Fall / Winter 2014 Issue

Transcription

canadian
DESTINATIONS
ON THE EDGE IN TORONTO
CN TOWER’s EDGEWALK: A NEW Guinness World
Record attraction!
MUSKOKA DELTA-STYLE!
DELTA’s three Signature MUSKOKA Resort Destinations!
ROMANTIC SARNIA!
An ideal weekend getaway full of fun and romance
Fall/Winter 2011
Issue 1 - 2007 1
SHACK
PLUS Muskoka Scuba Diving A special focus on Muskoka’s SCUBA
Departments
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EDITOR’S NOTE
WHERE TO STAY
Canadian Destinations presents
some great CANADIAN ESCAPES.
Nova Scotia’s famous Cape
Breton Island featured!
31
CANADIAN FAMILY SCUBA DIVING
SCUBA SHACK: The only boat
afloat for divers wanting to dive
Muskoka Ontario!
FALL / WINTER 2011
features
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2
2
ON THE EDGE IN TORONTO
CN TOWER’s EDGEWALK :
Joining the ranks of those
acheiving new heights at this
Guinness World Record attraction!
11
MUSKOKA DELTA-STYLE!
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ROMANTIC SARNIA!
Of all ONTARIO resorts one
need look no further than
DELTA’s three Signature
MUSKOKA Resort Destinations!
This Canadian Border city
offers couples an ideal
weekend getaway full of
FUN and ROMANCE !
Canadian Destinations
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editor’s
note
F
or quite a while Canadian Destinations has served as an entertaining venue in
which readers can gain a glimpse into some interesting and unique Canadian
destinations, activities and people. We sincerely thank our readers for their support and feedback and welcome them to please continue to send in suggestions
about interesting story ideas.
Canada offers a unique diversity in scenery and culture, with rich history and passionate
people. The goal of Canadian Destinations is to highlight places of interest within the
country to make travel in Canada a more informed vacation choice. Each issue provides
information on destinations, resorts, hotels, spas, restaurants, and more, giving the
reader travel tidbits which are helpful when deciding on places to go and what to see.
This issue primarily focuses on Ontario destinations. Become one of the few in the world
to accept the challenge to walk outside at the top of the CN Tower on it’s new Guinness
Book World Record attraction EDGEWALK. Explore the Muskoka area of Ontario and,
depending on your interests or demographic, you will enjoy one of DELTA’s three unique
full service resorts. Looking for romance? Well, Sarnia proved that there is a lot to do
and see any time of year. We also feature another installment of our very well received
family-focused series called THE GREAT CANADIAN FAMILY SCUBA ADVENTURE.
-Chris Ellison
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canadian
DESTINATIONS
PUBLISHER
Canquest Media
Editor &
Publication
Coordinator
Chris Ellison
[email protected]
Assistant Editor &
Artistic Director
Publication Assistant
Graphic Designer
Jake Gerald
Jordan Alexander
Jonah Denis
ADVERTISING SALES FOR CANADIAN
DESTINATIONS IS HANDLED BY
CANQUEST MEDIA
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Tel: (519) 476-9611
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Mailing Address:
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Visit us online at:
www.CanadianDestinationsMag.com
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Issue 1 - 2007 95
Canadian
Destinations
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CN TOWER’s EDGEWALK :
ON
Joining the ranks of those acheiving
new heights at this Guinness World
Record attraction!
I
am not a fan of heights. My problem is I am an adrenaline
junkie and seem unable to avoid challenging my fears each
time an adventure is presented. Skydiving in Nova Scotia,
repelling in New Brunswick, parasailing in Prince Edward Island, zip-lining in Newfoundland are just some of the adventures I faced with tepidity and subsequently conquered. Walking
around the outside perimeter of the CN Tower, however, was
among the most memorable!
Stepping back 35 years, I can vividly recall watching
the CN Tower being erected from my bedroom window. I can
remember watching in amazement as the massive helicopter
moved the final piece of the tower’s tip into place, completing
the creation of the world’s tallest building! As a nine year old
boy, I never in a million years could I have fathomed that one
day I would be one of the lucky few to walk around it - on the
outside - tethered only by a harness and rope.
