YOUR LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT FROM VITADAILY.CA • OCTOBER 2019 inside the
OCTOBER ISSUE
WILD TH I NG S Heed the Call with Animal-Print Picks
KEEP I T S I M P L E Skin Care Goes Back to Basics
H ELLO, HERMÈS! The Fashion Brand’s New Boutique Stuns
UP AND AWAY New Upholstery Trends to Renew Old Furnishings
HOT SHOPS Lacoste, Luxe Books and L.L.Bean
INDIGE N O U S S P I R I T Osoyoos Offers an Exhilarating Cultural Experience
EDITOR’S DESK SPOT OF SUNSHINE
I can’t think of a better way to combat the grey days ahead than by arming myself with Hermès’ canaryBridado tote ($5,540), which flips into a backpack.
To me, the transition between summer and fall always seems, well, luxe. Whether it’s all those fire-coloured trees, those cosy knits, those extra blankets on my bed or those pipinghot cups of pumpkin-spice drinks in my hand, this annual change feels, in many ways (and as the kids say), extra. With that in mind, this issue of VITA is bursting (not unlike a pile of freshly raked fall leaves) with news and views to help you make the most of the seasonal switch. The opening of Hermès’ opulent store in downtown Vancouver provided plenty of fodder for my personal picks (right) and, further in, we’re showcasing our top animal-inspired picks, fave new retail openings, simplified skin-care tips and lush upholstery trends. So, make yourself a mugga something warm, get comfy and jump in. Happy autumn!
Noa Nichol EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
@VITADAILY.CA @VITADAILY.CA
SHOE FETISH
These Vicky 40 pumps ($1,125), “secretly” lined with Hermès’ “equateur tattoo” print, instantly caught my eye—and my heart.
SQUARE SPACE
Visit the new store’s “silk universe” for all things scarves. This essential Hermès accessory comes in so many colourful iterations, it’s hard to choose just one!
SPOT OF SUNSHINE
I can’t think of a better way to combat the grey days ahead than by arming myself with this brightyellow Bridado tote ($5,540), which transforms into a backpack.
@VITADAILYVAN NOA@VITAMINDAILY.COM VITADAILY.CA
HERMÈS
Its bricks-and-mortar presence has been felt in Vancouver for 25 years but, with the unveiling of its new store on the corner of Georgia and Burrard (just a few metres from its former address), Hermès begins a brand-new chapter of serving our city in style. The stunning two-storey space, designed by Parisian architecture agency RDAI, is light and breezy, evoking the mountains and ocean just visible from its windows. Downstairs, glittering jewelry and timepieces mingle with a rainbow of fragrance offerings, plus silk and leather goods (there’s even an equestrian section featuring a fantastical winged saddle). Upstairs, past sculptor Christian Renonciat’s magnificent Pegasus relief, lives a selection of homeware, tableware and wallpapers (we longed to sit-test the sumptuous leather chairs but, alas, no touching). Also, women’s wear and, for the wee crowd, baby items (Hermès rocking horse, anyone?). The best part? A collection of products developed exclusively for the 604— think playful roller skates, a triptych of Kelly bags that travel from dawn to dusk and a limited-edition Twilly scarf designed to mark this momentous occasion. 717 Burrard St., 604-6819965. Hermes.com
PUBLISHED BY VITA DAILY MEDIA INC. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NOA NICHOL CREATIVE DIRECTOR MADISON HOPE VEITCH SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER VICKI DUONG CONTRIBUTORS LYNDI BARRETT LISE BOULLARD JEANINE GORDON ALEESHA HARRIS AILEEN LALOR ISABEL ONG SHERI RADFORD ON THE COVER ZIMMERMANN FALL-WINTER 2019 CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #42849020
GOODBYE BRASS, HELLO HYDRATION INTRODUCING AG HAIR’S NEW STERLING SILVER MASK An intense and nourishing formula that eliminates brassy, yellow tones from blonde and silver hair.
