prairie girl musings

Author: prairiegirlmusings

Arty Party

One of the biggest perks of living in a city is its proximity to cultural institutions. If you live within walking (or cycling) distance to a museum, art gallery, a theatre and a art house cinema, consider yourself lucky. In Toronto, we lived on the same street as the Art Gallery of Ontario. Now in Christchurch, we’ve purchased a townhouse on the same street as the Christchurch Art Gallery. I’m more than willing to sacrifice a proper backyard for community parks and gardens, but that’s another story…

When Christchurch Art Gallery announced its Gigs at the Gallery series, I knew I had to check it out. Friday Nights at the ROM were some of my most memorable evenings in Toronto. We’d dance around the galleries while DJs spinned obscure yet familiar tracks. Securing a ticket to one of these popular evenings always felt fortuitous, who can resist partying amongst some of the world’s best art?

Gigs at the Gallery is decidedly more subdued than Friday Nights at the ROM, but no less magical. The glasshouse gallery is a striking architectural masterpiece, especially when the sun goes down. With food trucks parked outside the gallery and two cash bars inside, partygoers have plenty of food and beverage options during the evening. The ground level galleries are also open during the event.

I was especially mesmerized by dreamy pop duo, Purple Pilgrims who performed at Laneway earlier this year. Their electronic dance music is ethereal and otherworldly. Main act, Grayson Gilmour is known for his contemplative, introspective musings. Needless to say, it was a memorable evening filled with delicious drinks (the gallery’s gin cocktails are a must-try) and glorious music.

From now on, I’ll be spending my Friday nights at the gallery.

March 3, 2017
72 Hours in Melbourne

Melbourne is easy to love and adored by many. It often tops the world’s most liveable city lists, which is unsurprising given it excels in multiple categories and appeals to various demographics. It’s an urbanite’s dream. Based on a grid system, many of the city’s greatest delights are hidden in laneways. The myriad of lanes are ripe for business owners, currently tenanted by independent art galleries, bars, cafés, and boutiques.

This sometimes gritty and always edgy city reminds me of the Toronto I know and love. Melbourne has multiple personalities that each offer worthwhile and unique ways to experience the city. We discovered businesses with complex, multi-purpose identities. Cafés in old warehouses that showcased the art of up and coming artists and boutique hotels with art studios, situated in children’s hospitals.

While Melbourne can’t compete physically with Sydney, looks aren’t everything. Melbourne’s cuisine, culture and art scenes are impressive on a global scale and draw in hoards of tourists and new immigrants year-round. This 72-hour guide merely scratches the surface of what is quickly becoming one of my favourite cities.

STAY: The Larwill Studio

Staying in up and coming North Melbourne was an easy decision. I had read a lot about the vintage shopping and quality cafés in the area and wanted to be based close to Fitzroy. We decided on The Larwill Studio, which is part of the Art Series Hotel Group. The boutique hotel is dedicated to quirky Australian artist, David Larwill and features pops of orange that complement Larwill’s lighthearted pieces. The hotel is located in The Royal Children’s Hospital AND offers art classes and studio space available for booking. Nick and I both agreed that the beds were the comfiest we’ve ever slept in and loved having access to Lekker cruisers to explore the city.

EAT & DRINK:

With three full days in Melbourne, we spent a lot of time eating and drinking. The city delivered on both accounts and we’re already dreaming of returning to venture to all the places we didn’t get a chance to visit. In short, nowhere else does brunch quite like Melbourne!

Fourth Chapter: Found in Prahran, just off Church Street, this delightfully bright café is filled with incredible greenery and mouthwatering dishes. They offer healthy alternatives like açai and cherry bowls and avocado smash with fritters. Their back patio is perfect on a sunny day.

Higher Ground: If you’re after Melbourne’s tastiest and most instagrammable hotcakes, be sure to visit Higher Ground, Top Paddock or The Kettle Black. They are served with fruit, flowers, whipped cream, and maple syrup and you may want to share!

Auction Rooms: I couldn’t get over the gorgeous interior at this North Melbourne café. Swarming with locals when we visited, we waited on one of the church pews outside with a strong coffee and croissant until our table was ready.