EdgeWalk opened to the public on August 1, 2011 and
is the CN Tower’s most thrilling attraction in its 35 year history,
and the first of its kind in North America. It is the world’s highest
full circle hands-free walk on a 5 ft (1.5 m) wide ledge encircling
the top of the Tower’s main pod. Visitors walk in groups of six,
while attached to an overhead safety rail via a trolley and harness system. Trained EdgeWalk guides encourage participants
to push their personal limits, allowing them to lean back over
Toronto with nothing but air and breathtaking views of Lake
Ontario beneath them.
During it’s busy shorter first season EdgeWalk exceeded
all booking expectations welcoming more than twice the number
expected to walk atop one of the world’s greatest man-made
wonders. Walkers as young as 13 and as young at heart as 90
experienced EdgeWalk. Many
embraced the unique opportuThe CN Tower was
nity to organize special walks
built to withstand an
including marriage proposals,
earthquake of 8.5 on
birthday and anniversary celthe Richter scale (the
ebrations and corporate team
Kobe earthquake in
building and client appreciation
1995
was 7.2 on the
EdgeWalks, often followed by
Richter
scale). The
dinner at 360 Restaurant.
upper reaches of the
Designed with the
CN Tower were built to
highest international safety
withstand winds up to
and security standards in mind,
EdgeWalk runs 1.5 hours, with
418 km/h (260 mph).
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N THE EDGE in TORONTO !
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the outdoor walk lasting approximately 30 minutes. Tickets cost
$175 CAD and include a keepsake video, photos and certificate
of achievement. Participants also receive a Total Tower Experience Ticket. EdgeWalk operates seasonally from May to October.
With great enthusiasm and reverie I made my own
reservation and headed for the CN Tower. I arrived at the base
of the tower and checked into the EdgeWalk desk. Since safety
and security are paramount at the CN Tower I was promptly
welcomed into the briefing room where I underwent a security
clearance process. They were very polite and patient but they
took their job seriously. I was screened for narcotics, explosives and alcohol consumption. A metal detection and physical
© 2007 www.Chris-Ellison.com
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pat down was done to remove all fall hazards and even my
sunglasses were harnessed. I was led to an area where I was
provided a special walk suit that was worn over top my clothing. I was also provided fully enclosed athletic footwear, a hat,
gloves and a complete body harness. Next, the staff member
explained how the walk would take place and how the numerous security features in place would ensure complete safety.
We then boarded the designated elevator and scaled
the CN Tower. When we arrived at the top several additional
safety checks were carried out by two staff members and more
explanations were provided about the safety mechanisms, supervision, video monitoring, etc. to ensure a fun, but safe, experience. Considering what I was about to do, I was feeling
surprisingly ready.
I was escorted out to the edge and found myself surprisingly calm. However, I do not think I can truly describe the
feeling of exhilaration as I peered at the ground far below as
I stared between my feet. Over
On April 2, 1975,
the next 30 minutes we slowly
onlookers gazed
walked around the tower with
up in amazement
several stops to challenge ourselves, such as leaning out over
as a giant Erickson
the edge, backward and forward
Air-crane Silorsky
and even walking backward for a
helicopter placed
spell, which was a quite unusual.
the final piece of the
By the time I reached the end, I
CN Tower’s antenna
was comfortable with the height
into place, officially
and could enjoy the remaining
making it the world’s
minutes to appreciate the beauty
tallest building.
of the city below. I could even
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observe the mist of Niagara Falls from a distance across Lake
Ontario.
After my thrill of a lifetime I celebrated with a visit to
CN Tower’s 360 restaurant. This award winning restaurant has
become one of Toronto’s finest and features unforgettable food
combined with a magnificent revolving view of Toronto more
than 351 meters below. 360 offers market-fresh cuisine, featuring regional ingredients to ensure an incomparable culinary
experience. After a sumptuous lunch, followed by a visit to the
CN Tower’s glass floor and observation deck, I returned to the
ground.
In retrospect, I can honestly say that I was glad I challenged the CN Tower EdgeWalk and, not only would I do it
again, I would strongly welcome others to try it for a once in a
life time experience! Some might try to challenge it’s safety, but
after the briefings I received where I learned about the redundant safety equipment measures and numerous safely checks,
there is no question that I was. To learn more about the CN
Tower or make your own reservation at EdgeWalk you can do
so by visiting www.cntower.ca.
CN Tower Fun Facts
Lightning strikes the CN Tower an average of 75 times per
year. Long copper strips run down the CN Tower to grounding rods buried below ground to prevent damage.
The CN Tower dims unnecessary exterior lights during bird
migration seasons to prevent bird injuries.
