prairie girl musings

Author: prairiegirlmusings

Exploring your city

I’m a huge enthusiast of the staycation.

Maybe money is a little tight right now or you’ve used up all your vacation days for the year. Whatever the reason, taking a week or two off may not be on the cards right now. Regardless, it’s important to shake up your routine every now and then. In fact, getting away from your desk is the best way to boost creativity and productivity.

If you work from home, getting outside can be even more crucial. It’s not healthy to spend all day cooped up inside your apartment, which I find myself doing increasingly as the weather cools down and the days become shorter.

Luckily, there are endless ways to shake up your routine. If you’re fortunate enough to live in any urban centre, there’s no excuse for boredom.

Here’s a list of my favourite ways to shake my routine (specific to my current city: Toronto).

1. Pick a new neighbourhood.

Familiarize yourself with one of Toronto’s myriad of neighbourhoods. We so often stick to our local surroundings; be it our favourite cafe, supermarket, or running trail. I urge you to switch it up this week and discover hidden gems in a far flung neighbourhood.

2. Go see a show.

Canadian winters are pretty gruesome. When we first moved back to Canada, Nick and I were quite ambitious in terms of our weekly activities. We went skating, we’d walk everywhere, and we did a lot of window shopping. It didn’t take long for us to notice that Toronto can be quite desolate in the winter months. If the thought of spending even an hour outdoors has you shivering, may I suggest going to see a play or a Broadway show. It’s a great way to get re-inspired and soak up some culture.

3. Cook something.
I’m not the most experienced chef. However, since beginning my working-from-home stint, I’ve been forced to experiment a bit more in the kitchen. I occasionally even bake!

4. Or go out.

There’s bound to be a restaurant or two you haven’t tried (or 2,000 if you live in a metropolis!) Try something you’ve never had before, be it Ethiopian or Lebanese!

5. Network

Photo by Brianne Burnell

Networking can be overwhelming at first, but it’s also a refreshing way to step out of your comfort zone. The hardest part is saying that initial “hello,” but you’ll find common ground in no time and probably leave with a few new contacts, even friends.

7. Spend time with friends you never see

After university many of us manage to get quite busy juggling our work and personal lives. Make time this week for those friends you haven’t seen forever. Plan to do something fun like checking out a new gallery or installation and sharing a meal at a restaurant you’ve never been to.

8. Daydream

Dream a little bigger than you usually do. Write down a few of your quarterly goals, but be a little silly. Maybe you want to have a Wes Anderson movie marathon or each a different dessert every night of the week. It’s easy to get caught up in our diet and fitness regimes and forget that rest and a treat is okay every now and then. And don’t forget to reflect on what you’ve already accomplished. So many of my friends have achieved such amazing things, but they rarely step back to acknowledge their success. Congratulate yourself on making it this far.

9. RELAX

North American culture is founded in productivity. It’s easy to feel out of sorts when you’re not constantly actively progressing towards that next milestone. But take comfort in those smaller moments; the ones that happen between all the excitement. Sometimes just settling down with a big cup of coffee can be exactly what you need.

November 3, 2014
Tapas on tapas on tapas

Hi friends! I know it’s been way too long since my last post. Work has been picking up again, and I’ve been trying to disconnect over the weekends since a large part of my week is spent online. While I prepare my next post, I wanted to share a few of my favourite Barcelona memories with you. I visited Barcelona with three Kiwi friends in July, and the trip has me convinced that Spain is my spiritual homeland.

After a few days in Barcelona, I seriously regretted not extending my trip to include other Spanish destinations (particularly San Sebastian!)

La Boqueria market was a daily favourite of ours. We picked up fresh juice and essentials for our picnics and beach days. It was interesting seeing which stalls were the most popular amongst locals. Some of my favourite stalls sold empanadas, paella, and fruit smoothies made right before our eyes.

The first place we went upon arrival was the beach. Just add water, and I am as happy as a clam. I love the ocean (lakes are okay, but the OCEAN is so much better!)

Barcelona is home to some of the greatest artwork in the world. Everywhere you look, you’ll see hints of Catalonian architecture. Parc Guëll is a testament to Gaudí’s genius, with hundreds of photo opportunities (thousands of tourists as well, so go early!) The Picasso museum is a must-see as well! You’ll be amazed at the sheer volume of artwork both men created in their lifetimes! Annie and I missed out on seeing Salvador Dalí’s home (still kicking myself) but it’s an excuse to go back.

