds and painted storks daily addiction. And being able to retreat soaring above wetlands accessible by small to a luxury ship at the end of the day boats via narrow canals. provides time to decompress, re ect and Cambodia’s capital city of Phnom Penh review—made all the more rewarding with demands more than a day to take everya delicious cocktail and the company of thing in. Afternoon tea at Ra es otel e people who started out as fellow guests Royal is a treat for the eyes and the taste and are now fast friends. CAA

“

Ready for a river cruise? Book your river adventure with CAA and discover all the wonde s o you sel . a el onsultant can hel you nd a c uise that s ust right for you. Visit caamanitoba.com/travel/consultants to get started.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (OPENING PAGE) GÁBOR KOVÁCS/ALAMY, (LEFT PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM) DICK HOSKINS/UNSPLASH, COURTESY RAFFLES HOTEL LE ROYAL, (RIGHT PAGE) HONG HANH MAC THI/ALAMY

TRAVEL /

/ TRAVEL

Cut through brilliant green duckweed dotted with lotus flowers as you row along the canals of Tra Su bird sanctuary.

Here are some tips for booking your own Mekong river cruise

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SPRING 2023 | 29

COMMUNITY / ON THE RADAR /

ommunity ga dens

o ide a chance o local esidents to e thei g een thumbs as well as g ow iendshi s and neighbou ly cama ade ie.

What Do Your Gardens Grow?

Community gardens provide access to healthy food along with a social support system. Find out what’s growing in a garden near you.

By Waheeda Harris

I

n her children’s novel Anne of Ingleside, Lucy Maud Montgomery wrote: “Nothing ever seems impossible in spring.” And for community gardeners from coast to coast, the allure of getting one’s hands dirty and planning the seasonal bounty of owers, herbs, fruits and vegetables is an experience that’s even better when shared.

Community gardening is also a way for local residents to increase food security, share culture and traditions, and pledge their commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.

Gardens Manitoba is committed to raising

30 | CAA MAGAZINE

funds for community gardens across the province. Alongside the Manitoba Master Gardener Association, which promotes horticultural education and events, the non-profit supports community gardening in several centres, including Altona, Beausejour, Birtle, Dauphin, Stonewall, Virden and Winkler.

As an urban gardening incentive, the City of Winnipeg has some 150 plots at seven locations available for rent annually. And thanks to the North End Food Security Network, newbie gardeners can follow A Community Gardener’s Guidebook, A Month-to-Month Guide: Covering the Basics

/ COMMUNITY

“ PHOTOS: (THIS PAGE) PAULINE BARNARD/UNSPLASH. (OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP) ZEN CHUNG/PEXELS, JONATHAN KEMPER/UNSPLASH

lanning the seasonal bounty of o ers herbs fruits and vegetables is an experience that’s even better when shared in Gardening in Winnipeg. Available at gov.mb.ca, the guide offers insider knowledge and tips on where to get freebies, as well as worksheets for planning which vegetables, herbs and fruits to plant. And in addition to seed-catalogue details, it has answers to basic questions, such as explaining what raised beds and containers are, or the difference between perennials and annuals.

First-timers will also appreciate knowing when to begin planning (January), when to plant (after the last frost), which plants can be started indoors (cucumber, pumpkin, zucchini), how much space plants need (tip: grow lettuce in those in-between spaces), composting, pruning and what to do in September, when the harvest comes to an end.

Here are three community-garden organizations in Manitoba that showcase how green spaces are vital to healthy cities and towns: RAINBOW COMMUNITY GARDEN PROJECT Knox United Church in Winnipeg supplied tools and resources and continues to fundraise for this initiative, while the City of Winnipeg and the University of Manitoba offered support and access to the project’s initial plot. Created in 2008 by 16 immigrant families from nine countries, the garden is now managed by the Immigrant Integration Farming Community Co-op (IIFCC) and has a little more than four hectares in Landmark and Niverville, just outside of Winnipeg. Besides being a bud-

get-friendly food source for its participants, this garden is a way to forge community connections, share cultural traditions and also practise English. In one year, it yielded 10,000-plus kilograms of produce, and extra vegetables were sold at Winnipeg’s Central Market for additional income.

BRANDON COMMUNITY GARDENS There are nine community gardens in randon, the first being Park Community Centre Garden, which started in the early 1990s. Volunteers now typically plant in 20 raised beds every year on the site, which is popular with local preschoolers and seniors alike. Another greenspace of note is the Riverview Garden, managed by the Riverview Garden Society, with 100 plots for rent annually. The focus here is to plant as much as possible from seed, with the gardeners always happy to donate fresh produce to those in need in the community.

MENNONITE HERITAGE VILLAGE COMMUNITY GARDEN Located in the city of Steinbach, this serene garden recreates a Russian Mennonite village from the turn of the century and aims to enhance the nutritional, physical and mental health of visitors as well as local resident neighbours. Twenty 10-by-40-foot plots are available for rent to gardeners committed to regular weeding (sans pesticides) and, come harvest time, to share and donate any surplus produce. CAA

oiling in the soil is a labou o lo e o many community ga den oluntee s.

Get Growing •

ontact you neighbou hood association o in o mation on e isting ga dens in you a ea.

Some religious groups also have gardens and would welcome oluntee s.

•

any community ga dens use acebook athe than stand alone websites. you wish to oluntee a uick sea ch the e may lead to uit ul esults.

•

ownload A Community Gardener’s Guidebook, A Month-to-Month Guide: Covering the Basics in Gardening in Winnipeg (go .mb.ca in d ubs community ga dene guidebook. d . you e sta ting om sc atch consult a dens anitoba which aises unds o ga den sta t u s.

Ready to get gardening? embe s ea n in olla s on thei online u chases at ona and ome a dwa e. caamanitoba.com/rewards/home-essentials

SPRING 2023 | 31

THE GOOD PLACE /

Cultivating Care for Farmers The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program is committed to providing much-needed mental health support

By Kate Rae | Photograph by Sandi Knight GERRY FRIESEN (a self-identified recovering farmer ) knew firsthand the extraordinary stresses of farming. ut when he started volunteering as a counsellor on a crisis line for other farmers, it was immediately obvious that there was a massive gap in accessing proper support. e cites one farmer who had finally gone to his doctor to get some help for his overwhelming stress. The doctor wrote him a note saying he needed to take two weeks off, says riesen.

That’s just not an option There are no sick days in farming. That doctor had absolutely no sense of the intricacies involved.

