Bold Traveller Spring 2026

CONTENTS

SPRING 2026

12 ON OUR RADAR

Detecting a Pattern: Louis Vuitton’s legacy of collaboration continues; and shopping the essentials from Canada, with love

16 PLACES TO STAY

Italy, Two Ways: Sleeping in Venice and Florence; Sun-Kissed Seclusion: On Mexico’s Isla Mujeres, a new all-inclusive resort redefines luxury

37

CRUISING THE WORLD

The Next Wave: greener ships and grander designs; plus the best all-inclusive cruise lines and what to book next

44 DESTINATIONS

The Magnificent Seven: Central America’s seven countries each hold a distinct magic, from Belize to Panama and beyond; plus Indigenous Travel: Postcard from Wanuskewin Heritage Park

ON THE COVER León, Nicaragua’s colonial soul, captured at a glance. Photographed by Julien Capmeil on location at Hotel El Convento, where former convent walls embrace lush gardens.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Vivian Vassos

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN

Megan Cronje

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Vawn Himmelsbach

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Liz Fleming, Ruth J. Katz, Brittany Johnson, Aaron Rasmussen

CONTRIBUTORS

Jennifer Bain, Shinan Govani, Tim Johnson, Toby Saltzman, Dick Snyder, Doug Wallace

PUBLISHER

Marlon Moreno

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

Rebecca Marissa Cohen

WEB DEVELOPER

Komodo Innovations Inc. info@komodoinnovations.com

Rahul Nair

DIGITAL COORDINATOR

Icaro Lima

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Editor’s Letter

Serenissima: Basking in a

CONTRIBUTORS

For this edition, we asked our travellers to describe their ideal spring escape.

MEGAN CRONJE: ART DIRECTOR

“For my ideal spring escape, I’d return to one of my favourite places, Puerto Vallarta in Mexico – a beach town where the vibrant colours, welcoming people, incredible food and spectacular sunsets come together to create one of the most beautiful places on earth”

Light.

WE SEEK IT, WE CHASE IT. We look forward to the rising of it every day. In a time when things seem so dark, it’s light that comforts us. The intensity of a roaring camp fire in the great Canadian outdoors, while hoping to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis; the way the early morning rays pierce the shutters to bid you wake; the soft serenity of watching the sun slowly sink below the horizon at the end of another day. Being wrapped in that certain inner light of close friends and beloved family. It’s a universally shared human experience.

Light has such a phenomenal effect on our moods. We equate it to happiness, to a state of feeling safe and sound. Paris is The City of Light, not because of the way it glows against the Haussmann architecture, all orderly and steadfast – though that’s a sight to behold as well – but because, in a time of darkness in the 18th Century, it became a centre for enlightenment, a place for artists and intellectuals to feel at home and express themselves unfettered.

On a snowy day here in Canada, when the mercury dips below zero and the sun suddenly comes out, the world sparkles like diamonds against the icy white. In a way, it’s as comforting as that roaring camp fire, reminding us that there’s a purity still to be had. The moody light reflecting off purple heather of the moors in the Scottish Highlands. The pink hues washing over Petra at dawn. Sapphire refraction from the surface of the Aegean Sea. Ripples off the chocolate backs of the Plains bison as they rumble across the Alberta grasslands.

Spring is here and, with it, a sense of renewal. Time to go out into the world, whether it’s retreating to your own backyard sanctuary, sailing the deep blue sea or discovering new places and basking in that special light of meeting new people. Travel does this, illuminating our world to all the possibilities.

Vivian Vassos Editor in Chief

SHINAN GOVANI: WRITER

“Hot Table” page 22

"I've been to about a dozen countries in Asia, but one country that has long eluded me – and is a big one – is Vietnam! So, off to Hanoi I go. It's where a wonderful, new Fairmont just opened (it is Vietnam's first, as the Fairmont brand begins to make in-roads in southeast Asia). Vietnam looms so large, historically – at least in the second part of the 20th century – and I have always been fascinated by its culture. And, of course, food, all the wonderful herbaceousness! I see myself roaming through its charming Old Quarter, informed by its ties to France, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, the Temple of Literature, its whole array of temples and pagodas."

AARON RASMUSSEN: WRITER

“The Magnificent Seven” page 44

“In the warmer spring shoulder season, I’m game for just about anywhere in the world I’ve yet to explore –especially destinations not on other travellers’ radars. I’ve been immersing myself in Central America lately, but South America’s inverted seasons are calling too. I’m a devoted fan of fall and love the chance to flip the seasonal script. A luxury mountain lodge in the crisp air of the Andes with endless views? I’m yours!”

ON OUR RADAR

TRENDSPOTTING. ON LOCATION. ESSENTIAL FINDS. NOTEWORTHY OBSESSIONS.

DETECTING A PATTERN

Known for its collaborative nature, the House of Louis Vuitton is at it again By Vivian Vassos

WHEN NEW YORK DARLING Marc Jacobs took the reins at Louis Vuitton in 1997, he brought the brand into the fashion runway world with its first ready-to-wear collection. Over his 16 year tenure, he continued to bring the firsts, including collaborating with the likes of artists such as Takashi Murakami, the Japanese artist known for his joyful happy faces (and one of our favourites!), and New York-based Stephen Sprouse, who took the revered LV logo and amplified it as a graffiti-esque graphic. It was a reimagining of a monogram that had been ensconced since the founder, Louis Vuitton, first stamped it on his steamer trunks in 1896.

Fast forward to right now, where another visionary, Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton’s current creative director and powerhouse musician and record producer, has revived the collab content. In the recent Spring/Summer 2026 menswear shows, he brought back Jacobs’ luggage designs that were first created for Wes Anderson’s 2007 film The Darjeeling Limited. The pattern is inspired by “present day sartorialism,” according to the House, but the appeal of the elephants, palm trees, big cats and other flora and fauna motif dancing across the tanned calfskin is universal. It’s as joyfully quirky as an Anderson film itself – imagine the Whitman brothers, played by Adrien Brody, Owen Wilson and Jason Schwartzman, running for the train, luggage swinging wildly at their sides. Fitting, perhaps, as LVMH has also revived the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, operated by Belmond.

Speaking of running, this spring’s designs are not limited to luggage. We’re all about the Tilted sneaker, the essence of the low-profile runner everyone is after this season. In retro suedes or appearing embellished or in the same Darjeeling pattern, the sneaks go as well with a suit as they do with board shorts.

As a renowned patron of the arts, Louis Vuitton is also presenting exhibitions. The first, LV Dream: Louis Vuitton Art Deco, is a nod to the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts showing. Through eight rooms, more than 300 heritage objects and archival materials are revealed by way of themes, from the Jazz Age to Beauty in Travel, many that have never been shown in public before. The show runs through late 2026, at 26 Quai de la Mégisserie, in Paris.

The second focusses on the artist Jeff Koons, who collaborated with the House for his Louis Vuitton x Jeff Koons “Masters” collection, first seen in 2017. Espace Louis Vuitton Osaka – Jeff Koons: Paintings and Banality, shows selected works from the collection. It also celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Espaces Louis Vuitton, with global outposts in Tokyo, Munich, Venice, Beijing, Seoul and Osaka, and the 10th anniversary of Fondation Louis Vuitton's Hors-les-murs programme. It runs through July 5, 2026, in Osaka, Japan.

Joyeux anniversaire, LV! ca.louisvuitton.com/eng-ca

ESSENTIALS

CANADA, with love

The finds travellers and editors alike can’t get enough of By Brittany Johnson

CRUISE CONTROL Crafted entirely in its atelier in Laval, Quebec, SHAN’s latest collection captures the easy elegance of a European summer. Fluid silhouettes, sun-softened neutrals and layered sheers over luminous linens offer light, versatile pieces perfect for travel – from sightseeing to sunset dinners. shan.ca

FOOT FORWARD Made in Quebec, APROPO’s MIKA loafers combine European craftsmanship with modern, lightweight design. Whether in classic black or metallic, slip-on ease, breathable perforated leather and a cushioned platform sole make them the perfect fit for exploring cities in comfort and style. en.bopied.com

CLASSIC CANADIANA

Few pieces capture Canadian heritage quite like the Hudson’s Bay Stripes™ Point Blanket. Woven from premium wool, its iconic multicoloured stripes have symbolized more than 350 years of our country’s history. Naturally warm and breathable, the timeless blanket stands as an emblem of craftmanship and tradition. canadiantire.ca

RING MASTER As wearables become everyday style essentials, the latest chic upgrade is the tech ring “jacket.” This sleek Steff Eleoff Tech Ring Cover slips over your smart ring to add instant polish. Think “jewellery for your jewellery,” which blends wellness tech with elevated personal style. steffeleoff.com

WATCH OUT Montreal now hosts Tissot’s first Canadian boutique in the city’s Eaton Centre, marking a key milestone for the Swiss watchmaker’s North American expansion. The 650-square-foot space invites visitors to explore collections like the RockWatch, PRX UFO Robot Grendizer and NBA Supersport Chrono, as well as personalized guidance from Tissot Ambassadors. tissotwatches.com

CARRY ON You may be leaving the true north strong and free, but it’s easy – and chic – to take a piece of it with you. Canadian brand Monos has unveiled a rich olive green edition of its beloved Classic Collection. A match made in heaven for travellers who appreciate a modern, minimalist design, sustainable materials and luggage that looks as good in the terminal as it does abroad. ca.monos.com/

PLACES TO STAY

ITALY, TWO WAYS

A pair of new hotel openings in Venice and Florence herald a renaissance of family and independent hoteliers By Vivian Vassos

LAGOON LUXE

SLEEPING IN A PALAZZO

along one of Venice’s storied canals is your idea of a good time, why stop there? Make it an immaculately renovated refresh yet keeping the historic bones (and Murano glass chandeliers!) of the property intact, throw in one of the city’s largest private gardens, San Marco lagoon views of San Giorgio Maggiore Island and a rooftop that overlooks Venice full circle. Ah, La Serenissima. There’s no snarl of racing cars, only pedestrians filling the piazzas and vias. The canals that weave their ways in all directions are the streets here. We sip our espresso standing up, snack on two-bite, openfaced cicchetti (Sardines! Salami! Gorgonzola! Crusty bread!) all washed down with glass of spritz or local wine.

