Canadian Tourism Industry News, Issues and Opinions

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ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:44:00 +0000

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Canada's Heritage Day A legal paid Holiday?

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:32:00 +0000

Unfortunatly not everywhere!!!!
Canada Heritage Day is Monday February 15, 2010....Plus a number of other important days being celebrated across Canada including Ontario Family Day, Manitoba's Louis Riel Day, and PEI Islanders Day. Find more information on Ontario Family Day Information.

In Manitoba residents celebrate Louis Riel Day, and in Prince Edward Island, Islander Day.

The Canada Heritage Day theme is "Heritage of Sport and Recreation": A number of resources are available to assist communities to develop a program around this theme, The Canadian Heritage Foundation website states, "Across Canada sports and recreation activities have always played a central role in building social cohesion and community involvement. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw an expanding variety of athletic activities being promoted from lacrosse, curling and hockey, to boating, skiing and hiking." Canada Heritage Day is sponsored by The Canadian Heritage Foundation

Busy Month For Haliburton Events-Festivals-Hikes-Walks

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:43:00 +0000

Haliburton Fall Festival

Saturday, October 3

Visit the beautifully decorated Haliburton Village Saturday

October 3rd from 11am to 3pm to enjoy the 2nd Annual Fall Festival. From 8am until 11am enjoy a sausage and pancake breakfast at the Haliburton United Church, $6.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. In the village of Haliburton starting at 11 am until 3pm enjoy face painting, clowns, buskers, and take a chance of guessing the weight of a giant pumpkin and watermelon. The person who has the closest guess will win $200 in BIA gift certificates. A delicious corn roast will be provided downtown in front of V&S, of which all proceeds will be given to the Bridge Youth Centre. There will also be children's entertainer Mary Lambert from Jam Sandwich fame. Mary will start her show in the Foodland parking lot at 11am, and will continue with help from Michou the clown throughout the afternoon until 3pm. For the vintage car lover there will be a show and shine car display with 'Wild Willy' the D.J. providing some great music. Guaranteed fun for all at the Village of Haliburton's Fall Festival Saturday October 3rd.

Minden Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 3

Join in the fun with lots of activities for families including a Hot Dog Eating Contest (child and adult categories), Kids Oktoberfest Games, Pumpkin Painting Contest, an afternoon movie at the Beaver Theatre and a Fire Eating Performance by Ziggy, musicians and more. Evening entertainment includes a special Oktoberfest menus at the Dominion Hotel and Grill on the Gull. Enjoy a great meal inside or outside under the tent. Prizes will be awarded for the best Oktoberfest costume. Also, the winners of the Minden 150 Trivia Contest and Scarecrow Contest will be announced.

Visit Website: www.minden150.ca
Village Of Minden
Contact: Cammy George Tel: 705-286-1936

Haliburton County Studio Tour

October 3-4 and 10-11

36 artists welcome you to 26 different studios to experience the diversity and creativity of the annual Studio Tour. Take a drive through the colourful backroads of Haliburton and visit artists in their working environment. Artist demonstrations, tasty treats, and lots of great, original art and craft work: this is what you will find wherever you see the sign of the Loon. For more information: haliburtonstudiotour.on.ca or call 457.9110.
Visit Website: www.haliburtonstudiotour.on.ca
ontact: 705-457.9110
Email: info@haliburtonstudiotour.on.ca

Haliburton/Stanhope (CND4) Fall Colour Fly In

October 3-4

This is traditionally the BEST weekend for Fall Colours. What a great way to finish the summer flying season.
Visit Website: www.stanhopeairport.com
Haliburton/Stanhope Airport Haliburton
Contact: John Packer Tel: 705-754-2611
Email: airport@halhinet.on.ca

The 56th Corduroy Enduro

October 3-4

The Corduroy Enduro is Canada's most challenging cross-country (off-road) motorcycle event. In the 1950s when the Corduroy began, many of the low-lying back roads and trails in the Haliburton area had sections of corduroy over the swamps (logs laid side by side across the trail) to make them passable - a technique used since pioneer times. The 2-day event consists of a 150 km loop each day which riders must complete in a specified time. There are spectator friendly Special Test Sections to challenge the riders off-road abilities. Riders come from across Canada and the United States for this event. Also included are a non-competitive trail ride and a GPS dual sport ride. At the Community Centre, there will be a vintage bike display, a tire change contest after Saturday's ride, and other social activities.
Visit Website: www.corduroyenduro.ca
ooderham Community Centre
Contact: Bill Davies Tel: 519-485-6720

Fourth 'Books Alive'

Saturday, October 3

The Haliburton Highlands Writers' and Editors' Network hosts a delightful day of readings, networking, and book sales by local writers and visiting authors, at R.D. Lawrence Place in Minden.
Visit Website
R.D. Lawrence Place Minden
Tel: (705) 286-2592
Email: info@haliburtonwriters.ca

Pedal Your Arts: Rolling Hills of Harburn

Saturday, October 3

Visit the studios of Haliburton County artists while enjoying the beauty of the Highlands from your bike. This fully supported 60km cycling tour will take you on a breathtaking adventure along the scenic back roads of the Harburn Hills. We'll stop regularly to visit art studios to talk to the artist, watch demonstrations, and explore natural and cultural features. Original works of art will be on display for show and sale. A tasty lunch is provided. Tours are available with or without accommodation. Visit our Website for more details.
Visit Website: www.yoursoutdoors.ca
Harburn Area Haliburton
Contact: Barrie Martin Tel: 1-705-754-3436
Email: info@yoursoutdoors.ca

Fall Fest Saturday October 3 Activities at the Rails End Gallery & Arts Centre

Saturday, October 3

Sandra Hawkins: The Ecology of Narrative Space
Opening reception Saturday October 3 2-4 pm. Artist talk at 3 pm.

