For visitors of the V&A, the exhibition outlines Maison Schiaparelli’s history, starting with its first fashion pieces and continuing to its current form under creative director Daniel Roseberry. 

Above photo: Ariana Grande’s 2025 Oscars ball gown on display at the V&A. Photo: David Parry/PA Media Assignments.

Related story: Bold Sunglasses for Spring 2026

The exhibition showcases recent research by art and fashion curators, highlighting Elsa Schiaparelli as a pioneering figure in fashion, art, and performance across Paris, London, and New York between the two wars. 

It highlights her entrepreneurial history and her celebrated yet rarely seen creations. The exhibition is the first to showcase the London branch of Schiaparelli, its independent clientele, and the founder’s involvement.

Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art comprises more than 400 objects, including 100 ensembles and 50 artworks, along with accessories, jewellery, paintings, photographs, furniture, perfumes, and archival material. 

Highlights on display include the 1938 Skeleton dress, the only known surviving example (part of the V&A’s permanent collection), the 1938 Tears Dress, and a hat resembling an upside-down shoe, all conceived in collaboration with artist Salvador Dalí. 

Artworks by Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, Man Ray, and Eileen Agar are also on display, along with several of Schiaparelli’s designs for film and theatre. 

Daniel Roseberry’s spectacular creations—including looks worn by Ariana Grande and Dua Lipa—bring the exhibition to a dramatic close.

Schiaparelli’s couture house revolutionized style standards and redefined modern beauty. Today, from its original location at 21 Place Vendôme in Paris, creative director Daniel Roseberry guides the renowned Maison into a new era, producing a body of work that influences and inspires fashion culture worldwide.

Don’t miss the fabulous V&A’s Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art exhibition, running from March 28 to November 8, 2026! It’s a wonderful opportunity to visit London and experience fashion as art.

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Related story: The MiG-21 Project: Artistic transformation

In mid-March, I arrived at Athens (ATH) airport, where I encountered a long line to reach the customs kiosks. My wait lasted nearly two hours, to the point that my car service driver left the airport without me. The reason was the limited number of available custom kiosks, as new EES machines and gates had been installed in the arrival hall but were not yet operational.

Two weeks later, when I departed Munich (MUC) airport, I encountered large crowds trying to check out of the EU. Again, brand-new EES machines in the room stood idle. 

Passengers around me were upset about the delay, and the staff couldn’t explain why the new machines weren’t working. 

Biometric Processing Challenges

We were told to line up for the self-service biometric kiosks to scan our passports, have our photos taken, and provide fingerprint scans. I was not asked to scan my fingerprints at the self-service machine, whereas other travellers were. 

I then waited in a second line for customs officials, who seemed to repeat the same process. The officer scanned my passport and then asked for my fingerprints. Do the new self-service machines work properly?

Impacting travel well beyond the EU

With a one-and-a-half-hour layover, I reached my gate five minutes before departure. The Lufthansa captain delayed our departure by 20 minutes due to the new EU EES chaos. This caused a delay in arriving in Vancouver, affecting connecting passengers and, consequently, impacting travel well beyond the EU.

The EU EES is a biometric border program that has been gradually deployed across the 29-country Schengen Area since October 2025 and is scheduled for full implementation by April 10.

Canadian passport holders can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Your biometric data (fingerprints and photo of your face) will be stored for three years. If you return to the Schengen area within that time, you will not have to provide your information again. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date. The EES will also monitor overstays and entry refusals.

Wait times have reached five or more hours

From my visit, I learned that one challenge for travellers is that they cannot enter their biometric details before arriving. Additionally, there is no separate line for passport holders who are already registered with EES. It’s just one long line for everyone.

According to a BBC news report last March, the Airport Council International (ACI), which represents over 600 airports and facilities, reported that border processing times at airports with active EES checks have increased by up to 70%. Peak period waits reached three hours in Geneva (GVA) earlier this year. Lisbon (LIS) Airport suspended the system entirely in December after wait times reached five or more hours, causing passengers to miss their flights.