Market Lane Coffee: If you’re after high quality brew, you’ve come to the right place. With a handful of locations scattered through Melbourne, the team behind Market Lane is passionate about coffee. The specialty roastery, cafe and reatailer insists on doing one thing and doing it well, which is evident in their espresso, aeropress and pour over options.

Doughboys Doughnuts: Some people have an affinity for macarons, others cupcakes. My obsession is with doughnuts and Doughboys serves up some of Melbourne’s freshest. Visiting with an empty stomach is advisable!

Trippy Taco: Some of the most delicious vegetarian tacos I’ve ever tasted on super cool Gertrude Street.

Chin Chin: Everyone who knows Melbourne will tell you to dine at Chin Chin – listen to them! There’s always a wait, but you can grab a drink downstairs at GoGo Bar (which has my all-time favourite neon sign). As was recommended to us, we tried the Tasting Platter and plate after plate of mouthwatering food soon appeared before us!

Adelphi Hotel: After overindulging at dinner, we ventured to Adelphi Hotel to sample their extensive and elaborate cocktail menu. The intimate bar offers everything one could desire from a hotel bar – moody lighting, strong drinks and attentive service. Both Nick and I were impressed by the creativity and presentation that went into our drinks. I had the Summer G&T, which includes a generous pour of Hendricks gin (yes!), elderflower, cucumber, raspberries, rose syrup and capi tonic! It’s served in a pot hole infuser! I’ve never known someone to love mojitos as much as Nick, so he opted for the Toothpaste mojito, which is as strange as it sounds. After a light brush with mojito toothpaste and toothbrush, light rum, pressed organic mint, clarified lime juice is a delight to the palette.

Naked For Satan: If you’re looking for Melbourne’s best rooftop bar, look no further! This popular Fitzroy spot not only serves up some of the best cocktails and Spanish tapas in the city, it also showcases the Melbourne skyline in all its glory!

KitKat Chocolatory: Make your very own chocolate bar at the world’s only KitKat chocolatory. My friend and local Melburnian, Jess introduced us to this exciting foodie destination, and I was way too excited about crafting my own bar and selecting the packaging. I opted for salted caramel, honeycomb and hibiscus mixed into dark chocolate. YUM!

EXPLORE:

Brighton Beach: Avoid touristy St. Kilda and venture further south to Brighton Beach. Get your photo taken in front of the colourful bathing boxes, which are definitely unique to the area!

Botanic Gardens: I had visited the botanic gardens on my last trip to Melbourne, and insisted we return again this time! During the summer months, be sure to check out the moonlight cinema.

Queen Victoria Market: The market itself is as tacky as you’d expect, but worth visiting for the shops just outside. The pop-up shops rotate throughout the year and Books for Cooks bookstore can inspire even the laziest of chefs (aka me). There’s also a Market Lane location next door, so you can get your caffeine fix.

SHOPS:

I aimed not to spend much money in Melbourne. I’m streamlining my wardrobe and my life because I have a tendency to accumulate clutter. Also, I want to reduce my spending and environmental footprint. That said, there were several shops I couldn’t help poking my head into since Melbourne is, after all, known as a shopping destination!

Aesop: Be sure to visit the mothership whilst in Melbourne. Aesop was established in Melbourne in 1987 with the objective to formulate skin, hair and body care products of the finest quality. They aim to source plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients. Each of their stores is unique, and their employees are always super helpful!

Milk & Sugar: With two locations, this Melbourne shop carries a range of bedspreads, linens, homewares & creative lighting. Perfect for those who are decorating their homes and strive for a minimalist aesthetic.

COS: One of my go-to stores for quality basics with a twist, COS has made its way from Sweden to Australia. The Melbourne store is relatively small, but still features a decent range of their current collection.

Saturdays Surf NYC: Selling menswear and coffee, this New York institution is worth visiting if you have a thing for good design and attractive surfers.

Tell me, what are your must-visit spots in Melbourne?

February 9, 2017
MINI Adventures

Christchurch is a relatively compact and cycle-friendly city. Since I live and work in the CBD, it’s rare that I drive at all during the week. That said, there’s plenty to explore outside the central city and nothing beats a weekend excursion with good company. I’m an advocate for road trips and discovering new parts of this beautiful region. Akaroa and Waipara are two of my favourite regions and both require a set of wheels to access comfortably.