Exhibition continuing until November 15
The title of this exhibition, Ecology of Narrative Space, refers to the intersection of personal and public experiences and our filtered perceptual memories that affect identity in the present. The exhibition shows thirty photomontage prints titled, Arctic Crisis Project, Parts 1 & 2, and an insitu installation titled, Water Leak involving an aerial video projection. Through aesthetic poetics of composition, light and sound, the artist repositions personal and public experiences in the Arctic thirty-years ago into a contemporary aesthetic and socio-environmental discussion on identity. Sandra Hawkins is the author of "The Business of Art" and a popular workshop presenter.

Keith Rydberg: Wooden Memories
Opening reception Saturday October 3 2-4 pm

Exhibition continuing until October 31

Artist present. Keith Rydberg is the winner of the Best of the Show Award, Rural Routes Rails End Members' Show (February 2009). His wood carvings are often inspired by childhood memories and gallery visitors will enjoy how Rydberg uses his art to express his outlook on life.
The artist will return to the Rails End on Saturday October 10 1-3 pm to demonstrate his carving technique.

Artist Trading Cards on the Rotary Common
Join Mark Arike, Arts Council Haliburton Highlands new intern outside on the Common and have some fun making Artist Trading Cards (ATCs). ATCs are a fun way to express yourself with small, original works of spontaneous art. Trade yours with others, or simply add it to the Rails End's growing collection. Weather permitting Mark will be outside the Gallery from noon - 3 pm Saturday afternoon.

Entomological Society of Ontario 146th Annual Meeting

Saturday, October 3, 8:45 am

Special offers for non-members - Plenary Session $ 20 includes coffee break and lunch. Dr. Jonathan Schmidt from the School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph presents:
"Tales from the underworld: Litter arthropods of the Great Lakes Forest" and Dr. Paul Sibley from the School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph presents: "From failed typologies to national biomonitoring programs: Aquatic invertebrates as indicators of their environment" After the Plenary Session there will be an opportunity to view posters by Student and Regular Members. Lunch will be served in the Frost Center Institute Dining Hall at 12:30 pm.
Frost Centre Institute, 20130 Highway 35
Visit website: http://dkbdigitaldesigns.com/eso2009/index2.html

Contact: Kyla Greenham Tel: 705-766-0810
Email: kgreenham@frostcentreinstitute.com

Wakami Wailers

Saturday, October 3. 8:00pm

Step back into history with the Wakami Wailers. They have created the soundtracks of 2 award winning films, "The Winter Camp",depicting life in a "turn of the century" lumbercamp, and "Places Out of Time", which explores Ontario Park's first one hundred years. The Wailers have produced 3 recordings. "The Last of the White Pine Loggers" was recorded in 1987. The recording has since received wonderful responses from folkies, reviewers and historians alike. "Waltz with the Woods", recorded in 1990, is a salute to Ontario's heritage and to its Provincial Parks. Their most recent release, "River Though the Pines" revisits the lumberjack era with a wonderful selection of traditional songs and stories for the turn of the century.This concert also features Minden's very own Troy Main. He plays country music, picks a mean guitar, and sings with a voice somewhere between Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson. He alone is worth the price of admission. $20/person $15 for members and students
Haliburton Highlands Museum, 66 Museum Road, Haliburton
Visit Website: www.haliburtonfolk.com
Email: info@haliburtonfolk.com

An Invitation to come & meet Winterdance's Iditarod Team!

October 3 and 17

An Invitation to come & meet Winterdance's Iditarod Team! - Meet & visit with Hank and learn about his upcoming journey to Alaska and the amazing adventure called Iditarod! - Stroll through the new raceteam kennel and meet the amazing Siberian Husky athletes, the best of the best from our kennel! - Have your pictures taken and play with your favourite husky. - Have a rare tour of our entire state of the art touring dog kennel and meet all of our dogs! - Share in the dogs excitement at a fall training run (have your camera's ready) - Exclusive opportunity (these 2 days only) to purchase any of our gift shop items at cost. - Be introduced to the puppies born last winter, K2, Sparrow, Firefly, Hatcher, Junko & Phoenix - Get first dibs to sponsor your favourite raceteam dog before the website is open to anyone -each dog will only have 3 personal sponsors - Win a great doorprize, including a VIP run with Hank and the race team, a free 1/2 day tour with the guide of your choice and more!
Visit Website: www.winterdance.com
Winterdance Dogsled Tours Haliburton
Contact: Winterdance Dogsled Tours Tel: (705) 457-5281
Email: info@winterdance.com

FREE Nature Hike

Sunday, October 4

Led by Chris Earley, interpretative biologist and author of "Waterfowl of Eastern North America", "Warblers of the Great Lakes Region and Eastern North America" and many more...
Meet us at the Acclimatization trailhead by the Frost Center Beach at 1:30 pm. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Haliburton Hills in full fall colours with an expert guide to lead you on your journey!
Frost Centre Institute, 20130 Highway 35
Visit website: http://dkbdigitaldesigns.com/eso2009/index2.html

Contact: Kyla Greenham Tel: 705-766-0810
Email: kgreenham@frostcentreinstitute.com

Haliburton Walk for Heart

Sunday October 4, 2pm

Participants can choose from a short 1k guided route along the Sculpture Trail, or a longer 5K route on the Head Lake trail. Pledge forms available in Haliburton at Henwood's Variety or Marty's Health Food Store and in Minden at Pharmasave, My Size and The Storeroom. For more information call Wendy at 457-2704
Fleming College (Haliburton Campus) - 297 Campus Drive
Visit Website: http://secure.heartandstroke.ca/faf/help/helpEventInfo.asp?ievent=325423

Georgian College Auto Show 2009

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 22:32:00 +0000

Great afternoon to launch the 24th year of the Georgian College Auto Show. Many snappy new vehicles to look at. Probably the best staycation value day trip for familes at $5.00 for adults and Kids get in for FREE.