Tips for navigating EU EES chaos 

• Allow extra time, especially when flying into major European hubs.
• Know the rules: even if already registered, expect to join the same EES line as others.
• Choose longer layovers: while airlines recommend one-and-a-half hours, plan for at least three hours during the summer.
• Stay informed by checking with airlines and airports for real-time updates on queues and delays before arrival.
• Travel during the off-season; EES operations are expected to improve after full rollout. Avoid August travel if possible.
• If you hold an EU passport, use it to bypass EES entirely.

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This aircraft is beautifully decorated with millions of colourful glass beads both inside and outside, completely reimagining its original purpose.

Related story: White Lotus season four takes us to France

Symbolism and Artistic Vision

Once a symbol of violence, it has now become a work of art that symbolizes resilience and collaboration for future generations. The use of colour beads reflects a deep connection to African culture, making the MiG-21 Project a powerful statement from the artist.

The plane is displayed at the Museum of Flight’s outdoor Aviation Pavilion, accessible from the Space Gallery opposite the east campus. It’s not a large fighter jet compared to other modern aircraft on display, but its intricate beadwork and vibrant colours make it a standout exhibit.

Exhibition Details

Visitors are encouraged to start their experience at the Red Barn, where they can learn about Ralph Ziman and the inspiration behind his vision for the plane. The exhibit features original Afrofuturistic flight suits and helmets, along with videos, photographs, and artwork related to the project. This area also shares Ziman’s personal experiences with the MiG-21, drawn from his upbringing in South Africa, as well as historical insights gathered during the project’s development.

According to Ziman, “The aim of The MiG-21 Project is to take the most mass-produced supersonic fighter aircraft and to turn it from a machine of war into something that looks beautiful and changes the meaning of it.”

Visiting the Museum

It’s been years since I visited the Museum of Flight, and I’ve forgotten how extensive the collections are.

You should see the full NASA Space Shuttle Trainer fuselage, where every Space Shuttle astronaut trains for their missions. Discover how the crew lives and works in orbit around the Earth. 

Board the Anglo-French Concorde, the iconic supersonic aircraft, marking its 50th anniversary since the first commercial flight connecting London/Paris to New York in 1976.

Additionally, seeing a replica of Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed Model 10 Electra on display was captivating. It was restored precisely as the plane she flew during her unsuccessful 1937 around-the-world flight.

Allocate about three hours to see all the displays. The museum’s location also makes it ideal for a weekend visit.

The MiG-21 Project is on display at the Museum of Flight in Seattle until January 26, 2026.

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Related story: Luxury travel has transformed the Canadian Vacation Experience

Anticipated Filming Locations

Although HBO, the creator of White Lotus, has not yet revealed the specific filming locations in France, avid viewers can expect the new season to further heighten the show’s luxury elements. The show continues its jet-setting, dysfunctional family-and-friends storyline, and the French setting is sure to amplify the opulence and drama.

Partnerships with Iconic Hotels

White Lotus maintains a marketing agreement with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, which boasts several notable properties in France. Some options include the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, an iconic Parisian getaway, and the Four Seasons Megève in the French Alps, which could provide a picturesque winter backdrop unlike past seasons. Another standout property is the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat private Villas on the French Riviera, celebrated for its spa and Michelin-starred cuisine.

Influence on Luxury Travel

Film and television have consistently shaped travel trends, and the allure of luxurious resorts and stunning locations featured in ‘The White Lotus’ has been a boon for luxury travel advisors. The show’s previous seasons have showcased breathtaking destinations, inspiring many travellers to visit these renowned filming sites.

Previous Seasons: A Legacy of Glamour

In season one, the Four Seasons Resort Maui in Wailea served as the White Lotus Hotel, captivating viewers with its beachfront splendour. The resort’s popularity soared, leading to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours for guests.