The 360 Restaurant makes a complete rotation every 72
minutes giving diners a changing view of Toronto more than
1,000 feet below.
On a clear day, visitors to the CN Tower's observation deck
can see over 160 kilometers (100 miles) -- that's all the way
to Niagara Falls and across Lake Ontario to New York State.
Six glass-faced elevators travel at 22 km/hour (15 miles/
hour) to reach the observation deck in 58 seconds.The CN
Tower has a hollow 1200' hexagonal core providing stability
and flexibility to the full height tower.
The CN Tower's Glass Floor was the first of its kind when it
was opened in June 1994. It is 23.8 square meters (256 sq. ft.)
of solid glass and 5 times stronger than the required weightbearing standard for commercial floors. If 14 large hippos
could fit in the elevator and get up to the Observation Deck,
the Glass Floor could withstand their weight.
The CN Tower is an incredible 2.79 cm (1.1 inches) within
plumb, or, true vertical.
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Muskoka DELTA-Style!
Of all ONTARIO resorts one need look no
further than DELTA’s three Signature
MUSKOKA Resort Destinations!
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N
amed the #1 Summer Destination by National Geographic, Muskoka is Ontario’s favourite year-round vacation
destination. Towering pines, sparkling lakes and rivers,
bountiful recreational activities, diversified culture and genuine
friendly people, Muskoka will draw you in on your first visit! Over
many years, the Muskoka area is one that people have flocked
to for many different reasons. For some, it all started early in life
and the reverie associated with summer treks up Hwy 400 into
the mysterious and alluring Muskoka region for family summer
fantasy remains powerful. For others it represents a modern
oasis where one can enjoy a fun filled romantic getaway, golf
or water front activities. Whatever the reason or demographic,
Ontario’s Muskoka region remains one of Canada’s best places
to vacation.
There are many great cottage country resort destinations to visit, but we discovered that one need look no further
than the Delta’s out-of-the-ordinary 3 Muskoka Ontario offerings: Delta Rocky Crest Resort, Delta Sherwood Inn and the
Delta Grandview. Whether looking for golf, spa or fun family
getaways each of the following Delta property offers distinct
signature experiences.
Delta Rocky Crest Resort
Whether you are looking for an incredible Ontario golf
experience, a romantic getaway with incredible dining or a family summer vacation there is something for everyone at Delta
Rocky Crest Resort in MacTier, Ontario. There are boundless
recreation programs and the waterfront has lots to offer the
whole family. Not only can guests
Framed by giant
swim in one of the two pools, or
relax in the outdoor hot tub overforests of pine, white
looking beautiful Lake Joseph,
birch and hemlock,
they can experience a scenic famthe undulating
ily pontoon boat tour.
fairways of Rocky
The programs available
Crest Golf Club are
to guests are incredible. Rocky
accented by deep
Crest’s Arminshaw Sports Club
bunkers and granite
offers outdoor tennis courts, basoutcroppings that
ketball, bicycles, beach volleyball
provide definition
and much more. For those lookand tremendous
ing for something more relaxed,
challenge.
you can go for a scenic walk or
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experience a quiet canoe ride on their private lake. The onsite
Championship Golf Course is the highest ranked golf course
in Muskoka according to Score Golf, 2008 and for the ultimate
Muskoka girls getaways, golf treatments, romantic relaxation,
the Delta Rocky Crest Spa offers an abundance of packages to
revitalize your body and mind.
Families can enjoy nature hikes, water polo, beach volleyball, resort scavenger hunts, kids camp and more! Your little
ones will find lots to do at Delta Rocky Resort where they treat
each young guest as a VIP. They offer a wide range of programs
and services that kids are sure to enjoy and Moms and Dads will
appreciate.
There is free accommodaSimplicity meets
tion for children 17 and under when
culinary creativity
staying with a parent or guardian
in the kitchens at
and children aged 6 and under eat
Delta Rocky Crest
for free from the special children’s
Resort. Here,
menu. Individual check-in cards are
ingredients are
given to children to complete upon
allowed to exarrival and an age-specific “Kids’ Espress their natural
sentials” kit for infants to 7 years is
flavours, albeit with
given upon check-in. Evening programs are designed for the whole
somewhat exotic
clan with activities such as Family
accents.
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Fear Factor, scavenger hunts, guided nature walks, and poolside bingo.