Base Borden is in attendance with a vehicle, the Porche test track, and many of the major automotive models. Action continues all weekend at Georgian College offof Highway 400 at Duckworth in Barrie. If you need a hotel room in Barrie go to Barrie Hotels-on-line for a list of nearby hotels and resorts for overnight accommodation.

Battle of Britain Commemoration Sept. 20 2009

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:23:00 +0000

Battle of Britain Commemoration was held in Barrie on September 20, 2009. This wasthe 69th commemoration ceremonies. See more on Battle of Britain

Ontario Fall Getaway Travel Guide 2009

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:25:00 +0000

Ontario Fall Getaway Travel Guide 2009

Ontario Fall Getaways and fall colours travel source for travel north of Toronto. Get the411 Ontario Travel ideas for fall road trips, staycations, overnight getaways, spas, cottage rentals, romantic getaways, family vacations
for your family fall getaway. Your source for weekends, getaways and packages for romantic couples north of Toronto. Reserve early for the Thanksgiving Long Holiday Weekend.

Ontario Resort Travel Destination Picks of the Week.

Resort Destinations

Haliburton Highlands Tourism Region

Haliburton Highlands Tourism Region -The Haliburton Highlands is just two hours north of Toronto. Unforgettable countryside sculpted by towering rock
formations, majestic forests, postcard-perfect vistas, and scenic, rolling hills. Whether you want to tube down a lazy river or shoot white water
in a kayak, this is the place. With more than 600 lakes and miles of picturesque rivers connecting them, a person could explore our waters for
a lifetime and never see the same shoreline twice.
Haliburton Highlands Website

Romantic Getaway of the Week

Royal Resort - Fenelon Falls, Ontario

Royal Resort - Take a break any weekend, escape to enjoy the royal service and casual spirit at the Royal Resort.Dine beside Balsam Lake, go boating,
have walks in the forest and a host of activities for the whole family!
Fenelon Falls, Ontario, Information

Family Getaway of the Week

Sunbeam Bungalows - Callander, Ontario

Sunbeam Bungalows - Located on beautiful, sheltered Callander Bay in the picturesque hamlet of Callander. Only minutes away from larger city attractions, boat cruises, horse back riding, a wide variety of golf courses and much more! Our resort is nestled under the pines, where we offer clean, fully-furnished, deluxe, spacious cottages. All cottages include Cable TV/DVD, bed linen, fully stocked kitchens (pots/pans, dishes, full size fridge/stove, microwave, coffee maker...), a BBQ with propane, a fire bowl, and new picnic tables. Spend the day at our private 450' shoreline beach, or perhaps on our 2500 sq. ft deck on the lake. Our guests will enjoy a varity of amenities, to mention a few:
Callander, Ontario, Information

Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Sportsman's Lodge Wilderness Resort - Wahnapitae, Ontario

Sportsman's Lodge Wilderness Resort - Need a break from everything and everyone? Come experience our wilderness resort. Enjoy our rustic charming atmosphere for a few days where you can just be you for a change. Relax over a bottle of wine and a good meal prepared with the finest of ingredients, no preservatives, additives or anything that you shouldn't be eating!
Wahnapitae, Ontario, Information

Spa Getaway of the Week

Sam Jakes Inn - Merrickville, Ontario

Sam Jakes Inn - One-night package includes: an à la carte dinner,a
hot country breakfast,$50.00 per person worth of your choice of spa services.$187.50 per person (Regular) / $195.00 per person (Executive) / $202.50 per person (Suite)/ $227.50 per person (Trillium) / $252.50 per person (Maple) / $267.50 per person Please ask about our Romance and Relax and Girl Time Spa Getaways
Merrickville, Ontario, Information

Attraction of the Week

MacLaren Art Centre - Barrie, Ontario

The MacLarenArtCentre is Simcoe County's regional public art gallery providing innovative, relevant and accessible programming. The award winning building houses four galleries, an education centre, gallery shop and licensed café with a secluded patio. The MacLaren is centrally located with ample parking making it a must see year round destination. The MacLaren is open seven days a week, Mon to Fri, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday
10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday noon to 4:00 pm. Closed statutory holidays. Admission is voluntary. Suggested donation $5.
Barrie, Ontario, Information

Attraction of the Week

Timmins Underground Gold Mine Tour - Timmins, Ontario

Timmins Underground Gold Mine Tour, Journey under the earth and
experience the workings of a mine, pan for gold and learn about the area's mining history at the Timmins Gold Mine Tour.
Timmins, Ontario, Information

Battle For Canada Played out this Weekend

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:00:00 +0000

Best Show In Canada September 13, 2009
The Plains of Abraham in Quebec City will have the best show in Canada. Commemorating 250 of the battle that determined the future of North America and Canada. It will be an interesting display of partisan speeches, opinions, mixed with a little fact and fiction. Giant bonfires will burn during the event to symbolize battle techniques. The ghosts of Wolfe and Montcalm will be drinking good French wine and strong British Ale arguing over who really won the war. See Best comments and links to blogs and articles on Battle of Quebec Plains of Abraham

Autumn Leaves Fall Colour Changes 2009

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:34:00 +0000

Fall Colour Update September 10

Northernbliss reports the fall colours are underway north of Toronto. A couple of
photos taken in the Ottawa Valley on the weekend also show color changes with
some reds on the maples and golds on the Elms. Many are predicting a spectacular
colour season as most bush areas were healthy and free from drought in 2009.Pick from a variety of fall colour routes and road trips from Algonquin area to Lake Simcoe, Haliburton, North Bay, Georgian Bay and areas north, north east and north west of Toronto.

