YLW Connect Spring 2019

SPRING/SUMMER SPRING/SUMMER 2019 2019 || COMPLIMENTARY COMPLIMENTARY

CONNECT KELOWNA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MAGAZINE

TORONTO’S BEST SEASON HOW TO SOAK UP SUMMER LIKE A LOCAL

TK TK

1 YLW CONNECT INSIDE: AIRPORT NEWS

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LOCAL FINDS

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GETAWAY IDEAS

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FOOD & DRINK

BOHEME SOFAS AND ARMCHAIR 2

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221 10th Ave SW CALGARY, AB 403.262.6813 luxuriesofeurope.ca Instagram: @loeyyc

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COVER: REYNARD LI, SHOT ON LOCATION AT THE DRAKE SKY YARD; PHOTOS: DESIGN BY MITHUN, IMAGE BY MIR COURTESY THE NORDIC MUSEUM; PATTI PAJAK PHOTOGRAPHY; CARNAVAL DEL SOL

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CONTENTS AIRPORT INSIDER 5 Welcome Message 6 In the News 8 Aviation Insider 28 YLW Services 30 Destination Map

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Local Take: Whitehorse Local restaurant owner Andrew Seymour shares a few of his favourite spots in the city.

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Western Canada’s Best Fests A look at some of the season’s can’t-miss festivals in British Columbia and Alberta.

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Check out one of these trendy spots for plenty of culinary delights under one roof.

How to experience the best of the season in Ontario’s capital city like a local.

Food Halls

Summer in Toronto

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A Tale of Two Museums A closer look at Edmonton's Royal Alberta Museum and Seattle’s Nordic Museum.

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Okanagan Valley for Everyone

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A guide to exploring the region for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor adventurers.

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Kelowna After Dark Where to sip, dine and dance in the city all night long.

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CONNECT Sam Samaddar Airport Director

The lifestyle you desire.

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The choice is yours.

Philip Elchitz Senior Airport Operations Manager Lori Seemann Business Development and Community Relations airport@kelowna.ca

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WELCOME MESSAGE

CELEBRATING A MILESTONE

PHOTO: HEATHERLY PHOTOGRAPHY/HEATHER BURLEY

YLW breaks a new passenger record and revels the start of a new season.

SAM SAMADDAR, AIRPORT DIRECTOR

WELCOME TO THE latest issue of YLW Connect. After a particularly challenging winter for most of the country, we are excited to share some warm-weather inspiration for many of the destinations you can reach via Kelowna International Airport.

In this issue, we explore how Torontonians make the most of spring and summer in the city and how you can, too, (page 16), we present a guide to some of Western Canada’s best festivals (page 14) and, because spring isn’t always sunshine, we look at rainy-day options, including two incredible new museums in Seattle and Edmonton (page 20).

Plus, there are plenty of ways to soak up the season right here in the Okanagan. In our Okanagan Valley for Everyone feature (page 23), we offer suggestions for foodies, adventurers and culture-seekers.

This season also brings celebrations here at YLW. At the end of 2018, YLW hit a milestone by welcoming more than 2 million annual passengers. This recordsetting accomplishment means we are now the 10th busiest airport in Canada.

And, with support from our passengers, we will only continue to grow. The launch of WestJet’s new Dreamliner makes connecting from YLW to Europe easier than ever (more on page 6), and Air Canada recently announced a new seasonal service between Vancouver and Auckland, New Zealand, beginning in December 2019.

Meanwhile, Swoop is coming to YLW, bringing with it a direct service to both Las Vegas and Winnipeg. With all of these new, direct flights departing from Western Canada, much of the world is now only a single connection away.

As we celebrate our successes and look forward to the exciting adventures ahead, we are also reflecting on how far the industry has come. The British Columbia Aviation Council has existed since 1938 and is one of the oldest aviation organizations in Canada. We dive deeper into the history of the industry on page 8 and highlight its amazing accomplishments.

The team here at YLW is eager to keep this momentum going, so we thank you for including us in your travel plans.

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IN THE NEWS

COMFORTABLE CONNECTIONS TO EUROPE

SWOOP ARRIVES AT YLW Las Vegas and Winnipeg are now a short flight away.

EARLIER THIS YEAR, Swoop announced its arrival to Kelowna International Airport. The ultra-low-cost airline is independently operated

by WestJet Group of companies and offers service to 17 destinations in Canada, the United States, the Caribbean and Mexico.

Starting on May 24, and running through to October 25, YLW passengers can make the most of the Kelowna-to-Winnipeg route, which runs three times a week. Winnipeg comes alive in the summer with its outdoor markets and fun festivals, including the Winnipeg Folk Festival (July 11 to 14) and Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival (July 17 to 28). And, the province’s under-the-radar cottage country scene means that days can be peacefully whiled away on Lake Winnipeg.