What is really important at Delta Rocky Crest is their
children’s programs. The Armishaw Sports Club Kids Camp is
a kid’s camp designed for various age groups, starting from
infants to 12-year-olds. The Tiny Tots (ages 0-3) will include a
sandbox, a playground, a kiddie pool, wagon rides and all sorts
of games and toys. Junior Campers (ages 4-8) will be busy having fun on their water trampoline and doing arts and crafts,
outdoor games, scavenger hunts and golf lessons. The Senior
Campers (ages 9-12) will enjoy mountain biking, water trampoline, canoe and kayak day trips will keep your senior camper
entertained.
One of the incredible draws for guests is the food.
Executive Chef Patrick Louch and his team will exhilarate your
taste buds at the Lake Joseph Dining Room, Bayside Patio
and at the resort’s log clubhouse at the On the Green Dining Room. Simplicity meets culinary creativity in the kitchens
at Delta Rocky Crest Resort where ingredients are allowed to
express their natural flavours, albeit with somewhat exotic accents. A plate of fresh shrimp, for instance, might arrive at your
table with a kick of spicy sambal and chili-spiked dark chocolate
cream. And that traditional rack of lamb may surprise you with
its mint chutney fortified with Chablis.
Their premium suites, which have a larger kitchen /
living room area, fireplace and a second bedroom with
two double beds, all have a view of Lake Joseph. They
are best for larger families or perfect for the golf
foursome who want to stay together in one suite.
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Delta Sherwood Inn
At the Delta Sherwood Inn, near Bala, Ontario, one
can explore the many complimentary Muskoka recreational activities available on property. The on site recreational opportunities include the beach area, table tennis, bonfire pit, lake
cruises, volleyball, mountain biking, tennis, swimming, boating, fishing, canoeing, snowshoeing, skating, tobogganing and
much more. Located in the Maplewood Building, the Fitness
Centre is equipped with treadmill, an elliptical machine, three
stationary bicycles and fitness gear such as a yoga ball and
universal weight set.
Delta Sherwood Inn guests have complimentary access to kayaks, canoes and paddle boats and they offer a number of boat cruises around Lake Joseph. For those interested
in the great outdoors there are numerous scenic nature trails
to explore around the property, on foot or on mountain bikes
which you can borrow free of charge during your stay. During
the winter months you can explore the groomed trails throughout the property by snow shoes and cross-country skis. Also, do
not forget to pack your ice skates and glide on their man-made
ice skating rink.
Two other huge draws to the Delta Sherwood Inn are
one of the three private championship golf courses and, of
course, the spa. At the Amba Spa, which is a full service spa,
guests can revitalize their mind, body and soul amid the tranquil
Muskoka oasis. Become lost in the experience during your own
facial, mud wrap or manicure and pedicure.
Enjoying a signature Muskoka Cuisine has always been
an important Delta Sherwood tradition. And to compliment
this remarkable cuisine, Delta Sherwood Inn has put together
a wine list that features about 220 thoughtful selections from
quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in
both price and style. Their list represents wines from all growing regions in Canada, a good selection of California Reds, and
international wines ranging from Australia’s big guns to second
growth Bordeaux and Italian wines from Tuscany and Piedmont.
In fact, Delta Sherwood Inn was honoured with Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence in 2006, 2007 & 2008.
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The Delta Sherwood offers a lot of
different options for spending your time.
Whether you want to be active or
just relax there is place for
you to just be yourself.
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In additon to the fabulous water-related activities guests
can easily access the beach area, table tennis, bonfire pit,
lake cruises, volleyball, mountain biking, croquet,
Issue
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tennis, badminton, boating, fishing and
much
more!
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Delta Grandview Resort
The Delta Grandview, near Huntsville Ontario, offers
a special upscale experience. Because of the nature of their
Muskoka facilities, many companies and groups use the Grandview for meetings, weddings, retreats and group getaways.
With so many complimentary activities available while staying at Delta Grandview Resort, guests will never have to leave
property. Guests will enjoy unlimited use of canoes, kayaks,
paddleboats, sandy beach waterfront, lounge chairs, mountain
bikes, hiking trails, renovated indoor and outdoor pool, sauna,
hot tub, fitness facility, indoor and outdoor tennis courts with
free equipment, basketball court, floor hockey, broomball and
much more.
