VOL 44 JANUARY 2024
www.modernluxuria.com
CONTRIBUTORS
PUBLISHED BY MODERN LUXURIA LTD.
Brandy Belitsky Mona Rose Butler
FOUNDER & PUBLISHER
Twyla Campbell
Elsa Amorim
Marcia J. Hamm Cai Parker Paré
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Francesca Roznicki
Twyla Campbell
Emily Welz Erin Walker
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brandy Belitsky COPY EDITOR Lucie Oosterveld Modern Luxuria is a digital magazine and is published monthly. For subscription inquiries email: hello@modernluxuria.com No part of this magazine, including text, photographs, illustrations, advertising layouts or other graphics may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher. Modern Luxuria Magazine is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork (including but not limited to drawings, photographs, or transparencies) or any unsolicited material. By accepting and publishing advertisements, Modern Luxuria Magazine is in no way endorsing or guaranteeing the quality of service or product with those advertisements.
Thank you
VOL 44 JANUARY 2024
COVER Photography Supplied
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January 2024
Twyla Campbell Executive Editor
Twyla Campbell is a freelance writer, author, and the former food columnist for CBC radio (Edmonton). She is a seasoned traveller who seeks unique destinations both local and abroad. A proud supporter of Canadian wine and sustainable food producers, Twyla is a regularly sought food panelist and judge for culinary competitions in Canada.
Contributors Erin Walker is a professional food
Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things
photographer, recipe developer and
wine, but is especially passionate
food stylist, with clients in Edmonton
about Italy's native grape varieties.
and across North America. When she’s
She is a WSET diploma holder, an
not spending time behind the lens or
Italian Wine Scholar and one of only
in the kitchen, you can find her reading,
15 Italian Wine Experts In the world
gardening and enjoying everyday life
through the Vinitaly international
with her husband and her two busy boys.
Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, have dinner parties and relax on the patio.
Francesca Roznicki is a creative entrepreneur and busy mom of two
Emily Welz is an internationally
boys. Always passionate about interior
published photographer and stylist.
design, she has worked exclusively within
Before running her photography
the interior design and home building
studio full-time, she worked in media
industry in Edmonton. When she isn't
communications and literacy
busy shuffling kids to sports practice
advocacy. Her passion for storytelling
and writing for her clients, she's scouring
inevitably led her to pursuing
the local real estate listings and diving
photography, creative direction,
into decor magazines with a piping hot
modelling, styling, and set design.
Americano. Mona Rose Butler, originally from
Cai Paré is a writer, musician, and
Vancouver, brings with her to
dedicated advocate for the transgender
Edmonton a background in lifestyle
community. Beyond his literary
writing within the luxury realm. When
pursuits, Cai is an enthusiastic traveller
not working or training for her next
having visited more than 14 countries
strongman competition, she can be
with a meaningful period spent in
found exploring the restaurants and
Ireland. Currently immersed in the BSc
coffee shops of Edmonton or taking
program in biology and psychology at
her dog, Pixel, on adventures.
the University of Alberta, Cai intertwines his scientific pursuits with his creative talents and advocacy issues.
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NOW WORLDWIDE IN 30 COUNTRIES
ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY HELLO@ MODERNLUXURIA.COM | PHONE 780-906-7235
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Highlights Note 2024: Writing a new chapter – Publisher's Note 6 Profile & Fashion John Chwyl: Fashion, life, and living authentically 8 Outdoors Rural Rivers unveils Moonbikes in Alberta's backcountry
22
Cuisine XIX: A decade of culinary excellence and timeless tradition 28 Drinks Exceptional warming drinks to elevate your winter evenings 36 Lifestyle Extravacat’s Saunas: Crafting opulent escapes in Alberta 40
Real Estate Explore a custom-built home in Valleyview 54
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Publisher's Note while shaping Edmontonians’ style choices along the way. For those seeking adventure, our auto feature introduces Rural Rivers' Moonbikes—an exhilarating fusion of swift, quiet, and electric fun amidst a snowy landscape. These ultra-light electric snowbikes are the first of their kind in Alberta. Our cuisine feature takes you to XIX, where culinary creativity meets precision. The culinary team's artistry brings together cherished classics and innovative creations that keep customers coming back year after year. Dive into our health and wellness article spotlighting Extravacat’s Saunas—restorative havens created by
PHOTO BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
skilled carpenter Jason VanBoven. These saunas
A new year brings exciting possibilities and adds
transcend the ordinary, offering an immersive
another chapter to our story.
backyard escape that rejuvenates both body and mind.