And this is exactly how we start our stay at Hotel Gabrielli in the city’s Castello neighbourhood. My charming room (there are 66 in all) is in the eaves of the roof, woodenshuttered windows flung open to San Marco

Hotel Gabrielli Venezia

Lagoon (its namesake piazza only a five-minute walk). It’s early December, the sun is glinting off the water and the day is abuzz with locals. The dock is busy, water taxis and public water buses ferrying passengers. At this time of year, the crowds are gone, but the weather is still mild and the city is readying for Christmas.

I feel an apéro moment coming on. The hotel’s K Lounge Bar beckons, all teal-green velvet chairs and banquettes mixed with polished wood; it invites one to just sink in, see and be seen. I learn that the “K” in K Lounge has meaning: It was here in September 1913 that the writer Franz Kafka wrote some of his most emotionally deep and now infamous, Letters to Felice (Bauer), his fiancée. After a turbulent on-again off-again engagement, the couple never married. But a marriage of local ingredients and Venetian culinary traditions are at the heart of chef Mirko Pistorello’s menu at Felice al Gabrielli. Seafood is the star, rich veal, rabbit and beef play supporting roles. The teals of the lounge pour into the dining space,

dotted with gold accents, potted palms and lighting that illuminates without overpowering the room.

The palazzo has been the home of the Perkhofer family since the 1850s; the fifth generation entrusting the renovation to Milanese designer Andrea Auletta and his team, with a directive to preserve as much of the original architectural details – but not to forget all the modern aspects of life in the 21st century. Murano lighting, some like crystal butterflies suspended in mid-flight, columns wrought from Istrian stone and restored coffered ceilings add to the integrity of the palazzo. Upon re-opening in August 2025, the Perkhofers handed its management to Starhotels Collezione, the Italian company with hotels all over Italy including Rome, as well as London, Paris and New York. As I watch the sun set from my window, I sense La Serenissima has taken her hold of me.

collezione.starhotels.com/en/our-hotels/ hotel-gabrielli-venice/

FLORENTINE HIDEAWAY

The James Suite Hotel Firenze 1564

THERE’S SMOKE COMING from the Duomo, but I’m not talking about the famed marvel at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. My Duomo is on my table, its miniature roof being gingerly lifted and swirled to dramatic effect by our bartender. I’m at 1564 Lounge Bar in The James experiencing one of the Thirteen Mysteries, part of a baker’s dozen of cocktails inspired by Firenze and its many secrets.

Tucked away on the quiet yet central Via di Mezzo, The James is living its latest incarnation as a boutique hotel. It may have opened its hospitality doors in in 2025, but it came from humble beginnings. A convent resided here in 1564 – the same year Michelangelo met his maker. Its most recent renaissance began when James Cavagnari, the mind behind retail designs for Salvatore Ferragamo and Bulgari boutiques, made it his latest project – and his namesake. The London-born architect and designer was raised in Florence and took this opportunity to turn the 16th century palazzo

into a hotel, through a Florentine’s lens.

Although walking distance to the busy city centre, The James sits comfortably in the justoff-the-touristy-’hood of Sant’Ambrogio, known for its local vibe, traditional farmers’ market, independent trattorias and artisanal shops. Step out and feel like you’re living, not just visiting. Step back in, and you’re welcomed by a cosy, art-filled lobby, a theme throughout. The night I’m there, 1564 Lounge is animated with guests and well-heeled locals of all ages; the adjacent glassed atrium that holds the diminutive The James Restaurant is quieter, with just enough conversation between courses, overseen by an open kitchen.

It’s the perfect launch point for visiting Florence this season, when the Palazzo Strozzi presents “Rothko in Florence,” an exhibition of the American abstract expressionist Mark Rothko (through August 2026), with selected works showing in satellite locations throughout the city. Contemporary art against Firenze’s fierce Renaissance heritage? Why not.

Part of the Manfredi Fine Hotels Collection (with properties in Florence, Rome and Capri), and a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, The James features 14 suites, each uniquely designed to suit the space’s scale –angled eves, reading nooks, secret crannies, all the fun things an architect with a respect for history and good bones can play with. Balconies with views of the green cupola of the Synagogue, built in a Moorish style in 1882, or the rooftops of the city, walls painted in deep blues, golds, pinks and creams dotted with framed vintage Hermès scarves, tiled ceilings and bathrooms that evoke romance –the attention to detail is only matched by the quirky sense of humour Cavagnari reveals. Cheeky ceramic busts, funky modular couches, sultan-tented four-poster beds are just a few added touches.

And this is Florence. She is full of secrets, waiting to be revealed.

manfredihotels.com/en/hotels/the-james/

TO STAY

SUN-KISSED SECLUSION PLACES

A new all-inclusive resort raises the sand bar for luxury on Mexico’s Isla Mujeres By Doug Wallace

APELICAN IS DIVING for lunch not eight metres away. Witnessing its speed up close, I’m glad I’m not a fish. This little slice of life on Isla Mujeres is exactly what I planned, and I’m thrilled that my day is rolling out so smoothly.

With oceans of beach vacations to choose from, how you holiday is almost more important than where you go. You want serene walks in the sand, a chic suite, frothy cocktails and lingering dinners – without the crowds. I found that serenity off the tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula at the new all-inclusive Almare, a Marriott Luxury Collection resort. A 25-minute boat ride from Cancún, Almare is an adults-only haven on the Caribbean Sea.

Isla Mujeres has enjoyed its laid-back bohemian reputation for decades, slowly adding new fans each year, who ferry in for the white powdery sand, fun beach bars, homespun accommodations and easy solitude. The simplicity of the island has been its charm and calling card. With all-inclusive luxury getaways trending, Almare is on the cutting edge, a soothing escape as well as a cultural expression of the destination itself.

Everything you need is within reach: the beach cabanas are a few steps from the stylish lobby, the pool is seconds from the shoreline. The 109 suites continue the barefoot-chic theme introduced in the reception area. Neutral tones and natural woods are offset with gold finishes, the scene augmented with

WHAT TO PACK

Editor's Picks: Take along these funin-in-the-sun essentials

THROW SOME

SHADE Chanel cat-eye sunglasses in acetate mother-of-pearl texture effect from the Spring/ Summer 2026 collection. chanel.com/ca-en/

COVER UP

Clinique’s new UV Solutions Sunscreen, SPF 50, skincare and antioxidants, in hydrating and mattifying formulas. Clinique.ca, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sephora Canada

luxe linens and soft seating. Double-sided oval mirrors and a soaker tub separate the sleeping area from the open-concept bathroom, with a private shower and toilet.

À la carte menus (no buffets here) reflect an elevated twist on the local gastronomy and Indigenous cooking methods. Boga offers traditional Mayan cuisine by day, transitioning to more international fare at night. Seasalt on the rooftop blends Mexican with European cuisine within a 360-degree setting adjacent to the sunset pool. Botanik comes through with coffees and treats, while AlPaso, a little silver Airstream trailer, handles the nibbles.

I take a pre-dawn walk down the street to Mirador Punta Sur to catch the sunrise at the tip of the island. It’s fun wandering around in the dark, like I’m on a secret mission, fully rewarded with a breathtaking beginning of my day. An afternoon spent on the white sand at North Beach brings a slice of local life, filled with bobbing yachts, beach bars and bathing beauties. The many cafés are busy making salty snacks to go with chilled beers.

Back at the Almare, my pelican is calling it a day. I retreat to my own little reading nook between the palms and sink into the tranquility. As a shadow falls over my book, I look up to see a staff member bearing a basket of housemade popsicles. I select one of rosemary and ginger. And it’s completely delicious.

all-inclusive.marriott.com/almare-a-luxurycollection-all-inclusive-resort-isla-mujeres

MULTI-TASKER

Canadian brand Jouviance’s original 3-in-1 Cream for face, eye contour area and neck. en.jouviance.com

—Vivian Vassos

FRESHEN UP

YSL Libre Berry Crush, the brand’s new fruity floral, with notes of lavender and raspberries. yslbeauty.ca/en_CA

SPONSORED

WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF

Reverie on the shores of the Riviera Maya: Dreams ® Puerto Morelos Resort & Spa

THE ANCIENT MAYANS

believed in a dream world that was as vital and alive as the state of awakening. To quietly connect with the spirit world, perhaps a glimpse of ancestors or spark into the future. It’s a moment with the divine that can only be experienced in a dream state.