When MINI Christchurch asked me if I’d like to take one of their Clubman Coopers for a spin, I grabbed a few of my friends and packed up for a weekend of MINI adventures.

No weekend is complete without brunch, so we ventured to White House Black, a two-storey, entirely renovated 1800s homestead. The stately property is elegant both inside and out, with a modern interior fit-out. The restaurant puts on a delicious spread, particularly in the morning with decadent pancakes, huevos rancheros, and salmon on kumara hash.

Our appetites satiated, we venture back through the city to Rapaki Bay. On the way, we stop to take in some of our favourite street art and architecture. Isaac Theatre Royal and the Heritage Hotel in Cathedral Square are two of my favourite buildings. We drive up to O.G.B. Bar, my all-time favourite bar in Christchurch. Located in the Heritage Hotel, it’s one of Christchurch’s last standing heritage buildings and an architectural gem. During the day, O.G.B. serves coffees out of a takeaway window. Stop by after work, for a drink on their sun-drenched terrace.

Within 15-minutes, we completely escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Off the beaten track, Rapaki Bay is one of the more secluded bays on in Governor’s Bay. Here, bright blue water is encompassed by the Port Hills. Less crowded than Corsair Bay, we drive the Mini right up to the pier. It feels like we have the place entirely to ourselves and we’re pretty lucky to call this city our home. After a bit of exercise, we pile back into the Mini and head towards Lyttelton.

Civil and Naval is another special spot that’s slightly out of the way, but absolutely worth visiting. If I lived in Lyttelton, I think I’d be there every day. After iced coffees and plenty of laughs, we head home to pack up for camping. Awaroa/Godley Head is only a 35-minute drive from downtown Christchurch, but feels like a world away. The recently opened campgrounds are relatively empty apart from a persistently annoying rooster that wakes us in time for the sunrise; one that beckons with gradients of purple and pink.

I was initially apprehensive about The Clubman, which is a bit larger than what I’m used to driving. However, the vehicle is spacious without being bulky and was ideal for whizzing around Christchurch’s winding roads with friends.

Although this post was created in partnership with MINI Christchurch,
all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Photos courtesy of Shayden Whipps.

January 29, 2017
Checking into Hotel Saskatchewan

I’ve held a certain fascination with the Canadian railway hotels for as long as I can remember. I hadn’t visited Hotel Saskatchewan in ages, so I jumped at the opportunity to spend one night at Regina’s crown jewel while I was back home in Canada during the holidays. The historic hotel is the fourteenth hotel in the nationwide chain constructed and previously owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway. Needless to say, it was an absolute delight checking into these iconic quarters.

The hotel opened in 1927 and the extravagance of that decade is evident in every detail. The property was purchased by Marriott in 2015 and has since been renovated and updated. These updates stay true to the integrity of the original design. In fact, stay true is appropriately Hotel Sask’s tagline.

With all the bells and whistles of a big city hotel, Hotel Saskatchewan offers the intimate charm available only in the prairies. I felt like Eloise as I roamed the halls in search of the grand ballroom. Decorated beautifully for the holiday season, you’ll encounter life-size nutcrackers, gingerbread houses, and wreaths at every turn.

After a restful night’s sleep, my mom and I brunched at Circa 27 where we indulged in their glorious buffet. While buffets often have bad reputations, the one at Circa 27 serves up fresh croissants, endless fruit, house-made muesli served with coconut, vanilla yogurt and culminates with an omelette bar. The restaurant’s name pays homage to the year the hotel opened. Circa 27 has a regal air to it; spacious yet intimate with its plushy chairs, chandeliers, and an ornate art deco brass piece inserted into one of the exterior windows.

January 7, 2017
Turbulent Times
2016 was a memorable year in every sense of the word. I finally obtained New Zealand residency, contemplated my career, and accepted my dream job in what some would consider, a broken city. I grieved from afar, experienced displacement, and watched the world descend into absolute chaos as Donald Trump ran for and won the American presidential election. In many ways, 2016 was a year of the highest highs and lowest lows. If anything, I’ve realized how privileged I am as a white, middle class, heterosexual woman living in the Western world. Though, as the Trump candidacy clearly demonstrated, the West is as sexist as ever.