Or, if big-city glitz is more your thing, Swoop’s 6

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new seasonal, direct route to Las Vegas, starting June 27 and running through to October 26, means the City of Lights is closer than ever.

Year-round, Las Vegas is known for its bustling casinos, dynamic live shows and world-class dining, and when the temperatures soar, there’s no shortage of epic pool parties and resort-style outdoor pool areas to revel in.

Bringing these exciting attractions to Kelowna passengers is also in keeping with YLW’s commitment to offer locals more direct service. “We’ve heard from the community that they want more non-stop destinations from Kelowna,” says Sam Samaddar, YLW airport director.

“We’re pleased to have Swoop offer non-stop service to Las Vegas, which is the Okanagan's single largest U.S. market for travel.” —Sara Samson

FOR THOSE DREAMING of a European vacation this summer, WestJet’s launch of its roomy Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft and new, direct flights from Calgary are a big deal. Starting in April, the new aircraft will be flying on WestJet’s existing non-stop route between Calgary and London’s Gatwick Airport. Then, in May, WestJet's Dreamliner will fly from Calgary to Paris, and in June, direct from Calgary to Dublin.

The Dreamliner launch is significant for the Kelowna International Airport because WestJet currently has nine daily flights between Calgary and Kelowna, making the connection for travellers to and from Europe seamless.

“From YLW, it’s an easy connection onto a remarkable aircraft,” says Phillip Elchitz, senior manager of airport operations at YLW, who also oversees air service development. The Dreamliner is designed to offer an elevated flight experience, with features including lieflat seats in its Business cabins, more spacious seats in its Premium cabins, and self-dimming windows, in-seat power and smoother ride technology in all cabins. It also has the ability to carry a high payload of baggage, ideal for tourists travelling with heavy, bulky equipment such as ski or golf gear.

Looking to the future, Elchitz believes that traffic from regional airports such as YLW will be integral to the success of this flight due to the ease of connecting to Calgary International Airport. He also sees routes such as these as a stepping-stone to eventual direct non-stop service from the Okanagan to Europe. — Karin Olafson

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AFFORDABLE TRANSPORTATION ON THE GROUND On Oct. 30, 2018, Ebus launched its affordable bus service in the Okanagan, filling a gap left by Greyhound after the company discontinued its routes in the region. Ebus has a dedicated terminal at YLW and also offers twice-daily routes between the airport and Vancouver, and the airport and Kamloops, with a stop in Vernon. That one-way trip is less than $40 and is a popular choice for North Okanagan residents on their way to Kelowna to catch a flight. “We’re always seeking to improve access to ground transportation at YLW,” says James Hall, airport operations manager at YLW. “Ebus provides travellers with one more option.” —KO

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HIGH SPEED AND HIGH EFFICIENCY As part of its ongoing facility upgrade plan, the Kelowna International Airport launched new high-speed exit doors in October 2018. These doors, located in the departures lounge, provide greater efficiency to travellers and airline agents as they leave the secure area of the airport. People can now bypass the baggage carousels and head straight to ground transportation or easily get back to the check-in area for a connecting flight.

This new technology has also improved passenger flow because both sets of doors now open simultaneously, but close quickly to prevent backflow. —KO

COURTESY SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE TO AND FROM THE YLW LONG-TERM PARKING LOT Stop at the Valet Booth to get a ride, or call 250-765-5612

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AIRPORT INSIDER Q + A

How did the industry grow internationally? In March 1919, Bill Boeing and Eddie Hubbard were on a survey flight, from Vancouver to Seattle, but they also had a bag of 60 letters with them, so this trip became North America's first international airmail flight.

While this is an historical moment in the history of B.C. aviation, other notable events followed with airlines such as Canadian Pacific Airlines and Pacific Western Airlines launching in the 1940s and 1950s.

Today, the province is home to about 40 flying schools, 190 air operators and 200 maintenance and aerospace organizations.

Can you give an example of a time when British Columbia was an innovator in the industry?

A lot of the aviation safety enhancements were born in B.C. For example, the Bambi Bucket [a specialized water bucket for aerial firefighting] was developed in B.C. so service helicopters could [more] effectively fight forest fires.

David Nowzek worked in aviation for more than 45 years and saw first-hand how the industry grew. Here, he discusses the evolution of aviation in B.C. and the role of the Kelowna International Airport.

BY KARIN OLAFSON

WHEN IT COMES TO witnessing change in British Columbia’s aviation industry, few have seen as much as David Nowzek.

Nowzek began working in B.C. in 1969 after getting his start flying trappers, park wardens and Mounties in and out of Fort McMurray and Fort Chipewyan, Alta., on fixed-wing aircraft.

Here in B.C., he flew fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters for various commercial and corporate operators, and managed flight departments before joining Transport Canada, working his way up the ranks to Regional Director for Civil Aviation for the Pacific Region.

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He retired in 2012 and now lives in Vancouver.