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FA S H I O N & S H O P P I N G
WILD things
PHOTO: CALEIGH MEYER
READ MORE! Vitadaily.ca/ lifestyle
Vicki Duong @VICKIDUONG
W E ’ R E
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INFLUENCER PICK
These Wasted Effort leopard earrings ($108) combine two of my favourite trends: animal print and statement earrings. Each pair is handmade to order and made of Lucite, keeping them ultralightweight and easy to wear all, well, fall. Wastedeffort.ca
W I T H
DIFFERENT STROKES
“I love a touch of animal print … it’s the quickest way to glamour,” says Michael Kors, whose Stanton medium barrel bag ($358) showcases a range of luxe textures and patterns. 650 W. 41st Ave., 604-629-0286. Michaelkors.ca
T H E S E
P I C K S
HEAD HUNT
This snakeskin scrunchie by Bunhead ($18) is made even more sss-sensational by the fact it is an exclusive, sold only at Wren. 2-9110 Glover Bella & Wren Rd., Fort Langley, 604-3804484. Bellawren.ca
ANIMAL MAGNETISM
Links of London’s wildlife collection includes hopping hares, winged butterflies and cheeky squirrels in charm, pendant and bangle form. 701 W. Georgia St. 604-6813121. Linksoflondon.com
WILD ONES
Stuart Weitzman Weitzman’s Wynter booties ($775) offer a wild and elevated take on the season’s western-inspired trend. 650 W. 41st Ave., 604-2630551. Stuartweitzman.ca
KNITTY KITTY
Purr-fect for sweater weather, this Veronica Beard Adler mixed-media top ($475 at Blubird) features puffed sleeves with leopard silk panels—come the cold, you’ll want to wear it on repeat. 1108 Alberni St. and 650 W. 41st Ave. Blubird.ca
SEA CREATURE
Chopard’s ’s Happy Fish sport watch ($12,400) boasts a blue mother-of-pearl dial, five floating diamonds and a floating fish set with an additional gem. Talk about ocean treasures! 925 W. Georgia St., 604-684-6515. Chopard.com
Vancouver’s style destination for women’s contemporary fashion. PANTHER PRINT
We love how intricate, origamiinspired pleating adorns this Chantal Thomass panther-print set ($135 top and $76 bottoms at La Jolie Madame Madame). Grrr! 849 Hornby St., 604-669-1831. Lajoliemadameboutique.com
CAT CALLS
By Sunday Best, Best this cropped crew-neck sweater with bell sleeves ($88 at Aritzia) is made with Aritzia ultra-soft, fuzzy yarn. 1100 Robson St. and 650 W. 41st Ave. Aritzia.com
October’s It Bag Alberni 1108 Alberni Street 604.257.0700
visit us online BLUBIRD.CA
Oakridge Centre 41st & Cambie 604.257.0707
|
@BLUBIRDVANCOUVER
BY ALEESHA HARRIS
Embracing the wild side of fashion doesn’t have to mean donning leopard print (though we encourage that, too). Instead, consider opting for an equally luxurious—yet also refined—animal-inspired accessory that nixes pattern and, instead, embraces texture. This crocodile-embossed bag from French luxury fashion house Chloé makes an elegant (not to mention fashionably fantastical) statement that far surpasses any simple print. The style, which is rather matterof-factly monikered the Mini Chloé C bag ($2,235), is available in a variety of shades and materials, but we’re partial to this candy-coloured confection that features a cheery gradient of sunset-y hues ranging from orange to pink and purple. C’est magnifique! Chloe.com
FA S H I O N & S H O P P I N G
Hot Shops
VANCOUVER’S GREATEST AND LATEST RETAILERS CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
THE BAY X L.L.BEAN
ASSOULINE BOOK CORNER