Guests can expect to experience exceptional dining at
any of the four restaurants at Delta Grandview Resort. Whether
seeking a casual environment, pub atmosphere, golf course
clubhouse or upscale casual fine dining, Executive Chef Ken
Schulz infuses a local Muskoka flare into each dish he prepares,
ensuring only the freshest products are utilized on the menu.
Guests can also experience one or both of the Grandview’s Championship Golf Getaways at one of the fabulous
lakeside locations. Grandview’s 9 hole Academy Golf Course
is perfect for introducing golf to
Named #1 Summer
aspiring players of all ages. For
more experienced golfers, the
Destination by
ClubLink Mark O’Meara Course
National Geographic,
is located onsite and sprawls
Muskoka is Ontario’s
across spectacularly beautiful,
favourite year-round
rugged terrain and exudes a
vacation destination.
wilderness feel with its diverse
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There are so many
complimentary
activities available
while staying at
Delta Grandview
Resort, guests
may never have to
leave property.
strands of trees, elevation changes and granite outcroppings,
unique to the Canadian Shield region.
At Delta Grandview Resort, every guest is a VIP, even
the little ones. The resort is very family-friendly and they treat
young travelers with the courtesy and respect they deserve
while offering a wide range of programs and services parents
will appreciate. There is free accommodation for children 17
and under when staying with a parent or guardian. Individual
check-in cards are given to children to complete upon arrival.
There is a special children’s menu for children aged 6 and under
and they eat for free!
Depending on your needs and interests, there are very different experiences available
through Delta’s three Muskoka resort offerings. Be sure to visit the Delta website at wwwdeltahotels.com to learn more about these properties and what works for your vacation wishes. We
guarantee you will not be disappointed and will ache to return to the Muskoka region soon
after your visit. This may seem far-fetched, but you will soon experience what every other
visitor to the region has experienced, the incredible longing to return soon after you have left!
Visit www.deltahotels.com
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Croissants and cobblestones, cuisine and culture…
with so much to see, hear, taste and feel, Montréal
always leaves you wanting more.
check out our latest sweet deal package for great
savings and special extras.
1 866 673 2199
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montrealsweetdeal.com/offer62
ROMANTIC SARNIA!
SARNIA ONTARIO! This Canadian
Border city offers couples an ideal weekend
getaway full of FUN and ROMANCE !
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F
or the couple looking to rekindle that spark over a weekend away, look no further than Sarnia Ontario. Easily accessible from many other cities, such as London, Kitchener, Toronto and even the US border cites, Sarnia has some
incredible opportunities for romantic travellers.
If you have never been to Sarnia, or it has been a long
time since you visited last, you will be surprised at the number
of excellent offerings available to visitors. I started my planning at www.TourismSarniaLambton.com and found a number
of wonderful experiences from which to choose.
There are a variety of wonderfully romantic places
to stay in Sarnia, such as Sheboane Suites-By the Bay and
Sawmill Creek Bed & Breakfast Suites, which both offer
featured couple’s packages. During my stay this summer, Holiday Inn Sarnia Hotel seemed the way to go. There were a
couple of reasons for this. The hotel chain has offered trusted
accommodations and amenities for years and I had fond recollections of staying at Holiday Inns on family vacations as a
child. Another reason I chose the Holiday Inn Sarnia Hotel is
that their many packages, especially geared to couples, made
the planning a no brainer. I will admit, I was pleasantly surprised that the brand has made a lot of positive changes since
my last stay and has evolved to more of an upscale look and
feel.
The Holiday Inn Sarnia Hotel is actually located in Sarnia’s sister community of Point Edward. It is conveniently located 10 km from Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport and minutes away
from the Point Edward Charity Casino, Centennial Park, the Blue
Water Bridge and numerous attractions in the surrounding area.
The Holiday Inn boasts of offering it’s guests the comforts of
home as well as having the conNumerous
veniently available indoor and
attractions surround
outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna and
the Holiday Inn,
fitness centre. The rooms feature
such
as the Point
work areas with free high-speed
Edward Charity
Internet access, large TVs, spaCasino, Centennial
cious layouts and beautiful views.
Park, the RBC
Learn more about Holiday Inn
Centre and the
Sarnia Hotel or book your visit at
(www.holidayinn.com/sarniaon).
Imperial Theatre.
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With beautiful views of the marina and the comforts of home,
you can expect a relaxing stay at the Holiday Inn Sarnia Hotel
and Conference Centre in Point Edward, ON. The hotel’s convenient
location is 10 km from Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport (YZR).