Moments like this are also part of the waking world, where one can commune with the healing powers of sun, sand and sea. At Dreams Puerto Morelos, less than 30 minutes from Cancún, guests – both couples and families – are welcomed with open arms, invited to relax and let go and simply experience life at a slower pace.

The stress-free environment starts with the resort's extensive all-inclusive offering. Never will a guest have to look at a check or reach for their wallet. The calm continues

with a deep breath while taking in the view of the beach at Bahía Petempich on the Riviera Maya. As you drop your bags, your shoulders naturally drop too, bringing on a sense of release. There’s something about the turquoise waters of the Caribbean that immediately set the pace. Waves kiss the sand gently, taking that daily walk beyond exercise. Sun salutations are guided with daily yoga practise, while little ones will get in their daily laughter and work off their energy at the splash areas and water park. Dive in and marvel at the wonders under the sea with snorkelling and water sports right off the beach or learn the secrets of Mayan and Mexican cuisine with a cooking class lead by a world-class chef.

But why cook? You’re on holiday and culinary options at Dreams Puerto Morelos have been created with diversity and flavour

in mind. With more than a dozen dining and drinking options at the resort, there’s a cuisine for every palate. Prefer pasta? There’s Italian. Craving a burger? Head to the Barefoot Grill. What about a night of inspired French cuisine? Have the concierge book a table at the resort’s adults-only Rue di Rivoli. The best part? No matter where you choose to dine, or have a coffee or even treat yourself to an ice cream, it’s all included with your stay. After dinner theatre? Yes, we’ve got that too. Live entertainment is a daily experience, and a great way to say farewell to the day. Speaking of the stay, suites are spacious, and feature garden, pool or ocean views, keeping with the one with nature vibe. Most also include balconies, perfect for a sunrise morning coffee or crafted cocktails at sunset. The sky is the limit. Spa-inspired bathrooms add to the tranquility, while the complimentary mini bar and refreshments adds a home-away-from-home touch. There are 463 rooms, but the resort still feels intimate, and guests who choose

the Preferred Club options also receive upgraded features and enhanced service.

Off the resort, the quaint town of Puerto Morelos is worth exploring, with its laidback fishing village atmosphere. Croco Cun Zoo and the National Reef Park provide a up-close-and-personal chance to explore local marine and wildlife.

The goal is to enjoy and connect with the surroundings and yourself. The resort’s Zen Spa is a retreat within this retreat, with elevated standards, such as massage and beauty treatments, but also wellness rituals that are crafted to calm, playing off the natural elements, using tools such as hydrotherapy and aromatherapy to reset the body and the mind.

Romance and celebrations come naturally here. Mother Nature has created a setting ready for the magic and the joy that automatically comes with these special life events and milestones. On-site planners will take the lead, allowing guests to simply be in the moment.

At Dreams Puerto Morelos, the body, mind and spirit are all aligned. The dream world is real.

LET US TAKE YOU THERE

Air Transat is Canada's flagship leisure airline and has once again been named Best Leisure Airline in North America at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards. This marks the seventh time the airline has received this honour—and the third consecutive year— underscoring its commitment to delivering a quality travel experience built on comfort, genuine hospitality and attention to detail at every stage of the journey. With almost 40 years of experience, our commitment to attentive service, punctuality and reliability flying on our Airbus fleet, there are plenty of great reasons to fly with Air Transat. When you book one of our packages, you’ll benefit from one free checked bag with a round-trip Economy class fare, included service charges and taxes, round-trip transfers between your vacation destination airport and the hotel and the services of an on-site representative. transat.com

BARBELA C.P.M.

Vancouver: NERO TONDO

Where we’re booking tables now By Shinan Govani

Dig In

Lisbon: BARBELA C.P.M.

They call him the “fish-whisperer.” Leandro Carreira, whose new spot is both the talk of Portugal, and Europe at large. An alum of Mugaritz – that much-ado culinary temple in the Basque Region – Carreira has created something in Lisbon that many people are calling truly inventive, with pescatarian gaining a new reverence, and “dry-aging” part of the trickery (the C.P.M. in the name, a nod to the Companhia de Peixe e Marisco signs at a local fish market). The menu? It pops with items like tuna tartare trumpeted with seaweed and a cushy waffle. Spider crab? Meet toasted rice! The room, meanwhile, is industrial-chic done right, humming with well-maned creatives and in-the-know expats. instagram.com/barbela.com

There’s just something about a “counter restaurant,” right? One of the more intriguing ones opened last year in BC, and instantly started to earn the “hidden gem” rep! Hyperseasonal and locally-inspired, chef-owners Devon Latté and Lucas Johnston don’t repeat the same song every night. Driven by ingredients, the menu is constantly evolving, leaning on both French and Italian inspirations. An itsby-bitsy spot where the albacore tuna comes two ways, the lemon is from nearby Salt Spring Island, and where the guys even make their soy sauce. Home cooking – but not at home! Nerotondo.com

Stockholm: BRASSERIE ASTORIA

Dinner and a movie! This white-hot restaurant in the Swedish capital nods to that idea, at least in spirit, housed in what was once an old-school cinema, complete with spiraling, art-deco stairs and multiple floors of Beautiful People. You know the buzz when you hear it – the vibe that made me think, this place is to Stockholm what The Wolseley is, perhaps, to London. Coming via celebrity Scandi chef Björn Frantzén, set in the Östermalm district, it’s his most convivial of spots, full of nooks and tables beset by white candles. Think new/ old classics: mussels swimming in champagne cream, table-side Caesar salads, beef tenderloin a la Cambodian peppercorn sauce, and “sticky toffee pudding.” brasserieastoria.se/en/

Singapore: LOCA NIRU

Location, location, location: the old adage takes on fresh meaning in this fine dining resto, recently opened inside the House of Tan Yeok Nee. The last of Singapore’s four grand mansions, known as the “Teochew,” it gives diners a chance to be one with a space that was off-limits to the public for more than a century. The food rises to the occasion – a culinary odyssey spanning France, Japan and Southeast Asia, as divined by chef Shusuke Kubota. Elegantly restrained, the nature of his eight-course tasting menu, consisting of dishes like “frog leg wrapped in kadaif,” a fine noodle-like pastry dusted with chichi, a seven-spice blend, and the “braised abalone,” swimming in deep mushroom consommé. History, technique and flair. instagram.com/ locanirusg

Toronto: TAJKA BBQ

A nouvelle take on the Korean BBQ experience, set in an exquisite jewel-box of a room, this place is minimum effort with maximum ambience – complete with dashing servers brandishing tongs like wands. Premium, house-aged meats do the heavy lifting, naturally, held up with a carnival of super-fun side-dishes and enough umami/fiery goodness to satisfy the biggest condiment whore. Oh my, the seafood pancakes! Hits too: buckwheat noodles, decked with caviar and perilla, as well as “bingsu,” a syrup-soaked shaved ice phenom that helps to act as showcloser. What makes the restaurant stand out is that it’s on a stretch of College West that still feels super neighbourhood-y, yet not overly hyped. Takja.ca

London: CAFE CECILIA

Hackney chic: this morning-to-eve, canal-side canteen lures foodies ever since it opened in 2022. Some even think of it as a the new-get answer to London’s venerable River Cafe (where Cafe Cecilia owner Max Rocha once worked, incidentally!). It also does not hurt that Max is part of those Rochas – the fashion dynasty that includes dad John and sis, Simone. The look: Minimalist gallery. The food: Equally unfussy. Tarts, pies, chips, zingy tomatoes and a word-of-mouth “sage and anchovy fritti.” The Guinness bread is, of course, always on tap – a nod to the family’s Dublin roots. Also noteworthy, the many foodworld idols that the restaurant already counts as fans, like Yotam Ottolenghi and Diana Henry. cafececilia.com

Mexico City: KILL BILL

Kill, Bill, or Kill Bill: the three omakase options at this super-chic joint in CDMX – a place that takes its food quite seriously stuffy, but not itself. Nigiri, handrolls and hot dishes abound, including such sleights-of-hands as a “lotus root sandwich” (with toro and shaved truffle), fava beans that somehow arrive tasting like uni, and even chocolate clams (who knew?). Doubling as a listening bar, with a focus on jazz, and consisting of just 12 seats, it’s a reservation must, of course. A real vibe. instagram.com/killbillsushi

Sparkling, plenty

Sipping Champagne in Champagne By Ruth J. Katz

fORGET NEW YORK’S Park Avenue, Paris’s Avenue Montaigne, or Toronto’s own Bridle Path. If you wanted to wipe out most of the world’s veiled wealth in one fell swoop, the place to carry out your nefarious scheme would be along the famed Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, France. Buried in a netherworld some 40 metres beneath the elegant thoroughfare – which is less than two kilometres in length – are, by many estimates, billions of dollars’ worth of the ambrosia of the gods, Champagne. What a bubble fest that would be, so bring your flute!