He sits on numerous boards, including the British Columbia Aviation Council (BCAC), where his work includes promoting the industry’s growth and development, as well as event planning.

How did the aviation industry begin in British Columbia? The first flight to originate in B.C. between two points was in 1910. Charles K. Hamilton flew out of Richmond’s Minoru Park in a Curtiss biplane and made an ‘epic’ return flight from Richmond to New Westminster. It was a 30-minute flight, but at that time that trip would have probably taken two hours by car.

Where do you think the province’s aviation industry is headed? The B.C. aerospace and aviation industries are among the finest in the world and at the forefront of world demand—British Columbia is Canada’s gateway to the Pacific. As this demand grows, the province’s industries are well-placed to continue as a leader.

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FLYING THROUGH HISTORY

What role does the Kelowna International Airport play in the industry’s growth? In 1992, the federal government devolved four major airports to local airport authorities, and in 1996, the majority of Canadian airports followed suit—the federal government divested itself of businesses and services that could be developed better by the private sector. The City of Kelowna took over YLW and provided resources for the airport to grow and prosper. And it did exactly that. As the population grew in the Okanagan Valley, the airport was ready.

Kelowna became an exemplary model. Since 1997, it has grown into a reginal hub, offering direct air service to many destinations in Canada and the U.S. I think YLW is what the government envisioned when it devolved these airports. In short, its future looks very good.

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TREND TO TRY

FOOD HALLS Much-loved in Europe and gaining popularity in North America, food halls are the ultimate destination for culinary browsing. With options ranging from international street food to cocktail lounges, communal dining under one roof never tasted so good.

ASSEMBLY CHEF’S HALL

THE FORKS MARKET

MELROSE MARKET

AVENIDA FOOD HALL & FRESH MARKET

TORONTO, ONTARIO You’d be hardpressed to find more culinary talent under one roof; three chefs here have competed on Top Chef Canada and one has a restaurant on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list. In total, there are 17 acclaimed local chefs at Assembly, each bringing an electric vision to his or her kitchen. Wander the downtown building with a boozy bevvie in one hand and pitsmoked barbecued brisket from Cherry Street Bar-B-Que in the other.

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA This building, situated at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, attracts locals and visitors in droves. Original brickwork and hardwood floors add to the character of this former stable, where two full-service restaurants and 14 food vendors reside. Head to The Common for a craft beer, Tall Grass Bakery for a gooey cinnamon bun or sit down for a meal at PASSERO, an Italian osteria run by famed local chef Scott Bagshaw.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Housed inside two reclaimed automotive buildings in Capitol Hill, a vibrant pedestrian neighbourhood, this market exudes vintage charm with its exposed brick and old-growth timber touches. Inside, you’ll find handcrafted homewares in addition to restaurants, a craft cocktail bar, plus art and performance space.

Try the burger at Terra Plata, which is comprised of ground brisket, sirloin and water buffalo, and gets rave reviews.

CALGARY, ALBERTA Transparency, not trendiness, is the name of the game at this newly opened food emporium in south Calgary, where many of the vendors proudly display organic certifications. In addition to the market’s meat vendors and bakers are restaurant chefs such as Duncan Ly, whose take on a taqueria, Takori, is one of the highlights of the 22,000-square-foot space—his soy marinated beef brisket is a can’t-miss.

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LOCAL TAKE

FOR A MEMORABLE HIKE

Andrew Seymour On

WHITEHORSE Set along the banks of the turquoise Yukon River and surrounded by mountains and lakes, Whitehorse has a landscape that “beckons,” as the poet Robert W. Service once famously wrote. This town has a free-spirit vibe and is shaped by those who call the Yukon home.

Local Andrew Seymour made a name bringing “oyster culture” to the city with pop-ups around town.

Now, as a co-owner of the Wayfarer Oyster House, he has helped transform a former heating and sheet metal shop into a trendy spot serving not only oysters, but also fish chowder, Yukon-cured charcuterie and beer and kombucha on tap. Here, he shares some of his favourite spots around town.

CONNECT Direct flights to Whitehorse depart YLW on Fridays via Air North.

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FOR CRAFT COCKTAILS “Woodcutter’s Blanket is a top-quality cocktail bar. It has cabin-like decor, but you’re getting craft mixology with a few snack items. [They serve] one of the best Old Fashioneds—I gravitate to the tried and true.

They’re doing a big reno with a neat architectural design, and will be [brewing] their own beer on-site soon.”

FOR INDEPENDENT SHOPS “I usually pop into Horwood’s Mall. There’s a bagel shop and a cheese shop that stepped up the game.

The Collective Good has everything Yukon, from a territory-shaped cork [trivet] to cool shirts, games and clothing.”

