Cayman Marshall South - Spring 2024

DONNA GRAY**

A NOTE FROM THE EDITORS

One of the things I love best about living and working in the west GTA is that this is one of the few areas in North America where you can live in a home with the clean waterfront, fresh air and open skies of cottage country, combined with the cosmopolitan atmosphere and convenience of a big city. That’s why I was so excited when I first saw the home we’re presenting as our featured listing in this issue.

This house is really something to see –breathtaking in every detail, from the lake views visible from almost every room to the infinity pool that seems to cascade directly into the lake. And if that’s not enough, it’s in Port Credit, one of the most liveable communities in the GTA, with everything from great restos to nightlife – oh, and the Port Credit GO train too – within walking distance.

Also in this issue, I’ll tell you what attracted me personally to the way Cayman Marshall

"The meaning of life is just to be alive. It is so plain and so obvious and so simple. And yet, everybody rushes around in a great panic as if it were necessary to achieve something beyond themselves. This is the real secret of life - to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now." - Alan Watts

With this issue, I’d like to introduce myself to you as the new editor of Cayman Marshall magazine. Though I have spent most of my life in Asia, Canada has always held a special place in my heart. The memories of long summers spent here, juxtaposed with the bustling energy of Hong Kong, evoke a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. I am filled with joy to share this slice of paradise with you.

As the inspiring quote above tells us, life is made up of an infinite series of moments, each with its own special value. As our editorial team put together our Spring ’24

does business. They truly are different from any other brokerage I’ve worked with over the years, and now that I’ve been here for awhile, I can really see how the Cayman Marshall approach, unique as it is, produces results.

The beautiful island of Martinique, a French protectorate nestled between Dominica and Saint Lucia, is a haven of great local food, hiking on volcanic Mount Pelée, and rich history. And now that Air Canada is offering non-stop flights to the island, it’s easier than ever to explore.

I’d like to thank our editorial team again for their help in putting together our first issue of 2024; and along with some great reads, I hope you’ll enjoy checking out our newest listings, many of which you won’t see anywhere else. Welcome spring, and hope to see you around town!

issue, we’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of taking time out to appreciate these often fleeting sights, sounds, and even smells all around us.

In this issue, delve into the vibrant scenes of the Toronto Interior Design Show 2024: Canada's largest design fair, celebrating its 25th anniversary. Learn how innovative designs and sustainable practices are shaping modern living environments in The GTA of Tomorrow. Plus, find glimpses of captivating travel destinations and innovative lifestyle trends for spring, inspiring you to savour life's moments at home and abroad.

As another winter gives way to spring, may our first 2024 issue guide you to relish the beauty of a new season in our wonderful region. Find inspiration within these pages to appreciate the richness of life's special moments.

Broker

Olivia Lay Media Team

“A beautiful space starts from the ground up with a weavers art…”

– Michael Pourvakil

Weaving Beautiful Stories in Every Knot

T suru(The Crane), has always been a strong symbol of success & good fortune in Japanese culture. Created with the finest Chinese silk and New Zealand wool, Tsuru will have a special place in your heart and home.

S tudio 502, is the latest addition to our Modern Art collection. Hand-knotted with pure Chinese silk and hand-spun wool it can truly set the mood for a contemporary space.

Studio 502 –Chatreuse in silk & wool

Tsuru – Original in silk & wool

50

FRENCH FLAIR

Volcanic Vistas and Creole

Flavours in Martinique

SOUTH | SPRING 2024

EDITORS

Todd Adair*

Olivia Lay

Donna Gray**

Lauren Lowe

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Kelsey Addison

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Cathryn Haynes

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andre Carriere

Mitchell Hubble

Helicopix Inc.

Olivia Lay

Micheal Muraz

Wafa Fahad Photography

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Olivia Lay

CONTRIBUTORS

Todd Adair*

Jennifer Bain

Martha Uniacke Breen

Donna Gray**

Charlie-Ann McNair*

Meredith

landscapes that INSPIRE

Virginia Burt Designs is a full service landscape architecture firm specializing in residential, estate, and therapeutic landscapes. With offices in Ohio and Ontario, the firm has been involved in a wide range of projects including therapeutic gardens for hospitals and institutions, estate master plans, and native landscape restoration. Our philosophy is grounded in the idea that landscapes and gardens can heal both people and planet and we are passionate about designs where nature, art, and science intersect.

Image Courtesy of Lanescape, Dave Rempel

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NIGHTSTAND #3: $710 20”W x 20”D x 24”H RUG #3: $550 | 8’x10’ RUG #2: $440 | 8’x10’

THE GTA OF TOMORROW:

HOME FAMILY REIMAGINING THE

By DC Rutherford

Image Courtesy of Lanescape | Ron Adriano

In the heart of the GTA’s evolving housing landscape, a new approach is emerging on how we utilize our properties and reimagine space.