Along this majestic boulevard are 18 maisons of Champagne, including the legendary (think Möet & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët and Pol Roger, for example) and the less well-known, such as Champagne Esterlin (a cooperative) and Champagne A. Begère. Below the tranquil stature of the elegant 18th- and 19th-century mansions, there is a bottleneck (smirk) of more than 200 million bottles of

Champagne; they are housed in 110 kilometres of chalk-cave byways in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, an appellation the Avenue received in 2015. The street has had many names, though, over the years: Originally, it was the Chemin de l’Hôpital (yes, there was a major hospital there); the Rue de la Folie; in the 18th century, La Voie Royale (i.e., the Royal Way, with a reference to Louis XV, underscoring the opulence of the King’s court and the majestic chateaux on the Avenue); the Avenue de Commerce, heralding its trade value; and ultimately, the Avenue de Champagne, often shortened to AC.

Today, you can sip and sup in many of the maisons or merely take a tour and taste (reservations suggested). And for visitors’ convenience, there is an Office de Tourisme at one end of the street. The AC, however, is but one place to sample and savour Champagne. I chose to tour the greater area by car on my own and also under the aegis of a guide from Instants Champagne, soaking up the splendours and opulence of the

Grand-Est region, which is a relatively new appellation of the former individual regions of Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne and Lorraine.

One stop in Epernay that is de rigueur is the Musée du Vin de Champagne et Archéologie Regionale, housed in the Château de Perrier. The museum is home to some 80,000 objets and holds one of the largest regional archaeological collections in France. There is also a highly educational exhibit on how Champagne was made yesteryear.

My driver/guide/majordomo for a day was the congenial and knowledgeable (and native son) Remi Boxho, a founder of the company; Remi seems to know just about everyone who is anyone in “Champagneville.” Seeing how much I enjoyed sampling the various styles of Champagne, Boxho quickly detoured from our set “program” and added a few other houses to my route, picking up his cell phone to call ahead, to arrange for these impromptu visits. My day was to include Lancelot Royer and Pierre Paillard, but we sandwiched in Henri Giraud and, as we inched toward Reims, the renowned house of Ruinart. While I had only a short time at each cellar (it is, in truth, a shame to drink and run), it was well worth it to experience the various presentations, architecture, artwork and to savour varied styles of bubbles.

With all this mouth-watering talk of Champagne, you may be wondering, just how much do Canadians consume? In 2024, Canada was eleventh on the list of importers, bringing some 2.7 million bottles of bubbly to the True North. A votre santé! explore-grandest.com; champagne.fr

THE OENOPHILE

WINES OF A CERTAIN AGE

By Dick Snyder

WINE GETS BETTER as it gets older, right? Well, yes, it can. But not all wines are designed that way. Sure, they might last a few years in a cellar, but will they get better? And what is better? In the wine world, we prefer to say that a wine evolves. Whether it gets better or not is a matter of personal perspective.

Some prefer their wines fresh and fruity, so a recent vintage is the better choice. A young gamay comes to mind. This is a soft, refreshing red grape, with low tannins and bright lip-smacking acidity. While the French do make some gamays with longevity in mind, Canadian winemakers generally aim to showcase the vibrant fruit flavours. Delve into the world of gamay by tasting through the range of singlevineyard wines produced by the Malivoire winery in Ontario’s Niagara region – the Courtney Gamay 2022, with just a few years of bottle age, is at its peak right now.

Canada can certainly make ageworthy wines. Seek out single-vineyard pinot noirs from Ontario’s Hidden Bench, Leaning Post and Rosehall Run. British Columbia also produces world-class pinots that, like those from Ontario, can age like fine Burgundies. Look for wines from Meyer, Spearhead and Unsworth. Chardonnays, too, can age beautifully. If you can find a bottle, the Westcott Chardonnay Reserve 2018 from Niagara should be at peak. When I tasted it five years ago, it felt like it was just settling in. It should be spectacular now. A good fall back would be the 2023 vintage; put it away for a few years.

The best way to understand how wines develop, of course, is to taste older vintages. I like to do this at Archive Wine Bar in Toronto. The place is unpretentious, with convivial staff who take the time to help you find a wine you will love. They always have a couple dozen interesting global wines at the ready for tasting. And if you guess the mystery wine’s grape, appellation and year, you win a bottle. (No pressure.)

TA TASTE OF HONG KONG

Where great taste can always be found

HE TASTIEST DIM SUM DUMPLINGS.

The tenderest traditional noodles. The juiciest ginger steak. Cantonese street food. Elevated regional Chinese food. This is Hong Kong at its most delicious. The city and its award-winning chefs savour its diversity, taking the culture of one of the world’s most international cities and making it quintessentially Hong Kong. Yum cha? The best. Curry? Why not? Milky sweet Tea – poured for dramatic effect from a height through the finest of what appear to be silky mesh stockings. Absolutely. And don’t forget to have a buttery sweet pineapple bun on the side.

A foodie traveller’s appetite for the best in global cuisine is only matched by an essentially inherent craving for discovery. Taste Hong Kong will fully satiate and inspire discerning palates and culinary adventurers. This new gourmet guide goes beyond the typical listings of restaurants. Taste Hong Kong is a unique collaboration. With the expert guidance of more than 50 chefs, the Hong Kong Tourism Board launches the ultimate food lover’s manual.

This chef-curated guide highlights more than 250 restaurants – favourites of the participating chefs, who by the way are all graduates of the Chinese Culinary Institute (CCI) “Master Chef Course in Chinese Cuisine” – across Hong Kong’s many neighbourhoods (the city is made up of 18 distinct districts). It’s part of the reason Hong Kong is known as one of the world’s epicentres of epicurean taste and discovery.

The city is home to many Michelin-starred dining rooms, including those of Canadian top chef Alvin Leung, known as the Demon Chef; and Vicky Cheng, who got his start in a Toronto suburb. Hong Kong inspired them both to take their cooking to the next level. But it’s also the street level that influences. Taste Hong Kong brings the city to you, with a unique insider view of an authentic sense of place – not just a place to eat, but a neighbourhood to visit, where the local culture can be taken in along with the food.

At the three Michelin-starred Forum Restaurant (yes, we said three stars!), chef Adam Wong is at the forefront of elevated Cantonese cuisine. But his heart beats for his culinary roots. “When I think about Hong Kong food, I think about the neighbourhood places I always go back to – dai pai dongs, cha chaan tengs and

A FOODIE TRAVELLER’S APPETITE FOR THE BEST IN GLOBAL CUISINE IS ONLY MATCHED BY

AN ESSENTIALLY INHERENT CRAVING FOR DISCOVERY

small restaurants that define the city’s everyday dining culture. These spots reflect how locals really eat and the city’s culinary soul,” says Wong. “I am excited to be part of this guide because it gives visitors a genuine way to experience Hong Kong through the food and neighbourhoods that locals know and love.”

Consider it your handbook to gastronomic adventure, infused with the personalities of contributing chefs. From haute hotel dining rooms to hidden local gems; hideaway cafés and traditional Chinese cooking; historic neighbourhoods that reveal the city through its people and its cuisine. For Lee Man-sing, executive chef of Mott 32 Group (also check out his outposts in Vancouver and Toronto), it’s about his deep connection to Hong Kong and the effortless way locals prepare their food. “I have always believed that some of Hong Kong’s best food is found in the simplest settings, whether it’s a comforting bowl of noodles or hot pot shared with friends,” says Man-sing.

Organized by neighbourhoods, Taste Hong Kong will appeal to both visitors and locals. Venture out of Central, visit local hidden gems alongside the creatives who are in residence in Kowloon’s Sham Shui Po, experience a bustling street kitchen, marvel at the skills of a cook tossing fresh ingredients into a wok over a flaming stove top at a traditional dai pai dong open-air food stall or finish out the day at a tiny sweet shop café in Sha Tin that’s reached dessert cult status.

To help navigate the city, QR codes will be displayed at various MTR stations, bus shelters and visitor signage across neighbourhoods. And you can take it with you: a downloadable digital edition of Taste Hong Kong will be available, acting as both a reference and a helpful way to build your gourmet adventure itinerary.

“The restaurants highlighted in Taste Hong Kong are places with history, consistency and heart,” says chef Man-sing. “They show why Hong Kong is one of the world’s most exciting cities to eat in.”

To discover the full Taste of Hong Kong guide and begin your culinary adventure, visit tastehk.discoverhongkong.com. Download the digital guide, watch the neighbourhood videos and join the conversation using #TasteHongKong to discover the authentic flavours that define Hong Kong, one neighbourhood at a time.

In a tribute to designer great Giorgio Armani, it’s not just a revisited style vibe, it’s a state of mind

By Alison McGill

T POWER DRESSING

HE FASHION CYCLE loves a throwback moment, and right now we’re firmly in the midst of an ’80s renaissance. The era of excess was one of many moods, but one of the most iconic to come out of the decade was confidence.

In the workplace, the 1980s were an age of empowerment for women who were finally starting to land the big career gigs once only handed to men. Fun fact: According to the US-based National Centre for Education Statistics, beginning in that decade, more than half of bachelor’s degrees were awarded to women and, as women became more educated, the income gap finally began to shrink (although nearly four decades later, we’re not quite there yet), with women rising up the workplace ranks to higher-paying positions.

This change in women’s roles brought with it an important shift in what we wore. Fashion became less about softness and femininity; more about embracing a radical, bold new aesthetic focused on strong silhouettes like masculine suiting, jackets with sculptural shoulders, crisp white shirts and precisely tailored pencil skirts. From a pop culture perspective, shows like Dynasty, Knots Landing and L.A. Law were harbingers of the

new power dressing feminist mood.