FOR A MUSEUM MOMENT “I’ve never been a big fan of museums, but the first time I went to MacBride Museum [of Yukon History] I was blown away. They have a wonderful taxidermy room with all the animals of the Yukon, which is great for kids. There’s an albino moose, black bear, pine marten, wolverine, lynx. There are neat artifacts of the Gold Rush.”

FOR FAMILIES “There’s the [Waterfront] Trolley, which is always fun. It runs through town along the river. It used to be the old railroad line that ran from Skagway, Alaska, all the way to Whitehorse.”

FOR A TRULY LOCAL SPOT “No visit to Whitehorse is complete without a visit to the 98 Hotel. I’d call it a dive bar. They have the infamous Breakfast Club—they open at 9 a.m., [so] if you’ve been out all night, you go for an [early morning] drink at the 98.

They serve the world’s coldest pint of Molson Canadian and go through a keg a day, I’m told. Lots of atmosphere, lots of colourful characters.”

PHOTOS: BICYCLE RIDE PRODUCTIONS; DESIGN PICS INC/ALAMY; YUKONNEWS/WOODCUTTERS BLANKET; THE COLLECTIVE GOOD; INANDA IMAGES

“There’s so much trail here. One favourite is Fish Lake, which is just outside of the city—in a half hour, you’re at a giant lake. Hike up [the trail for] pretty nice panoramic views.”

BY KARAN SMITH

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EVENTS CALENDAR

WESTERN CANADA’S BEST FESTS Few things say summer in Canada quite like our outdoor festivals. Come mid-June, parks and city centres fill up with live music, cultural celebrations and plenty of indulgent treats.

Here are some of our fave fests in Alberta and British Columbia.

BY SARA SAMSON

CULTURAL SAM STEELE DAYS CRANBROOK, B.C., JUNE 13 TO 16 Cranbrook comes alive during this much-loved festival that celebrates the area’s most famed police officer Locals and visitors gather for plenty of fun events including a parade, sports tournaments, a strongman competition and a fair.

MUSIC

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CALGARY FOLK FESTIVAL CALGARY, ALTA., JULY 25 TO 28 Of all the country’s folk music festivals, this one is a standout. Turning 40 this year, the Calgary Folk Festival consistently attracts plenty of local Alberta talent, as well as big national and international names, to the city’s pretty Prince’s Island Park.

SALMON ARM ROOTS AND BLUES FESTIVAL

BIG VALLEY JAMBOREE CAMROSE, ALTA., AUGUST 1 TO 4 Expect a sea of cowboy boots and hats at this country music festival, which always draws big crowds and big names.

This year’s headliners include Brooks & Dunn, Old Dominion, Brothers Osborne and Toby Keith.

FOOD

CARIBOO ROCKS THE NORTH

TASTE OF EDMONTON

RICHMOND NIGHT MARKET

PRINCE GEORGE, B.C., AUGUST 9 TO 11 In the span of just a few short years this lively festival has grown into a summer sensation. The sounds of classic rock bands such as Glass Tiger, The Romantics, Trooper and Loverboy fill the CN Centre's Exhibition Park and keep the party rocking all weekend long.

EDMONTON, ALTA., JULY 18 TO 28 Edmonton’s food scene is on fire right now, so a visit to this popular annual festival, which has grown steadily to become one of the country’s biggest food fests, is a must. Head to Capital Plaza to sample exciting dishes from more than 50 vendors, including locally owned restaurants and food trucks.

RICHMOND, B.C., MAY 17 TO OCTOBER 14 While not technically a festival, this international market (pictured), reminiscent of Asia's night markets, is only open in the summer.

Sample treats from more than 100 food vendors offering everything from bubble waffles to meat skewers, and shop for treasures at one of 200 retail vendors.

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SALMON ARM, B.C., AUGUST 15 TO 18 There’s something for everyone at this music and cultural celebration, with performers ranging from Celtic and Afrobeat to blues and Cuban. The event also includes an international food village and plenty of activities for kids.

PHOTOS: DAVID KENNEY/CALGARY FOLK FESTIVAL; @VNCVR.CRAVINGS; CARNAVAL DEL SOL

VANCOUVER, B.C., JULY 6 TO 7 The biggest Latin festival in the Pacific Northwest, this celebration brings together more than 450 artists from various Latin American countries for live music, traditional folk dance, sports, arts and more.

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Built upon a rich history of culture and arts, Kelowna offers many opportunities to discover the past, present and future.

Start your journey by enjoying a walking tour of the Cultural District. Within the District’s eclectic six blocks, you’ll see more than 15 pieces of public art, have the opportunity to explore five museums, take in a show at the Kelowna Community Theatre, marvel at the featured display at the Kelowna Art Gallery, shop, dine and so much more.

Guided tours take place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout July and August, visit kelowna.ca/calendar for more information. For a self-guided option, visit apps.kelowna.ca/cultural-walk.