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Many of the Holiday Inn’s guests will enjoy dining
at the celebrated on-site Bridges Bistro and Freightor’s
Lounge. However, there is a wonderful variety of great restaurants for all occasions peppered throughout the city. Some
of the restaurants I would recommend include Maison St.
Aubin, offering French style food, Sicily’s Restaurant offering
wonderful Italian food and On the Front Restaurant which is
on the 14th floor and over looking the river (www.onthefront.
com).
There is no shortage of things to do in Sarnia and
Point Edward. You can visit the Sarnia RBC Centre, see
a show at the Imperial Theatre or shop at the Lambton
Mall. Golfers can enjoy a game at the 9-hole Holiday Inn Golf
Course or one of the many greens throughout the city.
Take a fancy ride around town with a romantic horse
and carriage ride with Humes Rides or a fancy lift by Prestige Limousine (www.prestigelimousine.biz). Many visitors to
the area will visit the OLG Casino Point Edward where you
can find slots and gaming tables (www.olg.ca) and the Hiawatha Horse Park which offers
Rogers Bayfest
live horse racing (www.hiawathabegan back in
horsepark.com).
1999 with a single
Visit the Bluewater
performance and
Bridge where you can enjoy
has since grown
romantic walks along the river,
to a two weekend
eat fresh salt and vinegar french
event. The growth
fries or go biking or roller blading.
and development
Canatara Park offers excellent
have provided new
beaches, an animal farm and bike
and exciting
rentals from Bluewater Bike
elements for the
Rentals.
Take in a little culture as
fans. right: The
you catch a play at the Imperial
Arkells. right page:
Theatre (www.imperialtheatre.
The Tragically Hip.
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net), enjoy Jazz & Blues in the Village in September or board a
cruise with Duc d’Orleans (www.ducdorleans.com).
For those who want to slow things down and relax,
book a visit to the Glass & Pillar Spa where you can enjoy a
couple’s massage, facial, manicure, pedicure and more (www.
glassandpillarspa.com).
One of the most exciting things we planned was a
visit to the city’s renowned Sarnia Rogers Bayfest, one of
the most incredible draws to Sarnia in the summer months.
For those not yet aware, Bayfest is an annual music festival in
downtown’s Centennial Park that takes place in July each year.
Since 1999, Rogers Bayfest has grown from attracting a few
thousand visitors to approximately 100,000 and was the winner of Ontario Tourism’s Best Business/Event of the year 2009.
The festival involves and benefits a number of charities and
capitalizes on the hometown feeling and the festival environment.
As of 2009, Bayfest has been split into two weekends: The first being Rock acts which play Thursday, Friday
and Saturday, and the second being Country, which play the
following Friday and Saturday. During the weekend of my
stay in Sarnia was the well-known Canadian iconic band the
Tragically Hip, along with other excellent opener bands Joel
Plaskett and the Arkells. Visitors can start planning for next
year’s Bayfest, or catch one the other concerts the organizers
put on throughout the year, such as Yellow Hat Open and
Hiawatha Bash, at www.sarniabayfest.com.
The experience in Sarnia was incredible and it was
clear that only a weekend just does not provide enough time
to take in all the city has to offer. I plan to return soon, and
because of the many diverse events and attractions occurring during the rest of the year, not only in summer. I would
recommend planning your visit, as I did, by visiting Tourism
Sarnia online at www.TourismSarniaLambton.com.
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WHERE TO STAY
CANADIAN ESCAPES
Nova Scotia’s famous Cape Breton Island is a one of Canada’s great jewels to explore. Speckled
throughout the region are some incredible places to stay, play and dine.
The people are friendly and full stories about the area. You will not be disappointed!
Pictou Lodge Resort features log cottages, executive
chalets, private beaches, and of course lots of natural
family recreation activities. Experience renowned Taste
of Nova Scotia seafood dining and their famous Sunday
Brunch in their fireside dining room, their Oceanview
Lounge or sit outside on their expansive deck overlooking the beautiful sandy beaches of the Northumberland
Shore. Visit them at www.pictoulodge.com
Island Sunset Resort & Spa is just at the historic mouth of
the Margaree River situated at Margaree Harbour. Their oceanside executive cottages and 4 ½ star dining room offer all the
ingredients for a great getaway. Open from May through to
October, guests of the resort find out why the West Coast of
Cape Breton is one of the most treasured areas in Canada and
one of the world’s most famous and loved scenic destinations.