Trailblazers in architectural design have seamlessly integrated aesthetics with functionality in their approach to guest dwellings. This concept focuses on creating additional living spaces in the form of garden or ancillary property suites. These are strategically designed to meet the evolving needs of families and homeowners. In a region where space is at a premium, these designs are more than just structures; they stand as a testament to thoughtful living.

Two companies, Maison and Lanescape, are leading this significant change in family planning and architecture. They have embraced the concept of guest dwellings, positioning them as compelling solutions to the pressing demand for adaptable living spaces. This is particularly relevant for families seeking alternatives to traditional nursing homes.

Lanescape, known as “Canada’s leading architecture and construction practice

Image Courtesy of Lanescape | Ron Adriano

dedicated exclusively to laneway and garden suites,” began its mission in 2014. It aimed to gather community support for a zoning policy that would allow homeowners to construct laneway suites simply and economically. The firm addressed challenges such as making mortgage payments more manageable, aging comfortably at home, and finding rental opportunities suitable for families close to parks and schools. After four years of engaging with local communities, urban planning experts, city officials, and political figures, their efforts bore fruit: in the summer of 2018, the City of Toronto enacted laneway housing regulations, turning their vision into reality.

The housing revolution continued with Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, which changed the rules to allow more houses in existing neighbourhoods, by permitting properties to have up to three homes on them. Implemented on November 28, 2022, this new rule has facilitated the addition of more living spaces across Ontario in areas that already have access to city water and sewage, overriding previous local restrictions. Now, local governments cannot impose a minimum size for these homes, demand more than one parking spot per home, charge extra fees for building these homes, or require contributions in lieu of park space for second or third homes in main buildings, or for a second home in a separate smaller building on a lot.

The concept of guest dwellings has gained prominence amid an aging population and a housing market facing affordability challenges. It offers a viable

Trailblazers in architectural design have seamlessly integrated aesthetics with functionality in their approach to guest dwellings.

and compassionate alternative for families caring for aging parents, and for young adults seeking independence in a complex housing market. This simple yet transformative idea involves creating independent living spaces within a family’s property, allowing retired parents or young families to maintain autonomy while staying connected to their loved ones— spiritually, financially, and geographically.

Imagine a tranquil garden suite nestled in the greenery of a backyard, designed with architectural finesse. These guest

Image Courtesy of Maison

Image Courtesy of Maison

dwellings go beyond providing shelter; they embody a philosophy that values intergenerational connections. Moving away from conventional nursing homes or suburban starter homes to guest dwellings represents a shift towards more inclusive and supportive community living.

Sustainable development adds another layer of significance to the guest dwellings initiative.

As the GTA confronts the environmental impacts of rapid urbanization, guest dwellings align with a broader vision of creating living spaces that are comfortable and eco-friendly.

Incorporating energy-efficient designs and green technologies ensures these dwellings are sustainable solutions for the future.

The concept has particularly resonated with families with retired parents. The possibility of having a self-contained living space allows seniors to maintain their independence while being close to their

families. This alternative to nursing homes reflects a growing desire for personalized and compassionate elder care.

The GTA, with its diverse and dynamic population, is the perfect setting for this ambitious new vision of home. The region’s ever-evolving landscape demands innovative housing solutions, and the guest dwellings concept offers a forward-thinking response. This initiative is about more than just building physical structures; it’s about creating a narrative of thoughtful urban living.

As guest dwellings gain popularity, they also prompt broader discussions on urban planning. The approach by companies like Maison and Lanescape challenge traditional housing notions, and encourages city planners to reconsider the possibilities within existing neighbourhoods. Integrating additional living spaces within residential properties could redefine the urban landscape, fostering community and adaptability.

Guest dwelling initiatives stand as a beacon of innovation in the GTA’s housing scene, showcasing the transformative power of architecture and sustainable urban development in meeting the evolving needs of families. As this concept gains momentum, it not only offers practical solutions to housing challenges but also reshapes the narrative of urban living, emphasizing connectivity, adaptability, and compassion.

arhome

arhome boasts an exclusive collection of 25 homes for sale, responding to the high demand for owning the iconic structures that encapsulate the arcana experience. This initiative is a collaboration between Leckie Studio, HummingbirdHill Homes, and arhome, aimed at providing individuals the opportunity to immerse themselves in the essence of arcana, whether for personal enjoyment or commercial purposes. The core of the arcana experience is the iconic arcana cabin, designed as a sanctuary to harness the restorative power of nature, aligning with scientific findings on the positive effects of nature on wellbeing. arhome plans to expand this experience with a new property in Muskoka in 2024, emphasizing the importance of regular nature immersion for mental health and wellbeing.

Leckie Studio Architecture + Design, founded in 2015 by Michael Leckie in Vancouver, is committed to a rigorous discovery process in design, focusing on creative problem-solving and the importance of the design journey. HHH, on the other hand, aims to create environments that serve as modern sanctuaries, engaging all five senses for tranquility and physical health enhancement, reflecting a dedication to positive change and environmental sustainability. Together, these entities are bringing a unique opportunity to own a part of the transformative arcana experience.