While every profession comes with its own challenges, farmers are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, thanks to the enormous stressors involved. There’s a lack of control over potentially devastating weather conditions, blight and illnesses, the inability to take time off to rest and always-rising costs. According to a six-month national study on farmers’ mental health, conducted in by the niversity of Guelph, of the farmers surveyed, percent met the criteria for anxiety and percent for depression, and percent were reluctant to get help because of the stigma involved. We know too that suicidal thoughts and addiction issues are on the rise, says riesen.

Inspired by farmers’ mental health initiatives in P I and Ontario, riesen and im Moffat co-founded the Manitoba armer Wellness Program in to help farmers get no-cost, short-term mental health support. Accessing the help is simple. armers can go to the site (manitobafarmerwellness.ca), read the counsellors’ profiles to find a good fit and directly reach out to their pick. Six therapy sessions are provided free of charge, either virtually or over the phone, to avoid long commutes to and from the appointments. Another key element All of the counsellors a liated have some background in agriculture. While they are not farmers themselves, they have

Farmers deal with stressors that are beyond their control—one change in the weathe can affect thei li elihood.

“

I better understand now that tending to my own self and my own mental health is equally as important as tending to the elds

a deep understanding of farming, either through training or a family connection, notes riesen.

Confidentiality is paramount and so deeply respected that no records are kept on who is accessing the service. We don’t want that to be a barrier. There is still a huge stigma when it comes to mental health in the community, riesen says. armers are expected to be stoic and resilient. When I was farming, I know there was a very prevalent belief that if you’re having troubles, it means you’re not working hard enough. Our goal is to help farmers connect their mental health to the health of their farm.

And it’s working. As one recipient of the program’s services noted in a letter to riesen, I better understand now that tending to my own self and my own mental health is equally as important as tending to the fields. Discovering this program was a true highlight of the growing season.

Visit manitobafarmerwellness.ca to learn more about the program. CAA

Do you know of a Good Place? We want to celebrate community organizations that strive to make life better for all.

Send nominations to drivenbygoodmb@caamanitoba.com to share their story.

32 | CAA MAGAZINE

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The majority of Canadians are planning to make their next vehicle an EV. What about you?

By Matt Bubbers

E

LECTRIC VEHICLES are hot right now.

Sales are booming and public opinion in Canada has shifted in their favour.

Making the switch from gasoline- to battery-powered cars, however, is a giant leap for drivers, many of whom have big questions about how an electric vehicle might fit into their lives. We’ll get to a few of those key questions, but first it’s worth taking a

34 | CAA MAGAZINE

closer look at how this transition is going.

Electric vehicles (EVs)—also known as battery electric vehicles, or BEVs—are a small but rapidly growing slice of Canada’s automobile market. EVs account for seven percent of all new vehicles sold in this country, up from just 1.9 percent in early 2019, according to the latest figures from market research firm S P Global.

More important than sales—which experts say have been limited by supply constraints— is the fact that a growing number of Canadians want an . They’ve gone mainstream.

“At a high level—and this has been pretty consistent for a few years now—roughly 6 in ten Canadians are inclined to buy an EV over a gas car when they purchase their next vehicle, with roughly three in ten being cer-

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF GENERAL MOTORS & FORD MOTOR CO.

Charged Up and Ready to Roll

/ AUTO

he he olet olt abo e and the o d ightning o

tain of that decision,” says Trevor Melanson, a spokesperson for Clean Energy Canada, a think tank at Simon Fraser University.

CHANGING MINDS There are a multitude of reasons why public opinion is shifting, but the simple fact is that EVs improved so fast and so much that nobody can ignore them anymore. They’re among the best, most exciting machines on the road these days. Not only that, but EVs now also come in more shapes and sizes, with more range and at more price points. ord’s electric ightning pickup, with its front trunk and ability to provide power in an electrical outage, is rolling off production lines now, although not fast enough to meet booming demand. Almost every major automaker has, or will soon have, an electric SUV in Canadian showrooms.

Even Rolls-Royce is gearing up to deliver its first later this year. Younger companies, like Tesla, ucid, Rivian, Polestar, isker and Canoo, offer compelling alternatives to older brands as well, giving buyers yet more choice.

Check out CAA’s online uyer’s Guide (evbuyersguide.caa.ca) for a comprehensive

osite age offe utility and affo dability as E s

list of current and upcoming models available in Canada.

Another factor driving interest in EVs is the price of gas. “Often, the higher the gas prices, the higher the interest in EVs,” notes Baris Akyurek, director of analytics at AutoTrader.ca. In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, for example, when gas prices skyrocketed to over $2 a liter in 2022, Akyurek said their website saw an 89 percent increase in searches for EVs. ARE EVs REALLY COST-EFFECTIVE? With regular gas still well over a litre, the short answer is yes—for many (but not all) drivers, an EV will be cheaper in the long run, despite typically having a higher purchase price than an equivalent gas-powered car.

Ryan Peterson, manager of automotive services for CAA Club Group, estimates he saves roughly $550 per month on gas driving a Tesla Model Y instead of his pickup. He reckons the Tesla will offset its higher purchase price in fuel savings quite quickly. His father, however, who has a fuel-sipping 2019 yundai and doesn’t drive much, probably wouldn’t break even buying an ,

o ide mo e consume o tions.

Peterson points out. very driver’s calculation is different.

CAA’s online Driving Costs Calculator (carcosts.caa.ca) can help you figure out whether an EV will ultimately be cheaper for you, taking into account variables such as annual mileage, depreciation, vehicle cost and the cost of gas and electricity.

EV owners save money on maintenance, too. Because electric cars have fewer moving parts, there’s less to fix. All there is to do is brake and tire maintenance and, occasionally, change the cabin air filter, according to Peterson. Survey data from hundreds of thousands of drivers, released in 2020 by the Consumer Reports organization, found EV drivers spend 50 percent less on maintenance and repairs.

RANGING FARTHER New EVs, like the Hyundai Kona and Chevrolet Bolt, cost under $40,000 (including the , federal incentive) and offer 400 kilometres or more of driving range.

Each model year brings new vehicles with more range. Nevertheless, in a 2022 survey

by AutoTrader.ca, limited driving range was

SPRING 2023 | 35

AUTO /

3 HOT UPCOMING EVs

HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 ailable . eatu es st eamline design and ea o all wheel d i e

E E E E RST FIRST EDITION ailable . eatu es u to ho se owe and ou wheel stee ing

E . ailable . eatu es e si o se en seat o tions and ano amic iews

“

At a high level—and this has been pretty consistent for a few years now—roughly six in 10 Canadians are inclined to buy an EV over a gas car when they purchase their next vehicle

still the top reason shoppers didn’t consider buying an EV. As many EV owners will tell you, range anxiety is real, but it fades quickly. “It disappears, says Peterson. veryone I’ve talked to, after a few weeks or months, they get it.”