Looking forward to 2017, I’d like to chronicle my own goals, but also acknowledge how fortunate I am to be able to set goals for myself. Maybe it’s time to dig a little deeper and help those who aren’t so lucky. As we’ve seen in Aleppo and closer to home, in Kaikoura, there are people who need our attention and compassion.

As writers and bloggers, we live in a world of aspiration and isolation. I’m not here to dismiss creative outlets and forms of expression. I believe the world needs both art and escapism as relief from the pain and hatred. As long as we’re aware how truly privileged we are to ‘escape’ from a situation that is far less dire than most. These goals are a reminder to myself, to do better.
1. Donate my time and resources wherever I can, but especially in my community. We live next door to the Christchurch City Mission and I resolve to volunteer my time and help out as much as I can.
2. I have more than enough clothes in my overpacked wardrobe. This year, I’d like to donate these to community living and families who cannot afford new garments.
3. Reduce my carbon footprint, drive less, eat less meat and consume less.
4. Support local, small businesses. The folks opening and operating new businesses post-earthquake deserve my dolla billz more than any shopping mall or chain restaurant ever will.
5. Develop and hone new skills at work. I’m surrounded by hardworking, intelligent people, they continue to inspire me to work hard, set goals and smash them.
6. Cook more. Nick’s a great cook, so cooking duties often fall on his shoulders. I’d like to master a few more dishes in 2017.
7. Spend more time with family. My family is the coolest and I hate that I live so far from them.
8. Travel to Japan. I’ve always been fascinated by Japanese culture and I can’t wait to experience a new country with Nick for the first time!
Was 2016 a good year for you? Let me know what your goals are for 2017 in the comments below!
December 27, 2016
A Quick Trip To Queenstown

As New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown is on everybody’s travel bucket list. On my first visit in April 2009, my friends and I decided it was a good idea to go bungy jumping, sky diving, white water rafting, jet boating, luging and for a helicopter ride – in one weekend alone! We also tried Fergburger, visited a multitude of bars and pubs, and marvelled at the Remarkables. Needless to say, my recent visits to Queenstown aren’t quite as jam packed.

With summer around the corner and the pull of a long weekend, Nick and I packed our weekend bags and hopped in the car for an Otago road trip. Tourism has skyrocketed in Queenstown since 2009, and so have house prices and temporary accommodation. Thankfully, Nick’s uncle has graciously opened his home to us on recent trips. His well-situated pad offers breathtaking views within close proximity to the wonders of the city.

Should you be considering a visit to Queenstown, the following list will take you beyond the typical tourist traps.

Activities:
First up, we visited the Onsen Pools, located in Arthur’s Point. They are located high on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon. The pools have seen a refresh in recent years and the experience is similar to that of authentic onsens in Japan. I’m not sure how it’s taken me seven years to venture to these hot pools, but I don’t want you to suffer the same fate. If you’re looking for a date idea with a view, these pools will be right up your alley.

One of my all-time favourite breakfasts can be enjoyed at Bespoke Kitchen. The café, which was named New Zealand Café of the Year in 2015, focuses primarily on raw and organic options. Alongside vegan and vegetarian staples, Bespoke also has heartier (and meatier) dishes available. I highly recommend the smoothie bowls and chia pudding. Vudu Café and Larder, which is run by the same team, is another Queenstown favourite.

Other Queenstown restaurants worth mentioning:

Rata: Run by Michelin-starred chef, Josh Emmett.
Eichardt’s Bar: An iconic Queenstown bar serving delicious cocktails in a gorgeous setting.
Amisfield Winery: If you like your meal with a view, Amisfield is sure to satisfy.
The Boat Shed: Relaxed waterfront dining at Sugar Lane Frankton Marina.
La Rumbla: A casual eatery with excellent wine, cocktails and food.

A trip to Queenstown isn’t complete without a stop in Arrowtown. Sitting in the Arrow Basin, the gold rush village is nestled below the peaks that surround the Arrow River. Explore the historic main street and marvel at the heritage buildings, some of which still retain their original facades.