Reserve your fall getaways now for the 2009 fall foliage season

Agri-tourism Big Fall Business in Rural Canada

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 14:23:00 +0000

It was on the inside page in the second half of the article where I was scanning the SAT. news and saw the 20 ft. corn........that made me go back and read the entire story about "GIANT VEG" in Honey I supersized the Gourds in the Toronto Star.

The fall season is a great time to travel out of the city to fall fairs or for those who cannot
get north the Toronto Royal Agricultural Winter Fair may present the opportunity to see the Giants of the agricultural contest community. Port Elgin in Ontario also presents some of the largest Pumpkins on record. See Ontario travel north of Toronto for updated Ontario Pumpkin Routes

Canada Travel Best Buys-Travel Bargains in Canada

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:23:00 +0000

Some of the Best buys to Canada travel experiences can be found in the travel news sections of Canada's newspapers or by visiting Canada Travel News for some great ideas on the best buysas far as hotels, attractions, festivals and events. Additional ideas can be found at the Canada Tourismwebsite describing "A Tightwads Guide to Canada" or budget Canadian travel. The story takes you across Canada with ideas for camping, seasonal discounts and more.

Anddionla value packages for Ontario you can check are availabe on Ontario Travel North of Toronto where you can check out thevariety of getaways by the season, or by the outdoor experiences, or pick by the style and type of Canadian Hotel value rates and book on-line.

Canadian Canada Day Long Weekend-Last Minute Vacancies

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:39:00 +0000

For many Candians thinking about Canada Day, there is the perfect 6 day long weekend opportunity and there are many great destinations to see. Book destination accommodation on-line in 2009. If you are having trouble deciding on the location there is a list available for most provinces. See Canada Day 2009 activities. A Canadian beach is a good place for a day trip on Canada Day.

Authenticity at Ontario Tourism Attractions

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:52:00 +0000

MPP joins Village debate
Standard Freeholder - Cornwall,Ontario,Canada
"My heart and soul is in that village," said Brownell, who serves as the
parliamentary assistant to Ontario Tourism Minister Monique Smith. ...
<http://www.standard-freeholder.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1605676>

My opinion is more creative punch needs to be put into the events to re-create
exciting events and activities that will attract a larger market share, and increase visitation. Canada's history has lots of excitment, when compared to any Medieval Festival.

Weekend Events Festivals North of Toronto May 29-31, 2009

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2009 20:18:00 +0000

Dandelion Festival

Kemptville
May 30-31, 2009
Come join the celebration of North Grenville arts and culture in Old Town Kemptville. Veg Stock, the musical and culinary launch of the Kemptville Farmers Market, takes place the same weekend.
Web Site Click Here

Barrie Waterfront Festival

May 29-31, 2009
Barrie Featuring live bands, outdoor entertainment, street buskers, a playzone for the kids, fresh food, contests and fun for the whole family!
Web Site Click Here

Environmental Day

Lindsay
May 30, 2009
Listen to a variety speakers and enjoy the displays from some of the regions most vital organizations concerned with the environment, all displayed in our beautiful lilac gardens.
Web SIte Click Here

More Events north of Toronto

Ontario Travel Tourism News Briefs May 22, 2009

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 22 May 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Trent-Severn Waterway Update
PETERBOROUGH, ON, May 21 /CNW Telbec/ - The Superintendent of theTrent-Severn Waterway advises that a promising weather forecast will allowmore sections of the canal system to open based on the following schedule:.....

Ontario Doors Open this weekend May 23-24 North of Toronto
North of Toronto…………… May 22, 2009. One of Ontario’s best tourist value experiences is free this weekend in Brockville-Thousand Islands-north east of Toronto, Orillia-north of Toronto, and St. Mary’s north west of Toronto. The Doors open events feature free admission and tours in many historical buildings, include hiking tours, guided walks, though some of Ontario’s historically significant destinations.

The Briars Now Offering “Biodynamic” Wine
Biodynamic Wine Another Environmental Milestone
This time The Briars Resort & Spa didn’t just go “organic” with their latest addition to the dining room, they went “biodynamic”. This is a form of winemaking that goes one step further than certified organic farming practices that are painstaking in their own right.

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 15 May 2009 13:05:00 +0000

The Briars Rescues “Vacation Weddings”
Ready To Help Weddings Stranded By Influenza A/H1N1
Jackson’s Point, Ontario ~ May 4, 2009
This historic resort and spa on the shores of Lake Simcoe has played host to happy beginnings for so many couples embarking upon a life together. Now The Briars has special emergency wedding packages for couples whose Mexican wedding plans have been cancelled due to the flu.