2023 was woven with threads of change and growth. We fostered connections, grew our audience globally,
For the globetrotters, our travel piece offers divine
and discovered fabulous things about this ever-
destinations tailored for skiing, shopping, and
growing city that we continue to love. We are excited
indulging in delectable cuisines.
to see what 2024 has in store. Cheers to a new year brimming with possibilities. This month, our profile feature shines a spotlight
May this year’s chapter be filled with joy, prosperity
on the remarkable journey of local fashion icon,
and love.
John Chwyl. His unexpected foray into the world of modelling at a Bridal Fantasy fashion show in 1992
– Elsa
blossomed into a storied career spanning decades,
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John "The Fashion Guy" Chwyl A life in the pursuit of style, passion, and gratitude WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY WELZ
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January 2024
John Chwyl’s spontaneous modelling stint at a Bridal Fantasy fashion show in 1992 opened the door to a long-standing career with the organization. By 1994, he was managing the production, a role he maintained for 25 years. Now, nearly 10 years retired, Chwyl reflects on his time in the fashion industry and his part in shaping Edmontonians’ style choices through the decades. We sat down with Chwyl to learn more about how he’s spending retirement, what fashion rules he will always follow, and what’s most important when determining one’s style. The Bridal Fantasy fashion show is where you got your start in the fashion world, but you also worked in other capacities throughout your career. Tell us more about the other facets of your career. While working for Bridal Fantasy, I got a call from the marketing director at West Edmonton Mall and she asked me to do just a single fashion show for the mall. We did that fashion show and then I just continued to do it for 14 more years. There were times we were doing 80 fashion shows in a year. It was insane. Thankfully, I had an amazing team working for me that I called my Keisha Girls (my company was called Keisha Productions and so they called themselves the Keisha Girls). While working with the mall, we got a call from Lorraine Mansbridge at Global Television. She was looking for someone to come on the air to talk fashion. At the time there wasn't a lot of talk about fashion in the same way that I wanted to present it—and certainly nothing local. So I just, out of the blue, created an on-air fashion segment, and then I did it for about 19 years. I loved it because it was an opportunity for me to talk about fashion in a very real way. We didn't talk about labels. We didn't talk about designers. This was just about real people and real fashion.
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You focused your entire career on real fashion
Internally, we all understand and know what looks
and less on following trends. Share that rationale
good on us. We all know the things that we like
and why it was important to you.
about ourselves and the things that we dislike about ourselves. It's really important that whatever
I never looked at the labels. I never talked about
it is that you put on, makes you feel something
or wrote about labels, ever. I was probably the
positive. If it doesn’t, it's the wrong piece. But if you
most anti-fashion guy in all of fashion at that time
put it on and you don't pay attention to the areas
because I didn't care what name you were wearing.
that are a concern for you, then by all means that's
I just cared that it fit, that it looked good, and that
what you should wear.
you felt comfortable in it. And for me, that was how I lived my entire career—I wanted you to be
I believe very strongly that you should look at
comfortable in your style. As long as it’s clean and it
yourself as a picture; where you are the inside of
fits well and it's not damaged, I don't care—you look
the picture, and your clothing is the frame of that
good in it.
picture. The more simple and the more classic that is, the better that you will shine. Buy the quality that
What advice would you give to someone who is
you can afford. Choose classic stuff that will last
looking to define their style, or figure out what
forever.
looks good on them?
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You gave up the hustle and bustle of the fashion industry 10 years ago to retire and spend more time with your partner. Tell us what life looks like for you, nowadays. I am so incredibly lucky and blessed to live the life I live, which is filled with such joy and happiness and everything I could ever want. It's like you get to that point where you think, can it get any better than this? Pardon me? I don't think so. We have a beautiful home with 160 acres of trees around us. We're very much isolated. We're in our own little world that is filled with sunshine. My partner, Tim, and I have been together for 41 years. We enjoy every minute together. We check our computers to see what's going on in the world and we talk about how silly everything is and how it was different when we were younger. We will go to the gym we built on our property, have lunch together, dabble in creativity and then take part in the daily practice of fika, a Swedish tradition of visiting and having coffee and a sweet. It's meant to break up your day, which I think everyone in the world should do. And then we just hang out until supper time. We love our days. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.