Yaletown’s Leisure Center is a destination for beautiful things (think one-of-a-kind Chanel jackets and the latest threads by Rick Owens); indeed, the concept store was designed to feel like a modern museum, complete with a lounge café and gallery-like displays that evolve as new collections and pieces are added. Most recently, Leisure Center became home to Canada’s first and only Assouline Book Corner, where shoppers can snag gorgeous editions from a curated selection of the New York City-based French publisher’s repertoire. Showcased on customdesigned transparent shelves, the library includes an array of collectable coffee-table books—some so precious, staff don white gloves to handle them in store. Topics range from fashion to food to fine art; our eyes caught on a Dior anthology, plus an entire volume dedicated to Rolex. Trust these beauties to level-up your home décor game. 950 Homer St., 604-558-1950. Leisure-center.com LYNDI BARRETT
LACOSTE
Designed to look like the inside of a tennis locker, Lacoste’s new Metrotown store stays true, in multiple ways, to the brand’s sporty DNA. Boasting comfortable, casual clothing and crocodiles galore (fun fact: fashionable founder René Lacoste made this unique animal the iconic logo of his brand after he was nicknamed “The Crocodile” as a result of a bet with his tennisteam captain), you’ll no doubt be instantly drawn to the back “polo” wall, which proudly displays every shade of shirt available and allows you to find your perfect match (i.e., customize your garment by style and monogram, up to three initials). Light, clean and colourful, this concept shop makes it easy to, in tennis-score speak, fall in “love” with Lacoste all over again. 4720 Kingsway, Burnaby. 604-423-4978. Lacoste.com NOA NICHOL
Nobody does cosy quite like L.L.Bean and, if you’ve hesitated to take the plunge online, here’s your chance to experience the iconic outdoor brand IRL, as several Hudson’s Bay locations now feature L.L.Bean shop-in-shops. The Vancouver edition, on the ground floor of The Bay downtown, is as inviting as a crackling fire in the hearth. Warm and wonderful selections for every family member include puffy down jackets and vests, fleece hoodies, flannel button-ups, quilted quarter zips, anoraks, rugby pullovers, field coats, jeans and cargo pants. Sure to fill many stockings come Christmastime are toques, socks, water bottles, coffee mugs, totes and organizer bags. And, if you’re curious to walk a mile in the Bean Boots, you can find out firsthand (firstfoot?) why the comfy rubber footwear has been so popular for more than 100 years. Frightful winter weather, you’ve met your match. 674 Granville St., 604-681-6211. Thebay.com SHERI RADFORD
1706 WEST 1ST AVE VANCOUVER 604 683 1116 LIVINGSPACE.COM
BEAUTY & BITES
Bringing Simple Back F L U M M O X E D F O R
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There’s so much to enjoy about the Korean skin-care trend: the innovation in formulations and textures, the fantastic sheet masks, the feeling of pleasure that comes from spending 40 minutes just removing your makeup. But, good grief, it’s a commitment. That’s why we’re delighted to have noticed somewhat of a backlash with the arrival of brands like The Ordinary, Verso, Schăf and The Inkey List. Genderneutral, these focus on ingredients, not ritual, so you can craft a regimen that’s as minimalist as the packaging. “When I set out to create the brand it was based entirely on my own aesthetics. I’m not a fan of clutter. My wife calls me a freak, because she’s considered clutter averse, but I’m on the extreme end,” says Peter Schafrick, who founded Ontario-based Schăf. It’s been around for five years and comprises just eight products, all multifunctional and aimed at all skin types and conditions. Swedish skin-care label Verso (now at Holt Renfrew) takes a similar approach.
B E A U T Y
R I T U A L ?
S T R A I G H T F O R W A R D
and not over-complicate our already complicated lives.”