The ability to charge at home every night means you start every morning with a full “tank” of electricity.

If, however, like millions of Canadians you don’t have space to plug in a vehicle overnight, recharging can be a hassle. And if you live in a rural area or frequently travel to one, you’ll find charging infrastructure is often lacking there, too, Peterson cautions.

A study conducted for Natural Resources Canada in recommended a signifi-

cant acceleration” in the rollout of charging infrastructure and highlights the benefits of taking aggressive actions to improve home-charging access.” This would surely help ease any lingering range anxiety and it will be crucial in order for Canada to meet its EV sales targets.

OUTLOOK FOR 2035 The federal government has mandated that by 2035, all new light-duty vehicles sold should be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), a category that includes pure EVs as well as plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. ZEVs made up 8.4 percent of the market as of September 2022, so we’ve got a long way to go.

Questions about EVs? ou can each us at 36 | CAA MAGAZINE

“Our outlook for ZEV sales in Canada is one of growth obviously—though likely not as fast as the federal government would like,” says Andrew King, a managing partner at Canadian market research firm DesRosiers Automotive Consultants. supply is poor, currently, for many models and will be slow to improve.”

In other words, shoppers should still expect lengthy wait times for popular EVs. “There is strong global demand for ZEVs and not enough [production] capacity available yet,” King adds.

Imagine that. We’ve gone from having not enough demand for EVs to having so much that there aren’t enough factories to churn them out fast enough. CAA

o email autoad ice@caasco.ca.

/ A GREAT DRIVE

useums and

o ies in

orden

in ler

end a day li ing out you small town d eams in o den inkle located on the histo ic awson ail the st all anadian oute linking the easte n and weste n o inces. e o e de a ting sto by the awson ail useum to lea n about the oute then get out and e lo e. ou ll nd delicious snacks along the way e ect o kicking back o an e ening at ta dust i e n.

Illustration by Sunny Eckerle

1. he a son rail useum t s a museum ma ket and e o mance s ace in a chu ch that s been a beacon o the community since .

2. uarry aks ol ourse it in a ound o gol but make su e you ha e time o the enowned e as c amble u ge . 3. t. alo ro incial ark abulous s ot o kids who can e lo e the sho es o at i e and its dyke o t ek into the as en o est. 4. an ogh s un o ers ow o ten do you get a hoto o with a an ogh his local landma k is a giant oadside ende ing on a giant easel and a

must shoot o you social media. 5. ulligan s estaurant ounge little mo e gol maybe ust a sto o lunch o dinne he e tensi e menu has e e ything om tacos to salad bowls to steak. nd lots in between. 6. alley akery astry ho — ince this second gene ation has been selling the a ea s a ou ite b eads buns and ast ies. 7. tardust ri e n heatre— te a day o c uising kicking back at the d i e in o a ick and some snacks is the e ect way to wind u a g eat day.

SPRING 2023 | 37

Where memories come into bloom.

This is a place like no other, where more than just flowers bloom. Let your curiosity lead you through unforgettable moments. Where you’re connected to nature, each other and a local culture full of creativity and history that welcomes everyone.

Your story continues in Victoria.

Explore more at tourismvictoria.com

MEMBER REWARDS, OFFERS AND EXCLUSIVE SERVICES

“

Members save instantly by showing their card at over 124,000 participating retail locations and services in Canada and the U.S. From deals on dining, hotels and car rentals to entertainment, attractions, retail and more, you’ll discover bene ts around e ery corner

SPRING 2023

Read more on page 40.

MY CAA

INSIDER /

Save Money Every Day with CAA Rewards® Here’s a great way to retain more money in your wallet—keep your CAA Membership card in there, too

BEFORE LEAVING THE HOUSE, you likely do a quick check for essentials: keys, phone and wallet. Add your CAA Membership card to that list for opportunities to save on purchases every day.

Members save instantly by showing their card at over 124,000 participating retail locations and services in Canada and the U.S. From deals on dining, hotels and car rentals to entertainment, attractions, retail and more, you’ll discover benefits around every corner.

Check the CAA site for a full list of our

40 | CAA MAGAZINE

partners, including favourites like Bouclair, RW&CO., Dulux, The Source and Best Western Hotels & Resorts. Plus, keep an eye out for special limited time offers.

Members can earn CAA Dollars with some of their purchases, especially when shopping via the CAA Rewards eStore.

Each CAA Dollar is worth $1 and can be redeemed to renew or upgrade a CAA Membership or pay a CAA Travel Insurance premium. Or, Members can redeem CAA Dollars at a CAA Store to buy mer-

chandise and tickets for attractions, like Cineplex movies. CAA Dollars never expire, so Members save and earn the more they use their card at participating partners.

The best way to stay up-to-date on the latest CAA Rewards and partners is with the CAA Mobile AppTM. It tracks your savings, including CAA Dollar balance and transactions, so you know you’re making the most of your membership.

Visit caamanitoba.com/rewards to learn more.

/ MY CAA

ar uana

yth usting

Impaired driving is the leading criminal cause of death in Canada. It’s time to weed out misconceptions a o t driving nder the in ence of canna is MYTH 1 Driving high is not as dangerous as drinking and driving.

Your risk of being involved in a motor vehicle crash can double if you’re under the influence of cannabis. According to CAA-funded research conducted by McGill University, cannabis slows reaction time and reduces your ability to stay in a lane or avoid obstacles. It also affects your ability to make accurate decisions. Case in point: That little voice in your head that says you’re a better driver after one joint? You’re not.

While roadside, they may start with a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) to check your eyes or see if you can stand on one foot.

You may also be asked to provide a saliva sample for an Approved Drug Screening Equipment (ADSE) device that can detect multiple substances, including cannabis. Failing these tests means you’ll meet with a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) who will conduct a 12-step evaluation to determine if you’re impaired and what drugs you’ve taken. Refusing these tests will result in criminal charges.

MYTH 2 Cannabis is legal, so driving while high is just a slap on the wrist, right?

Wrong. Impaired driving is a serious criminal offence because it threatens your safety and the safety of anyone else on the road.

Your first offence comes with hefty fines, a suspended license, an impounded vehicle and possible jail time. And penalties get much steeper with subsequent infractions.

MYTH 4 m ne i wait an hou o two be o e d i ing.