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Tell us of the non-negotiable luxuries that allow you to live your best life. My first one is my bathtub. I was always a shower person, but when we built our house and we had the room, we put in a big soaker tub. All I have to do is pour myself an old fashioned, fill the tub with the hottest water I can stand, drop in some eucalyptus oil, and turn on some music. Music is my second luxury; I can’t go without it. The music has to make me feel something. If it doesn't make me feel an emotion (not agitation or anger), I don't want it in my life. I have 42,000 songs on my iPhone and I have 14 different playlists that go from bath time to chill time to the elliptical to everything in my life. And finally, my partner, Tim. Forty-one years together and I tell him every day when I see him, “I love you more today than I did yesterday.” That’s because he's my rock. Everything good in my life has come with the two of us together.
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Peach Perfection Peachy finds from Edmonton's favourite shops PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
1
1.
Elyse Breanne Design Peach Dotted Notebook www.themakerskeep.com
3.
Lack of Color Wave Bucket Hat www.bellamaas.com
5.
Protect Oval Ring Pink Opal & Gold www.soprettycaracotter.com
2.
Comme Des Garcons Grace by Grace Coddington www.gravitypope.com
4.
Tom Ford Bitter Peach Candle www.harryrosen.com
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Poise Beaded Link Bracelet Peach Moonstone & Gold www.soprettycaracotter.com
7.
Harold Silk Linen Floral Tie www.harryrosen.com
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2
6
3 7
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Rural Rivers: Moonbikes Winter fun in Sturgeon County WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED WWW.RURALRIVERS.COM
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Rural Rivers has been captivating the attention of adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers since 2020. Owned by Indigenous entrepreneur, Zack Doroshenko, the business is an embodiment of a dream nurtured over years and brought to life during the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the core of Rural Rivers’ story lies a remarkable 23-acre property on Treaty No. 6 Territory. The land has been in Doroshenko’s family for generations and is where he grew up. “There’s a lot of history on this land,” he says with pride. “The house that was originally here is actually now at the Musée Heritage Site in St. Albert on River Lots 23 and 24.” Rural Rivers is not just a business; it’s a manifestation of Doroshenko’s commitment to preserving his family’s legacy while sharing the beauty of this historic land with the world. It’s a place where visitors can escape into nature, explore the glistening waters of the Sturgeon River, and experience thrilling outdoor activities. When restricted indoor gatherings and social distancing measures were implemented due to the pandemic, Doroshenko saw an opportunity to make the most of the situation. People were seeking outdoor activities and he had the perfect space. Offering canoe, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals turned his family’s land into a hub for fresh air adventures, but with winter coming, he needed to offer something more. Doroshenko scrolled through social media and stumbled upon Moonbikes, an electric hybrid between a snowmobile and a motorized bicycle that presented an exhilarating winter adventure virtually unheard of in Canada. Doroshenko was intrigued.
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Moonbikes are no ordinary machine; they are 100% electric, lightweight (163 lbs without the batteries), and can travel up to three hours on a single charge. With a top speed of 42 km/h, the bikes feature different speed modes to cater to various skill levels, ensuring both beginners and seasoned riders enjoy the experience. Rural Rivers currently offers four Moonbikes for rent, with rates starting at $65 for a 45-minute session. To ensure everyone’s safety, helmets and orientation sessions are included in the rentals.
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Doroshenko spent the past year extending the trails—originally designed for snowshoeing—for Moonbike use. A combination of hills, twists and turns, and wide-open spaces over three kilometres on private land enables riders to indulge in the joys of winter. Keep your fingers crossed for a snowy January!
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XIX Keeps Performing A decade of delicious offerings WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN WALKER
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A long list of regular customers has developed at XIX since the Terwillegar area restaurant opened in 2013. Firmly anchored in a strip mall amidst an expanse of residences and retail options, the establishment offers a refined yet approachable dining experience with a window to the action.