Brimming with cultural attractions, ocean inspired scenery and
friendly people, the region draws praise from travelers all over
the globe. Visit them at www.islandsunset.com
Chanterelle Country Inn is a 150 acre estate of the
Award Winning establishment situated on the Cabot Trail.
It sits high on a brae overlooking the estuary of the North
River as it flows into St. Ann’s Bay. The property is known
for its Nova Scotia Vacation Packages along with friendly expertise in providing personalized touring information and for
creating daily itineraries for individuals, couples and groups
wanting to discover Cape Breton Island. Visit them at www.
chanterelleinn.com
Louisbourg Harbour Inn is situated on the harbour next
to a working fishing wharf and the Louisbourg Playhouse,
where traditional Island music and dance are performed
every evening from late June to mid-October. They are only
a mile from the Fortress of Louisbourg Visitor Centre.
Ideally situated, the inn is on the harbour, just off Main
Street, in the very heart of the village and only a mile from
the entrance to the Fortress. Visit them at www.louisbourgharbourinn.com.
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MUSKOKA DIVING
SCUBA SHACK: The only boat afloat for
divers wanting to dive Muskoka Ontario!
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A
s part of our Great Canadian Family Scuba Series
over the last year we have dived in many incredible locations across Canada. Using my own eager sons as case
examples, Josh (17yrs) and Jonah (15yrs), we highlighted the successes and challenges associated with the Open Water Certification
process. Our goal was to dispel some of the myths associated with
scuba diving in Canada, including that scuba diving is only limited
to fit athletes, that only adults can do it successfully and that Canadian waters are just too cold to enjoy. So far we have loved being a
part of this series because of the exceptional diving opportunities
in great locations, some of which have surprised us.
One area we loved this summer was Muskoka Ontario.
After all, with all it’s 1600 lakes, we assumed that the Muskoka
region would be festooned with diving tour operators. However
there is only one: Scuba Shack! Based in Gravenhurst Ontario, Scuba
Shack is Muskoka’s only recreational and technical diving facility
and is backed by over 32 Years in the diving Industry servicing all of
central Ontario.
The region is actually very large and, for those who have
been there, it is arguably among the most beautiful summer vacation areas in Canada. The District of Muskoka is located approximately two hours north of Toronto in Central Ontario. It extends
from Georgian Bay in the west, to the northern tip of Lake Couchiching in the south and to the western border of Algonquin Provincial Park in the east. This region is referred to as “cottage country”
and sees over 2.1 million visitors annually. Muskoka is a scenic area
sprinkled with picturesque villages and towns, farming communities, lakeside vacation hotels and resorts, golf courses, country clubs
and marinas.
To hook up with Scuba Shack this summer was an incredible experience. Scuba Shack offers a full service dive shop with
numerous dives and wonderful diving tours geared to varied levels.
They offer air, nitrox Trimix fills, full recreational & technical gear, is
an authorized service & repair of all scuba equipment and they offer
retail sales & equipment rentals.
Scuba Shack Owner Dean Mark learned to dive in Manitoba’s dark, cold water and then decided to make his hobby a
business. So, after moving to Muskoka and finding the Scuba Shack,
Dean joined the team as a dive master. When the owners of Scuba
Shack decided to sell the business Dean and Jane took the leap.
They are now in their 28th year of
Scuba Shack
business, 25 of which are at the same
location.
offers a full service
Mark and Jane are avid
dive shop with air,
dive enthusiasts plus certified sport
nitrox Trimix fills,
and technical dive instructors. Their
full
recreational &
expertise ensures that Scuba Shack
customers will be offered the largest
technical gear. It is
selection of quality equipment, first
also authorized to
class instruction and service which
service & repair of
is second to none. The entire staff
ALL scuba
is dedicated to making the diving
equipment
and they
experience the most rewarding possible.
offer retail sales &
With 4 SDI Instructors and
equipment rentals.
30
32
8 dive masters as well as a technical instructor on the roster, Scuba
Shack’s staff are fully trained and qualified to assist with any dive
related requirement.
International Scuba Certification
Scuba shack employs some of the most professional and
knowledgeable instructors available in central Ontario. Being an
SDI Training Facility, TDI Training Facility and PADI Training Facility.
Scuba Shack can offer you a large variety of courses from novice to
technical, to career oriented. All courses offered at the Scuba Shack
are international certifications.