The McGill research found that young drivers were at risk of a collision even five hours after ingesting cannabis. Your reaction to cannabis varies each time you take it, depending on product potency and your method of consumption. Edibles take longer to kick in and some studies suggest they can remain in your system for up to 12 hours. There’s no clear-cut answer on how long to wait for the effects to clear your system. It’s not worth the risk—take a cab, rideshare or opt for a designated driver.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (OPENING PAGE) PIXDELUXE/iSTOCK, (TOP LEFT) EDDY BILLARD/UNSPLASH, (RIGHT) OLGA TSAREVA/ iSTOCK

MYTH 3 There’s no way police can enforce the laws.

Police officers across Canada are trained to identify signs of drug impairment and can administer approved drug-screening tools.

Go to caamanitoba.com/cannabis to find out more.

According to research om one th o younger Canadians aged 18–24 say they have driven high or been in a vehicle with a high driver.

SPRING 2023 | 41

MY CAA /

Is now the right time to buy a used vehicle?

“I’m thinking of buying a used car. With the way the market is, is now a good time to sell my car and trade up?”

Ryan Peterson, manager of automotive services at CAA Club Group, suggests some things to consider.

SUPPLY CHAIN We are in unprecedented territory here. There’s such a massive shortage of raw materials and labour that it’s filtering down to the car market. And because of this, we’re seeing used-car prices soar. So, this is a great time to sell a used vehicle— but only if you can get a replacement.

AFFORDABILITY The market has also cooled off a lot in the last couple of months because of inflation. Not very many people can afford to buy a used car with cash. And with interest rates jumping the way they are, the market is starting to level out now because few can afford the loan to buy the car.

STRATEGY CAA Members can call us to determine the value of their current vehicle. We have tools to monitor the market and can

give you an idea of the value of your vehicle. Just because it’s worth X number of dollars today doesn’t mean in a month or two it will be worth the same amount. It can be higher, it can be lower. For now maintain it, keep it repaired and in good shape because we don’t know when prices are going to return to a reasonable amount.

Get in touch! Email autoad ice caasco.ca or call 1-866-464-6448.

At Your Service AA Manito a o ers a lot more than roadside assistance.

Here are just some of the Member services we provide: CAA MOBILE TIRE CHANGE If you live in Winnipeg or Brandon, our expert technicians will come to your home and swap out your on-rim winter tires to seasonal tires.

CAA APPROVED AUTO REPAIR SERVICE (AARS™) SHOPS Find reliable and quality mechanical auto repair services at more than 70 AARS facilities throughout Manitoba. All work performed at an AARS facility is backed by a 12-month or 20,000-kilometre warranty.

AUTO ADVICE Our team of automotive experts can provide you with a free consultation and advice you can trust. Connect with us at 1-866-464-6448 about car care, buying a new or used vehicle, auto repairs, vehicle inspection and more.

EV BUYER’S GUIDE Our user-friendly EV Buyer’s Guide provides information about more than 90 electric vehicles on the market, including facts and advice on purchasing, charging and owning an EV in Canada. e buyersguide.caa.ca GAS PRICE CALCULATOR Our interactive Gas Price Calculator displays average gas prices based on province and city, as well as two-day trends and weekly, monthly and annual averages. caa.ca gas- rices DRIVING COST CALCULATOR Whether you buy new or used, there’s more to the cost of your vehicle than purchase price. This calculator can help you understand the ongoing costs of owning a vehicle by brand and category (including gas, hybrid and electric models). carcosts.caa.ca

42 | CAA MAGAZINE

/ MY CAA

Freshen Up for Spring CAA Rewards partners have everything you need to perk up your home ARE YOU THINKING it’s time to refresh your household or garden? Or maybe your wardrobe? Perhaps your home could use a little spring cleaning and a new coat of paint? Look to CAA for savings and rewards through our range of partners. As a CAA Member, you’ll save on purchases or earn CAA Dollars—and sometimes both. Happy spring!

ouclair dd some ai to you home this s ing ick u a dash of colour and style from this Montreal-based company, with its tasteful selection of modern furniture, stylish accents, window treatments, wall art, bedding and more.

Members save 5% online and instore Dulux Time for a fresh coat of paint? Dulux has everything you need including e e t ad ice and ti s on the latest colour trends and equipment.

Save 25% on regular-priced Dulux paints and earn 3% in CAA Dollars. Members also save 10% on accessories Ashley HomeStore om small s aces to home o ces and bed ooms to li ing ooms and outdoo s too you ll nd something to refresh your home at North America’s number one furniture store.

Online purchases earn 2% in CAA Dollars

PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT) KOLONKO/iSTOCK, (TOP LEFT) KEPORT/iSTOCK, (RIGHT) CYANO66/ iSTOCK

Rona the e s a eno ation o ect big o small on you to do list you ll ind e e ything you need at Rona, including hardware, tools and gardening accessories.

Online purchases earn 2% in CAA Dollars Linen Chest Here’s a one-stop family-owned shop for perfect home accessories and accent pieces, from top-quality bedding and bathroom furnishings to kitchen accessories and home decor.

Online purchases earn 5% in CAA Dollars

With the CAA Mobile App™, you can stay upto-date on the latest CAA Rewards and partners on the go.

Visit the CAA eStore at caamanitoba.com/earnmore to access these offe s. elect a etail a tne ente you embe shi numbe and start shopping.

ele ora beauti ul bou uet b ightens any day with ele o a you can send owe s to someone special (or yourself) and they will be delivered by a local o ist.

Save 20% and earn 5% in CAA Dollars online or by phone se your embershi card to save with CAA Rewards. Visit caamanitoba.com/rewards to see mo e offe s est ictions and to nd out how to shop and order online. At participating partners, you can also earn CAA Dollars.

Trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Restrictions and conditions apply for each participating artner o er. Partners and or o ers are s ect to change without notice.

For full details, visit caamanitoba.com/rewards. To earn and redeem CAA Dollars®, you must be a current CAA Member in good standing. Please visit caamanitoba.com/rewards/caa-dollars for more information on CAA Dollars.

SPRING 2023 | 43

MY CAA /

Protect the Protectors TOW TRUCK DRIVERS and emergency vehicles are there to help us when needed, but are we doing enough to protect them? Each year, roughly 130 collisions in the province involve emergency vehicles, according to Manitoba Public Insurance. And across North America, nearly 100 tow truck drivers have died every year after being struck by oncoming vehicles while helping stranded motorists.

“I’ve seen on numerous occasions, especially single lanes, when people don’t pay attention to ashing lights and won’t move over.

I’ve almost been hit numerous times and had an instance where a driver hit me with their passenger mirror,” says Doug Crate, a tow truck operator with CAA Manitoba.