lajoliemadameboutique.com
NEW LOCATION! 849 Hornby Street NEW LOCATION! 849 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC | V6Z 1T9 | PHONE: (604) 669-1831 NEW LOCATION! Hornby Street Vancouver, BC | V6Z1T9 | 849 PHONE: (603) 699-1831
Vancouver, BC | V6Z 1T9 | PHONE: (604) 669-1831 lajoliemadameboutique.com lajoliemadameboutique.com
lajoliemadameboutique.com
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“ There’s a need to get back to basics
NEW LOCATION! 849 Hornby Street | Vancouver, BC | V6Z1T9 | PHONE: (604) 699-1831
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Personalized service since 1971 | Specializing in bra fittings
T H E
Brands like Deciem, Indeed Labs and The Inkey List, which recently arrived at Shoppers Drug Mart, have a different take on the strippedback skin-care trend. Asked to sum up his brand in a sentence, Inkey co-founder Mark Curry says it’s about “translating skin care so that anyone on the planet can access amazing ingredients.” His skin care is reduced to component parts so, rather than an anti-aging serum, you buy separate retinol, glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C serums that cost $10 to $15 each and that you can layer up as you choose. This appeals to savvy skin-care nerds—the so-called “skintellectuals” who research for days before making a purchase. Where these brands come together, aside from monochrome packaging, is that they’re solution-focused (no airy-fairy words like “perfecting”— simple and transparent. Says Curry: “Information [and misinformation] has never been so accessible and it’s gone from unavailable to nice-to-have to must-have for brands as the relationship with consumers moves ever closer.” Schafrick says transparency is also about stripping out extraneous ingredients: “My focus is on nononsense, proven ingredients that are known to work and have been around for a long time—the basics. But I’m also committed to removing any and all irritants and toxins, without compromise. This philosophy of removing certain ingredients is also part of the simplification of the brand.” Perhaps obviously, he believes the Korean approach to skin care is very much over-the-top. “It’s an interesting ritual and certainly helps sell a lot of product,” he says. “But that kind of eight-step morning regime followed by a ninestep evening routine is a complete waste of time and money. In fact, there’s evidence to suggest that it can actually overstimulate skin and perpetuate the cycle.” Besides, he adds, “there’s a need to get back to basics and not over-complicate our already complicated lives.” As to what might happen next, Schafrick believes “the dominant beauty corporations have been shaken up and lost market share to small, indie, clean-beauty brands, and are now countering by cleaning up their act, so to speak.” According to Curry, transparency will get ever more important. “Like anything, you want to know what the company, brand, founders and products stand for before you add it to your own personal brand wardrobe. Anything that supports power shifting to consumer choice will win out … if the consumer was king/ queen before, in the digital age they are now God and the religion is open, honest and two-way co-creation and evolution,” he says. Volition Beauty’s philosophy is the next stage of that co-creation model. Anyone with a product idea can submit it to the brand and customers then vote on ideas. If your product makes it to market, you get a hefty commission (up to $100,000) and the chance to see your product in Sephora, while all voters get 15 per cent off their next order. It’s a nice thought—indie beauty brands wresting control from the big boys—and perhaps it will come true. But the latest player to enter the game seems to cast doubt on that. Last March, Amazon announced the launch of Belei, its own-brand skincare range (currently in the U.S. only). “Our goal is to help customers spend less time and money searching for the right skin-care solutions,” said Kara Trousdale, head of beauty for private brands on Amazon.com, in a press release. “We took a simple, nononsense approach when creating Belei, developing products with ingredients that are both proven to deliver results and also offer customers great value for the quality.” Sound familiar?
BEAUTY & BITES
New Noshes
WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT THIS MONTH