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From a decor perspective, the space has remained relatively unchanged over the past 10 years, something that speaks to the solid design of both the main room and the lounge. Recent updates to chairs and lighting are subtle and keep in line with the leather-and-wood, private club-like atmosphere it has exuded since day one. Wall-to-wall windows offer a view into the kitchen where head chef, Andrew Fung and his crew capably perform. “This is theatre,” he says. “It’s a show, in a sense, so we need to stay sharp.” Customers can also feast their eyes on pieces of original art, including an impressively large Tim Okamura painting that spans a wall in the lounge. The collection ranges from abstract to traditional and helps to soften the masculinity of the rooms. “A restaurant is like a piece of art,“ says Fung. “You need to have people come out and appreciate it.” A long-standing veteran of the industry who received his training in Europe, Fung changes the menu not only to keep the creative juices flowing but also to keep in line with product availability. Quality is paramount.
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The menu's backbone is classic—scallops, beef tenderloin, roasted chicken, and the like—but prepared with interesting twists. From the appetizer list, grilled octopus is topped with chorizo, Calabrian chili sauce and thinly sliced pepperoncini, and presented on crispy sourdough; baked escargots arrive in puff pastry with shallots, red onions, tomatoes, basil and dijon cream. A new take on arancini, this with a Japanese influence, sees albacore and ahi tuna ensconced in arborio rice, deepfried, topped with tomato-bacon jam and presented in a puddle of sweet wasabi gel. Sablefish, duck confit, and beef tenderloin are popular choices, but it’s the pan-roasted chicken that impresses. It arrives perfectly cooked with juices running alongside portabello mushroom agnolotti dressed in a sage-infused brown butter sauce, and topped with a sprinkling of tender peas; it’s a winning combination. This is comfort food presented on white linens by competent staff. This is where people celebrate special occasions and date nights. Where friends gather for brunch and where evenings are reserved for intimate meals, winemaker dinners, and tradition.
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After the recent pandemic upheaval, and with 26 years of cooking under his belt, Fung knows that consistency and tradition make people feel grounded. “Hospitality makes people happy. People come to celebrate. Our job is to fulfill their wants and needs.” If XIX on Mullen Way feels too far a drive, the St. Albert location, now in its eighth year of operation, could be a closer option. The menu is identical, the room is as inviting, but leading the performance is chef Landen Swick, a 2016 Culinary Olympics' gold medal winner. At either venue, you’re in good hands. WWW.DINENINETEEN.COM
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Baby, It’s Cold Outside Drinks to warm from the inside out The
Christmas
decorations
have
been
put
away,
our
pocketbooks are a little emptier than they were a month ago, and the weather indicates it is most certainly winter. Going to work and coming home in the dark is difficult enough, so after a long day, it's nice to cozy up to a roaring fire with a good book, and something in a glass to warm you. Warming drinks are ones typically made with a spirit containing an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 40 per cent or more. They can also be a full(er) bodied red wine, an unctuous white wine, or something fortified, like sherry or port. Breeze through January with these exceptional drinks that are sure to warm you from the inside out.
WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
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Quevedo 20-year-old Tawny Port Port is a fortified beverage from grapes grown in the Douro Valley of Portugal, and aged in the port of Oporto. An historical drink, it was fortified with a neutral spirit to keep it from spoiling on the long journey by boat to the United Kingdom in the second half of the 17th century. Whether the personal choice is a ruby or a tawny port, at 20 per cent ABV, it hits the mark as a warming wine. The Quevedo family carries a 5-generation heritage of grape-growing and port-making. The age statement on the bottle of the 20-year-old tawny port means it has been aged entirely in wood. The characteristic flavours of toasted almonds and pecans, along with caramel and brown sugar notes, is a perfect sip after dinner. This Quevedo port retails for about $68 at many fine retail establishments.
Tesseron Lot 76 XO Cognac Founded in 1905, Tesseron is world-renowned in the art of ageing cognac. While the main grape is ugni blanc, Tesseron also grows the rarer folle blanche and colombard grapes, which are more difficult to grow. Other producers gave up on these grapes, while Tesseron pursued their commitment to keeping these traditional grape varieties, thus giving their cognacs extra dimension. The Lot 76 is an exceptional blend of reserve stocks of cognac from the Grande Champagne region, matured for 30 years before bottling. Expressive and alluring aromas of orange peel, honey, and floral notes, the Lot 76 is smooth as silk with a spicy, yet rounded finish that seems to go on forever. This luxurious cognac can be found in stores for about $240.