I found the staff to be incredibly helpful and supportive,
especially to my boys who where relatively new to the sport and
having achieved their open water certificate at the end of last year.
This was our first dive of the season and even I was feeling a little
out of sorts re-orienting myself to the equipment. However Dean
and his crew were patient and understanding from beginning
to the end! While we were feeling
Scuba Shack is a
awkward with the equipment, they
encouraged us to relax, acknowlcertified C.T.C.
edged the challenges for new or
hydro-static test
infrequent divers and helped us to encentre and has a
joy the whole experience. Dean took
complete and
us on some great dives in the area on
comprehensive
his custom built 32’ pontoon charter
boat which is specially designed to
regulator, tank,
accommodate scuba divers, and hold
valve & suit repair
10 people comfortably.
department.
Issue 1 - 2007 33
33
32
Featured Muskoka Ontario Dives:
The Wreck of the Waome – The Waome is among the best
dives in the area, and according to Dean, she is one of the most
pristine, diveable wrecks in Ontario. Historically, on the morning
of October 6, 1934 and en route from Port Carling to Beaumaris, a
freak storm caught her broadside and left her on the bottom of the
lake just west of Keewaydin Island. Today, this 78 foot steel-hulled
wooden steamer sits upright in about 70 feet of tea-colored water.
Lights and experienced divers are required for the dive. Penetration
of this wreck is possible; from the upper deck past the wheelhouse,
the diver can descend down the stairway to the lower deck or head
towards the fantail. The cargo doors on the second deck are open
on both sides allowing divers to swim through from one side to the
other. They recommend a minimum Advanced Certification for this
dive.
Gravenhurst Cliffs – This site was formerly a German POW
camp. When it closed all the intact buildings were pushed into the
bay. Max depth 30 feet.
Clear Lake – A great shore dive for any level diver as well as a
perfect dive to practice your navigational skills.
Eleanor Island Wall – A boat dive on a neat wall you will find
lots of large eggs and bird skeletons. Max depth 100 feet.
Skeleton Lake Wall – A boat dive on a fantastic clear (but
chilly) wall where you will find lots of fish and couple of sunken
barges. Max depth 120 feet.
Lake Joseph Wall - Excellent boat dive in crystal clear water.
Pick your depth and swim along the wall. Max depth >120 feet.
Morrison Wreck - Shallow wreck dive off the docks in Barrie’s
Waterfront. Max depth approximately 30 feet
Lake Of Bays - Cool wreck dive with 2 boats sitting on top of
each other. Max depth 60 feet Bottom of Bala Falls – A Fun easy entry dive with lots of craw fish and good visibility. Max depth 45 feet.
Bird Island Wall & The Platform - The wall goes down in
levels with a ledge at approximately every 15 feet. This island itself
is a bird sanctuary and is particularly interesting during the month
of June when the Blue Herons return from the south to hatch their
young. The Platform is a dive area originally set up as a training site
for part of the advanced diver programs. With a maximum depth of
about 50 feet, it is the numerous boats, toilets, tire reef filled with
fish, and town water intake line that make this such an interesting
dive. Recommended Advanced Diver or Open Water diver.
Lake Joseph Wall and Grotto - Their Lake Joseph charter
includes two dives aboard the Bottom Times II, First is our wall dive,
a fantastic experience with depths up to 285’ for those advanced
technical divers, so good buoyancy and lights are definitely required. The second is a more relaxing dive amidst the Grotto. Swimthroughs abound in this semi cavern dive site and at a relaxing
max depth of 55’, it is the perfect way to end the day’s diving. Boat
leaves from Gordon Bay Marine. recommended Advanced Diver
certification or greater.
Bottom Times II - Scuba Shack will get you to either of these
dive site aboard their 32 foot pontoon boat. The Bottom Times II is
very stable in the water making it very easy to suit up and was set
up by divers mainly for running dive charters. Maximum 10 Divers.
I would strongly recommend visiting the Muskoka region. It is beautifully diverse and offers memories that will last a
lifetime. There are so many other things to do in the region for the whole family and any time of year! Be sure to contact Scuba Shack for all your questions about diving in the area, and especially about booking your own diving tour.
They are family-friendly and a company that meets Canadian Destination’s high standards for family-friendly diving!
Visit www.scubashack.on.ca
Issue 1 - 2007 35
35
34

Fall / Winter 2014 Issue

Transcription

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