Women’s Quality Culinary Time with Chef Mark Breadner.
Walter's Falls, Ontario………Spring, 2009. The extending days of sunlight are bringing on fresh foliage offering an opportunity to forage in Ontario forests. Falls Inn Executive Chef Mark Breadner is busy searching out wild Walter's Falls leeks and visiting local producers to sample the season’s maple syrup, asparagus and more for his spring menu.

Canoe and Kayak Eco Tours Make a Splash starting Victoria Day Weekend.
Midland, Ontario Tay Township……………May 2009. The weekend of May 15-17 is the beginning of the Wye Marsh summer season with new and exciting outdoor adventures for the entire family.

Delawana Inn Victoria Day Weekend “Open the Shutters” A 112 Year Long Weekend Tradition Returns in 2009
Honey Harbour, Muskoka Georgian Bay Ontario.…… The Victoria Day long weekend (May 15-18, 2009) offers guests a special rate with a 30% discount and includes two children under 15 staying free when sharing room with parents.

2009 Summer Openings along Southern Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay, Ontario……………May 2009. The members of the Georgian Bay Tourism Group are putting the final touches on their welcoming hospitality for the opening weekend

2009 Easter Time for Ontario Travel

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:56:00 +0000

Check out Easter and April related events for day trips in Ontario or select from a variety of Easter Getaway Packages. One of the earliest signals for spring is the Easter holiday and vacation period. Easter 2009 is no exception with the Easter weekend staring April 9th with Good Friday April 10, 2009 and ending Easter Monday April 12, 2009. This is the perfect time to take that 2, 3 or 4 day getaway with the kids and hunt for Easter eggs, the Easter Bunny, special Easter Sunday church services, parades, family togetherness, and of course lots of Easter chocolate.

Ontario's Finest Inns WOW Award Winners

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Fri, 02 May 2008 11:21:00 +0000

Goderich, Ontario……………..Spring 2008. More than 35 members of Ontario’s Finest Inns & Spas attended the Annual WOW Awards ceremony last week at the Benmiller Inn in Goderich, Ontario. Awards of excellence were presented by MPP Carol Mitchell and the Honourable Peter Fonseca, Minister of Tourism.

Eleven of the 35 member inns and spas received WOW awards in a number of categories. Ten inns received ‘Top Marks’. “Approximately 500 criteria are applied in the detailed evaluation process conducted by a secret shopper every 18 months.” says Kathy Nichol, Executive Director of Ontario’s Finest Inns & Spas.

The 2007 “WOW” winners are:

Gananoque Inn – beautiful grounds
Not a spider web or a geranium needing dead-heading to be found. The grounds and gardens are impeccably kept and beautifully presented.

Rosemount Inn –breakfast
The only place I’ve ever been offered an amuse-bouche for breakfast – and “good for you” chocolate at that! The breakfast service and presentation were impeccable and the food was delicious.

Vintage Goose Inn – cleanest Jacuzzi jets
It really can be done! This Jacuzzi is not new yet the jets were perfectly clean! Kudos to the hardworking housekeepers!

Rawley Resort –amenity offering
From powder puffs to luxurious body lotion. These amenities from London, England are over the top indulgent.

Idlewyld –F&B service
Never feeling rushed, having every question answered with grace, enjoying a sense of humour and barely noticing the attentive service – that makes any dining experience extra special.

Millcroft –dinner experience
The menu, the food, the presentation, the atmosphere, the service levels... this dining experience is second to none.

Shaw Club –‘over the top’ luxury
What every man needs – a television set discreetly into the mirror in the bathroom!

Harbour House –reception/hospitality
From the reservation to the check-in to every single interaction with staff to the wine tasting offered to guests, to the check-out; the service was warm, friendly and professional.

Rosemount Spa –service
Suzie is the epitome of the ideal service provider; genuine, warm, gentle and confident. And she builds excitement for the guests with her passion. She attends to all the little details that make a spa experience exceptional.

Elemental Embrace –treatment rooms
Beautiful pictures on the ceilings and motivating words on the walls. What a treat for guests to have something pleasant to look at while they wait for the service provider to return.

Elemental Embrace - Treatment
Shirodhara – warm medicated oil streams continuously on your forehead (third eye) while two service providers massage your whole body in unison. The state of being this creates is euphoric.

Water Spa at Sir Sam’s – Unique spa amenity
This waterspa features sensory stimulation from tiny bubbles to jets to waterfalls, with underwater music, tonal rhythms, lights and selected projections to sustain you in a dream-like state as you float in body temperature salinized waters.
The ten‘Top Mark’ properties can be viewed at the Ontario’s Finest Inns and Spas.

Ontario’s Finest Inns & Spas started in 1991 and initiated their first WOW awards in 2007. They have grown from an initial group of 10 Inns to 43 inns and 20 spas. Membership criteria is based on providing the distinct character and the finest hospitality in the Province of Ontario through the rigorous annual quality assurance program.

Additional Information on Ontario’s Finest Inns & Spas can be found at www.OntariosFinestInns.com or by calling 1-800.340.4667.

