Melanistic Magazine - Vol. 11

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Calgary Tourism

With a bit of planning and research, any travel experience can become a Melanistic experience. Our team spent two full days in Calgary getting to know the city on a deeper level, diving beyond its reputation for business, and weaving in traces of Black history and culture along the way.

On the first day we found And Some Flower Cafe, with creative menu items like Lavender - Ade and a beautiful space, it was a great way to start the adventure. A quick hop on the train - designed by a Black Albertan from Amber Valley, Oliver Bowen - brought us directly to the Calgary Zoo. Sprawling 125 Acres, the Calgary Zoo has Animal exhibitions, greenhouses with lush foliage, a large bug playground and morethere’s something for every type of nature lover. Our favorite was the Butterfly House!

We worked up an appetite and found ourselves at a Calgary pioneer in Caribbean Food, Roti Hut. Everything

is made and served fresh; the soursop punch was outstanding. To cap off the evening, we decided it was time for something sweet and The D Spot was the answer. Items

like the Ferrero Rocher Milkshake and Strawberries and Cream Cheese Pancakes, made it the perfect place to share a dessert, only - we each got our own.

On day two we were able to catch up with the owner Lloyd Reid of Lloyd’s Patties. We shared some laughs while we ordered our Spicy Beef and Chicken Patties. Patties in hand, we journeyed back downtown to grab some e-scooters and proceeded on a self guided rolling tour of TD BeltLine Urban Murals Project or (BUMP). With large scale pieces from MEDIAH, KWEST, and Eliscer Elliot, it was a chance to see Calgary from another perspective; merging old Calgary with young artists and trendsetters.

The final meal was served up at Yemeni Village, a team favorite. We all cooled down with the Lime with Mint drink, and ordered family style, sharing the Beef Mendi, Fish, Chicken, and Fahsa. While eating we reflected on this full and diverse experience; the art, shops, food, and activities that we had enjoyed. We all agreed though, it felt like it was just the tip of the iceberg for what this city has to offer.

To begin planning your Calgary experience, visit www.visitcalgary.com