February • 2024
globalheroes.com
RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER ADVERTORIAL
Embrace the Beauty: Spring and Summer Fun in North Bay, Ontario As the chill of winter melts away and nature awakens, North Bay, Ontario, blossoms into a vibrant playground of spring and summer fun. Nestled on the shores of Lake Nipissing, this enchanting city offers activities and attractions that both locals and visitors can revel in. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, North Bay has something for everyone to enjoy under the sun's warm rays. North Bay's pristine natural surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquillity. With countless lakes, rivers, and forests, exploring the great outdoors becomes a thrilling affair. Take a leisurely hike along the picturesque trails of the Laurentian Escarpment or paddle your way through the calm waters of Lake Nipissing, immersing yourself in the serenity of nature. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, North Bay offers thrilling opportunities for water sports. Dive into the refreshing waters of Trout Lake or Lake Nipissing for a day of swimming, snorkelling, or jet skiing. Anglers can cast their lines and try their luck at catching the
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abundant fish species that inhabit these lakes. And if you're a fan of boating, renting a kayak or paddleboard will let you explore the stunning shoreline at your own pace. Off-roading enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore the rugged terrain in and around North Bay. The region offers diverse landscapes and designated off-road areas to indulge in thrilling, off-road adventures. With North Bay as your starting point, there are several riding opportunities in all directions, offering some unique quests no matter your method of transportation.
Beyond its natural beauty, North Bay also boasts a rich cultural scene that captivates visitors. The city is home to a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the works of talented local and national artists. Explore the Capitol Centre, a hub for performing arts, where you can catch live theatre productions, musical performances, and film screenings that will leave you entertained and inspired. History buffs will find delight in a visit to the Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defense, where they can explore the fascinat-
Farmers' Market, held rain or shine every Wednesday and Saturday in the summer, is a bustling hub of local produce, crafts, and live entertainment, providing an authentic taste of the region's vibrant community spirit. Nature and sky enthusiasts shouldn't miss the opportunity to escape the light pollution and witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon of the Perseid meteor showers in August. Find a cozy spot along the shores of Lake Nipissing and marvel at the celestial display as shooting stars dance across the night sky. As the snow melts and the air fills with the promise of warmer days, North Bay, reveals itself as a haven for spring and summer fun. From outdoor adventures in its pristine natural surroundings to immersing oneself in the vibrant arts and cultural scene, this charming city offers many unforgettable experiences. So, embrace the beauty and embark on a journey to North Bay, only 3.5 hours north of Toronto and four hours west of Ottawa.
ing world of aviation and military history. For a deeper understanding of North Bay's heritage, the North Bay Museum offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the city's past through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Spring and summer in North Bay are also marked by a lively calendar of events and festivals that bring the community and visitors together. The annual ‘Shake The Lake’ Ribfest or the Bay Block Party are just two of the fun and vibrant events hosted in the heart of the city in North Bay’s Downtown and Visit tourismnorthbay.com and Waterfront district. The North Bay start planning your trip.
Wanderlust for Wellness: 5 Ways Travel Can Boost Your Health THE JOY OF PLANNING The mere anticipation of a Between deadlines, responsibiltrip has been proven to boost happiness. According to a study ities, and ever-present screens, the idea of packing a suitcase and done by researchers at Cornell setting off on an adventure is University, the anticipation of a deeply alluring. An escape from trip can increase your happiness routine, travel takes us out of our substantially. The anticipation of routines and into new environan experience like taking a trip ments, allowing us to distance can be more fulfilling than the ourselves from stressors, mentally anticipation of receiving a material reset, and gain a fresh perspective item. Planning a vacation gives you something to look forward on life. It’s a natural remedy for stressed-out souls, and the benefits to, making the days leading up to your trip seem more exciting. are plentiful. RAYE MOCIOIU
STRESS REDUCTION IN NATURE Research in a growing scientific field called ecotherapy (often called nature therapy) shows a strong connection between being in nature and reduced levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies also show that spending time in nature boosts memory, creativity, and work satisfaction. Whether it's the rustling leaves in a serene forest or the rhythmic crash of ocean waves, natural environments have a calming effect on the mind.
approach to health. Not to mention, the extended time outdoors also provides a substantial increase in fresh air and sunshine, which has been shown to increase vitamin D and serotonin levels.
SOCIAL CONNECTION AND SHARED EXPERIENCES In the same way that enjoying a meal with a friend can be just what you need after a long week of work, mealtimes when travelling often become social affairs, shared with friends, COGNITIVE family, or fellow travellers, © UNSPLASH/FELIX ROSTIG STIMULATION fostering a sense of connecIn a cross-disciplinary paper “Medical experts can recomA PHYSICAL BOOST tion and camaraderie. Shared from Edith Cowan University experiences have a profound mend dementia treatments such as On top of the mental benefits, (ECU)—published in collaboramusic therapy, exercise, cognitive travel has a noticeable effect on impact on mental health, tion between ECU’s Centre for stimulation, reminiscence therapy, one’s physical well-being as well. creating lasting memories that Precision Health and the School Going somewhere new often contribute to an overall sense of sensory stimulation and adapof Business and Law, researcher tations to a patient’s mealtimes involves more physical activity, fulfillment and happiness. Dr. Jun Wen suggested a change and environment,” Dr. Wen said. from leisurely strolls through Aside from the excitement in how we look at tourism. It’s not “These are all also often found historic streets to adventurous that planning a vacation can just an opportunity for adventure; when on holidays.” hikes in scenic landscapes or bring, travel grants you the Tourism experiences, he long, indulgent walks along a it’s also a way to improve our freedom to do what you love, health. Dr. Wen led a diverse team explained, are rife with new sandy beach. Exercise has long rest, and live in the moment. environments, novel experiences, been linked to mental well-being, Travel is not just an enjoyable of tourism, public health, and marketing experts who investiand engaging activities, which all and travel seamlessly integrates pastime—it’s also an essential gated how tourism could benefit contribute to mental agility and physical activity into the joy of part of fostering a positive and those living with dementia. sensory enhancement. exploration, promoting a holistic healthy mindset.