In 2011, the Slow Down, Move Over law became part of Manitoba’s ighway Tra c Act. When a tow truck is stopped on the side of the road with lights ashing, drivers are required to slow down and move over one lane on multi-lane roads, if it is safe to do so. Drivers must slow down to 60 km/h in 80 km/h or higher speed zones, or 40 km/h if the speed limit is less than 80 km/h.

Drivers who don’t comply with this law can be ticketed with a fine of $300 and two demerit points, up to a maximum of $2,000 and/or a one-year driver’s licence suspension.

CAA Clubs across Canada recognize the second Tuesday in May as Slow Down, Move Over Day to bring attention to this safety issue.

All drivers must slow down and, if there is another lane and it’s safe to move over, do so

Visit caamanitoba.com/slowdown and learn more.

The next time you stop at an intersection that’s badly in need of a crosswalk, take note and remember to cast your vote. CAA Worst Roads is back. This annual ranking draws attention to our province’s most de elict and unsa e oads oting uns om a ch to il .

Drivers and pedestrians can nominate roads that cause them the most conce n. nsa e oads can mean hea y t a c otholes oo road markings or lack of safety for pedestrians or bikes. We share results with government leaders to spark conversation and action.

“We’re asking people to tell us their frustrations,” says Teresa Di Felice, CAA Club Group assistant vice president of government and community relations. “By participating, it’s giving people a voice.”

In previous years, this campaign has led to changes that make communities safer, including prioritizing road repairs and securing more infrastructure funding.

Voters can also win prizes, such as free gas for a year.

Go to caaworstroads.com to cast your vote.

44 | CAA MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT) OLLO/iSTOCK, (TOP RIGHT) MELISSA GROOTES/UNSPLASH

Vote for Manitoba’s Worst Roads

/ MY CAA

How Safe is Your Holiday?

Ease your worries before heading out and make sure make sure to pack travel insurance with you for your next trip WANT TO TRAVEL, but concerned about all the trip delays you’re hearing about in the news? You’re not alone. A recent CAA Club Group survey found that 72 percent of Members worried about travel delays. Those ongoing service disruptions at home and abroad mean travel insurance is more important than ever.

Kellee Irwin, CAA Club Group vice president, provides insights on when, and why, to make sure you’re covered before you set out. hen is the best time to urchase tra el insurance For most of us, taking a trip is a big investment. By purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking the trip, you can feel confident that you and your family are protected. hat is the biggest misconce tion surrounding tra el insurance right no That all types of travel insurance are the same. Since the emergence of COVID-19, many providers have excluded certain coverage related to the virus, while others require travellers to purchase specific COVID-related policies.

CAA has not restricted its travel insurance due to COVID-19. In fact, our core coverage has been enhanced to ensure everyone can travel confidently, knowing they’re protected.

Visit caamanitoba.com/travelprotected to nd the ight co e age o you t i .

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SPRING 2023 | 45

MY CAA /

We Provide Giggle-FilledPlaces Coverage

Get your home in tip-top shape and prevent future insurance claims SUNSHINE, blooming perennials, warm weather—there’s no better inspiration to springclean than to step outside and soak in the new season. Spring cleaning not only refreshes your home, but alerts you to issues in your space that could potentially be problematic.

Here’s a checklist to get you started.

CLEAN THE DRYER VENT ot only does lint buildu affect you d ye s e o mance it also oses a high isk o a household e. E en i you clean the lint t a a te each use the ent accessed om the outside o your house) should be cleaned once a year and checked regularly for buildup.

INSPECT YOUR KITCHEN AND BATHROOM CAULK hile you sc ub the g ime off you bathtub and kitchen sink check the caulk o dete io ation. acks lead to leaks deal with them immediately.

EMPTY THE EAVESTROUGHS hances a e you ea est oughs ha e suffe ed a long winte . lea them out and ensu e that water drains away from walls and the foundation.

CHECK YOUR HOME’S FOUNDATION “Springtime always brings water-claim issues,” notes Kathy Metalinos, a brokerage manager at CAA Club Group. Water damage is often the result of faults in a home’s foundation. Examine your house for cracks or imperfections, and plan to re-grade the area if necessary to help keep it dry.

REVIEW YOUR HOME INSURANCE POLICY Whether you’re planning for renovations or have purchased a high-value item like jewellery or a musical instrument, take the time to review your home insurance policy and notify your broker of any changes, says Metalinos. Your future self will thank you.

46 | CAA MAGAZINE

Your home is your castle, so make sure it’s properly protected. CAA Manitoba Insurance Brokers can help find the right home insurance for your needs. Talk to us to learn about benefits like these: • Flexible payment options • Up to 10% off CAA Home Insurance1 for Members • Additional discounts for being claims-free, mortgage-free, having a monitored alarm and more Broker Services offered by MML Club Services Ltd. (o/a CAA Manitoba Insurance Brokers).

1 CAA Manitoba Member discount applies to home insurance policies underwritten by CAA Insurance Company. To qualify for the discount, you must be a current CAA Member in good standing (CAA membership dues paid in full by membership expiry date). Subject to certain conditions and approvals. Underwriting eligibility rules apply. Certain conditions, limitations and underwriting guidelines apply.

For a home insurance quote: 1-844-300-9661 caamanitoba.com/SpringHome

541043_INS_CAA_Spring_2023_P&C_AD_MB.indd 1

PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP RIGHT) BRIAN A JACKSON/iSTOCK

Spring Cleaning Checklist

2023-01-27 1:44 PM

/ MY CAA

Carefree Cruising

CAA’s Platinum Cruise offers immersive activities and premium services Members will love From the incredible views to the great food and unforgettable experiences offshore, there are so many benefits to taking a cruise.

And with the help of travel experts and a thoughtfully planned itinerary, it’s never been easier to fall in love with this method of travel.

Through Extraordinary Explorations®, CAA provides meaningful, curated trips to travellers looking to explore in new and unique ways. Offered as part of Premier Collection Tours, the Platinum Cruise has exclusive CAA Member travel benefits. Here’s how this experience can make your vacation memorable.

Fly in a private charter jet With seat selection, a meal-and-beverage service and plenty of space to stretch out your legs, the CAA-branded private charter jet delivers a business-class experience for all passengers. “Providing air travel allows us to control our Members’ experience, keeping it positive from sta t to nish says a en iggett manage o g ou t a el at lub ou .

Sit back, relax and let our CAA Host take care of the rest Our CAA Hosts don’t just lead you through the cruise’s iconic destinations, they also ensure the entire experience runs smoothly. The Hosts will meet you at the airport, answer all your questions and problem-solve any issues that may arise. “With service disruptions everywhere, having a Host is critical,” notes Wiggett.