FLOURIST In a city where “gluten” is practically a swear word, you’d think a bakery and flour mill would struggle with business. But, judging from the crowds lining up to buy fresh-baked sourdough, baguettes, cheese sticks, coffee and provisions at Cedar Cottage’s newly opened Flourist, it’s clear Vancouver has its share of carb-lovers (closeted or otherwise).The light-flooded space features an ample café and bread service counter, plus a small commissary where you can pick up flour (usually milled within days from traceable, farm-direct Canadian grains in the shop’s own on-site pine mill), organic legumes and fresh salads. There’s a large marble island where evening bread-baking classes will eventually be held and a book bar where you can jot down any culinary creations that catch your eye. Come in for a signature toast (e.g., pressed yogurt and Okanagan plums on a sourdough Pullman loaf) and watch as some of the purest flour in the city is made right before your eyes. Bonus: many gluten-sensitive customers say this stuff doesn’t bother them at all. Bring on the carbs! 3433 Commercial St., 604-428-4366. Flourist.com LISE BOULLARD
FUFÚ CAFÉ What is a soufflé pancake? Picture a classic hotcake pumped up with a cloudlike consistency and a bit more, well, wiggle to it. Fufú Café, Vancouver’s first all-soufflé pancake house, is a cosy, French-inspired space offering this popular Japanese dessert in some savoury and plenty of sweet iterations. Keep it classic with maple syrup or mascarpone cheese or get experimental with matcha flavours paired with dark and white chocolate, or Earl Grey with tapioca pearls. 1266 W. Broadway, 604-734-2818. VICKI DUONG
LADURÉE BRUNCH Step inside this Robson Street salon and be instantly transported to a Parisian oasis. The pretty pastel room is a popular spot for afternoon tea and delectable desserts, and, on weekends, “le brunch” is the latest addition to the world-renowned patisserie’s menu. Choose from French faves like traditional omelets and croque monsieurs, plus an extraordinary French toast made with the lightest, buttery-est baked-in-house brioche bread with raspberry coulis and rose Chantilly cream. As for avocado toast, Ladurée’s version boasts expertly placed avo topped with a soft-boiled egg and salmon. Round it out with tea (the Marie Antoinette blend is beautiful, featuring rose petals, citrus fruits and honey), champs (with fresh strawberries and rose syrup, no less) and dessert (macarons, cakes and pastries). A decadent way to put the “oui” in weekend! 1141 Robson St., 604-336-3030. Ladureecanada.ca LYNDI BARRETT
East India Carpets D I S T I N C T I V E D E S I G N S S I N C E 19 4 8
1606 West 2nd at Fir Armoury District Vancouver Mon-Sat 10-5:30 Sun 12-5:00 604 736 5681 eastindiacarpets.com CARPET CLE ANING AND RE STORATION SERVICES AVAILABLE PHOTOGRAPHY: BARRY CALHOUN PHOTOGRAPHY ACCESSORIES: PROVIDE HOME
DESIGN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
PHOTO: REKA IVANY PHOTOGRAPHY
ARMANI/CASA
Without ever physically setting foot in the space, Giorgio Armani’s stamp can be seen on every aspect of his new retail opening in the heart of Vancouver’s design district. The 1,500-square-foot store and showroom includes polished marble floors (switched out by Mr. Armani at the last moment, after feeling the original selection fell short) and Canadian hardwood, and boasts “day” and “night” zones defined by double sheets of platinum-coloured metal mesh spanning the full height of the walls. In stock: a combination of carefully selected products from the Armani/Casa line, ranging from furniture and furnishings to home accessories, décor items and fabrics. Look for the famous Logo lamp that started it all (and find it reflected as an actual logo etched right into one of the wood walls). 1656 W. 2nd Ave., 604-423-2814. Armani.com NOA NICHOL
LIVINGSPACE HOMES
We already trust Livingspace to help furnish our homes, and now we can turn to the company to build them, too. From conception to completion, newly launched Livingspace Homes—a fully integrated residential development and interior design company—aims to build immaculate properties for homeowners seeking a personalized oasis to complement their modern lifestyle. Services included: site selection, permitting and construction management; architect recommendations; design planning; and installation of premium indoor and outdoor furnishings, kitchens, baths, closets, appliances and lighting. Plus, in addition to full builds, Livingspace Homes provides assistance to those seeking renos to current homes or condos in need of a refresh—so in other words, us. 600-1706 W. 1st Ave. 604-800-5497. Livingspacehomes.com NOA NICHOL
YOUR LIFE.