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PHOTO:EUGEN SAKHNENKO/BROADVIEW HOTEL

SUMMER IN TORONTO

Soaking up the sun—and making the most of the season—in Toronto and beyond.

BY NICOLA BROWN

SUMMER IS THE MOST highly anticipated time of year for Torontonians. At the first signs of warmer weather, layers are shed, streets bloom with newly opened and instantly crowded patios, and picnic blankets carpet grassy parks well into the evening. The vibe of the city undergoes a total transformation and the population seems to quadruple as people aim to spend as much time outside as possible. Here’s how to join in on the fun and summer in Toronto like a local.

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VISIT A ROOFTOP PATIO Toronto takes its al fresco eating and drinking spots very seriously.

The best rooftop patios offer sweeping views, creative tipples and delicious fare. The Sky Yard at The Drake Hotel, a Toronto institution on Queen West, is an indoor-outdoor space decorated with colourful, ever-changing seasonal art, often by local artists, such as last summer’s Texas-inspired mural by Louise Reimer. Sip a zesty La Bohème

cocktail and soak up the scene.

Over in the east end, the historic Broadview Hotel (pictured), once a seedy strip club, has been transformed into one of the city’s favourite new rooftop spots with unparalleled, 360-degree views of the skyline. For a bite, head to Harvest Kitchen’s rooftop for a local and sustainable lunch that’s casual, or, for dinner, try The Flight Deck at The Pilot, a large space in the heart of trendy Yorkville.

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2

Throughout the summer, Toronto showcases its renowned culinary prowess with an endless lineup of events, all centred around food and drink. There are festivals dedicated to everything from jerk and vegan cuisine to beer and spirits. From May 10 to 12, Tastemaker Toronto (pictured) brings together the city’s top mixologists and chefs from some of the best restaurants so foodies can sample exemplary dishes in one place. Another highly anticipated event is Summerlicious (July 5 to 21), which sees hundreds of restaurants create affordable prix-fixe menus so diners can have a three-course meal somewhere that might ordinarily be outside of the budget.

3 TAKE IN AN OUTDOOR SHOW Summer means Toronto’s wide range of cultural experiences emerge from hibernation and move outdoors. The Harbourfront Centre hosts Summer Music in the Garden with free concerts Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons throughout the summer. Several of Toronto’s most beloved neighbourhoods, such as 18 YLW CONNECT

Bloor-Yorkville, The Beaches and Downtown Yonge, also host a variety of free concerts in local parks.

Then there’s the popular Christie Pits Film Festival (pictured) where locals and visitors gather with blankets and snacks to watch movies on a big inflatable screen in the park (every Sunday night from late June to August.)

Another highlight is the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (July 12 to 14), the largest of its kind in Canada. This fair fills Nathan Phillips Square—located just in front of city hall where the colourful Toronto sign sits—with more than 300 well-known artists and emerging local talent exhibiting everything from photography and paintings to handicrafts and jewelry.

PHOTOS: JUSTINE TRICKETT/TASTEMAKER TORONTO; NICOLA BETTS/CHRISTIE PITS FILM FESTIVAL; STEVEN HOANG @HELLOTHISISSTEVE

ATTEND A FOOD FESTIVAL

CONNECT Direct flights to Toronto depart YLW daily via Air Canada and WestJet.

GET OUT OF TOWN Escaping to cottage country on the weekend is what Torontonians dream about all week.

MUSKOKA The region of Muskoka, which stretches from the southeastern corner of Georgian Bay to the western edge of Algonquin Provincial Park, is often hailed as one of Canada’s most beautiful cottage country areas. About two hours north of Toronto, this spot boasts wilderness hiking trails and canoe routes, as well as fashionable towns and a variety of resorts.

KAWARTHA LAKES Located 90 minutes northeast of Toronto is the Kawartha Lakes, a familyfriendly destination that is more laid-back and less busy than parts of Muskoka. Communities such as Bobcaygeon (made famous by The Tragically Hip’s eponymous song) typify the charming towns that await in this area.

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PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY Wine enthusiasts flock to Prince Edward County, an island stretching into

MAKE USE OF GREEN SPACES One of Toronto’s favourite summer pastimes is simple and affordable: picnicking in the park. Trinity Bellwoods Park on Queen West fills up with blankets on warm sunny days, as does High Park in the west end, which bursts into a colourful canopy of cherry blossoms (pictured) come

early May. Those looking for more active adventures should take the ferry to the Toronto Islands to go stand-up paddleboarding with Toronto Island SUP, or bike the Leslie Street Spit and keep an eye out for one of the 323 species of birds in the park. Both the islands and the spit offer some of the best photo ops of Toronto from the water.

Lake Ontario located twoand-a-half hours east of Toronto. It’s a friendly and welcoming county dotted with farms and wineries.

Try a cycling wine tour on a sunny summer day to make the most of the rural landscape (and wines), or head to Sandbanks Provincial Park for a picnic on the sand dunes.