Ontario Travel to Earth Day Celebrations North of Toronto

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 14:05:00 +0000

Earth Day celebrations at a variety of locations, venues with some story links about earth day north of Toronto.

centralontariogeocachers.com - Home

During the October COG pub night held in Orillia, the Central Ontario Geocachers announced the .... Come and help celebrate EARTH DAY 2008 a few days early! ...
www.centralontariogeocachers.com/ - 49k - Cached - Similar pages - Note this

Georgian Bay Tourism Group > Spring Events and Festivals

Spring Awakenings: Events & Festival along Southern Georgian Bay ... Heritage Dinners, National Wildlife Week activities, Earth Day clean-ups, ...
www.georgianbaytourism.on.ca/NewsDetails/08-04-03/spring_events_and_festivals.aspx -

The Lindsay Post - Ontario, CA

Apr 18, 2008 ... On Tuesday April 22 better known as Earth Day an another Green day planned. ... To end off the Earth week at Weldon Friday April 25, ...
www.thepost.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=990661 - 83k - Cached - Similar pages - Note this

Northumberland Today - Ontario, CA | UR Northumberland

Apr 18, 2008 ... SCHOOLS FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENT DURING EARTH WEEK ACTIVITIES ... forming the words Earth Day 2008 on the school yard will also take place. ...
www.northumberlandtoday.com/Community/NewsDisplay.aspx?c=5018 - 77k -

The Orillia Packet & Times - Ontario, CA

TORONTO (March 4, 2008) – Earth Day Canada, in partnership with Cascades ... in 2004 as the top environmental education organization in North America by the ...
www.orilliapacket.com/ArticleDisplayGenContent.aspx?e=5274 - 69k -

White Squall - Sea Kayak the 30000 Islands of Georgian Bay ...

White Squall takes you by kayak to Georgian Bay’s 30000 islands in Ontario, ... National Geographic Adventures Best Outfitters on Earth - White Squall - 4th ...
www.whitesquall.com/ - 31k -

More earth day and earth week activities can be found at

Earth Day Canada: Events - Search for an event

Apr 22, 2008, North Bay, Go Green, Sacred Heart School. Apr 22, 2008, Smithville ... Apr 22, 2008, Toronto, Earth Day Awareness Yoga, Sri Sri Rani Yoga ...
www.earthday.ca/pub/events/search/shell_summary_public.php?prov=Ontario&accessibility=public

Wye Marsh - Events

Join us on Earth Day for Team-up to Clean-up from 9:00 am to noon in partnership with Georgian Bay Islands National Park . Meet in the Wye Marsh parking lot ...
www.wyemarsh.com/events.html - 20k -

Ontario Travel Maple Syrup Festivals March Break North of Toronto

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:40:00 +0000

Barrie, Ontario.....................March 3, 2008. A plethora of events, activities and getaways await in the resort destinations north of Toronto. Day trips and kids camps, resort family vacations, Easter getaways and egg hunts, and of course lots of Maple Syrup harvests, sugar shacks, sleigh rides, maple taffy in the snow, pancakes, and sausages.

Ontario Travel North of Toronto has assembled four "must see" lists of activities for the month of March, 'March Break Getaway' Packages', 'March Break Kids Camps', 'Maple Syrup Festivals' and 'Easter getaways'.

March Break Getaway Packages

Guests can select from a variety of getaway packages at hotels, motels, cottages, resorts or cabins where they can build an igloo, enjoy a sleigh ride, participate in snow tube races, kids games and activities, skiing downhill or cross country, ice skating, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Several Ontario Resorts are providing sugar bush tours where they will be making maple syrup. http://www.400eleven.com/getaways-march-break.html

Maple Syrup Festivals and Events

See first hand the boiling of the sap, (sweet water) and the making of the maple syrup. Enjoy fun family events at any one of the maple syrup spring festivals listed http://www.400eleven.com/maple-syrup-festivals.html

March Break Kids Camps

A number of resort destinations north of Toronto have special one day, or week long programs for kids during the March break period. Barrie, Haliburton, Midland, Ottawa, Durham, Collingwood-Blue Mountain all have kids programs lined up. So while mom and dad ski or engage in fun winter activities the kids are taken care of in one of the many March break day camps http://www.400eleven.com/march-break-day-camps.html

Easter Getaways

With Easter falling in March, kids will feel like they are on a month long March Vacation. Many Ontario Resorts and accommodation properties north of Toronto have lined up fun Easter weekend activities for families. http://www.400eleven.com/getaways-easter.html

Ron Taylor Publisher of Ontario Travel North says, "Maple syrup is one of the driving forces that remind all Canadians, who we are, where we live, and how good that first taste of boiled sap-- tonic called Maple Syrup. I can feel a fresh bounce of spring, as I contemplate putting the winter boots away."

400ELEVEN.COM Ontario Travel North of Toronto is one of Ontario's leading travel and tourism websites promoting destinations north of Toronto.

PHOTO: Maple Taffy at Wintergreen Maple Syrup Barn in Haliburton Ontario.

Canadian Tourism Industry News, Issues and Opinions: A Haliburton High For Snowmobilers in the Haliburton Highlands

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 18:05:00 +0000

Canadian Tourism Industry News, Issues and Opinions: A Haliburton High For Snowmobilers in the Haliburton Highlands

Willow Beach Cottages

Ontario Heritage Week Kicks Off on Family Day February 18, 2008

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 17:25:00 +0000

Canada

’s Heritage Day Signals Start to Week Long Heritage Events in Ontario.

North of Toronto…………….February 2008. The week staring Monday February 18 is the time to celebrate and remember our past, our rich history and many cultures. The Monday February 18 a time to enjoy Ontario’s first family day along with Canada’s Heritage Day.

Railroad Buffs, story tellers, foodies, boating enthusiasts, families wanting to educate their kids in a fun environment will find intriguing elements during Ontario’s Heritage week activities. A number of historical attractions, museums, historical associations and communities will be celebrating Heritage Week and Family Day in Toronto as will areas north of Toronto. Here are a few suggestions, however more can be found by visiting Heritage Week Activities north of Toronto.