Image Courtesy of Lanescape | Dave Rempel

Image Courtesy of arhome

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COTTAGE

in the City

By Martha Uniacke Breen

Especially in the GTA, homes that truly combine the best of city and cottage living don’t appear very often. So when a house like this arrives in the market, you know it’s something special.

True cottage-in-the-city properties – with both the comfort and convenience of a city home and the views and laid-back vibe of a cottage – are rare enough, and on those occasions when one of these gems actually comes on the market, they’re in very high demand.

Sometimes, these houses don’t quite live up to expectations. Either they're close to the lake and have that wonderful relaxed cottage mood, but need work; or you have to get in your car and drive, just to pick up a jug of milk or grab dinner. Or else the house is great, but priced out of reach, or you have to share the waterfront with so many tourists and passersby that it hardly feels like your own.

Well, check out this Port Credit-area beauty: it’s a great city house and a great cottage rolled into one, and a great place to live all twelve months of the year.

Let's start with the neighbourhood. Lakefront properties in the western GTA rarely boast good walkability scores, but here, Port Credit’s great restos, shopping and the vibrant Lakeshore-Hurontario

nightlife scene are literally just steps from your door. The GO train station is just down the road. And you’ll enjoy the feeling of community here; there’s a young, urban vibe, a mix of families with kids and sophisticated professionals.

Set back from the street on a roomy 50foot lot, the house welcomes you home from the moment you pull in the driveway. Inside, it’s airy and full of light, spanning over 6,500 square feet, and uniquely designed in such a way that you can see the lake from almost every room. Elevenfoot ceilings on the main level set off the expansive feeling of the open-plan design. From the beautifully finished chef’s kitchen and adjoining butler’s pantry, to the relaxed family room with its granite floor-to-ceiling fireplace, it’s tailor-made for kicking back with family, a quiet dinner with friends or a major gathering.

You can’t help but be impressed by the sheer quality of the construction; you’ll notice it from the moment you first walk through the front door. This is a home that was built to last, with real care taken in the architecture, choice of materials and finishing details.

YOU CAN’T HELP BUT BE impressed

Underneath the elegant oak and stone flooring on all three levels, in-floor radiant heating set in poured concrete imparts a sense of solidity and strength; classic features such as arched doorways, natural wood ceiling beams and oak architectural trim give it a timeless, almost heritage character. But make no mistake: this home was built to modern state-of-the-art standards in every detail.

Each of the four upstairs bedrooms features its own unique design and ensuite. The primary bedroom, with its twelve-foot ceilings, fireplace and enthralling, floor-to-ceiling lakeside view, opens out on to a secluded deck overlooking the water. In summer, slide back the glass doors and let the cool breezes in; in winter, curl up by the fire with a glass of wine and watch the snow gently falling outside.

The lower level, with its own separate walkout, is the place to play. Down here there’s a second big, comfy seating area, perfect for watching the game with friends or snuggling up for a movie with the fam, while enjoying the warmth of a second big stone fireplace. For the kids, there’s plenty of space to run around, climb and play; for the grownups, a fully equipped gym. There’s also a wine cellar, games room, nanny/in-law suite and, after you come in from a dip in the pool – or the lake! – a cedar-lined cabana area, with direct access from outside to change rooms, sauna, steam room and shower area.

YOUR VERY OWN PIECE ofLake Ontario

While other people are packing up their cars and preparing to brave the traffic up to cottage country, your escape from hectic city life consists of merely stepping through your back door onto the patio. It progresses on three roomy levels, organized into a multitude of separate places where you can catch some rays, kick back with friends or simply enjoy life.

THIS IS A HOME THAT WAS

built to last

Straight out the patio doors is a covered seating and dining area with built-in barbecue. (You’ll want to live out here, from spring to fall.) Sit in the sun – or bask in the shade, if you prefer – and read, scroll through Insta, or watch the water; later, throw a couple of steaks on the barbie or warm up in the hot tub as the sun goes down.

A few steps further on this level, cool off in the gorgeous infinityedge pool; its farthest edge seems to melt into the lake, a beautiful, serene effect. At the side, the kids can burn off energy on the lawn

(or you can set up a game of bocce or badminton). Further down there’s a paved terrace high above the water – tailor-made for sun worshippers, and arguably the best long-distance view on the whole property.

But it’s the lowest level that makes your backyard escape truly different: for here, literally, is your very own piece of Lake Ontario. Along with fifty feet of privately owned shoreline, your property line extends a further 300 feet beyond the paved dock out into the lake. You can moor a couple of Jet-Skis

or kayaks here, and get out to play on the water any time you choose. Or power up the motorboat and head to the city for a hockey game or dinner, without even having to think about city traffic.