Styled. BELLAWREN.CA
@BELLAWRENDESIGN 9110 GLOVER ROAD, UNIT 2 FORT LANGLEY, BC
POLIFORM
Whether your castle is a sweeping mansion in Shaughnessy or a hip loft in Gastown, Poliform has the furnishings to make it fit for a queen. The Italian brand recently opened its first Vancouver store right in the heart of downtown. The two-level, 5,000-square-foot showroom is set up like a home you never want to leave, complete with a show-stopper of a bookshelf that spans both levels, from the ground floor all the way up to the soaring ceiling. Wander through the contemporary open space, which features lots of dark wood and natural stone, and you’ll discover inspiration galore. On the bottom floor, a modern kitchen with a breakfast bar and a long dining table makes whipping up a Nigella-level meal seem easy. Enormous L-shaped sofas conjure up dreams of lazy Sundayafternoon naps. Big-screen TVs practically cry out for Netflix nights at home. Upstairs, beds outfitted in luxe linens invite sweet slumber, while a huge walkin closet seems tailor-made for Carrie Bradshaw’s Manolo Blahniks. 779 W. Pender St., 604-656-6466. Poliform.it SHERI RADFORD
DESIGN & DÉCOR
Up and Away F R O M
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Not a sexy word, you can’t disregard upholstery’s importance. Pointing to the filling, padding, springs and fabric in used for sofas, chairs, etc., upholstery encompasses both the tactile and aesthetic aspects of furniture design, with current approaches refreshingly fun. Velvet, for one, is still a popular fabric, but now comes with an “easy, modern elegance,” says Peter Schönhofen, cofounder of German furniture brand Kare, which opened in Vancouver in August. “It’s not the heavy, old-fashioned, traditional form of elegance, but an easiness that plays with gold, brass and other materials.” Colours, too, are leaning to bold hues that assert one’s individuality. Says Schönhofen: “If you’ve decided on a stronger colour other than beige or brown or grey for your sofa or chair, you want to express, ‘I am not normal; I want to stand out from what the average person is doing.’” How upholstered pieces are styled is also breathing new life into the home. Pair statement pieces with equally vivid wallpaper for an eclectic touch, or style them with rugs and cushions to add more depth and a hint of playfulness.
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Don’t neglect the bedroom when redoing your upholstery. The curved velvet headboard of Crate&Barrel’s queen-sized Ava bed ($1,999) has a timeless appeal. 650 W. 41st Ave., 604-269-4300. Crateandbarrel.ca
DINE IN
West Elm’s Slope dining chair ($559) ticks all our boxes with a top-grain dyed leather surface and a sleek, stylish frame that’ll never go out of fashion. 2947 Granville St., 604-7336730. Westelm.ca
INTO THE WOODS
For a more natural, organic feel in your abode, the Edward chair ($1,383 at CF Interiors), made from sustainably harvested mahogany wood and featuring a woven rattan back, linen seat cushion and hand-cast brass accents, is a perfect choice. 848 E. Hastings, 604-738-6411. Cfinteriors.ca
BENCH PRESS
With tufted, fringed and other textured cotton embellishments, this stunning ottoman ($638) by All Roads Design and Anthropologie is a dream décor piece. 2912 Granville St., 604-734-2529. Anthropologie.com PURPLE RAIN
Ikea’s Flottebo sleeper sofa ($649) is equipped with movable cushions, transforms into a spacious bed, offers storage space beneath and comes with removable and machine-washable covers. 1000 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam, 866-866-4532. Ikea.com
COUCH SURFING
LOUNGE WORTHY
Saba Italia’s New York Suite (at Brougham Interiors) boasts a modern-meetsvintage flair with its unique mustard-yellow hue and extra-plush quilted cushions. 1855 Fir St., 604-736-8822. Broughaminteriors.com
We know where we’ll be as dreary, drippy showers descend upon Vancouver: curled up with a book on Kare’s handsome Vegas Forever armchair ($1,339). 1275 W. 6th Ave., 604-730-1275. Kare-design.com
G A M M A
L E E
D E L L A R O B B I A
B A K E R
FALL UPHOLSTERY EVENT 25% OFF PURCHASE ANY UPHOLSTERY SOFA, CHAIR OR BED FRAME AND CHOOSE FROM HUNDREDS OF FABRICS AND LEATHERS – ALL AT 25% OFF OUR REGULAR PRICE. SALE ENDS OCTOBER 31ST
EXCEPTIONAL INDOOR & OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS
1855 Fir Street Armoury District Vancouver 604.736.8822 Mon - Sat 10 - 5:30 pm broughaminteriors.com
T H A Y E R
C O G G I N
Indigenous TRIPS
Experience B Y
J E A N I N E
W We all love the Okanagan in summer, but what occurs after the happy campers and warm-weather crowds
G O R D O N