In post-pandemic times, when all of us have struggled to get our groove back and emerge from a cocoon of at-home coziness, it’s not a surprise to see that retro power dressing is back in a massive way, seen on fashion runways, celebrities and on the tiny screens we scroll our social platforms on. Designers from Armani to Prada and Saint Laurent have brought power dressing back to the spotlight at a time when we are once again looking to be taken seriously and get work done.

“Moving back into our public lives at the office, and out in the world, we are ready to feel powerful and engaged,” says Alison Bruhn, a style and image consultant and member of the Associate of Image Consultants International who helps women find their style groove through her multi-media platform, The Style That Binds Us, which she runs with her business partner and daughter Delia Folk. “When you want to be respected in your field and stand apart from the crowd, you need to dress the part. Every day in work, as in life, you are making first impressions, so make them count!”

Bruhn shares she’s a firm believer in the philosophy of don’t dress for the job you have now, but dress for the job you want. Regarding power dressing in 2026, Bruhn is happy to see a return to polish because it brings such a strong sense of self with it. “Clothes affect our mood much more than people realize,” she explains. “Power dressing makes you feel stronger and prepared for whatever the day brings. You stand taller, look people in the eye and feel ready to take on the world. The act of putting on your clothing signals to your brain that you are important and competent, which naturally translates to better self-confidence.”

According to Bruhn, the modern power aesthetic is all about updated versions of ’80s classics. Quality fabrics, impeccably tailored pieces and understated, super-polished clothing a la Shiv in Succession (consider her your poster girl) are the essentials. Shoulder pads are even part of the mix to give a stronger silhouette to structured pieces, but they are not nearly as bigged up as they were back in the day.

TRAVELLING ON BUSINESS

So, what are the essential power pieces? Bruhn says a pair of fitted black trousers are the foundation of your wardrobe. “You can wear these dressed up with a great pair of heels for professional events or dressed down for a more casual chic look with sneakers or a classic loafer,” she details. “Choose the best quality you can afford and a little insider tip styling I always like to share is that you can make your clothes look more elegant and elevated if you have them tailored to fit your body, not worn straight off the rack.”

Other items to add to cart include a perfect fit blazer and a little black dress. “Choose a style in this category that is simple in design and versatile,” Bruhn reports. “Stay away from anything with ruffles, bows and flowers because you are going for sharp angles, not softness. You can layer in some print and interest with a print blouse to wear with your pants and jacket or a great statement necklace to pair with your dress.”

On the note of accessories, Bruhn stresses they are the power player of this big business aesthetic. An impactful handbag and great shoes speak volumes, and your outerwear is key, too. “Your entrance and exit are going to be remembered,” she says. “Grooming is also so important – if you come to work with wet hair, that doesn’t send a message that you are powerful and polished, rather that you are inexperienced and always running late.”

1. THE SHARP SUIT

These chic pieces will become the cornerstone of your work wardrobe. The double breasted jacket and draped pants make this duo dynamic. RW & Co. Limitless blazer and pants rw-co.com

2. THE BOSS RED LIPSTICK

Nothing says large and in charge like a red lip, and this punchy blue-red shade is one of the most beloved. This velvet matte formula offers a fresh spin on a classic MAC red. MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Hazy Matte Lipstick in Ruby New maccosmetics.ca

3. THE WHITE SHIRT

T Line is a Canadian label we

love, and the crisp, menswearinspired shirt is a piece that can be styled in so many cool, confident ways. T Line Isabel shirt shoptline.com

4. THE MODERN PUMPS

A classic black heel is forever chic and goes with anything from power suits to denim. The elongated square toe and flared heel are the details that make these pumps feel fresh. Maguire Navia pumps maguireshoes.com

5. THE TIMELESS TRENCH

This luxe leather coat is a cool spin on a classic. We love that this piece is the cornerstone of Reformation’s new workwear lineup, a collection fronted by

Reformation Veda Ashland coat thereformation.com

6. THE CHUNKY HOOPS

Bold gold pieces were a stalwart of every ’80s accessory collection. These puffy, angular hoops are a retro-inspired design that you will reach for daily. Kara Yoo Hazel Hoop Earrings karayoo.com

7. THE CAPRICIOUS HANDBAG

One of the chicest carryalls going, this Saint Laurent classic is big enough to pack all your essentials in and is anything but ludicrous. Saint Laurent Sac De Jour ysl.com

TROPICAL

PUNCH

Take a cue from nature when packing for your next getaway and make it a wardrobe of lively florals inspired by the tropics. Take it higher with strappy heels and juicy hits of orange and gold accessories, and you’re good to go.

Photography, Andrea Varani Words, Vivian Vassos

Fresh Prints: The classic white shirt is reimagined as a maxi-length belted shirtdress that works day or night. (Opposite) Wrap a matching pareo over your bikini for an instant outfit ready for beach strolls or casual meet-ups. Photographed on location in Isola d’Elba, Italy; styling, Azzurra Gabrscek for Isa Belle; hair and makeup, Angelo Nenna Pintor; wardrobe, all Isa Belle.

PERFECT TIMING

Make 2027 the year you cruise the world with Scenic Discovery Yachts

I

MAGINE STANDING on the Canadian tundra at Churchill, Manitoba – the polar bear capital of the world – with these white giants in sight (at a safe distance, naturally!), your Expert Discovery Team explaining the way these majestic animals live. Or observe beluga whales, their sleek, vanilla bodies swimming serenely in their natural habitat directly from Scenic Discovery Yacht Scenic Eclipse’s deck. Meet with Indigenous communities, and learn their ancient lore and deeply revered traditions, passed down through the generations.

This is Scenic Discovery Yachts. A world where ultra-luxury and discovery meet, where all-inclusive and thoughtful design meets opportunities to create stories you’ll cherish for life. The Scenic Eclipse is state-of-the-art, so nimble, it can traverse the deepest oceans on expeditions cruises, but equally carve seamlessly through the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean or navigate the rugged coastlines of Central and South America. All seven continents are open to the bold traveller.

Whether you’re sailing the clear blue waters of the Caribbean in wave season or winter’s polar cruises, there’s no limit to the options on a Scenic Discovery Yacht – at any time of year. Scenic’s itineraries are the essence of ultra-luxury, truly all-inclusive discovery yacht cruising. Travelling on a

Scenic Discovery Yacht allows guests to effortlessly immerse themselves in this unique sailing experience wherever we make port and on days at sea. It will result in unforgettable travel memories and, at the same time, inspire guests to take one of the many wellness opportunities to relax and unwind.

Every destination brings a new opportunity for discovery, journeys that will open the mind and spirit to awe. An all-encompassing immersion of cultural encounters, engaging excursions, wildlife sightings and exclusive experiences that connect guests with the destinations. Racing fans sailing the French Riviera will have an opportunity to attend one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events: The Monaco Grand Prix – Formula 1. Or board a helicopter in Antarctica for encounters with the elusive Emperor Penguin. It’s travelling with intention.

On board Scenic Discovery Yacht’s Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, the wealth of activities is matched by the ways to feed the body and soul. With up to 10 dining experiences and wellness facilities that make life at sea the stress-free pleasure that a vacation should be. Relaxation is the key word here, with personalized butler service and a wonderfully attentive crew to assist in discovering the best of life while on board Scenic Discovery Yachts.

WHAT TO BOOK:

A few of the new itinerary highlights for 2027 and 2028 on board Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II include Egypt and the pyramids in August 2027; the Balearic Isles in April 2027; Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords in November 2027; and Antarctica in late 2027 and early 2028.

Scenic Eclipse will take guests from Greenland to Hudson Bay, Canada, a region renowned for its polar bears, beluga whales, and indigenous communities, with a visit to Churchill, Canada, known as the polar bear capital of the world in August 2027 (191N, 221N).

Scenic Eclipse will sail from Panama City to Valparaiso, Chile, passing through national parks in Panama and Colombia, along with visits to Peru’s Desert Civilizations and Chile’s Central Valley in October 2027 (801L).

scenic.ca | 1 833 220 7868

CRUISING THE WORLD

WHERE THE SHIP IS AS DESTINATION-WORTHY AS THE SHORE

CRUISE INNOVATIONS

Greener Ships and Grander Designs

When tech is a good thing: Cleaner-running vessels, thoughtful design and better access. The enterprising evolution of cruising is now By Tim Johnson

CRUISING HAS NEVER BEEN bigger, and as we navigate 2026, more guests are boarding ships than ever before.

The Cruise Lines Industry Association (CLIA) forecasts 39.6 million ocean-going passengers will sail this year, a five percent increase over 2025.

And really, it’s not surprising, because taking a voyage is a truly awesome thing. Step on a ship. Steam out of port. Have a nice meal and a good sleep and wake up in a new destination. What’s not to love?

With the increased popularity, timing is everything. Experts say if you find a voyage that’s a good fit, lock it down now. “We’re seeing a clear shift toward earlier decision-

making, with Canadian guests booking their river and ocean cruises further in advance than ever before,” says Lisa McCaskill, vice president, sales & marketing, for Scenic Group Canada.

And this year, new innovations and expansions will continue to make for smooth sailing. Here are a few of the biggest trends.

Cleaner and greener

“Sustainability isn’t a buzzword for the cruise industry – it’s something they’re investing in heavily, as a matter of course,” says Aaron Saunders, a cruise columnist and a former editor at Cruise Critic, the world’s largest website for cruises. Part of that sustainability effort involves how the ships are propelled.