But if you prefer to stay high and dry at home, there’s more seating and a second barbecue down here, for picnics by the lake or hotdogs for the gang after a morning swim. As evening falls, warm up by the firepit and listen to the lapping of the waves at your feet.

A great location for walking. One of Ontario’s most sophisticated small communities just steps away, and Canada’s biggest and best city a few kilometres down the shore. A beautiful, solid, turnkey home with everything from romantic lake views to great boating, swimming and relaxing, right at your door. This is authentic cottage living in the city, and you won’t see the likes of it again any time soon.

We all aspire to being good, strong and courageous. Noble goals that require guidance, inspiration and support. Character demands humility, strength pairs with perseverance and benevolence requires a bit of everything. At Walden International School we know this to be true. It’s why we’re so committed to creating good people who go on in life to do good things. Every day.

ARE YOU SELLING A PROPERTY THAT’S IDEAL FOR REDEVELOPMENT?

Consider meeting some of our investors and developers in advance of formally listing your property in order to get an offer pre-MLS.

We work with a handful of developers that are eager to purchase properties, ideal for redevelopment or severance.

Consider reaching out to us before going public with your listing.

THE CADILLAC OF AUTOMOTIVE GROUPS

Applewood Cadillac, a dealership serving Mississauga and surrounding areas for 65 years, attributes its success to a steadfast commitment to its clients and community, along with representing iconic automotive brands. Founded in 1958, the company aimed to offer a personalized car-buying experience, treating customers like friends. Their differentiation lies in their methodology and technological evolution, ensuring inclusivity and community engagement, as emphasized by their staff.

Over the years, Applewood has garnered numerous accolades, transitioning from a dealership to a flagship store and consistently ranking as a top performer in Toronto and Canada. The dealership acknowledges the evolving landscape of informed car buyers who demand transparency and fair dealing, a philosophy that has earned them repeat and referral business across generations.

The latest development for Applewood is the construction of a standalone Cadillac dealership, scheduled for completion in fall 2024/winter 2025. This facility will exclusively showcase Cadillac vehicles, offering luxury customer service before and after delivery. The move reflects the Cadillac brand’s association with authenticity and elevated standards, aiming to cater to the discerning Cadillac driver seeking an exceptional purchasing experience.

The entire Applewood team is committed to providing a satisfying auto shopping experience, which has contributed to their status as the number-one GM volume dealer in Canada. From their trustworthy sales approach to their forthcoming luxurious dealership, Applewood continues to set itself apart as a cornerstone of the Ontario automotive landscape, earning its reputation as the Cadillac of dealerships in the region.

By Donna Gray

When I was first introduced to Cayman Marshall at the Port Carling office last November and saw firsthand how the company handles its properties for sale, my first response was, “ This is a very expensive way of doing business. ”

But then I realized, isn’t that what I always wanted to sign up for?

To deliver the best level of marketing and tools I can to my clients? Once I discovered the unique way Cayman Marshall conducts its business, and saw not only the consistent level of results and the number of clients who were truly satisfied with their experience with the firm, I realized this was a Realtor I would feel proud to work with.

Early in my career, I recognized it was important to deliver unprecedented value to my clients in order to succeed. This only happens if you invest a substantial amount of money into your marketing. Cayman’s combination of cutting-edge technology, expert in-house services that address everything from design and architecture to targeted and qualified media exposure, enables the firm to offer a level of personal service that isn’t quite like anything I’ve seen before in this business.

Here’s how it works for most brokerages – a model that CM founder Todd Adair has called, quite rightly in my view, “broken.” For many years, the standard business model for many brokerages was to operate mainly as a central clearing house, where agents could sign new clients, promote properties for sale, share basic office services, and handle the paperwork for completing transactions. Essentially, each agent worked independently.

In return for the brokerage’s support, the agent got an established brand affiliation and often, a good location from which to attract clients. All the agent basically needed in order to do his or her job was a valid licence, a car, and a big fat MLS binder of properties. (Tough negotiating skills might be a useful additional asset.) Especially when it came to marketing, clients were left to rely mainly on the skills, energy and resources of the individual agent, which could vary from excellent, caring and diligent to… well, you get the picture.

When I did my due diligence before joining the Cayman Marshall team, I discovered that this company does things a bit differently.

CM has spent years and invested heavily to develop a systematic approach that could allow the sellers to completely bypass MLS if that were permitted. (MLS has its benefits, but it also has some drawbacks, especially when you are dealing with the kind of luxury properties that I had been working in.) Cayman also employs an unmatched team of in-house specialists in a wide variety of fields, ready to service clients’ needs in preparing and showcasing their properties to the world.

Over the years, Cayman’s mastery of technology and the services it is able to offer has led to steady growth – even as its competitors have cut back, or started charging extra for services they might have formerly included in their fees. Simply put, Cayman Marshall agents have a range of resources at their fingertips that other brokerages don’t. And they can offer a level of services – along with patient, personalized attention – that a lot of “standard” brokerages can’t.