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 19

A TALE OF TWO MUSEUMS Last year, Edmonton and Seattle celebrated similar momentous feats: the opening of highly anticipated and internationlly recognized museums. Both are housed in new buildings, designed to capture the sense of place and identity of their respective cities.

BY VICTORIA LESSARD

SET ALONG SEATTLE'S waterfront, the Nordic Museum, with its clean lines and grey and white rectangular exterior, would look right at home in any of the countries it celebrates. The museum focuses on collecting from, and sharing the stories of, the Nordic region—Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden (as well as Sápmi, Greenland, Åland and the Faroe Islands)—and the stories of Nordic-American immigrants.

The Nordic Museum grew out of a grassroots community initiative in the late 1970s. Its original home was in a surplus school building, but plans for a bigger location have been in the works for decades. Seattle-based design firm Mithun worked with Finnish architect Juhani Pallasmaa to create the new 59,000-squarefoot building that is equal parts dramatic and minimalist. Nordic heritage is infused throughout the design, from its location in the traditionally Scandinavian Ballard neighbourhood, right down to the building materials: the locks are from Sweden, the elevators are from Finland, and the lighting fixtures and carpet are Danish.

The permanent exhibition, Nordic Journeys, features five distinct galleries displaying artifacts 20 YLW CONNECT

from the museum’s collection of 78,000 pieces, ranging from ancient relics, furniture and clothing to fine art and photography. In addition, there’s space for temporary exhibits, as well as the Osberg Great Hall, an auditorium for performances and lectures, and an on-site restaurant, Freya, which serves neo-traditional Nordic fare.

The museum's central feature is Fjord Hall.

This dramatic entry mimics the feel of a fjord with 35-foot-high, white-panelled walls and hallways that narrow as you wander deeper into the building. It’s also here that Nordic Journey begins.

“It gives the building a cathedral-like sense when you walk into the front of it,” says Eric Nelson, chief executive officer and executive director of the Nordic Museum.

Fjord Hall is also a visual marker of the museum’s focus on Nordic history and Nordic immigration to North America. “On the north half of the second floor we have the story of the Nordic regions in Scandinavia. There are bridges across Fjord Hall—those are metaphors for immigration,” says Nelson. “As you walk across, you find yourself in a Nordic American story.

Fjord Hall becomes the analogy of the Atlantic.”

EXPLORING SEATTLE’S ARTSY SIDE Take a 15-minute drive to the Museum of Pop Culture.

Before going inside, pause for a moment to stand in awe of the exterior of the building, which was designed by Frank O. Gehry. Then, head straight to the Sound Lab to discover any hidden musical talents. Afterwards, enjoy the fresh air with a guided tour of Olympic Sculpture Park, or simply wander among the works by Alexander Calder and Louise Bourgeois with a coffee in hand. Finish the day at the storied Paramount Theatre, which opened in 1928, to see a show.

CONNECT Direct flights to Seattle depart YLW daily via Alaska Airlines.

PHOTOS: DESIGN BY MITHUN, IMAGE BY MIR COURTESY THE NORDIC MUSEUM; TOM ARBAN PHOTOGRAPHY INC/ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM

NORDIC MUSEUM, SEATTLE, WASH.

ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM, EDMONTON, ALTA. AFTER FOUR YEARS OF CONSTRUCTION, the Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) welcomed visitors to its new home in Edmonton’s downtown Arts District in October 2018. Since 1967, the RAM’s mandate has been to preserve and share the story of Alberta’s history, but with a growing collection, the museum outgrew its original space in the Glenora neighbourhood. Now, at 419,000-squarefeet, the RAM is considered the largest museum in Western Canada. It has 5,300 objects currently on display—with 2.4 million pieces in the collection.

The museum explores Alberta’s past and present with a variety of exhibits, including a large gallery dedicated to human history and another to the province’s natural history, a Bug Gallery and a tree-fort-inspired Children’s Gallery. The museum also houses the Manitou Asinîy—a meteorite of great spiritual significance to Indigenous peoples in Alberta and Saskatchewan—in the Manitou Stone Gallery.

Designed and built through a partnership between Ledcor Group, DIALOG and Lundholm Associates, with DIALOG architect Donna Clare leading the design, the RAM’s new home feels light and airy, and the history of the site and the

museum mandate were critical to its design.

The site was previously occupied by a post office, parts of which were saved and used in the new building—including mosaics from Canadian painter Ernestine Tahedl that are now freestanding artworks out front. References to Alberta’s landscape are found throughout the structure: an aspen leaf pattern is cut into metal panels surrounding the Children’s Gallery and the winding staircase up to the second floor mimics the shape of canyons in the Rockies.

“The design is specific to this unique sense of place in Alberta,” says Clare. “It’s about Albertans’ relationship to the environment and its people.”

