If you're keen on glamping, Ontario has a pretty cool option. Check out my sleepover adventure at Long Point Eco Adventure. (Updated in 2021). The king sized bed, complete with Fairmont brand linens, is calling my name. While I’m chilly from spending my last few hours outside at an observatory, my gorgeous nest is deliciously warm, as I had the clever foresight to turn on the electric blanket. I slip between the buttery warm sheets with a happy shiver, dipping into a bowl of snacks as I connect to Wi-Fi.
A minute later, I see a ferocious spider, inching towards me. Welcome to glamping, Ontario style! Not quite camping, not quite a glamorous hotel, this unique hybrid form of accommodation is fast becoming a travel trend. But what is the experience like, who is it for, and – most of all – does it represent good value? Like many travelers, taking care of myself is rarely a high priority. Constantly being on the road, catching early morning trains and late night buses, rarely lends itself to looking good, no matter how much fun the adventures might be. But I live in Ottawa, a government town, and important meetings can come up at any time. It was a situation just like this that brought me to Robbie and George at Salon Niccio for the first time. I had recently finished one contract and was enjoying some downtime when the chance for a new position fell into my lap. It was a wonderful opportunity, but it required a new look – and fast! I needed to look polished and professional and ready to stand in front of a crowd at a minute’s notice. But I also needed a look that even a harried traveler like myself could handle. A guest post by Ryan Chester had to be dragged and coerced into our car in the day we brought him home. Towards the end, we had to coerce him out. Chester loved traveling more than I think Vanessa or I did. After the first day, he was always the first in the car, and every destination was an adventure. It didn't matter if it was a five minute drive for me to grab a coffee, or a 5,000 km round trip journey. Chester was game. For him, just like it is for me, the journey can be just as fun as the destination. Together as a family, we have covered thousands upon thousands of kilometres in the car, ferried on lakes and oceans, climbed mountains, and have driven through valleys. In the broiling heat of summer, in the pounding rain, and in the frigid, cruel cold, Chester loved the road. With tears in my eyes, I wordlessly showed my husband a profile from the Humane Society website, a profile that was nearly two months old. Ryan said "Let's go" and in 15 minutes we were in a small room, palms sweating, toes tapping, waiting to meet the dog who was then called Burke. I burst into tears when he came in the room.
We had found our new dog. Until that day I had thrived on a lack of spontaneous decisions. A myriad of lists, spreadsheets, and plans dominated my world. I had never done anything that even comes close to the impulsiveness of adopting Chester, but I powerless when it came to love at first sight. I’d like to say that Chester (nee Burke) was as moved as I was but he initially displayed a cool indifference; a dog used to the easy come, easy go love of the shelter. But when we arrived with a shiny blue collar and new leash to pick him up, he strutted – he absolutely strutted – across the room when the shelter staff told him his new family had arrived. As the emotional volunteers crowded around to say their goodbyes, he raised his proud head and kept his eyes on me the whole time. We were a family. Look what's hidden just steps from Trafalgar Square! Some of London's best hidden attractions and food are in the heart of the city. Nothing says “London” to me quite like Trafalgar Square. As a student studying in the UK, I had plenty of occasions to be there, visiting the National Gallery (which I absolutely love) and the National Portrait Gallery (which I appreciate but truthfully find a little creepy). The fountains and statues of the square, along with the interesting ‘characters’ – both locals and visitors alike – all contribute to its vibrant energy. I could easily pass a day here, popping in an out of the galleries and sitting by the water, watching the world go by. If you're looking for London's best hidden attractions, start at Trafalgar Square.
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