Enjoy the exclusivity Platinum Cruises are a one-time-only departure, meaning you’ll enjoy a limited-availability trip that doesn’t repeat year after year.

According to Wiggett, not only does this keep travel fresh and exciting, it also keeps Members looking forward to the next excursion.

Take part in curated experiences When developing Platinum Cruise itineraries, CAA’s travel experts research trends and seek regions that can provide fun, immersive e e iences whethe that s lea ning how to make stroopwafels in Amsterdam or hiking through Germany’s legendary Black Forest.

Travel is evolving, which is why the team that builds Extraordinary Explorations® continues to innovate and offer best-in-class ou neys o wande lusting embe s. ith ou inge on the ulse o the indust y says iggett we et e e y detail o the t i s to ensure we deliver the best product to our clients.”

Join us for our next Platinum Cruise, he a ti ating hine n nchanting uro ean oyage, in August. Start in Amsterdam, then board the AmaLucia to make your way to Cologne, Zurich and other amazing destinations in between.

Visit e traordinarye lorations.com remier for details.

SPRING 2023 | 47

MY CAA /

Protect Your Valuables

waterresistant and made from recycled fabrics

Travel in style and keep your belongings safe with Pacsafe’s bestin-class anti-theft bags. Members enjoy exclusive pricing at CAA Stores and online acsafe o nti heft ac pac ember on member A lightweight backpack with plenty of room for all your daily essentials

• zipper lock

• external attachment points for small items, like locks or rain covers

• hidden storage pockets

Vibe 100 Anti-Theft Hip Pack, ember on member Stay trendy on your adventures with a hip pack that gives you quick access to your belongings. Features include a tablet sleeve, spacious pockets, internal attachment point for wallets and keys, and a pen loop.

• slashproof fabric

made from seven recycled plastic bottles

• RFIDsafe™ blocking pockets and material

• made from 31 recycled plastic bottles

PLUS+ • TurnNLock security hooks, so you can fasten your bag to a secure object • Carrysafe® slashguard wire-reinforced straps • adjustable zippers • cut-resistant wire-mesh technology ho online

Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft rossbody ag ember on member Go hands-free with a stylish crossbody big enough to carry an 8-inch tablet. With cut-resistant materials, securable zippers and an RFID-blocking pocket, you can go and explore, with peace of mind, knowing your valuables are safe.

rom the com ort o home at sho .caamanitoba.com collections acsa e or in- erson at a

tore.

Selection varies by location. Quantities are limited. CAA Plus Members get an additional 5% off the CAA Member price and Premier Members get an additional 10% off the CAA Member price.

48 | CAA MAGAZINE

/ MY CAA

Cybersecurity Made Easy

EUROPE AD

WHETHER IT’S BANKING, social media or instant messaging, 90 percent of CAA Members are online more than once a day, according to a recent survey, and 78 percent express concern over online privacy and data. Because Member safety has always been our top priority, we’ve introduced a new benefit: cybersecurity education powered by cyberconIQ®, a tech company that uses its patented solution to help keep organizations and individuals safe online. This free, personalized training course teaches you how to protect yourself online—from how to spot scams designed to hack your computer to creating strong passwords—so you can navigate the web confidently and safely.

Learn more at caamanitoba.com/ cybersecurity-education.

Where to Wander Now?

PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP RIGHT) URUPONG/iSTOCK

CAA Travel can help you plan your unforgettable journey to Europe.

For our current European vacation offers, visit your CAA Store or call 1-888-888-1475. ®/™ CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. ™Driven by Good is a trademark of CAA Club Group. (541471-01/23)

541471 TRA spring Europe Magazine Ad_MB_Final.indd 1

2023-02-02 SPRING 2023 4:24 | PM

MY CAA /

Seasonal Tire Change Made Easy Make sure your tires are ready for spring

If you need to swap your winter tires for seasonal, consider CAA Mobile Tire Change, a hassle-free service that comes to you. Here are four reasons to book.

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FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING CAA will change your tires right in your driveway when it’s convenient for you.

Morning and afternoon appointments are available in Winnipeg and Brandon.

PUTTING SAFETY FIRST xpert technicians are equipped to provide service safely. They can also provide a complimentary vehicle battery test1 to help you stay in charge of your battery’s performance.

MORE FREE TIME Spend more time doing the things you enjoy and let CAA handle the heavy lifting. Our technicians will come to you, so there’s no need to take your tires to another location.

Book your appointment CAA Mobile Tire Change service is available from April 15 to June 15, 2023. Visit caamanitoba.com tirechange to reserve your time slot today.

Book two cars and you can save $20 on the second vehicle.2

MANY WAYS TO SAVE We offer a multi-vehicle discount for back-to-back bookings.

1 Members will receive a complimentary battery test. If a battery replacement is required, this additional paid service may take place within the same appointment or the technician will arrange a time to come ac to f lfill the service.

2 For the multi-vehicle discount, there is a maximum of two tire swap services per household per day. The appointment bookings must be back-to-back sessions. One $20 discount per membership. The price of the tire swap (dependent on the CAA Membership level), plus tax, will be processed by the technician at the end of the appointment.

Accepted payment methods include debit and credit. An invoice will be provided. Tires must be mounted on rims and easily accessible to the technician. The service will only incl de a tire in ation to . ires cannot e at. he Mem er m st remain on site for the d ration of the service. AA reserves the right to ref se service in the event a vehicle or its tires are in a condition that the technician, in their sole discretion, deems unsafe or against Ministry standards. The Member is liable for the safety of the technician while they are on the Member’s property. The Member must take whatever steps are necessary (i.e. shovelling snow, removing ice, removing obstacles, etc.) to ensure their property is safe and clear of hazards. CAA reserves the right to refuse to perform a service on any property that the technician deems to be unsafe. Due to unforeseen circumstances or inclement weather, the appointment may be cancelled or rescheduled based on availability. CAA recommends retorquing your wheels within 100-150 km following the Mobile Tire Change service.

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/ MY CAA

Take Care of Yourself Easy access to health advice is just a click away Can’t get an appointment with your family doctor or need a prescription e lled uickly embe s can log in to a le and connect with a Canadian-licensed nurse practitioner, 24/7, and the rates are discounted or free, depending on your membership level.

“My medication was out of stock and I needed a new prescription uickly says embe ill o he as. a le made it so easy a nurse practitioner texted me within minutes.”

Primary CAA Members can add their dependents to the account too, so when your child has a fever in the middle of the night or while your family is on vacation, you can get timely medical advice from a Canadian-licensed nurse practitioner. From anywhere in the world, know that you amily s health is co e ed th ough you a le bene t. ere s ho to get started ith aple • Set up your account online.