This is particularly true of Cayman’s renowned exclusive listing service. This allows the company to bring clients’ properties to the attention of selected, prequalified potential buyers before any CM agent makes an appointment to view a property with them. The exclusive listing service adds an extra layer of security and discretion, better-qualified buyers, and often a faster and smoother sale.

Other firms are offering exclusive listing services nowadays. So why is Cayman’s exclusive listing service so successful? Basically, we like to believe we’ve gone

Cayman’s objective is to provide complete, turnkey services for both buyers and sellers – from the moment you sign with us to the day that the deal is successfully completed.

MLS one better. Cayman’s exclusive leadgenerating system brings its properties to the attention of pre-qualified, pre-screened clients, who have come to us through a variety of ways. We find it’s deeply appreciated by sellers who value their privacy, or simply don’t want to be part of the feeding frenzy that sometimes occurs when a highly desirable property goes on the market.

And these days, the service is even more valuable. With the CREA’s new rules that prevent realtors from marketing exclusive listings publicly (in effect, forcing them to use MLS if they wish to advertise a listing anywhere in the public media), it is now even more crucial to be associated with a brokerage like Cayman Marshall, whose private marketing expertise has been proven over and over again. It works so well and so smoothly, that a number of clients have returned to us to sell their subsequent properties using this service!

It’s just one of an entire suite of innovative services Cayman Marshall offers, along with an extraordinary in-house team of talented architects, designers, stagers, contractors and even construction personnel. Cayman’s objective is to provide complete, turnkey services for both buyers and sellers – from the moment you sign with us to the day that the deal is successfully completed, and frequently even beyond that.

Cayman is not quite like any other real estate firm that I’ve worked with before – you could even call it a disruptor. But the results speak for themselves: harnessing technology and the resources of an expert team, rather than relying on the individual skills of any one agent, is the secret sauce that makes this company different. And I’m truly excited to be a part of it.

Cayman Marshall agents have a range of resources at their fingertips that other brokerages dont. And they can offer a level of services – along with patient, personalized attention – that a lot of “ standard ” brokerages cant.

Donna Gray

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WEST GTA AND SURROUNDING AREAS

New Optimism for A New Year

By Martha Uniacke Breen

The 25th anniversary edition of the Toronto Interior Design Show, held in mid-January, is Canada’s largest design fair and the place for Toronto design lovers to check out the latest trends, get advice and attend seminars and talks on a wide variety of design topics, and, of course, to shop for everything from high-quality appliances to flooring and more.

“The Toronto IDS Show is my favourite design show in Canada,” says Jessica Cinnamon, a designer who exhibited at the 2024 show. “It is always inspirational and showcases the best products, vendors and craftsmen within the design industry.”

This year, IDS seemed to signal that the pandemic-induced doldrums, which had dampened spirits over the past couple of shows, have finally been shaken off for good. A real feeling of optimism and even fun seemed to percolate through the show this year: things are moving forward again at last, and it’s okay to splurge on feathering our nests. Montauk’s unmanned corner booth exemplified this free-spirited attitude: the wallpaper, upholstery and carpeting all sported the same vibrant parrots-and-palm-fronds motif, and while providing shoppers an inviting place to relax between aisleshopping, also transformed them into part of the visual effect.

IDS is at heart a kind of high-end home show, and many of the biggest names had splashy booths to celebrate their finest. Caesarstone and Miele joined forces in a large booth that showcased four different kitchens designed to represent every price point from entry-level condo to luxury design-forward, conceived by Toronto designer Michael London. House Of Rohl displayed swoon-worthy bath faucets and fixtures. And the LG Signature Kitchen Suite offered up cooking demos with celebrity chefs Mark McEwen and Nick Liu, while booth attendants passed around their gourmet edibles to lucky showgoers standing nearby.

The Toronto IDS Show is my favourite design show in Canada. It is always inspirational and showcases the best products, vendors and craftsmen within the design industry.

–

Jessica Cinnamon, interior designer

Sustainability was a major theme and a recurring topic among designers and exhibitors alike. Style Garage’s booth brought the concept front and centre, with a tomato-coloured velour sofa whose fabric and stuffing were made from recycled water bottles, nestled in a kind of glass and steel “conservatory” lined with potted plants. The entire booth, said SG’s Olga Liandenko, was designed to be zero waste.

from different companies demonstrated how comfortable and versatile such structures can be. Whether installed as guesthouses in a city or rural property or tailored to individual needs, such as a home office or studio in a backyard, they’re an idea whose time has come, for use as shortterm rentals or laneway or backyard homes, or to help address the increasingly pressing need for housing in the GTA.