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Mulled Wine Serves 6 This drink is not just for the festive season. Spice it up and serve it as an aperitif anytime company comes for dinner. Easy to make, yet, oh, so delicious. 1 bottle (750 ml) high alcohol red wine (such as a Spanish monastrell, a California zinfandel, or cabernet sauvignon) 1 ½ cups cranberry juice 2 Bengal Spice teabags (see note) 1 tsp cloves 2 tsp ground nutmeg 3 cinnamon sticks For garnish: 6 orange slices, thin and round 6 cinnamon sticks Place wine, cranberry juice, tea bags, and spices into a mid-sized pot on the stove over medium heat. Stir to mix all ingredients and heat until warm. Do not boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to blend the flavours. Using a small sieve, remove the teabags, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Ladle into a heatproof mug, and garnish with an orange slice and a fresh cinnamon stick. Note: Bengal Spice is a caffeine-free, Chaistyle blend by Celestial Seasonings. Any other brand that offers a tea with a profile of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves could work as a substitute.
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A Backyard Oasis Where luxury meets personal wellness WORDS BY CAI PARKER PARÉ PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
In the heart of Alberta, where winter's embrace can chill to the bone, Extravacat’s Saunas emerges as a radiant
haven,
transcending
the
conventional sauna experience into a realm of opulent escape. Owned by Jason VanBoven, a skilled carpenter, these saunas go beyond the ordinary by creating an immersive backyard experience that elevates both physical and mental well-being.
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During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, while working at Extravacat’s Saunas’ sister company, Aquarian Renovations, VanBoven identified an opportunity to enhance daily life with the sauna aspect of the business. Witnessing a surge in demand for backyard retreats and an untapped market, he envisioned transforming spaces to elevate relaxation for all Albertans. Suanas are said to reduce stress, trigger the release of endorphins, and lower cortisol levels. "Using a sauna about three times a week has significant health perks,” says VanBoven. “While research supports physical health benefits, prioritizing personal relaxation can also boost mental well-being." Extravacat's Saunas presents a selection of premium outdoor saunas constructed of red and eastern white cedar varieties. Notably, the Georgian Cabin sauna, part of the Eastern White Cedar Collection, stands out with its light colour and cottage-friendly design that can effortlessly integrate into any home or cabin backyard setting. The Red Cedar Collection features an array of choices, including the Cedar Barrel, Mini Pod, Panoramic, and Luna models. "These saunas are perfect for socializing, as bathers are seated facing each other,” explains VanBoven. “Each sauna is 100% Canadian red cedar, anti-bacterial and rotresistant against climate." The saunas are meticulously constructed to endure challenging weather conditions with the superior quality of the wood helping to ensure a resilient year-round retreat for users seeking solace and rejuvenation.
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VanBoven further underscores Extravacat’s Saunas distinctive features by highlighting their unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and detail. "Our local carpenters construct and service our units. They know the material inside and out." Unlike most companies, Extravacat's Saunas offers fully customizable saunas, with each model displayed in their showroom and ready for customers to try before purchasing. Extravacat's dedication to luxury and well-being extends beyond saunas, venturing into aquatic tranquility with Extravacat's Pools. Crafted from resilient fibreglass, these pools withstand Alberta's freeze-and-thaw cycles, ensuring year-round structural integrity. The design, akin to an ice cube tray, assures resilience against challenging local weather conditions. In detailing the origin of Extravacat’s Saunas, VanBoven sheds light on the company name. "It was borne out of differentiation and a positive, fun spirit—something different in the market." This creative inception underscores the brand's commitment to providing a unique and enjoyable experience in the realm of wellness and luxury. "As a brick-andmortar establishment, we stand apart and are committed to our local neighbourhood." Looking toward the future, Jason envisions ambitious milestones for the company and elevating the backyard experience for residents across the province. Extravacat's Saunas, guided by a blend of creativity and commitment, is poised to continue shaping spaces that transcend the ordinary, offering warmth, relaxation, and a wellness sanctuary for all Albertans. WWW.EXTRAVACATS.CA
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Alpine Retreats Around the Globe Divine destinations to ski, shop, and dine WORDS BY MONA ROSE BUTLER PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