The new museum is also very accessible; it’s easy to reach by transit and has barrier-free doors and washrooms, hearing assist for the theatre and captioned media in the galleries.

Beyond physical accessibility, there is an accessibility of ideas—windows and light are incorporated throughout the museum, opening up behind-the-scenes work to the public. The Museum Zone invites visitors to look into the conservation and research labs, each with posters describing the work being done.

MORE CULTURAL PURSUITS IN EDMONTON Talk a short walk to the nearby Art Gallery of Alberta to admire another piece of monumental architecture, this one designed by Randall Stout. Head inside to view works by contemporary Albertan and Canadian artists. Afterwards, take a 10-minute walk to the free outdoor Neon Sign Museum. For maximum effect, wait until dusk falls to admire the bright bulbs of the 20 restored neon signs.

Cap off a culture-filled day by heading to a show at one of the five performance spaces at Citadel Theatre.

CONNECT Direct flights to Edmonton depart YLW daily via Air Canada, Flair Airlines and WestJet. SPRING/SUMMER 2019 21

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22 YLW CONNECT

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PHOTO: COURTESY OF TOURISMKELOWNA.COM/SHAWN TALBOT PHOTOGRAPHY

OKANAGAN FOR EVERYONE

British Columbia’s favourite valley offers experiences for foodies, adventure seekers and culture vultures.

BY LISA KADANE

FEW PLACES WEAVE natural beauty, nature’s bounty and cultural activities into one tidy package as well as the Okanagan Valley does. Nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Monashees, and running from Vernon in the north to Osoyoos in the south in B.C.’s sunny interior, the region boasts warm lakes for swimming and paddling, rounded

mountains laced with biking and hiking trails, a strong Indigenous culture, a growing music scene, and dedicated chefs and winemakers who continue to elevate the province’s food and grape reputation. With all that, it’s easy to plan the perfect summer holiday, whether you’re on a gastronomic crusade, seeking outdoor adventure or looking for a dose of culture.

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 23

KELOWNA

FOR CULTURE SEEKERS STAY: The storied Hotel Eldorado, one of Kelowna’s first lakeside resorts, once served as the city’s cultural hub, hosting dog shows, croquet matches and garden parties. Still elegant, a stay at the El is like stepping back to simpler times when summer days were spent swimming and sunning, and evenings ended with a nightcap in the cozy bar. Rooms decorated with antiques complete the nostalgia trip.

EAT: Try seasonal, Indigenous-influenced dishes at Red Fox Club, located below Indigenous World Winery in West Kelowna. Owners Robert and Bernice Louie are descended from the Syilx, the region’s original inhabitants, and they want to introduce visitors to upscale Indigenous food, paired with their award-winning wines. Try the Hee-Hee-Tel-Kin, the Syilx name of the winery’s delicious white blend.

DO: Enjoy an outdoor concert or performance at one of Kelowna’s more than 40 wineries.

Mission Hill Family Estate (shown below) puts on a Summer Concert Series during July and August in its outdoor amphitheatre, where past acts have included the Gypsy Kings. Across the lake, SpearHead Winery hosts Shakespeare Kelowna’s performance of Twelfth Night on its outdoor stage in July.

VERNON

FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURERS

BEYOND KELOWNA Delve into the valley’s history on a Spotted Lake Cultural Tour with Swiws Spirit Tours in south Okanagan. A Syilx (Okanagan) guide will lead you to Spotted Lake, famed for its colourful circles that are formed by mineral deposits and believed to hold medicinal and healing properties.

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STAY: Perched overlooking Okanagan Lake, Sparkling Hill Resort is a therapeutic haven for any adventurer. Its renowned KurSpa alleviates aches and reduces inflammation with a range of spa and clinical services, including a Cryo Cold chamber, pools, steam rooms and saunas. Rooms with views promote relaxation, so you can rest up before hitting the links at neighbouring Predator Ridge golf course.

EAT: Head to downtown Vernon for dinner at The Phoenix Steakhouse and Bar, located inside a modern, renovated space in the historic, brick CIBC building. Chef and owner Charles Bonsan is passionate about food, and his perfectly prepared Canadian Angus beef (select your cut and doneness) will refuel tired muscles after a day of lake paddling or hiking the BX Creek & Falls Trail just outside of town.

OLIVER BEYOND VERNON

FOR FOODIES

A trip to the Okanagan isn’t complete without cycling the Myra Canyon trestles, a scenic section of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail with views of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake. Pedal 12 km (one way) over 18 trestles and through two tunnels as the path curves around the deep gorge.

STAY: Luxuriate in one of six Mediterranean-style guest suites at The Villa at Hester Creek, near Oliver in the south Okanagan. This property is located on-site at Hester Creek Estate Winery, where you’re steps away from wine tastings, as well as seasonal, local fare at Terrafina by RauDZ. Start each day with a homemade breakfast, enjoyed on your private patio overlooking the vineyard.