Many lines are experimenting with cleanerburning fuels.

A few examples. The two newest vessels in Princess Cruises’ fleet, Star Princess and Sphere Princess, run on LNG (liquid natural gas), which is fast becoming the industry standard for making large ships more energy efficient. And Greek-based Celestyal Cruises became the first line, last year, to cruise the Mediterranean using biofuel.

Scenic Eclipse Discovery Yachts are reducing sulphur emissions by up to 95 percent by using the lightest grade of marine fuel. And their advanced propulsion system is further limiting fuel consumption (while also limiting noise and vibration impacts on sea life). On the Danube, AmaWaterways’

AmaMagna, a ship twice as wide as most river vessels, is cutting fuel consumption by up to 20 percent by using a 10-engine hybrid system. And across their fleet, Ama is further limiting environmental impact by harnessing solar power and using LED lighting.

The Viking Libra, which is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship. It will be capable of operating with zero emissions. Australia’s Aurora Expeditions is taking a different approach, using an AI-powered navigation system. This will allow their small vessels to ride currents rather than resisting them – resulting in overall reductions in emissions and fuel use.

Luxe goes even more upscale

While the movement toward bigger and bigger mass-market mega ships continues, the higher end of the market is reaching evergreater peaks. For starters, your favourite fivestar accommodation might be available on water, too. “The big trend now is hotel world players like Four Seasons, Aman and Orient Express coming in,” says Gene Sloan, Cruise Team Lead for The Points Guy (and former long-time cruise editor for USA Today). The Orient Express’s Corinthian, launching in June of this year, will be the world’s largest luxury sailing yacht.

“The next generation of ships are being designed with huge suites and super highend amenities,” says cruise expert and writer Dayna Howard Freeman. Two examples: Explora Journeys’ Explora III (the luxury offering from MSC cruiseline), which will launch in Summer of this year, will have more of the ultra-spacious Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences than its two predecessors. And not one, but two Owner’s Residences (the equivalent of a hotel’s presidential suite).

Freeman highlights Regent’s Seven Seas Prestige, which will launch in late 2026. The ship includes the Skyview Regent Suite, which the line is calling “the largest all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise ship suite in history.” Think 8,794 square feet of space spread across two floors, including a wraparound balcony, and private in-suite elevator, personal gym and sauna. (Rates start at $25,000 USD per night.) And it’s not just suites. Seven Seas Prestige, which is the first in a new class of Regent’s ultra-luxury vessels, seeks to evoke old-world grandeur, with its Renaissance-inspired Starlight Atrium and twin spiral staircases. Plus, a magnificent chandelier handmade by Preciosa, a Czech company that’s been doing special things with crystal since 1724.

One more example: the Emerald Kaia, which will launch in April of this year, will stay true to its sister ships’ design collab with

furnishings and decor from Missoni, the luxury fashion house based in Italy.

The river continues to flow Now going well beyond the Rhine and the Danube, you can sail more of the world’s waterways on ever-growing fleets of small, sleek river ships. In a sprawling naming ceremony this past October near their offices in Basel, Viking christened their 100th ship. And an interesting development: ocean stalwart Celebrity Cruises is heading to the river, too. Their first vessels will launch in 2027, and the line has announced plans for a fleet of 20 ships by 2031. Two examples that we know about already: infinite balconies, and the intriguing-sounding cantilevered dining pods. (The latter will be nooks suspended off the sides, giving the feeling of floating over the river.)

And in May, Emerald will launch their new river ship, Astra, which will sail the Danube. The vessel will bring the style all around it, inside. Art installations will be curated by famed European galleries, and design will be done by fashionable brands like the Bavarian Freifrau.

It’s not just more ships, but more rivers, too. One example is the AmaMelodia, launched late last year. It navigates Colombia’s Magdalena River, which only recently started seeing mainline river cruises.

BOLD

ITINERARIES

GOING ALL IN

Anchors away for the carefree luxury of all-inclusive cruising. Here, three to consider By Toby

Saltzman

THE BEST ALL-INCLUSIVE cruise lines provide attentive service, luxurious accommodations and dining in all specialty restaurants, while ensuring you feel you own your precious holiday time, free to enjoy all the cruise pleasures without surprise fees. Unlimited Champagne, premium wines and spirits, stocked in-suite mini-bars, fine ensuite amenities, plus free WI-FI, engaging onboard entertainment and enrichment programs, cooking demos and fitness facilities. They include onboard gratuities, port taxes and fees, and overnight stays in key ports. To help guests avoid tedious planning, the best all-inclusives offer optional air-cruise packages including flights, transfers and pre- and/or post-cruise hotels and tours.

SEABOURN’S yacht-like ocean vessels and expedition ships are renowned for intimate ambience and luxurious lifestyle and the ease to slip into hidden ports. Most all-suite accommodations have verandas. Seabourn’s excellent dining and culinary experiences include complimentary signature events such as Marina Day water sports, Caviar in the Surf, Caviar on Ice in polar regions and the spectacular Evening at Ephesus at Mediterranean sunset.

WHAT TO BOOK: The 14-day Jewels of the British Isles, looping from Dover, England aboard the 600-passenger Seabourn Ovation epitomizes the line’s “luxury meets exploration” mantra as guests explore coastal scenery,

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, local culture and distilleries along the way. Access Bath and Stonehenge, Cobh-Cork, Ireland, Wales. the Isle of Man, the Isle of Bute, Glasgow, Belfast, Oban, and Leith for Edinburgh, where tours include Holyroodhouse and historic St. Andrews. Seabourn.com/en/ca/

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES

charts elegant global voyages on its all-suite ships carrying between 496 and 850 guests, including Seven Seas Prestige, launching in December 2026. Regent fares include ground transfers and valet laundry service. Regent provides unlimited complimentary guided shore excursions in each port, though

Silversea’s S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program

premium excursions – such as whale watching and Epicurean Explorer culinary expeditions – incur a fee. Regent’s sumptuous specialty restaurants offer French cuisine, pan-Asian delicacies or Italian delights.

WHAT TO BOOK: Regent’s Early Autumn Vibrance itinerary aboard the 746-guest Regent Seven Seas Splendor from New York to Montreal showcases Canada with visits to Saint John, Halifax and Sydney, Charlottetown and Quebec City. rssc.com

SILVERSEA’S fleet of small ocean and expedition ships can access ports unreachable by larger vessels. The line’s all-suite accommodations, most with veranda, each have a dedicated butler. Superb dining options include French gastronomy, Italian cuisine and Japanese fusion. Silversea’s renowned S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) immersive culinary programs reflect regional cuisine and culture. All-inclusive expedition sailings, including Antarctica, Arctic and Galapagos include charter flights, pre- and/or post-cruise hotel, expedition gear and guided Zodiac jaunts.

WHAT TO BOOK: The 11-day voyage Civitavecchia-Rome to Barcelona aboard the 728-passenger Silver Ray from May 29-July 9, for views of the Monaco Grand Prix. Places along the way include Livorno and Tuscany, Portofino and Pompeii, Corsica, Monte Carlo and Eze and the French Riviera. silversea.com

Save the Date Sailings

What to book next By

Liz Fleming

NEED A LITTLE jolt of floating excitement? Your timing couldn’t be better. The lineup of cruises to choose from for later in 2026 and 2027 is nothing short of dazzling.

Maybe this is the year you’ll choose the “Best of Holland and Belgium” with AmaWaterways. A late November sailing will mean the ports will be decked out to celebrate the festive season – what better time to visit?

Perhaps one of Uniworld’s three new Super Ships will be your choice – the S.S. Audrey, S.S. Marlene and S.S. São Rafael are all sailing on Portugal’s Douro River. For those who love the Danube River but want to try a different cruise, Riverside Cruises offers a ‘Danube Serenade’ with a Vienna Focus, departing July 2026. Its unique Riverside Choice program allows you to select what and how you want to explore in Dürnstein, the Wachau Valley, Esztergom and more.

If what you need is a cruise with an emphasis on you, the answer might be Scenic Cruises’ Wellness Retreat, a yoga and Pilatesenhanced sailing featuring everything from healthy cooking classes to in-depth wellness lectures. The cruise sails from Panama City to Valparaíso in October 2026. Or maybe complete self-indulgence aboard Explora Journeys’ stunning new Explora III will

be your next adventure, sailing from South Hampton to Norway, through the beauty of the fjords, embarking August 2026.

The yachting life always appeals, so plan a July 2027 sailing aboard the intimate 15-suite ocean exploring Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Blu and enjoy the 13-night ‘Bali, Singapore & Indonesia Expedition.’ You might spot manta rays, whale sharks and Komodo Dragons. Red Sea itineraries aboard Emerald Cruises’ luxury yachts are always exciting, featuring everything from The Great Pyramids of Giza and Petra to breathtaking natural wonders like the Wadi Rum Desert. Sailing on a luxury yacht in November 2026, guests will explore the historic Yanbu, the elegant resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh and the cultural centre of Safaga.