But no IDS visit is complete without touring Studio North, where you’ll meet talented artisans whose one-of-a-kind

lighting, and pottery arts (one company, OCH, featured lamps and vases made by putting liquid clay through a 3D printer, and working with the unique texture produced when the material sags as it dries), this is design at its most creative.

Ever since its launch a quarter-century ago, IDS has always been a design lover’s paradise, and the 2024 edition was one of the biggest in show history. We’re already looking forward to what next year will bring!

By Jennifer Bain

Mount Pelée Looms Over Saint-Pierre Bay Credit: Luc Olivier/Martinique Tourism Authority

Volcanic Vistas & Creole Flavours in Martinique

s the plane started its descent into Martinique, we oohed and aahed at the UNESCO-recognized rainforest and mountains that dominate the north end of the French island.

There was a welcome party at the airport to celebrate Air Canada’s first non-stop flight from Toronto with dancing, music, speeches and an ice cream cake shaped like Mount Pelée and the Carbet Mountains. That sweet taste of the edible mountain tided me over until I could finally experience Martinique’s highest peak in person.

Mount Pelée is an active volcano that killed nearly 30,000 people when it erupted in 1902 and destroyed the town of Saint-Pierre. Explosive eruptions are now called pelean eruptions.

Hikers will tell you to arrive at dawn before the fog sets in. The challenging trail demands half a day but I had only an hour and so after struggling up steep, rocky steps, I took a time-out to photograph hummingbirds and flowers before turning back.

This being Martinique — an overseas “department” and region of France nestled between Dominica and Saint Lucia — there was Creole cuisine to eat while waiting to be picked up. I paired a guava pastry from a couple selling home-baked goods from their car with an artisanal lemonade from Le Refuge de l’Aileron café.

Then it was on to Habitation Céron for a stroll through the tropical forest to see a 300-year-old zamana (rain) tree plus cacao trees whose edible seeds become chocolate in the hands of Julie Marraud des Grottes.

There was also a blind tasting of five dishes that showcase ingredients foraged on site — dishes like chocolate cake with christophine (chayote) sorbet, and a stuffed begonia leaf.

Julie’s sister Amelie, the server, explained each dish only after we had finished it and tried to figure it out. Her chef-husband Hugo Thierry likes to change the lunch menu daily, saying “the point is to be ready to give pleasure.”

Martinique has long enjoyed non-stop flights to Montreal, but hopes to lure more Ontarians with this new seasonal link that gets people here from Toronto Pearson in just five hours.

Because it’s part of France, Martinique uses the Euro and adores foie gras and crêpes. It also keeps the beaches public so hotels are set back from the ocean. Mine — Hôtel La Pagerie in Trois-Îlets — calls itself a “tropical garden hotel.” I dined in a boutique hotel called La Suite Villa and spent a few hours at Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek (the island’s only all-inclusive resort offers day passes and is on the beach).

There are plenty of off-beach experiences to keep you busy, though, like a visit to the “Cap 110” memorial. Created by local painter/ sculptor Laurent Valère in 1998 to mark the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery, the Mémorial de l’Anse Caffard pays tribute to the victims of an 1830 shipwreck.

BLOOD by Artist Thierry Alet at Habitation Clément Credit: Jennifer Bain

Julie Marraud des Grottes showcases cacao trees and their edible pods at Habitation Céron. Credit: Jennifer Bain

Fifteen busts of reinforced concrete are arranged in a triangle that points 110 degrees to the Gulf of Guinea where the doomed slave ship was likely from. The abstract statues — geometric forms that lean forward with downcast eyes and open mouths — are white to signify the funeral colours of Africa. You can see Rocher du Diamant (Diamond Rock) from the monument.

Martinique has started to confront its dark connections to the transatlantic slave trade.

Habitation Clément is a sugar cane plantation with a rum interpretation centre showcasing Rhum Clément. It also has a botanical discovery trail and outdoor art gallery where Thierry Alet’s massive red sculpture of the word BLOOD speaks to the legacy of slavery.

Stone mason Gilbert Larose has spent 24 years creating an open-air museum called La Savane des Esclaves (Slave Savannah) that replicates a post-slavery village and details the lives of slaves before and after colonization.

Fort-de-France, the capital, enjoys an outpost of French shopping mecca Galeries Lafayette. The stunning Bibliothèque Schoelcher, with its Byzantine dome and ornate interior, was built for the 1899 Paris Exposition and then reassembled here. A pedicab tour with Cyclo’comm ends at the covered market with its spices, Creole dolls and rum.

You can splurge on Kata Mambo’s catamaran tours or explore on foot. I enjoyed the Fontaine Didier-Absalon trail with Gilles Vicrobeck, who runs a hiking festival and oversees Martinique’s forty five marked trails, and then devoured a simple Creole lunch at La Chaudière in Le Morne-Rouge.

That day ended in Saint-Pierre in the shadow of Mount Pelée at the Mémorial de la Catastrophe de 1902 — Musée Frank A. Perret. The town rose from the ashes of the deadly eruption, but the ruins of a church, theatre, prison and asylum remain as a testament to the devastation.