"Family Day gives parents an excellent opportunity to get outside with their kids explore Ontario's cultural attractions and have some fun

together," said Culture Minister Aileen Carroll earlier this week in Toronto.  Carroll adds, "Communities across the

province are planning special events that will make this first February long weekend a memorable one for families."

The popular Ontario Travel North website has put together several suggested locations for the ardent historical buff, but equally as interesting for the budding historian who has an interest in Ontario’s past development and culture or just a fun educational family outing.

Road Trip Barrie to Barrie and Minesing

to visit the Simcoe County Museum on Family Day to take part in some old fashioned snowshoeing, one of Canada’s earliest modes of transportation. Free Admission on Monday 18.

Road Trip to Brockville’s Fullford Place

on Wednesday, February 20, 11 a.m. – Beth Anne Mendes from the Ontario Heritage Trust will speak on "Telling Ontario's Stories: Commemorating Community Heritage through Provincial Plaques." For over 50 year, provincial plaques have commemorated and interpreted significant people, places and events in Ontario.

Road Trip Gravenhurst’s Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre-Gravenhurst
on Saturday, February 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to visit the archives of the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre will be open to the public for their viewing pleasure. Come and view our historical videos, see some rate artifacts and bring the entire family for a "History Day."

Road Trip to Huntsville Ontario
Wednesday, February 20 from 10 a.m. to Noon to visit the Huntsville Town Hall where a Captain Hunt Display will provide visitors with a glimpse into the life of Huntsville's Town father – Captain George Hunt – appropriately displayed in the unique heritage foyer of the 1927 town hall in town bearing his name: 705-789-7576

Road Trip to Haliburton Village, Haliburton County

Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre to view Two short films – Railway days in Haliburton Saturday, February 23 at 4 p.m.

The railway forged a vital link between Haliburton's remote wilderness and civilization to the south. Author/historian Leopolda Dobrzensky tells the story in a 10-minute documentary by award-winning Ryerson University film student Charles Taylor. Local residents share personal recollections in the second film "Old Rails, Remembered Tales," captured at a live event by Highlands Media Arts. Screening aptly takes place in the restored train station, now a public gallery and arts centre. Telephone: 705-457-4767

For more up-to-date events and activities please check the Ontario Heritage Trust website http://www.heritagefdn.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/nts_1_9278_1.html listing the towns, villages and cities hosting major events.

More Ontario Family Day getaways north Toronto and packages can be found at Ontario Family Getaways http://www.400eleven.com/getaways-family.html

FREE FUN FAMILY DAY ACTIVITIES AT WYE MARSH MIDLAND

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 16:54:00 +0000

Save on Family Day Fun Kids Activities at Ontario’s Wye Marsh

Midland, Tay Township……….February 2008. Wye Marsh would like to extend an invitation to everyone to enjoy this new holiday by participating in a variety of activities. One child admitted FREE with the purchase of one adult admission. Also included during the day are:

Ø Free snowshoe rentals for all children 12 and under

Ø Free cross country ski lessons at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm

Ø Meet the Creatures Live Animal Shows at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm

Get active and spend some quality time with your family at Wye Marsh. Record Georgian Bay area snowfalls will provide a favorable outdoor winter environment to help visitors discover the best of Ontario outdoors on the first Family Day. Note: Cross country ski rentals & adult snowshoe rentals are available for a nominal fee

Date: Monday, February 18^th Time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Cost: One child admitted FREE with the purchase of one adult admission

Wye Marsh offers many winter outdoor family activities including winter ecotours, dog sledding and more.

Contact the Wye Marsh by calling 705-756-7809 or visit the web site

http://www.wyemarsh.com/prog_family.html

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Editors’ Notes:

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is located 35 minutes northwest of Barrie Ontario in the heart of Southern Georgian Bay’s Historic Resort Destination in the Wye Valley, in Tay Township, next to Midland. The Centre continues to provide outdoor experiences and environmental education for school groups, Scouts and Guides, and international visitors. The centre is open year round, seven days a week, allowing seasonal outdoor experiences in the winter, spring, summer and fall. Media wishing to write travel stories on Ontario’s great outdoors should contact Denise Brophey (705) 526-7809 to arrange for dates and times.

A Haliburton High For Snowmobilers in the Haliburton Highlands

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 14:56:00 +0000

A “Snowmobile High” North in the Haliburton Highlands

February, 2008. Abundant fresh snow, spectacular winter scenery, 580 km of trails, groomed to their best by dedicated snowmobile association members, interesting dining stops, and getaway packages offering rentals, have moved Haliburton Highlands to the forefront as one of the favourite locations for sledding in Ontario. A variety of trails offer challenges for the avid snowmobile enthusiast, while there is plenty of novice and beginner trails to test snowmobiling skills.

Peter Zahn, Vice President of (HCSA) says, “Snowmobile Reports are updated several times per week and we encourage members and visitors to check the latest information before they head out.”

Visitors can find additional detailed trail conditions and snow reports at the Haliburton County Snowmobile Association (HCSA)

The entire Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) consists of 240 clubs that make it the biggest user pay trail system in the world! There are trail links to Haliburton from adjacent counties.

Zahn adds, “The HCSA is only one club and the only thing that keeps it together and working as well as it does are volunteers that take time away from there family and friends simply because they love the sport and the only thing they get in return is pure satisfaction.”

The OFSC boasts more than 7000 Ontario volunteers.