Looking for outstanding cuisine and dynamic adventure? Treat your taste buds to Oceania Cruises’ 14-day ‘London to

Stockholm, Castles & Countryside’ itinerary embarking May 2027. If a taste for the outof-the-ordinary calls to you instead, consider a February 2027 Bali to Bangkok sailing from with top-notch Regent Seven Seas Cruises. As you glide from one stunning port to another, you’ll experience the beauty of the South China Sea, and the cultural treasures of Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Borneo, Brunei, Vietnam and Thailand – a stunning itinerary. Crystal Cruises’ Manaus/Amazon cruise aboard Crystal Symphony in January 2027 promises to be a showstopper. Exploring everything from the glamour of St. Bart’s to the lively markets of St. George’s, you’ll make your way to Manaus, the gateway of the Amazon rainforest.

Looking for a chance to glimpse the Northern Lights or a Baltic adventure? MSC Cruises, the ever-expanding line is known for great itineraries. We’re excited about the MSC Magnifica’s Northern Europe offerings, particularly the cruise that sails round trip from Warnemunde (Berlin) in July 2026 and September 2027 with calls at Gdynia (Gdansk-Danzig), Poland, Visby and Stockholm, Sweden, and Riga, Latvia.

If a week or two just isn’t enough, consider boarding the über-elegant Seabourn Pursuit for a 64-Day ‘Kimberley Expedition & Islands Of The Pacific’ itinerary, departing September 2026. Experience not only the islands of Tahiti but also the exciting coastline of Australia as you unplug and indulge for more than two months. Silversea, another leader in the ultra-luxury expedition category, also offers an Australian extravaganza – from Darwin to Fremantle (Perth) embarking August 2027 for a 16-day adventure featuring 12 ports and everything from the tides of the Buccaneer Group to Australia’s Indigenous heritage and historic cave art.

ERELAXED LUXURY, AUTHENTIC ADVENTURES

Sailing into wellness with Emerald Yacht Cruises

MBRACE THE YACHT life with well-being at sea. The ease of knowing everything is taken care of, from your daily excursions to your dining experiences, is only part of the stress-free journey.

Stretch your body with guided yoga classes, soothe your muscles with a bespoke massage and enrich your mind with historic and fascinating ports of call, whether strolling with a local expert or simply adventuring out on your own.

Take a breath at Saint Lucia’s renowned volcanic spa, with its therapeutic mud baths and hots springs, or soak in the crystal waters of the grottoes of Virgin Gorda’s iconic Baths. Take a break from the world, and book a treatment at Emerald’s Elements Spa. A serene respite from the daily hustle, it will reset you to fully enjoy your vacation.

Experiencing the Yacht life on an Emerald ship is like no other. Sailing on board Emerald Yacht Cruises’ Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara is akin to cruising the waters where a private yacht meets the best of a boutique hotel. With a maximum of 100 guests, these yachts are intimate and yet never feel crowded. In April 2026, they will be joined by Emerald Kaia, after it sails its inaugural outing in Europe.

With a more expansive layout, Emerald Kaia will welcome 128 guests, and features the company’s signature Missoni decor and

furnishings. And, like its sister ships, there is a greater focus on well-being with a choice of active shore excursions and wellness through the cruise line’s EmeraldACTIVE program. Want to go for a cycle? We’ve got you ready to spin, with a selection of e-bicycles of all sizes on board. Feel like a hike. Guided walk options are available daily, or ask our staff members for maps and insider recommendations.

On Emerald Kaia, guests can relax on sun loungers around the additional Spa Pool, where they can watch the world sail by, admire the views and celebrate the end of another beautiful day with a sundowner cocktail or two. Working out becomes a pleasure when there’s the flexibility of the indoor/outdoor gym. Why not break a sweat al fresco? Then dive into the warm waters directly off the ship’s marina platform. Watersports lovers can also snorkel or kayak, whatever your heart desires.

Speaking of al fresco, is there anything better than having dinner with the gentle breeze and sea air adding to the ambience? We think not. Its signature restaurant, La Cucina, has been redesigned with an open kitchen where you can appreciate the art of cooking and savour the tastes of local cuisine, while the new Night Market Grill offers a private dining experience for up to eight guests.

Bon appetit!

WHAT TO BOOK:

All yachts sail the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean Seas and the Indian Ocean. The brand offers innovatively designed ships, outstanding service and a focus on active shore excursions and wellness through their signature EmeraldACTIVE program.

Mediterranean Rivieras: 12 Days from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Lisbon, with stops in stunning port cities such as Livorno, Ajaccio, Palma de Mallorca, Málaga, and Tangier. Departing Oct 27, 2026

Eastern Caribbean with St. Barths: 8 Day, from Bridgetown to Marigot, Saint Martin, including stops in Soufrière, Gustavia and Îles des Saintes. Departing Dec 20, 2026, Jan 16, 30, Feb 13, 27 and Mar 13, 27, 2027. emeraldcruises.ca | 1 833 220 7895

NICARAGUA: THE HEART OF CENTRAL AMERICA’S SPARKLING GEM

Nicaragua is having a moment. At the top of many travel experts’ lists as the destination to experience next, the Central American country is in the spotlight. Here, a few reasons why Nicaragua should be your next vacation destination, too.

FIND BALANCE IN NATURE

Sustainability isn't a buzzword here – it's the blueprint. With more than half of the country designated as protected natural reserves, Nicaragua offers eco-tourism experiences that safeguard, rather than strain, local ecosystems. Community participation is at its core –prioritizing rural, coastal and Afro-descendant communities to ensure everyone benefits. This ethos is designed to sustain destinations while strengthening them.

PEAK EXCITEMENT

Volcanoes make for dramatic moments. Nicaragua's soul-stirring volcanic landscape is one of its most signature draws. At Cerro Negro, thrill-seekers can try volcano boarding – racing down the slopes of an active 728-metre (2,388-foot) volcano in an experience found almost nowhere else in the world. The heart-pounding descent takes just two to five minutes, dropping nearly 400 vertical metres from summit to base at speeds reaching up to 90 km/h.

Masaya and San Cristóbal volcanoes offer some of Central America's most accessible and rewarding hikes, with sweeping views across lava fields and rainforest. On Ometepe Island – formed by two towering volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua – active travellers who are also looking for a little rest and relaxation can summit one peak in the morning and unwind on secluded lakeside beaches in the afternoon.

COLONIAL CITIES WITH SOUL

On the shore of Lake Cocibolca, the city of Granada is home to the striking Granada Cathedral, the anchor to one of Central America's most photogenic historic centres. The cathedral is so iconic that it appears on the back of Nicaragua's 100 córdoba banknotes, alongside a horse-drawn carriage – a beloved symbol of Granada's colonial charm. León is known for its cultural legacy, revolutionary history and thriving art scene. Here, visitors can climb onto the sprawling white rooftop of its colonial-era cathedral – the largest in Central America and an ode to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – for 360 degree views of red-tiled roofs and a chain of volcanoes on the horizon. Below, a network of tombs holds the remains of legendary Nicaraguan figures, including poet Rubén Darío, the 'Father of Modernismo' and one of the most influential Spanish-language poets in history. His tomb is guarded by a sorrowful lion – a subtle nod to his name and enduring legacy.

Both cities showcase preserved Spanish architecture and landmark sites that tell the story of Nicaragua's layered past. Wander cobblestone streets, explore intimate museums and plan trips around vibrant cultural festivals that celebrate Nicaraguan traditions, music and cuisine. In Diriamba, the thunderous San Sebastián festival is more than a spectacle – it's a living tradition, sustained in part by the very travellers who come to witness it.

SEEKING SANCTUARY

Travel has shifted. The modern traveller wants to stay in places with soul –places that reflect their surroundings, support local communities and offer experiences impossible to replicate elsewhere. In Nicaragua, those places exist. From a 2,700-acre coastal sanctuary to a private island retreat, from a cloud forest coffee estate to a car-free Caribbean hideaway, these Eco-Lodges set the standard for immersive, intentional escape. Whether you seek adventure, wellness or pure tranquility, Nicaragua offers a sanctuary perfectly matched to your spirit.

Rancho Santana: A 2,700-acre coastal destination named one of the best resorts in Central America by Condé Nast Traveller and Travel + Leisure. Surf, horseback ride, hike and unwind at the hillside spa – all while spotting sea turtles and howler monkeys. ranchosantana.com

Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa: An exclusive enclave on the Emerald Coast where private tree suite bohíos come with personal butlers and plunge pools. Enjoy a world-class golf course, transformative spa rituals and untouched beaches. mukulresort.com Tree Casa Resort: An architectural masterpiece of open-air villas with private infinity pools suspended above the forest. Designed for profound privacy and device-free reconnection with nature. treecasaresort.com Morgan's Rock: A 4,000-acre conservation project where guests cross a majestic suspension bridge to reach rustic-elegant bungalows. Kayak through estuaries, release baby sea turtles and tour the organic farm. morgansrock.com Jicaro Island Ecolodge: A private two-island sanctuary on Lake Nicaragua with solar-powered casitas crafted from reclaimed hardwoods. Paddleboard at sunrise, practice yoga on private platforms and stargaze from rooftop decks. jicaroisland.com

Selva Negra: A historic family-run coffee estate and cloud forest reserve in the cool Matagalpa highlands. Hike orchid-draped trails, learn organic coffee production and spot rare quetzals. selvanegra.com

Yemaya Reefs: A barefoot-luxury hideaway on car-free Little Corn Island, where palapa-topped cabanas sit steps from vibrant coral reefs. Snorkel among parrotfish, lounge in double hammocks over water and savour coastal cuisine. yemayalittlecorn.com

Nicaragua resists the urge to soften its edges that make it unique. Here, volcanoes smoke on the horizon, colonial churches creek and settle with age and beach towns close up at sundown because that's when locals go home.