Those who know me (and let’s be honest, those who don’t) know that I’m food-obsessed. Just take a look at my Instagram account, and you’ll see hundreds of photographs documenting my latest culinary experiences. Barcelona has PAELLA, tapas, and octopus. Need I say more? Also the sangria delicious and cheap enough to drink on any occasion.

Taking a 3-hour siesta during the work day is perfectly acceptable. And dance parties emerge at all hours of the day. Dinner is consumed much later and every day is a cause for celebration.

We didn’t spend much time cycling in Barcelona (we did a lot of walking, swimming, and DANCING, however) but there were many options for bicycle renting.

Public transport in Barcelona is also top-notch. Annie and I were easily able to access our hostel from the airport as well as the many neighbourhoods we visited during our stay.

I wish I had more photos of our hostel, Casa Gracia. The common area had some of the coolest design features, and the nicest of any hostel I’ve ever stayed at! It boasted a stunning library (where we were able to book many of our excursions and tours) and a beautiful kitchen (with free breakfast!) We had a 4-person room, which was perfect. Hostels are very hit or miss, and this one was a gem.

On my last night, we splurged on a boutique hotel, Barceló Raval, in the heart of Barcelona. Even though we had tickets to see Pendulum that night, it was incredibly difficult to leave our hotel with its rooftop pool and bar and stunning 360 degree views of Barcelona! It was the perfect send-off!

I can’t fully articulate my love for Barcelona, but it was a mix of the food (Oh, the paella! Oh, the sangria!), the artwork, and the beautiful natural surroundings. My love of salt water knows no bounds, and Barcelona has all the trappings of the perfect seaside city. Lengthy, boozy meals followed by evenings dancing under the stars are not only for special occasions, they are a way of life in Barcelona. Spanish culture in all its spontaneous glory truly resonates with me and the artistic, well-designed and environmental set-up of Barcelona makes it a worthwhile destination. I would return in a heartbeat.

October 20, 2014
The loveliest parts of Paris

“Most people dislike Paris on their first visit,” said my sister, Stephanie who happened to be in Paris when I initially began writing this.

On my first visit to the City of Lights, at sixteen, I didn’t dislike Paris, but it certainly didn’t seduce me. Since then, I’ve grown to appreciate many aspects of French culture – fine French wine, a delightfully fresh croissant, and the simple yet refined fashion sense of French women. Paris appeals to sophisticated palettes, and I now understand why Stephanie has fallen head over heels.

Here’s a list of the loveliest parts of Paris according to me:

1. Filling my bicycle basket with flowers, cheese and a baguette from the market.

2. The simple, unadorned style of French women; the impeccable tailoring, attention to detail and lack of excess is breathtaking.

3. A society that walks (and takes the metro) rather than drives. A culture that consumes less, but better.

4. Long, beautiful boulevards with noteworthy sights at every corner

5. Strong coffee with the view of Sacré Cœur in the distance

6. The grassy Montmartre hill that rapidly fills with twenty and thirty-somethings drinking Merlot and discussing Romanticism

7. Afternoons spent perusing the vintage and high street shops of Le Marais

8. Le Centre Pompidou for all things modern art (and an extraordinary view of the city below)

9. La patisserie des rêves for a less touristy, but still magical macaron experience

10. Musée d’Orsay for all your Impressionist needs. If you know me at all, you know Edgar Dégas is my favourite artist of all time.

11. Taking cheesy tourist photos atop the red bus tour. I’m sorry but it’s the best way to acquaint oneself with any city.

12. Jardin des Tuilleries for a spectacular natural retreat within the heart of Paris

13. Fresh croissants that melt in your mouth available at any bakery in Montmartre

14. Self-guided tours at le Palais de Versailles and cycling around the grounds pretending I’m Marie Antoinette

15. Conversing with little old men en Français, making us both indescribably happy.

16. Putting together a meal that is basic yet delectable, consisting of the best ingredients (bread, cheese, meat and wine) and realizing this is all you need.

17. Exploring the City of Lights with your best friend after a two-year separation

September 27, 2014
The Launch of Kobo’s New E-Reader

Yesterday I attended Kobo’s pool party where they shared some very exciting news.

With the help from the fabulous AquaLillies, they announced the launch of their newest WATERPROOF device!