Zahn is one of the volunteers in Haliburton County and has a tremendous enthusiasm for the sport and says, “Snowmobiling is one of the most invigorating and definitely one of the best ways to explore central and northern Ontario during the winter months. There is no other feeling like traveling through a beautifully groomed snowmobile trail while taking in the incredible scenery the Highlands have to offer. It’s an amazing experience!!”

Winter Cookouts, Poker Runs, Races

A stop with a winter cookout on the trail can provide for some interesting wildlife viewing. Areas of the Haliburton Highlands are magnets for deep snow right into the spring as the higher elevations in the Highlands keep the snow longer.

Poker runs are taking place on February 9, 16, 23 at Tall Pines, Haliburton Forest, and West Guilford.

Snowmobile Races are taking place at Elephant Lake Lodge through until mid March, and the Highland Cup Snowmobile Races take place March 1, 2 in Haliburton Village.

Several Haliburton accommodation properties are offering snowmobile packages and rentals with on-site trails and can be viewed by going to the Haliburton County Website http://www.haliburtonholidays.com/Winter

Visitors can obtain area trail guides at the Tourism Information Centre just south of Minden on Highway 35.

Contacting Haliburton Highlands Tourism Information Centre at (705) 286-1777 or Toll Free: 1-800-461-7677

Ontario Winter Resorts, Carnivals, Family Day Getaways

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 13:47:00 +0000

Winter Carnivals, Igloo Building, Snowshoeing Featured On Family Day Weekend in Ontario North of Toronto-
Family Day Holiday Helps Tourist-Resort Destinations North in Ontario

Tourist destinations north of Toronto will be looking forward to the new long weekend resulting from the Family Day Holiday designation on February 18. Many resorts, hotels, cottages, inns, north of Toronto have put together getaway weekend packages or special one night package rates, daily events, suggested day trips for family fun activities. Many winter carnivals have extended the dates to include the holiday Monday, and many attractions are hosting one day special events for families.

The NEW holiday will take place on the third Monday of every February staring in 2008.

Ron Taylor Publisher of Ontario Travel North of Toronto says, “This is great news for the many families that will get out and explore Ontario’s Great outdoors during the winter months. The extra holiday allows for a longer weekend. There is no doubt that this will encourage visitors to head north into cottage and resort country as well as visit destinations like Ottawa and Sudbury.”

Winter Carnvials

Winter carnivals are taking place in Ottawa, Haliburton, and Penetanguishene. See Ontario Winter Carnivals

GETAWAY PACKAGES FOR FAMILY DAY

The Clarion Resort Pinewood Park Spa in North Bay is offering Family Day Long Weekend with one Free Night. Stay for both Friday February 15th and Saturday February 16th and stay for free on Sunday February 17th! Some restrictions apply. http://400eleven.com/getaways-family.html#clarion

Deerhurst Resort near Huntsville will appeal to Aspiring stars and fans of High School Musical and other pop hits get to join the LIVE at Deerhurst cast for drumming, singing and dancing workshops to rehearse for a special pre-show performance at Canada Rocks. http://400eleven.com/getaways-family.html#deerhurst

Best Western Highland Inn & Conference Centre in Midland is offering a 30/30 rate - Thirty reasons to extend your stay for $30.00 - if you are a guest in the hotel extend your stay from an 11:00 am check out to a 6:00 pm check out for $30.00 plus taxes. Room rate special for Sunday February 17th $85.99 for a traditional room plus taxes. http://400eleven.com/getaways-family.html#bwmidland

MORE WINTER GETAWAY PACKAGES

Additional family day accommodation getaways for North of Toronto locations please see Ontario Family Getaways http://400eleven.com/getaways-family.html

The Ontario Government reminds Shoppers and merchants that under the Retail Business Holidays Act (RBHA), Family Day, February 18, is one of nine days per year when most stores in Ontario must be closed.

See additional Ontario Holiday Long Weekends. This year is the first time that Family Day will be celebrated. The holiday will take place on the third Monday of every February.

For couples wanting a really long weekend see February for Lovers for romantic getaways. Start on
Thursday February 14, and return to work on Tuesday February 19. A Nice 5 day weekend getaway.

Adding Family Day to the calendar would give Ontario workers and families a total of nine statutory holidays per year, putting the province on par with Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. In addition, although not recognized as a statutory holiday under the Employment Standards Act, the first Monday in August is observed as a civic holiday in many Ontario municipalities.

Ontario Tourism Industry News--Toronto-Niagara Falls

ron.n.taylor@gmail.com (Ron Taylor) — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 13:43:00 +0000

This story is an excellent critical review as to how Ontario government is misspending our tax dollars.

Snow globe really a snow job; Review writer amazed Ontario ...

Niagara Falls Review - Niagara Falls,Ontario,Canada
That's right, as a way to remind us how great winter is, something called
the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation - who answer to the
<http://www.niagarafallsreview.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=876601>

Some major posiitve news about Tourism in Toronto. Are we seeing a turn around that could Impact on the rest of the Province?

More tourists trek to Toronto
Toronto Star - Ontario, Canada
Tourism Toronto compiles the visitor numbers from Statistics Canada data
and its own research. Visits from the US dropped steeply in the first half
of 2007 ...
<http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/299353>

This is an interesting view of the tourism industry in the Niagara Region with a challenge to the Private Sector!!

The right message for the wrong crowd; And by the way, ditch the ...

Niagara Falls Review - Niagara Falls,Ontario,Canada
Friel, the former head of the Glasgow tourism board in the 1980s, led the
transformation of what had become "an industrial dark slum" into one of
Europe's ...
<http://www.niagarafallsreview.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=884925>