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St. Moritz, Switzerland Nestled in the Engadine valley amidst the Swiss Alps, is St. Moritz. Considered by many as the birthplace of Alpine tourism and famous for its manicured slopes and mineral springs, the region has earned its reputation for being a world-renowned ski destination. In addition to the usual winter crowd, 30,000 more spectators flock to the region for the White Turf races. On these days, skikjöring is the focus where riders are pulled on skis behind thoroughbred racehorses down a 2,700 metre-long track. The event is bolstered by live music, art, and food, and takes place on three Sundays every February. The 5-star Kulm Hotel St. Moritz has been welcoming guests for over 165 years with rooms and suites built to accommodate solo travellers and families alike. The hotel offers spectacular views of the mountains and lake, along with seven dining options, a spa, pools, and saunas. WWW.KULM.COM
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January 2024
Aspen, Colorado Among the majestic Rocky Mountains is Aspen, Colorado, one of the United States’ most popular winter sporting destinations. From intense vertical descents to gentle slopes, this unforgettable area offers opportunities for thrillseekers of every degree. Within the city, which has been a hub of the area since the silver boom in the 1880s, visitors can meander through the shops, which include brands such as Chanel, Dior, Prada, Gucci, and Moncler. Aspen’s oldest place of accommodation, the stately Hotel Jerome, has proudly stood on Main Street since 1889. The 3-storey red brick building offers 94 rooms in four styles plus a spa and six dining options, including the legendary J-Bar where the late Hunter S. Thompson and other celebrities have gathered over the years. The hotel is considered a major landmark and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. WWW.AUBERGERESORTS.COM
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Champoluc, Italy Champoluc is one of three resorts in the Monterosa region, boasting sweeping views of glaciers and mountain peaks. While it may be quieter than nearby Gressoney-La-Trinité and Alagna Valsesia, Champoluc has all the necessary amenities and is known for its fantastic après ski offerings. The resort’s slopes lean more towards beginners, but advanced skiers and snowboarders have access to heliskiing and breathtaking offpiste terrain. Aethos Monterosa is the perfect pied-à-terre for the active and outdoorsy with 2-level elegant suites that can accommodate two to four individuals each. The hotel blends soft natural elements with modernist architecture to boldly stand out from the snowy backdrop. Guests have access to two restaurants, a spa, a climbing wall, a boxing gym, personal trainers, and a plethora of outdoor activities. WWW.AETHOS.COM
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January 2024
Megève, France Charming Megève, a village in the French Alps, has been welcoming tourists since the 19th century, though skiing was not popularized in the area until 1914. Visitors have access to downhill runs, cross-country trails, and backcountry skiing and snowboarding opportunities, most of which are accessible directly from the village. A stroll through town will uncover one-of-a-kind boutiques and iconic brand names like Hermès and Loro Piana. In perfect harmony with the surrounding area, Les Fermes de Marie blends the comforting appeal of alpine chalets with modern amenities and elegance. The 5-star hotel’s unique accommodations are rustic without loss of charm or comfort. Choose from 70 rooms and suites at the hotel or beautiful chalets steps from the village centre. Each chalet comes with personalized concierge service, as well as easy access to the hotel’s amenities. WWW,EN.FERMESDEMARIE.COM
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Mont Tremblant, Quebec Found in Eastern Canada’s Laurentian Mountains, Mont Tremblant is a hub of winter activity. Designed for beginners and experts alike, visitors are sure to find a suitable slope among the 102 different trails. Take in the stunning views from the comfort of a gondola or by trekking to the top on skis or snowshoes. The village stands as a destination of its own. Restaurant offerings are a combination of local Quebequois fare and international flavours. Quaint souvenir shops, specialty ski and snowboard gear stores, and galleries line the cobblestone streets, reminiscent of a European town. At the base of the mountain, steps from the village, stands the Fairmont Mont Tremblant, the oldest and largest hotel in the area. The modern interior has the comfort of a countryside chalet with the grandeur that guests expect of a Fairmont property. It is the only ski-in/ski-out resort on the mountain, assisted by a ski valet who stores guest’s equipment in a heated facility, so it’s always ready for another run. WWW.FAIRMONT.COM/TREMBLANT
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January 2024
Lech, Austria Lech is Austria's largest ski area and the fifth largest in the world. Located in the awe-inspiring Alps, this wonderland village has the highest average snowfall of any major ski area in the Alps, making the surrounding slopes and terrain perfect for all types of skiing, from crosscountry to heli. Visitors will find restaurants and cafes not only within the village, but at the lift stations as well. Though contemporary and traditional Austrian cuisine dominates the scene, hungry diners can also find Italian, Asian fusion, and French restaurants. Severin*s—The Alpine Retreat combines modern touches with the undeniable quaintness of the surrounding area. The hotel offers nine luxurious suites, as well as one residence which sleeps eight people. Guests enjoy three dining options, a pool, sauna, and a gym equipped with high-tech cardio and weight machines. WWW.SEVERINS-LECH.AT/EN/