I’m super accident-prone and ruined my previous e-reader whilst on holiday in Mexico, oops!

The event was both fashionable and clever; well-attended by media types and bibliophiles alike. The weather was perfect for an evening pool party as temperatures hit 30 degrees. Gathering around a pool with slushy cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres was a great way to beat the heat! Here are a few photos from the event, which was held at Muzik Pool Bar:

August 27, 2014
London: A Royal Affair

It was two months ago that I packed my bags and unplugged my laptop for a two-week long European adventure with my best friend, Annie.

As I disembarked my Air Canada flight at London Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest airports, I was amazed by how at ease I felt. Despite intermittent naps throughout the 6.5 hour flight, I felt recharged and ready to take on one of my favourite cities.

London is one of the most culturally-diverse cities in the world. On previous trips, I marvelled at the world-class galleries and architecture; visiting every unique neighbourhood I could fit into my jam-packed itinerary. On my last trip, I attended three West End shows and stayed with my high school friend, Katherine, who was attending London School of Economics at the time. She showed me her favourite pieces at The National Portrait Gallery and the best places to dine on a dime.

This trip was an entirely different experience: I was fortunate to stay with my good university friends, Kim and Greg, who are from New Zealand. They are spending two years working and living in London; sharing a house with five other Kiwis and one Brit. They have an amazing flat dynamic and all hang out and support each other. I love the sense of community Kiwis have no matter where they are in the world.

I navigated the tube with my duffle weekender bag (remind me to stick to the rolling luggage next trip!) and eventually ended up on their doorstep. After a shower, I was off to Chelsea to catch up with Emma, my English literature friend. We had plans to carry on our tradition of meeting for an al fresco bite and coffee before perusing the cobblestone streets of one of London’s poshest neighbourhoods. Emma, the eternal expat, is the best tour guide and conversationalist. She’s pursuing law in London, and I’ve never seen her more at home.

I’m obsessed with Oscar Wilde, so I wanted to visit The Cadogan Hotel that he frequented for high tea, and where he was eventually arrested.

After they finished work, we were joined by Kim and Greg. The four of us ventured to Shoreditch to sample one of London’s amazing street food festivals, Street Feast. Kim and Greg are on top of their London food game, which I am so thankful for! I highly recommend checking this food festival out if you’re ever in the area. The vibe was amazing, lots of locals and fellow foodies like ourselves. Not to mention, the cocktails (prosecco and elderflower, anyone?) were superb!

Next, we hit up Brick Lane – one of London’s culinary wonders. With some of the best Indian food in London, it’s worth stopping by. Since our bellies were full, we instead hit up a patio at the lovely, Apples and Pears. If you ever find yourself in East London, this place is not to be missed!

The next morning, we were up early for the Royal Ascot Races! I’m not sure how I missed out on the races whilst living in Auckland, but this was my first time attending. I borrowed Kim’s fascinator, put on one of my favourite dresses, and packed a picnic lunch (complete with sparkling wine as they don’t allow any other alcoholic beverages) and off we went…

We are the classiest girls around.

We travelled in style.

Here I am with another New Zealand friend, Nicky.

Queen Elizabeth II was in attendance (obviously!)

After watching a few races, we sought refuge inside this spectacular wine garden.

The next day, Kim, Greg, and I ventured to Borough Market, taking in the London Bridge and Tower Bridge before I caught my train to the airport. Until next time, London!

Next up, I’ll be sharing my Paris adventure with you! Please let me know if you enjoy these travel posts! xx

August 27, 2014
Explore Amsterdam like a local

Amsterdam, the second stop on my European excursion, remains one of my favourite destinations. Rather than regurgitating what you probably already know about Amsterdam’s fantastic museums and galleries, superb cafe culture, stunning canals, and cycling reputation, I’ve decided to create a 48-hour guide to Amsterdam. If you’re short on holiday time (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?) this guide will help you navigate the canal-lined streets like a seasoned pro.

Day One:
Book a room at brand new, Cocomama Boutique Hostel. The rooms are clean and the receptionists are truly invested in your wellbeing. I travelled Amsterdam alone and I found it easy to meet people with the multitude of activities scheduled every day. It’s also a lot smaller than most hostels I’ve stayed at, which was a relief. The atmosphere is a bit more intimate that what you’re probably used to and you’ll be able to truly connect with the people you meet. I also liked that it attracts an older crowd than most European hostels (although I was in a room with three 18-year-old boys, haha!) But the average age was between 24 and 28.