EAT: Make a dinner reservation at Miradoro, the acclaimed restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, also located along the Golden Mile Bench south of Oliver. Here, rustic, Italian-flair food—think grilled baby octopus, venison Bolognese and wood-fired pizza—is perfectly at home inside a modern space with spectacular views of maturing wine grapes and the rounded hills across the valley.

DO: Take a family-friendly tour of Covert Farms, a 650-acre organic farm and winery between Oliver and Okanagan Falls. You’ll learn about sustainable farming and organic winemaking while picking seasonal produce, sampling grapes from the vine, and feeding the herd of Highland cows. The tour ends with a wine-tasting for adults and bouncing on the Jumbo Jumper for kids.

BEYOND OLIVER Embark on a self-guided tour of the Vernon Tasting Trail, a couple of hours north of Oliver. The trail features eight food stops and multiple spots for

PHOTO: MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE WINERY; TOURISM VERNON/DESTINATION BC/ ANDREW STRAIN; JOANN PAI

artisanal libations in north Okanagan. Along the way, sample local cheeses, bite into crisp apples, or sip

DO: Head just south of Vernon to rent a standup paddleboard from Kalavida Surf Shop, conveniently located across from popular Kal Beach. Then SUP your way toward Rattlesnake Point, a rocky headland in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park that juts into the aquamarine waters of one of Canada’s prettiest bodies of water. Be sure to check out the impressive lakeside estates along the way.

at a distillery, meadery, brewery, cidery or winery.

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 25

NIGHTLIFE

KELOWNA AFTER DARK Where to sip, sup and shimmy after the sun sinks.

BY LISA KADANE ILLUSTRATION BY CHRIS DICKASON

WITH ITS LAKESIDE LOCATION, Kelowna shines as a destination for sunning, swimming and watersports. And, when the daylight wanes, this small city struts its foodie, craft and nightlife stuff. How best to spend the hours between dusk and dawn?

Read on for a memorable night out.

6 P.M. Start the evening with sharable bites and a cocktail inside cozy, micro bar · bites. The tequila-based Taco Dirty To Me cocktail gets the party started and the Crispy Fried Octo’tots (octopus) will tide you over until dinner.

7 P.M.

Slide into a banquette at popular Salt & Brick, located on Bernard Avenue. Chef James Holmes changes the menu daily, based on seasonal availability, to create inventive share and small plates that are perfectly paired with a thorough selection of local wines.

8:30 P.M. Cross the street to the shore of Okanagan Lake to watch the sun set behind the rounded mountains of the Thompson Plateau. Then, stroll along the waterfront pathway and happen upon a live outdoor performance—Festivals Kelowna’s Parks Alive! program brings regular entertainment to Kerry and Waterfront parks during July and August.

9:30 P.M. Make your way to BNA Brewing on Ellis Street for craft beer and bowling. Choose from BNA’s impressive lineup of brews and then head upstairs to the lanes. If IPAs and saisons aren’t your thing, opt for a classic cocktail such as a Negroni.

11 P.M.

Nurse a #34 margarita, tuck into some late-night nibbles, and catch a live band at Fernando’s Pub on Bernard Avenue. This downtown mainstay rocks to the sounds of blues, jazz, folk or rock weekend nights from 10 p.m. to midnight.

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BEST FOR BEER CRAFT BEER MARKET

Score a seat on the rooftop patio and choose from more than 100 draft beers. The exhaustive list includes rotating handles from Kelowna makers as well as brewers from across the province.

BEST FOR WINE OAK + CRU AT THE DELTA GRAND With a

menu that features more than 22 Okanagan Valley wines served by the glass, this is the place to get your grape on.

For a larger pour, there are more options in the 2,800-bottle cellar.

BEST FOR COCKTAILS KRAFTY KITCHEN + BAR

The tipples at this downtown eatery and bar earn it its name—the drinks are inventive, skillful and, most importantly, tasty. The menu includes whimsical descriptions to help you decide if the drink is right for you.

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5 Airport Shuttle Kiosk 9:00 am - 5:00 pm 6 Car Rental Kiosk 6 am - 12 midnight 7 Canadian Border Services 8 am - 12 midnight 8 Commissionaires/Lost and Found 24 hours 9 Airline Baggage Office 7:30 am - 7:30 pm 10 Ebus ? Information: Tourism Kelowna Visitor Info Kiosk 8:30 am - 8:30 pm

11 Okanagan Estate Wine Cellar 5 am - 8 pm 12 Okanagan Duty Free & Gift Shop 5 am - 8 pm Duty Free Opens 90 min. prior to International/ Transborder flights 13 Happy and Grateful Shoe Shine Service 9 am - 5 pm 14 Skyway Gifts and Souvenirs 4 am - 8 pm 15 Best Buy Electronics, Vending Outlet

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Canada, so many possibilities.

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