Be sure to stop by The Chop Shop Merchants for coffee and a pastry. If it’s raining, catch a flick at the cutest micro cinema, Dorothy Browns.

December 4, 2016
From Christchurch To Queenstown

Having visited Queenstown a handful of times, I still marvel at the drive down from Christchurch. The Canterbury plains swiftly disappear to reveal rolling hills and turquoise, azure lakes. With so many changes in scenery, the drive never becomes stagnant. Many a tourist flies into Christchurch from the North Island, ready to journey south. And so, why not chronicle my favourite stops along the way to New Zealand’s playground, Queenstown?

Despite countless trips through Tekapo, I had yet to visit Mt. John Observatory. Even during the day, the views are exquisite. As far as coffee stops go, Astro Café is pretty stellar. Grab a coffee and a custard slice, stretch your legs, and take in the vistas.

Both Lake Tekapo and Pukaki are popular photo stops. The water colour of these two lakes is unbelievable, so vibrant even on the cloudiest of days.

Carry on driving, and you’ll reach Cromwell, which produces some of the best stone fruit in the country. Just look out for the massive fruit monument (peaches, pears, apples, oh my!) and you’ve come to the right place. In addition to picking up some fresh fruit, Nick and I can never go past the real fruit ice cream. I’ve always lamented the fact that soft serve doesn’t seem to exist in New Zealand. Real fruit ice cream is almost as good!

By this point, you’re nearly in Queenstown (only 25 minutes away), but I highly recommend making two more stops before venturing to your final destination. First up, Grazë in the Lake Hayes district. The fit-out of this well-designed café and eatery is worth the visit alone. The stunning fixtures and aesthetics had me reaching for my phone. Grab a coffee to takeaway or indulge in the delicious menu of rhubarb breakfast crumble, sweet and savoury crumpets and various foodie favourites. If you’re in need of snacks for the road, stop by their adjacent shop to stock up.

Another favourite spot, nestled outside Queenstown in the Lake Hayes district, is Amisfield Winery. A true gem amongst countless Central Otago wineries, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely lunch. Sit in the sunny courtyard and take in the breathtaking views over Lake Hayes. The gorgeous interior is one to behold and the impeccably executed menu and award-winning wines will leave you satisfied. The service is warm and attentive. Amisfield is continually ranked as one of the best winery restaurants in the country, and it isn’t hard to see why.

As you reach Queenstown, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views, adrenaline-inducing activities and culinary wonders to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Stay tuned for my Queenstown City Guide, up next!

November 13, 2016
New Opening: Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters

Working in Christchurch’s CBD, I’ve kept a close watch on all the cafés and restaurant openings over the past six months. And it seems there’s a new spot open every other week. As a frequent café-goer, I’ve relished in all these new dining opportunities. Oddly enough, I didn’t notice the new roastery on St. Asaph Street until a couple days before it opened. Only a block from our new Plato Creative offices on Manchester Street, Unknown Chapter is conveniently situated for a work session or client breakfast.

The interior is reminiscent of Australian cafés, crisp minimalism with fauna and greenery gracing the ceiling. All the white space is a refreshing change in Christchurch, where cafés tend to be slightly crowded and occasionally claustrophobic. There’s ample seating and plenty of windows. With the sun pouring in, it’s a gorgeous place to begin your day. It also makes my ever-growing list of New Zealand’s most Instagrammable cafés.

The menu is somewhat limited on opening morning. I opt for an omelette with prosciutto and goat’s cheese, Alice decides on the classic granola and Nancy opts for eggs on toast. I’d love to see a few more inventive dishes, but my omelette is nevertheless satisfying. The team is still working out some kinks, but it’s clear they care deeply about what they do. When our breakfasts were delayed coming out of the kitchen, we’re promptly offered free coffees served with apologetic smiles.

Finding delicious coffee isn’t difficult in Christchurch, yet I’m impressed to see flawless latté art at Unknown Chapter. Whether you’re looking for a new environment for study or a wholesome breakfast before work, Unknown Chapter is an excellent addition to the Christchurch café scene.