Rent a bicycle, or better yet, sign up for a bike tour with Orangebike. There are tours for a myriad of interests and it’s the best way to see the city. It’s true, everyone here cycles, making Amsterdam one of the most liveable cities in the world. Another great feature of Cocomama were the free bicycles, win!

Visit Anne Frank Huis, but book ahead to avoid queues. If you’re travelling during high season, you could spend half a day waiting in line, so it’s best to plan ahead.

Few cities have art museums as spectacular as Amsterdam. Worth checking out is the Van Gogh Museum, particularly if you like Impressionism (and even if you don’t!) This is the world’s largest collection by arguably the country’s most famous painter.

A photo of the amazing people I met whilst in Amsterdam

Day Two:
Grab breakfast at Pancakes! The Dutch love pancakes, and this place has the best assortment of toppings!

See the city via canal.

Stop by Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s flower market. If you’re staying at an air bnb, pick up some blooms to liven up your temporary home!

Stroll around Albert Market, and grab some fries with mayo for lunch.

Spend a few hours exploring the cafe culture in Jordaan, Amsterdam’s coolest neighbourhood (away from all the ‘coffee shops’).

Grab a pint at the Heinekin Brewery. It’s one of the better mainstream brewery tours.

The Dutch love football, and the entire city came out to support Holland in the World Cup. This outdoor arena was a sea of orange.

August 25, 2014
DETROIT IS NOT DEAD

This is a love letter to Detroit.

It’s not a place for the faint of heart; it’s not Disneyland, the Mall of America, or the Las Vegas strip.

Detroit is gritty and honest; perhaps the most honest place I’ve ever been. It’s both new and old, beautiful and broken.

A trip to Detroit will leave you haunted yet invigorated, and its authenticity may alarm you.

*

“Don’t go to Detroit, you’ll get stabbed,” they said.

“It’s the most dangerous place in America,” they said.

“Detroit filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy protection last year,” they said.

Detroit is a dichotomy. Yes, there are abandoned buildings, lots of them. Yes, there is decay and poverty, lots of it. But the people of Detroit haven’t given up on their city, and neither should you.

Signs of new development and community projects include Dequindre Cut Greenway, The Heidelberg Project, the bicycle lanes (yes, this auto centric city is actually big on cycling), a thriving new business scene, which includes standouts like Slows Bar BQ, Astro Coffee, Sugar House, Motor City Brew Works, El Dorado General Store, Anthology Coffee, and Trinosophes. Of course, the Eastern Market (oldest and biggest of its kind in America) is still a must-visit. Talk to any of the young creatives who inhabit this city, and their energy will inspire you.

My favourite brunch was at Parks and Rec Diner, newly opened and housed in the iconic G.A.R. building!

As far as where to stay, I’d suggest booking Honor & Folly, a design-focused bed and breakfast right above Slows!

Detroit was shaped by risk takers and visionaries. A quick visit to the Henry Ford museum and the Ford Rouge Factory will provide you with some context of how this industrial city was shaped. I can’t overstate how the rise and fall of the automobile is at the core of Detroit’s demise. The factory still pumps out F150s according to dealership orders, and every employee can answer any question you might have about Henry and the automotive industry. There’s even a rooftop garden you can visit as part of the tour.

A visit to Corktown (where we stayed) will surely surprise you. Detroit’s oldest neighbourhood is experiencing a revival with the influx of restaurants, public artworks, markets, and parks. We happened upon a modern marching band festival, “Crash Detroit” while exploring the area. We sipped cocktails made from local ingredients while gazing up at the both derelict and awe-inspiring Michigan Central Station. Unlike Toronto, which is highly regulated, the security guard at Crash Detroit encouraged us to leave the beer garden to dance and mingle. “Enjoy yourselves, this is Detroit after all.”

July 21, 2014
My tips for travelling lightly

I had just finished writing a lovely post filled with my travel wisdom and woes. Unfortunately, WordPress decided it wasn’t that great of a post because it’s vanished (even after having saved it multiple times). Regardless, I will leave you with a condensed list of travel advice I’ve learned over the years. As you may already know, I’m taking my first (computer-free) two-week holiday next week. I’ll be visiting London, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, and Prague with my friend, Annie – and visiting other comrades along the way.