• Describe your symptoms.

• Connect with a health professional by secure message or video chat.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP RIGHT) CHRISTIN HUME/UNSPLASH, (RIGHT) NOUN PROJECT, (FAR RIGHT) JAY YUNO/iSTOCK

Go to caamanitoba.com/maple to nd out mo e.

Peace of Mind

You know the sense of security that comes with knowing CAA is there for you 24/7. But do you know how easy it is to give that peace of mind to other drivers in your household? To Add an Associate, go to caasco.com/Account/ Login. You can also call us at 1-800-2224357 or visit a CAA Store near you.

Three Ways CAA Keeps You Safe 1

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE hethe you e locked out o you ca o need a at ti e e laced you membe shi has you covered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Reaching out for help has never been easier. Visit caamanitoba.com/roadside, call, text or make a request through the app.

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MAPLE APP embe s can use a le anywhe e gi ing amilies the e ibility and choice to get a prescription, diagnosis, medical note, specialist referral or lab requisition online from a Canadian-licensed health practitioner, 24/7. No appointment necessary. caamanitoba.com ma le

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cybercon ea n how to otect you sel online with the hel o ou latest embe ene t.

This engaging cybersecurity education resource uses an interactive quiz to help you discover your online risk style. Based on your results, cyberconIQ® delivers personally cu ated ti s games and modules designed to im o e you con dence and awa eness when using the web. caamanitoba.com cybersecurity-education

SPRING 2023 | 51

MY CAA /

A Message from ur oard hair AFTER EXPERIENCING THE ABSOLUTE PRIVILEGE of serving as Board Chair of the CAA Club Group (CCG), it’s time for me to hand over the reins.

The past three years have been extraordinary and the world as we’d known it has changed. Being on the board during a once-in-alifetime event, like the COVID-19 pandemic, forced us to take stock of what’s important in our personal lives as well as in business.

As the world shut down and travel ground to a halt, we were faced with a decision at CCG. Do we, like so many other organiations, lay off our Associates when they are at their most vulnerable? Or do we do everything we can to harness their experience and expertise to innovate and move forward?

We opted for the latter. During the pandemic, there were no layoffs at CCG. If there is one thing I’m proud of during my time here, it’s that decision made by the board and company executives.

Our Associates were instead given the opportunity to learn new skills, grow and innovate. We continued making decisions based on the circumstances we were dealt with and on the needs of Members and Associates. So many new and innovative things grew out of that mindset. During the pandemic, we reached out personally to senior Members to see if there was anything we could do for them, and we arranged for food to be delivered to those who were isolated in their homes.

Member safety has always been our number one priority, and based on that, we’re providing Members and Associates easy access to online doctors through our partnership with Maple. We’ve also launched Premier Collection—our private chartered trips for groups travelling within Canada and beyond.

Despite the hurdles, we’ve grown as a company and, moving forward, I believe that our focus on innovation will continue through the years to come.

It was a gift to be Chair of the CCG board during this tumultuous time, and to work with an organization that truly lives its values and proves it daily. Last year, we updated our slogan to Driven By Good, which fits CCG in every way.

I want to thank Jay Woo and his exemplary senior leadership team for their continued work, passion, drive and purpose as they steward this amazing company in the years to come.

To our Board Members, who are dedicated to the governance and oversight of this organization, their support during my tenure as Chair was essential and I know it will continue far into the future.

I wish our Associates and Board continued success while they focus on “being obsessed with Member safety.”

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“

It was a gift to be Chair of the CCG board during this tumultuous time, and to work with an organization that truly lives its values and proves it daily

Ethel Taylor Board Chair CAA Club Group (CCG)

Notice of Annual General Meeting In accordance with its bylaws, the CAA Club Group Annual General Meeting will be held virtually, via Zoom video conferencing, on May 18, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. (CT) for the following purposes: • to ecei e the consolidated nancial statements o the scal yea ending December 31, 2022 • to elect Directors • to appoint Auditors for 2023 • to receive the Annual Report • to approve an amendment to the Club’s articles • to transact such further business as may properly come before the meeting Visit caamanitoba.com agm for further information. Pre-registration will be required.

This May, we’re celebrating you.

CAA Member Appreciation Event May 3–5, 2023 Save the date

®/™ CAA trademarks are owned by, and are authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. ™Driven by Good is a trademark of CAA Club Group.

The Captivating Rhine: An Enchanting European Voyage August 20–September 2, 2023

| 14 Days PREMIER PLATINUM

CAA MEMBER PLATINUM CRUISE

CAA Member-exclusive Benefits • Bon Voyage Gift‡ • 100 CAA Dollars®^ • 25% savings on CAA Travel Insurance◊

Package Includes: Airfare on CAA’s exclusive private charter jet from Toronto to Amsterdam and return from Zurich to Toronto Rhine River, Germany

A captivating voyage along the magnificent Rhine river, with curated experiences at every turn, awaits. Start in Amsterdam where you can visit a local farm for cheese tastings or learn how to make stroopwafels. Then, all aboard the AmaLucia—a lavish vessel with a panoramic lounge—for your seven-night CAA Member Platinum Cruise along one of Europe’s most picturesque rivers.

Stop in Cologne, where you can tour through Old Town; then Rüdesheim for wine tastings; Ludwigshafen to visit the preserved medieval city Heidelberg; Strasbourg, with the chance to see the world-famous Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame; and historic Breisach. Back on land, spend two days in Zurich, with options to visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum or a 400-year-old monastery wine cellar.

Pre-cruise tour: • 3-night stay in deluxe-class accommodation in Amsterdam • Breakfast daily, 1 dinner Cruise: • 7-night Enchanting Rhine AmaWaterways cruise on-board the AmaLucia • Onboard meals and entertainment as per cruise itinerary Post-cruise tour: • 2-night stay in deluxe-class accommodation in Zurich • Breakfast daily, 1 dinner • Land transportation via first-class motorcoach • All bridge, ferry and road tolls • Sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary • Professional English-speaking tour director throughout • Local English-speaking guides • Hotel porterage of 1 suitcase per person

CAA Member Pricing $17,079–$20,079 CAD** ECONOMY CLASS FROM TORONTO

$27,609–$30,609 CAD*** BUSINESS CLASS FROM TORONTO

• Prepaid gratuities • Destination transfers • CAA Hosts

Olympic National Park, Washington, U.S.

St. Pierre Panorama from the Sea

La Concha Bay in San Sebastian, Spain

Northwest Coastal Escape: Seattle and Portland

Authentic Newfoundland, St. Pierre & Miquelon

Delights of Basque Country: Culture and Cuisine

October 5–13, 2023 | 9 Days

July 23–31, 2023 and July 30–August 7, 2023 | 9 Days

September 18–28, 2023 | 11 Days

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest on a nine-day adventure.