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Location, Location, Location Sprawling Valleyview home offers modern living near nature trails WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
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January 2024
interest while allowing ample natural light to enter the home. The view from the street is undeniably impressive. A grand 2-storey entrance leads to a showstopper of an open-concept living room with a floor-to-ceiling fireplace feature wall. Clerestory windows allow scores of natural light in a room finished with wood details. A custom room divider creates separation from the dining space without losing any daylight. A deluxe kitchen, fit for any home (or professional) For people craving glitz and glam, this custom
chef, adjoins the dining area. The space
home fits the bill. Only one block to the River Valley
features exquisite quartz countertops,
access trails in prestigious Valleyview, this sprawling
a massive island, high-end appliances,
3,589-square-foot home will appeal to those who
and a convenient butler's pantry. The
want to reconnect with nature while still being
dining area, complete with well-placed
close to local restaurants, shops and services.
direct and ambient lighting, and spacious enough to hold large dinner parties, is
The exterior of this modern structure is accented by
flanked by a double-sided fireplace that
wood and tile, and complemented by a multi-level
leads to an expansive sunroom at the
walkway. Black, Italian linear windows create visual
back of the property.
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January 2024
This home offers a main floor bedroom with a serene, seascape hue-inspired ensuite, ideal for guests, multi-generational living, or those who require aging-in-place arrangements. Another bedroom with an ensuite is on the second floor, along with the ultra-luxurious owner's chamber, complete with a builtin bed, a tiled fireplace, and lighting that rivals an exquisite hotel suite. The expansive ensuite includes a walk-in closet with laundry, a generous vanity space, and a double occupancy shower. The lower level is all about entertaining with a wine room, a built-in bar, and space for a big screen (or four!). Another two bedrooms with private ensuites are on this level, as well.
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In addition to the residence, the three-car garage, and exterior entertaining spaces, there is also a fully permitted garden suite on the property that offers a comfortable and private space for guests or income-generating renters. A state-of-the-art heating and mechanical system will keep the new owners warm on those cold winter nights, and cool throughout the summer. No expense was spared when crafting this 2020 custom-built home, a reality that is immediately evident upon pulling open the double doors at 8908 - 140 Street.
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January 2024
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January 2024
YEG in January Unveiling January's cultural kaleidoscope WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
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January 2024
Borealis Lights Nov 17 - Jan 7 - St. Albert Kinsmen RV Park If you missed it over the holiday season, the Borealis Lights Drive-Thru is running until January 7th at the St. Albert Kinsmen RV Park. Immerse yourself in the magic of this extended light display from the warmth of your vehicle. This year’s spectacular display features over 800,000 lights and takes approximately 25-30 minutes to complete. WWW.BOREALISLIGHTS.CA
Deep Freeze - A Byzantine Winter Festival Jan 20 - Jan 21 - Alberta Avenue (118 Avenue) between 90 and 95 Street Prepare to be cultured this month at Edmonton’s annual Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival! This beloved celebration, held in the heart of the city along 118 Avenue, invites attendees to revel in a captivating blend of arts, culture and winter fun. From intricate ice sculptures to live performances, interactive workshops and mouthwatering local delights, the festival promises an immersive experience that celebrates the city’s diverse heritage and artistic expressions. WWW.DEEPFREEZEFEST.CA
Winterruption YEG Jan 24 - 28 - Various locations around downtown Edmonton Experience the pulse of the city at Winterruption YEG, an electrifying urban festival that brings together art, music, and culture. Explore downtown Edmonton for this multi-venue festival to discover a dynamic lineup of performances, including live music, drag, comedy, art and more. Winterruption YEG transforms Edmonton's winter landscape into a playground of creativity and community engagement. WWW.WINTERRUPTIONYEG.COM
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780 428 6565
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