Cyclo'comm owner Fabrice Mudard in Fort-de-France with one of his pedicabs. Credit: Jennifer Bain

Mount Pelée view from the top Credit: Martinique Tourism Authority

Mémorial de l'Anse Caffard by Laurent Valère pays tribute to unknown slaves who died in a shipwreck. Credit: Jennifer Bain

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In

recent days, a new mandate from the Canadian Real Estate Association has sparked heated debate.

The danger lurking behind

By Todd Adair

In recent days, a new mandate from the Canadian Real Estate Association has sparked heated debate, and rightfully so. The CREA’s recent requirement that all residential property sales must go through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) seems innocuous at first glance. Yet in my opinion, beneath the surface lies a troubling trend of centralized control that permeates Canadian life and business.

This mandate, reminiscent of Communist ideals, dictates that the greater powers know what’s best for the populace, leaving little room for individual freedom and choice. It’s a disconcerting reality that should give us pause, and prompt us to question where this path leads.

publishing the address? Tough luck. Wish to discreetly market a property still under construction until it’s ready and safe to be shown? Not an option. Have a unique property tailored to a niche audience? MLS may not be the best fit, but options are limited. Have a property that really shows better once the foliage is in and the lakes are unfrozen? CREA says too bad – your only option is MLS, unless your Realtor has a contact they can privately reach out to.

Imagine you have a home that’s worth $20 million, and it’s not suited for MLS. Your only option now is to hope and pray that your Realtor might “know somebody.”

Consider the implications for homeowners looking to sell their properties. The mandate strips away their ability to choose alternative avenues, restricting their freedom and autonomy. Want to maintain privacy by not

The damage doesn’t stop there. Properties listed on MLS for extended periods often acquire an undeserved stigma, affecting their marketability and potentially harming sellers. The new rule could mean that through no fault of their own, these properties will take longer to sell, and the resulting stigma will lead to even more difficulties.

Furthermore, this one-sizefits-all approach fails to account for the diverse needs and circumstances of individuals – especially individuals who can think bigger than cutand-paste marketing solutions.

Proponents of the mandatoryMLS rule argue that it benefits certain businesses (including mine), by allowing me to advertise to the world that I have $150 million in privately unadvertised listings, and the only way to gain access to them is through me directly. But in fact it quietly undermines a more fundamental principle: the right to choice, and to privacy. We mustn’t overlook the broader implications for society as a whole.

I believe this type of thinking is affecting every part of our nation right now. It’s a frustration in almost every industry, as rules and regulations tighten down on everything and everybody.

Our cherished Canadian values of freedom and diversity are at stake. We must resist the creeping tendrils of control, and advocate for a system that respects individual rights and preferences. It’s time to challenge the status quo and reclaim our autonomy.

I think it’s time to remember that true progress lies not in conformity, but in the celebration of our differences.

Let us dare to think beyond the confines of “Canadian thinking” and forge a path that honours the rich tapestry of human experience (and outcomes).

In the face of encroaching uniformity, let us dare to be different. Let’s encourage people to think bigger. Let us dare to think beyond the confines of “Canadian thinking” and forge a path that honours the rich tapestry of human experience (and outcomes).

The bottom line for my business is that we’ll continue to offer all the added services that we’ve always offered at Cayman Marshall, including a very exclusive database, our luxury lifestyle magazine that advertises to a select audience as well as our social media,

and the many other platforms in which we continue to invest.

I will continue to do all this – and I’ll do it alongside the MLS for now, because that’s what I’m told I have to do.

I love this country, and I do believe in a blended amount of socialism, but when regulated bodies decide what’s best for us with a hard stop, I start to draw the line.

Todd Adair

CAYMAN MARSHALL ADVANTAGE

“Become so skilled, so vigilant, so flat-out fantastic at what you do that your talent cannot be dismissed.” – Oprah Winfrey

Cayman Marshall International Realty is a boutique brokerage firm serving the West GTA, Toronto, and Muskoka. We intend to redefine the level of service that clients can expect from real estate professionals.

We at Cayman Marshall have been entrusted with the most prestigious properties in Ontario. As leaders in Ontario luxury real estate, we have record sales on many of the finest Ontario Markets. With sales now surpassing the multi-billion-dollar mark, we’ve secured our position as a leader in luxury. Our inhouse IT professionals have developed proprietary online tools and software, interactive and intuitive websites, lifestyle tours, stunning photography, and an astonishing network of over 400 local and international referral partners to ensure our client’s listings get the exposure they need to attract the most discerning local and international buyers.

We currently print eight issues of our Cayman Marshall magazine per year, with an annual distribution of 170,000. Each magazine is delivered to the front door of homes and cottages of high-networth clientele throughout Ontario.