depart may be even more magical. Nestled in the region’s south, Osoyoos, which translates to “finger in the lake” in the local Syilx’tsn tongue, is home to sacred indigenous land and treasures that delight the senses. We took a peek at the authentic traditions and destinations that await in this desert town, inviting you to take a visit in the autumn months for a vibrant culturerich celebration and unforgettable travel experience. Fall.oib.ca STAY
Spirit Ridge Resort is a travellers’ paradise. Beautifully appointed suites, dual pools (outfitted with luxe cabanas and breathtaking views), a decadent spa and two outstanding restaurants await guests partaking in a fall family vacation or autumn adults’ getaway. Expect to soak in the rich history and legacy of the surrounding sacred lands as you pamper yourself with the onsite amenities and brilliantly coloured natural sights. Spiritridge.hyatt.com
PHOTO: DESTINATION BC
PHOTO: BRENDIN KELLY
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There’s no shortage of sights to behold on this indigenous land. The Osoyoos Indian Band proudly invites visitors to take in its history at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, located just steps from the resort. Look for the history of OIB Chief Clarence Louie’s 30-plus years of leadership as well as original 1940s artwork from the children of the Inkameep Indian Day School (Queen Elizabeth purchased a piece that hangs in Buckingham Palace). Nature-loving travellers who want to venture off-site have a plethora of indigenous destinations to visit, including Spotted Lake, named for the hues of mineral spots in the water, Oxbows, one of the last remaining wetlands in the Osoyoos area known for its easy hike and bird-watching, and Nʕaylintn (McIntyre Bluff), a favourite hiking trail that offers awe-inspiring views of the Osoyoos landscape and bold shades of fall foliage below. Nkmipdesert.com
Downtown Vancouver’s iconic shopping and dining district. #onRobson SAVOUR
@robsonstreet robsonstreet.ca
The OIB takes great pride in the story of the four food chiefs: Black Bear, Bitterroot, Saskatoon Berry Bush and Chinook Salmon. Together, the spirit of the four formed the inspiration for Spirit Ridge’s restaurant, The Bear, The Fish, The Root, and The Berry, with chef Murray McDonald at the helm. Enjoy a breakfast of Sammy Sammy toast topped with avocado and smoked salmon, lunch of bannock and spreads accompanies by a bison burger, and pick from many delectable dinner options, including Askawa tartare of the land (created with bison and wild rice) and perfectly prepared Pacific halibut. Of course, no meal is complete without one of pastry chef Tammy Maki’s dessert delights. We fell hard for the berry pavlova with sea buckthorn as the quintessential after-dinner sweet treat. Bearfishrootberry.com
TRIPS & SIPS SIP
PHOTO: DESTINATION BC
PHOTO: MILK CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS
Join Canada’s first indigenous winemaker, Justin Hall, along with senior winemaker Randy Picton, as you indulge in the delectable selection of wines at Nk’Mip Cellars, located at the resort. Visit the tasting room to sample the winery’s selection of award-winning grape creations (and pick up a few to take home) or open a bottle on your private Spirit Ridge balcony while soaking up views of the ever-changing colours of the land. Greatest hits include the white-blend Dreamcatcher with notes of stone fruit, the Syrah-blend Talon with berries and plum characteristics and the Qwam Qwmt Cabernet Sauvignon that treats the palate with black cherry and mocha. For a small tasting fee, enjoy the private Qwam Qwmt tasting gallery, featuring the winery’s premium collection. Nkmipcellars.com
SHOP
PHOTO: SHAYD JOHNSON
PHOTO: DESTINATION BC
PHOTO: SHAYD JOHNSON
The Nk’Mip Cellars tasting room also carries a beautiful selection of indigenous pottery, jewelry and artwork, crafted by members of the OIB and artisans from the surrounding area. Pick up local cheeses and chutneys from the tasting room’s cooler and take a kaleidoscopic-hued picnic on your room’s deck overlooking the beauty of Osoyoos lake or the neighbouring mountains. A stop at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre’s Coyote’s Gift Shop provides treats for everyone on your list, like authentic Pendleton blankets and indigenous handcrafted housewares. Nkmipdesert.com
SPA
Looking to unwind after a day of taking in the local indigenous culture? Bliss out at the Solterra Desert Spa with a desert sacred wrap or desert stone massage. Consider a stop here an experience that relaxes the soul and nourishes the body in traditions inspired by the legacy of the land. Solterradesertspa.com