HOW TO TRAVEL LIGHTLY:

1. You don’t need five pairs of shoes. Aim to pack two to three, and specifically for your plans. I’m attending the Royal Ascot Races in London, so I need a pair of heels. I’ve decided to pack my Swedish Hasbeens (the clogs in the photo above) because they are versatile enough to wear throughout my travels.

2. I understand the desire to pack your dslr camera, especially if photography’s your thing. However, I often challenge myself to leave my Nikon at home at least every couple trips. Instead, I pack a point-and-shoot or my iPhone.

3. Many budget airlines charge extra for checked in luggage. If you can, save your time and money and take only a carry-on.

4. Neck pillows are king!

5. Three words: Thick wool socks. If you must pack heels (or boots), wear them on the plane, and take them off as soon as you sit down. Put on your thick wool socks, and revel in the comfort. Thank me later!

6. Layer up on the flight. It will save you precious luggage space and the air conditioning is pumping through those vessels.

7. Download city guides (I love Wallpaper Guides by Phaidon) and Rick Steves Audio Europe. Not only will they get you excited for the places you’re about to see, it’s important to gain perspective on the landmarks and monuments in the cities you’re visiting.

8. Book your accommodation in advance! Hostels and hotels tend to fill up fast during high season.

9. Travel by train at least once while in Europe. Catching a train is part of what makes Europe such a special place. Also, the views are spectacular.

10. Don’t fret if you don’t see everything on your travel to-do list. Take it from a chronic planner, sometimes it’s better to take it easy and wander. You’re on holiday after all!

What are your travel tips? I can’t wait to hear about your adventures! xo

June 14, 2014
Mont Tremblant

Mont Tremblant, the highest peak in the Laurentians, received its name from an Algonquin Indian legend in which the angry god Manitou gave the mountain a good shake whenever humans disturbed nature in any way.

I don’t see why anyone would ever tamper with Tremblant’s beautiful surroundings; from the crisp pine trees and piles of fresh powder, it’s the perfect city break.

If you’re tired of Toronto’s simultaneously slushy and bitter winter climate, an escape to Tremblant will reinvigorate your love for winter. It’s the snow globe we rarely experience in the Big Smoke. Winter in the city is frustrating and relentless, however, in the mountainous regions of Quebec, it’s breathtaking.

My family recently visited Mont Tremblant. After skiing the Rockies all my life, the Laurentian Mountains were a welcome treat! I’d highly recommend visiting, and partaking in both the skiing/snowboarding aspect, but also après ski (which is a post for another day!)

For more Tremblant photos, check out my Instagram!

Also, I have a surprise in store! Stay tuned! xo

April 5, 2014
The Ides of March

March 15th, also known as The Ides of March became notorious as the date of the assassination of Julius Caesar. The Roman Senate had named Caesar dictator perpetuo (“dictator in perpetuity”) and fears grew that he would later dissolve the senate in favour of an absolute tyranny. This led to several senators to plot his assassination. Fear and desperation led the conspirators to stab Caesar twenty three times, they later proclaimed “People of Rome, we are once again free!”

2058 years later, the bitterly cold tyranny of winter has gripped Toronto for too long. The freezing temperatures are no longer welcome mid-March, and a sense of fear and desperation is growing amongst the public.

March has never been my favourite month. Even as a child, unnecessary stress plagued me from all angles. It was always dance competition and music festival season, school seemed overwhelming while the weather was still non-compliant. Despite its downfalls, March has never been a stagnant month. Usually by the time April hits, I feel as though I’ve checked quite a few to-dos off my list.

This week has been particularly noteworthy, from celebrating amazing news with friends (engagements, grad school acceptance letter, and new jobs! Hip hip hooray!) to finally buying a bicycle. Perhaps March isn’t so bad after all?

Celebrating Mary’s acceptance into three of her top grad school picks, including John Hopkins University. This girl is nothing short of amazing!

My new wheels

Salad from Bolt Fresh Bar

Smoothies to the rescue!

Self-portrait

Voodoo Child is the best

Looking forward to this sensational Kiwi gig

Can I move in already?

Taxidermy

Learning how to spell

Throw way back

Only in Toronto

kitten & the bear

Torontonians soon will shake off the shackles of parkas, Sorels, and toques. They’ll embrace patios, sandals, and days on the Island. And we’ll proclaim, “people of Toronto, we are once again free!”

March 16, 2014