We are proud to mention that the Cayman Marshall brokerage was voted by a panel of international judges to be the “Best Real Estate Agency in Canada,” two years in a row – a title that we cherish! Cayman Marshall was also named one of “Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies” by Maclean’s magazine for three years (2018, 2019 & 2022). We have also been named one of Canada’s fastest-growing companies by the Globe and Mail. We expect to keep our title as the disrupter in luxury real estate.

Founded on the principles of teamwork, service, and value, Cayman Marshall is the best advantage for buyers and sellers alike. If you’re looking for a real estate solution that’s undeniably different, please reach out to me or one of my teammates and start experiencing the advantage!

Donna Gray

Donna Gray

International Realty Inc.,

With 25 years’ experience in sales and marketing, joining the Cayman Marshall team was a great fit for Michael. His “customer first” dedication to his clients has always resulted in successful

Originally a native of Slovenia, Helena has worked alongside Donna and been a Lorne Park neighbour for many years. Donna credits Helena's unique talents, not only as an agent but also as a stylist, as an integral component of the team's sales success, along with her prominence in this close-knit community – husband Vittorio’s hair salon is extremely popular with local customers. “It’s so exciting to join CM, with all the tools they have to help us and our clients succeed,” she says.

Growing up in Waterloo, Cat was fortunate enough to spend all of her summers at her family cottage on Lake of Bays. Cayman Marshall sought after Cat for her enthusiastic, positive attitude and Cat is now thrilled to be building a career in Sales with the Cayman Marshall Team.

PARKINSON** Broker

Born and raised in Muskoka, Claire developed a passion for real estate at a young age through her Father’s timber frame and log home company. Having been in the industry since 2016, she has gathered knowledge and appreciation for roles within the business from administration, home staging, working with buyers and sellers, to now assisting the team at Cayman Marshall.

MEREDITH PARSONS Designer

Meredith was born and raised in Mississauga and spent her summers as a child exploring Muskoka. Meredith developed a love for architecture and design at a young age and was able to turn her passion into a career after completing her education in Interior Design at Ryerson University. With over 5 years of experience in the design industry, Meredith is developing her craft while creating beautiful and timeless interiors.

Vice President of Sales & Marketing/Sales Representative

Neil gravitated to the shorelines of Muskoka in 2000 pursuing a passion for watersports. His background as an athlete and affinity for coaching lead to a successful 20-year career in the luxury boat industry, where he was able to gain a deep understanding of the Muskoka cottage lifestyle. “Working with Todd and his team as clients over the years, I knew I had to be part of Cayman Marshall's unique approach and culture.”

MARK PAYNE* Sales Representative

Mark Payne is new sales representative here at Cayman Marshall. Mark comes to the real estate world after selling an awardwinning marina on Georgian Bay which he owned for 25 plus years. Mark has a passion for customer excellence in which is one of the main things he attitudes his success to. Mark both lives and cottages in the Parry Sound/Pointe au Baril area where he enjoys boating and cottage time with his wife and daughter.

STEVE HADDOCK*

Steve is a strong relationship builder, honest and dedicated to Customer Service. This combined with his intimate knowledge of Muskoka lakes and area has made him a consistent top producer. Steve is an avid cyclist and golfer and maintains residences in Toronto and Muskoka and ties to both communities. His mantra and favourite quote is to “get up, dress up, show up, and never give up”.

OLIVIA LAY Media Team

Olivia is a truly global soul who has woven her life across three countries –Australia, Hong Kong, and Canada. Though originally born in Australia, she has joyfully embraced Muskoka as her home. Olivia's worldly journey, immersed in diverse traditions, cultures, and languages, has enabled her to appreciate and understand the rich tapestry of life's myriad experiences, along with a keen interest in real estate. She's thrilled to be a part of the Cayman Marshall team.

JEFF LIDDLE* Sales Representative

Jeff entered into real estate in 2008 facing a down market and a recession. Overcoming the odds, Jeff has now become a “top producer” in his industry. Working and living in Muskoka comes with a deep appreciation; it is this appreciation that Jeff portrays to his clients every day. KRISTIN McCREA Office

of Georgian Bay. Sarah is passionate about travel. She has just returned home from Turks and Caicos Islands where she worked in Private International Banking. With over thirteen years of experience in customer relationship building, she is an excellent addition to the Cayman Marshall Team.

strategies at the negotiating table. Rain is the only broker in central Canada to acquire the CCIM designation in 2022. She has owned brokerages along with staging companies. Her knowledge in luxury and commercial real estate, finance, and asset management, along with domestic and international connections, make her a valuable asset.

Kristin and her family enjoy calling Muskoka home. In 2015 Kristin began her career with Cayman Marshall and has been lucky to work alongside some of the most talented agents in the business. During her spare time you can find Kristin and her family experiencing all the outdoor activities that Muskoka has to offer.

Manager/Personal Assistant to Todd Adair