Start in Seattle, where you’ll tour the city with a local guide and visit the acclaimed Chihuly Garden and Glass gallery. Cross Puget Sound by ferry and enjoy sightseeing at Olympic National Park, then overnight at the grand and historic Lake Quinault Lodge.

As you continue south, enjoy a trolley ride and nature cruise before arriving in Portland for a panoramic tour of the city. Explore the Columbia River area on an idyllic bike ride— complete with stops at local wineries. Enjoy visits to two more wineries, this time in the lush Willamette Valley, known for its pinot noir. Your escape to the coast awaits.

CAA Member Pricing

Get an authentic taste of the East Coast lifestyle on this nine-day getaway. Start off in St. John’s—Canada’s oldest city—with visits to idyllic fishing village Quidi Vidi (Italian for “what a sight”) and the iconic Signal Hill, a landmark war site overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The next day, take a boat tour around historic Bay Bulls, stopping at the province’s oldest-standing lighthouse for a vivacious, music-filled traditional Newfoundland kitchen party. After a day in the tight-knit community of Clarenville, move on to the French archipelago of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon for leisure time and a ferry ride to L’Île-aux-Marins, an uninhabited island with charming historic buildings still intact.

The sun, sea and salt water air await.

Indulge your taste buds on this flavourful adventure through Basque Country, Spain from Madrid to Bilbao. Embrace the local mindset “Eat, txotx (pronounced ‘choach’), drink, repeat!” Start in Madrid with a Royal Palace visit and flamenco dinner and show.

Head to wine-rich La Rioja region for a pintxos (a small snack) crawl, followed by a vineyard tour and tasting. More tapashopping awaits between medieval fortifications. In San Sebastian, take in nature and art at Museum Chillida Leku, followed by a gastronomic tour complete with cathedrals.

Discover ancient culture at Petritegi Cider House. Take in iconic country views and visit an island hermitage. In Bilbao, experience the magnificent Guggenheim and the Vizcaya bridge’s historic heights. Toast your adventures at a delicious farewell dinner.

CAA Member Pricing

CAA Member Pricing

$5,859 CAD*

$6,149 CAD*

Including taxes and government fees.

Including taxes and government fees.

$6,679 CAD* Including taxes and government fees.

Our Cancellation Policy Lets You Book with Peace of Mind All booking deposits are 100% refundable up until time of final payment.† *All prices and itineraries are per person, based on double occupancy and are subject to change without prior notice until final payment is paid. All prices are correct at press time and apply to new bookings only, based on availability at time of booking. To qualify for CAA Member-exclusive benefi ts, there must be one valid CAA Member travelling per booking. Non-members booking Extraordinary Explorations will not receive Member-exclusive benefi ts. **17,079 is a Piano Deck / Fixed Windows based on Cat. D , $20,079 is a Violin Deck French & Outside Balcony based on Cat. SS with Economy class airfare. ***$27,609 is a Piano Deck / Fixed Windows based on Cat. D, $30,609 is a Violin Deck French & Outside Balcony based on Cat. SS with Business class airfare. ‡ Bon Voyage Gift is one per person. ^To earn and redeem CAA Dollars, you must be a current CAA Member over 18 years old in good standing. CAA Dollars will be credited at time of departure. Visit caamanitoba.com/caadollars for more information. ◊CAA Travel Insurance is underwritten by Orion Travel Insurance Company, a CAA Company. Applies to CAA Manitoba Members in good standing. 25% savings is made up of a 10% Member savings as well as a promotional 15% savings when you purchase an Extraordinary Explorations tour through CAA Travel. Offer valid until December 31, 2023. Savings apply to the total premium excluding applicable taxes.

Minimum premium applies. Visitors to Canada Insurance savings limited to the promotional savings. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. A Medical Questionnaire may be required to purchase travel insurance. †Decision to book a non-refundable air fare or flights outside the group block, advance seat selection, independent arrangements (hotel, tours, shore excursions, private transfers, etc.) may be excluded from any refund. Please ask a CAA Travel Consultant for further details. Extraordinary Explorations vacations are organized and booked by CAA Travel (South Central Ontario) Inc. and CAA Manitoba (“CAA Travel”) on behalf of CAA Club Group (o/a CAA South Central Ontario and CAA Manitoba). ®Extraordinary Explorations is a registered trademark of CAA Club Group. Logos and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. (529082-01/23)

CALL 1-855-527-1049 CLICK extraordinary-explorations.ca VISIT your local CAA Store

DRIVEN BY GOOD /

World Class

We’re sharing stories about Canadians making change that ripples from coast to coast to coast. For this inspiring, young eco-inventor, planet Earth is the study hall.

By Sean Deasy | Photograph by Brendan Burden IF A HANDS-ON APPROACH is the best way to learn, then Naila Moloo has taken that adage into the stratosphere.

This Ottawa-based eco-inventor has a long string of inventions to her name, notably a exible solar panel and a bioplastic made from an aquatic plant. Moloo works out of two different university labs in Ontario. And she co-hosts a podcast called Curiosity to encourage youth interest in STEM. Oh, and Moloo is 16 years old. An assignment in Grade 5 led her to researching clean energy—intensely. She soon developed a passion for renewables. Then, just three years later, in 2019, her work at a nationwide science fair caught the attention of The Knowledge Society, an after-school program for Canadian prodigies. This 10-month program helps students develop skills to create positive change. There, Moloo began her solar-cell project and researched fusion energy.

In addition to building solutions and advocating for the environment, Moloo is also becoming a powerful spokesperson for her generation. She has already made it to the Women’s xecutive Network’s list of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women and delivered a T Dx Talk at age .

Her message? “Start working on projects.

Look for opportunities in your community, start talking to experts, and formulate your own ideas to bring forward.”

Go to nailamoloo.com to learn more. CAA

Do you know of a Canadian who deserves to be recognized for doing good in their community?

Send us their story at drivenbygoodmb@caamanitoba.com and they could be featured in an upcoming issue.

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TRAVEL /

DONATE NOW TO HELP END DIABETES. Your donation will help fund research to improve treatments and education for millions of people living with diabetes in Canada.

diabetes.ca/donate #LetsEndDiabetes

58 | CAA MAGAZINE

COBBLESTONE STREETS ARE LOCATED IN THE AREA OF BEAUTIFUL — // AI-generated review of Montréal, based

on thousands of visitor comments_

You’ll get it once you’re here