Nicaragua offers something increasingly rare in travel: a place that feels discovered yet untamed, welcoming yet wonderfully itself. Whether you come for the volcanoes, the colonial streets or the simple rhythm of a beach town at sunset, you'll leave with more than memories. You'll leave with the quiet satisfaction of having been somewhere real.

It's raw, real and ready for travellers who prefer their adventures unscripted. With direct flights from major Canadian cities to Managua, reaching your unforgettable escape has never been easier.

Start planning your journey now.

In Costa Rica’s Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Oropéndula Waterfall tumbles through a steep volcanic gorge into a glowing turquoise basin below.

Opposite: With its vibrant yellow bib and striking chestnut back, the Yellow-throated Toucan is one of the most colourful inhabitants of the rainforest canopy.

The Magnificen T Seven

The countries of Central America each deserve their moment in the spotlight, every one with stories uniquely their own

By Aaron Rasmussen

cENTRAL AMERICA may be compact – it’s roughly the size of Spain – but what it lacks in scale, the seven countries that form this narrow bridge of land between North and South America more than make up for in range and richness. Visitors can snorkel off sandy Caribbean islands and surf the thundering Pacific or sip coffee at its misty highlands source and learn about Indigenous traditions in the cloud forests.

I’ve repeatedly returned to this part of the world in the past few years, drawn back each time by its layered cultural heritage, dramatic landscapes and meaningful immersions. It’s also easy to reach and there’s little to no time difference, so jet leg is minimal. Here’s how each country stands apart, so you can decide which one might best fit your travel style.

Belize

AN ENGLISH-SPEAKING country with a distinctly Caribbean vibe, Belize embodies casual, barefoot luxury. I stayed at Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection property located just 600 yards from the Belize Barrier Reef on the island of Ambergris Caye. During the day, I zipped through town on a golf cart and made my way to Secret Beach, where I floated in clear, bathtub-warm water before returning to the resort for cocktails at the pool bar. Dinner that evening was a sunset seafood feast at Vista Rooftop. On another day, I quite literally swam with the nurse sharks off a boat at Shark Ray Alley in the protected Hol Chan Marine Reserve. They were harmless, but it was a thrilling adventure that proved to be the perfect prelude to unwinding with a guided mixology experience at the hotel’s cocktail lounge, Arlie’s.

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c o ST a Rica

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ONE OF CENTRAL AMERICA’S most visited destinations, Costa Rica is celebrated for its wildlife and the many national parks and protected rainforests that shelter them. The country has long attracted eco-minded travellers, but a new wave of top-tier openings is adding a polished, luxe layer to its jungle offerings. Last year, Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique and the cliffside Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, on Peninsula Papagayo joined the roster of high-end retreats. This year, the all-inclusive JW Marriott Costa Elena makes its debut on the sun-drenched shores of Guanacaste. For an even more elevated and intimate experience, Villa Avellana, also in Guanacaste, offers a 10-bedroom estate within a gated enclave on its own beach, shrouded by the dry-forest canopy. Available for buyout only, it accommodates up to 23 people in a private retreat that feels both like a luxurious family home and a five-star resort. Adding to the pura vida vibe, guests here can also embark on ocean excursions aboard a crewed 42-foot luxury yacht.

3g ua T e M ala

GUATEMALA IS STEEPED in culture and blessed with beautiful landscapes, and two Relais & Châteaux properties capture the country’s essence in distinct ways. At Villa Bokéh, a six-acre botanical estate just outside the UNESCO-listed colonial city of Antigua, winding paths crisscross through bougainvillea-draped gardens and tranquil courtyards. Here, the setting shapes every moment, from welcome drinks infused with garden-grown florals to hands-on bouquet-making workshops. For a more art-forward stay, the 15-room Casa Palopó sits high above Lake Atitlán, with the volcanoes Atitlán, Tolimán and San Pedro forming a dramatic backdrop. Its design-driven approach showcases for guests Guatemala’s radiant textiles and local hand-crafted traditions, while curated experiences – such as traditional Mayan blessing rituals and boat excursions to nearby lakeside villages – deepen the cultural immersion.

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e l Salvado R

TOURISM IN EL SALVADOR, Central America’s smallest country, is surging, and wave chasers from around the world are flocking to the wild Pacific coast in search of the next big break at Surf City. My own recent journey, however, began just minutes after leaving the airport, with a stop at one of the ubiquitous roadside eateries serving a signature Salvadoran specialty: pupusas, handmade corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans or other fillings and served hot off the griddle with curtido, a tangy, lightly fermented cabbage slaw. I later worked off the local specialties at Cerro Verde National Park, where I spent several hours hiking up the nearly 2,400-metre Santa Ana Volcano. Almost as satisfying as the pupusas was the otherworldly reward at the summit – a caldera filled with a luminous turquoise sulfur lake, ringed by rugged volcano peaks, with a bird’s-eye view of the shimmering freshwater expanse of Lake Coatepeque in the distance.

h ondu R a S

THE BAY ISLANDS, especially Roatán and Utila, are Honduras’s scuba diving stars. But on a trip during the dry season, I headed west into the country’s interior to explore the extraordinary Maya ruins of Copán. On the day I visited, this so-called “Athens of the Maya World” felt entirely my own. I scaled pyramids, wandered through tunnels beneath the temples and faced off against towering stelae – stone monoliths carved with the hard, watchful gazes of gods, rulers, jaguars and other figures hewn from volcanic tuff and limestone between the 5th and 9th centuries. The site’s showpiece, the Hieroglyphic Stairway, is a marvel of ancient storytelling, with more than 2,000 intricately carved glyphs forming the longest known pre-Columbian inscription, rising skyward step by step. Today, it’s narrated not by scholars but by the squawks of rainbow-bright macaws that keep noisy vigilance over one of the Maya world’s most captivating archaeological treasures.

Pana M a

NO TRIP TO PANAMA would be complete without watching ships glide through the famed Panama Canal. But I had another mission: to taste Elida Estate’s Geisha, one of the world’s most expensive coffees – one kilo can fetch tens of thousands of dollars – at Sisu Coffee Studio in the heart of Panama City’s Casco Viejo. Revered for its floral aromatics, this brightly acidic coffee revealed complex layers of jasmine, bergamot and tropical fruit, flavours even I, not a regular coffee drinker, could appreciate. Despite the caffeine jolt, I slept like a baby at the nearby Hotel La Compañía. Occupying a full city block, the property is a warren of three interconnected buildings surrounding a lush inner courtyard, each offering a history lesson in Panama City’s multicultural heritage. The American wing is housed in a former clothing store, the French wing a university dating to the 1700s, and the Spanish wing a 17th-century convent.

n ica R agua

NICARAGUA MAY BE CENTRAL AMERICA’S most under-the-radar destination, but it’s emerging as one of the region’s most authentic and adventurous escapes since it still retains a sense of discovery for visitors. The colonial towns Granada and León are a feast for the senses, with their vibrant streets, artisan markets and historic architecture. They’re also ideal jumping-off points for more active outings, whether kayaking or sailing on Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America, or hiking the dormant Mombacho Volcano, whose three main trails overlook Granada and the surrounding islets. Thrill-seekers can turn up the heat at Cerro Negro, where “volcano boarders” hop onto toboggan-like wooden boards and race 400 metres down the cinder cone in mere minutes.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park

A spiritually significant Saskatchewan landscape

By Jennifer Bain

AS THE SUN SETS over the South Saskatchewan River, I’m seated on a bluff at Wanuskewin Heritage Park savouring Métis

chef Jenni Lessard’s Han Wi Moon Dinner starring bison tenderloin seasoned with yarrow and sage, and fry bannock with birch butter and chokecherry syrup. When we move to a roaring campfire for fireweed tea, the park’s founder and chief archaeologist Ernie Walker shares the story of how the resident bison herd uncovered four boulders covered in ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) a few years ago by rubbing, wallowing and pawing in just the right place. The miraculous discovery has helped Wanuskewin pursue a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. “It’s really nice to be on this land, eating good food and hearing

good stories,” shares Lessard. “As a Métis person, when I eat bison, it feels like a direct connection to my past.”

Located on Treaty Six Territory and the Homeland of the Métis outside of Saskatoon, Wanuskewin is a cultural centre and archaeological site that has been a gathering place for more than 6,400 years, first for nomadic Indigenous groups and now for global visitors. Its name roughly translates as “seeking peace of mind” in the Nēhiyawēwin (Plains Cree) language. Visits are as peaceful as they are busy, as I take in a historic buffalo jump site, tipi rings, medicine wheel and the bison that are restoring native grasses. I meet Elders and residential school survivors, listen to a Cree fiddler, watch a powwow dancer in ornate regalia, have goose

soup for lunch, join an interactive activity called “tipi teachings” and am guided across nearly 600 acres. The biggest takeaways –Indigenous cultures are very much alive and evolving, and Saskatchewan isn’t flat and boring. “Unfortunately for you, you are now deputized,” Walker teases. “Spread the word that there’s something special happening in Saskatchewan.” wanuskewin.com

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