November 5, 2016
How To Deal With Missing Out

Since leaving Toronto, I’ve missed out on my fair share of opportunities: restaurant openings, food events and film previews, to name a few. A week after packing up my bags to move to Christchurch, I received an email about a press trip to a dreamy destination; a trip I would’ve attended in a heartbeat. Watching my friends’ Instagram stories about their latest adventures is a constant reminder of the amazing city I left behind.

The social media landscape in New Zealand is different from what I’m used to in Canada. The brands I’ve encountered aren’t eager to deviate from traditional, established media in order to work with influencers. When opportunities do arise, they often are unpaid and hard to justify when holiday time is scarce. Working at an agency, my days are fast-paced and it isn’t always possible to step away from work to create quality content. I know many bloggers who spend their weekends creating exceptional content, attending events and networking, and I commend them. While I do attend a handful of events in Christchurch and Auckland, they are less frequent than those I had become accustomed to in Toronto.

That said, I’m aware that everyone has to say no to fantastic opportunities, both professional and social. I’m writing this blog post as one of my best friends boards a plane to Melbourne for a free trip that I was invited on. Having to say no to amazing opportunities is a necessity, regardless of what you do. Here are a few reminders (for myself and for anyone who maybe feeling the same way right now):

1. I remind myself how lucky I am to do what I love and get paid for it. My 8-5 is incredibly rewarding and I’ve worked hard to find a job that fulfills me creatively and pays my bills.

2. Downtime can be a good thing. It means I get to go on runs and hikes with Nick, celebrate friends’ birthdays, stroll along the beach, and have a midday nap on a Sunday if I so desire.

3. Family comes first. This year, I’ll spend the majority of my paid leave travelling home to Canada, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

4. New Zealanders are entitled to at least four weeks holidays per year, which is pretty darn good.

5. I’ve been on many incredible adventures both alone and with those closest to me. For that, I count myself very fortunate.

I’m sure you’ve missed out on opportunities as well. Please tell me how you coped.

October 30, 2016
Exploring The Queen City

As Saskatchewan’s two biggest cities, Saskatoon and Regina have always experienced a rivalry of sorts.

With close relatives in Saskatoon, I didn’t spend much time in Regina until my final year of high school. After auditioning for Saskatchewan Express, I spent all my weekends and the summer after high school in The Queen City. Some of my fondest memories are from those days, when all I wanted to do was eat, sleep and dance. Recent trips to Regina involve seeing friends and discovering new galleries and cafés. So, why not share some of my favourite Queen City haunts with you all?

Regina isn’t known for its cafe culture, but fortunately that’s starting to change. Begin your day with coffee at local roastery, 33 1/3. Offering fresh and locally-sourced espresso, 33’s beans can be found throughout the province.

Another place to feed your caffeine addiction is Atlantis Coffee, which is located on Hamilton Street. They also serve bagels and sandwiches if you’re feeling peckish.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, I suggest visiting Orange Izayaka for some of the best Japanese and Korean food in Saskatchewan. Otherwise, check out Flip Eatery and Café for comfort food in a casual setting.

You can’t leave The Queen City without visiting Dessart. Whether you’re a soft serve fiend like myself or simply want to peruse the unique and retro sweets on offer, Dessart considers dessert to be an art form. I can’t say I disagree.

Visiting Regina on a Saturday? Stop by the Farmers’ Market for local and seasonal produce.

Shopping in Regina is best experienced on Scarth Street or near The Cathedral. Paper Umbrella is a cute shop filled with gift ideas. Next door is Argento, which stocks jewellery by Canadian designer, Leah Alexandra.

There’s plenty to see and do in Regina, and I’d recommend visiting The MacKenzie Art Gallery. With eight expansive galleries, MacKenzie features exhibits by Saskatchewan, Canadian and international artists.

As Saskatchewan’s capital city, make sure you visit the Legislative Buildings. Tours are available seven days a week in both English and French. After your tour, walk through the gardens to take in all the

Wascana is beautiful year-round, after lunch, set off on one of the many trails that encompass the area. Before you leave, see what’s on at the Conexus Arts Centre. The Rocky Horror Show will be on for Halloween and The Regina Symphony Orchestra is definitely worth a listen!

Tell me, what are your favourite Regina spots?

October 22, 2016