Season two transported audiences to Sicily and the southern Italian coast, featuring unforgettable moments at the San Domenico Palace in Taormina—a luxurious Four Seasons Hotel that contributed an extra layer of sophistication to the series.

Last season, viewers enjoyed the beauty of Thailand, with scenes filmed in Phuket and Bangkok, including the Four Seasons Koh Samui on Koh Samui Island.

Looking Ahead

While anticipation builds for the upcoming season, luxury travel advisors are prepared to help travellers eager to experience the iconic locations showcased in the White Lotus series. Fans in France and worldwide can look forward to the next chapter of jet-setting drama and opulence as White Lotus Season Four arrives in the heart of Europe.

Above photo: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France

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In light of the prevailing geopolitical landscape and the Canadian dollar’s lowest valuation in the past four years, mainstream Canadians are increasingly discerning in their choice of vacation destinations.

Related story: Big Horn driving tour in the Canadian Rockies

Shift in travel preferences

Since November 2024, a noticeable shift in travel preferences has emerged, weakening demand for U.S. destinations, including California, Florida, Hawaii, Nevada, and New York.

Canadians are significantly personalizing their travel arrangements. Culinary and beverage experiences have emerged as the primary factors influencing travel decisions, followed closely by outdoor adventures and cultural enrichment.

Canadians are drawn to Europe

This summer, European destinations are drawing more Canadian tourists thanks to new routes and connections launched by Air Canada, Porter, and WestJet. The rise in available seats has led to lower airfares, making the Netherlands, Portugal, and the United Kingdom popular choices for vacation travel.

Many Canadian vacationers are now exploring destinations that align with their travel goals and budgets. Proactively influenced by exchange rates, airfare, and stronger connections to their holiday destinations, such as wellness, adventure and immersive cultural experiences.

There has also been a growing interest in Canadian destinations like Alberta, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia this year. The East Coast provides a more affordable family vacation than popular areas such as Ontario and Quebec.

Countries that align with their values

Canadian travellers are now evaluating where they spend their tourism dollars. Travel is essential to them, and they now wish to invest their money in countries that align with their values. 

This adaptation of luxury travel experiences for mainstream vacationers marks the beginning of a new trend with the potential to transform the Canadian traveller forever. 

Attracting Canadian tourists is no longer guaranteed; all tourist destinations must now work to earn their business. The transformed Canadian vacation experience makes it a completely new travel world. 

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This multi-regional event brought together nearly 45 Porsche club members from CWR, the BC Interior, and the Inland Northwest Club, which is based in eastern Washington State. Several multi-regional events are held annually between the CWR and American clubs, demonstrating our valued cross-border friendship.

This story was originally published in C2Sky, the Porsche Club of America – Canada West region magazine, in the fall of 2024 (pdf).

Related story: Penticton offers the perfect Porsche travel adventure

Above photo: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Central Okanagan

Over six days, we travelled over 1,000 km clockwise across British Columbia. We began our tour in Kelowna in the central Okanagan, then headed northeast to Banff National Park in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. We then headed south towards the Canada—USA border and swept back up north to conclude our trip in Nelson on the west arm of Kootenay Lake.

On our first day, we woke up early because it was a travel day. We agreed to meet our fellow club members in Hope at 8:30 a.m. before embarking on a 5-hour scenic drive to Kelowna via mountain back roads. The Big Horn tour officially starts this evening in Kelowna with a welcome reception to reconnect with old friends and make new friendships.

Okanagan Lake

Our destination was the Hotel Eldorado, a Victorian-style inn in the Mission area of Kelowna on the east bank of Okanagan Lake. Upon arrival, we observed a lot of activity in the hotel parking lot. It was clear that our Porsches were the stars of the tour. Many owners had diligently cleaned their vehicles earlier, drawing admiration from locals and fellow members. 

The Eldorado, originally the Eldorado Arms Hotel, was founded in 1926 by Countess Bubna, an aristocratic English woman. During the 1950s and 1960s, it was a social hub, hosting British-style garden parties, dog shows, and croquet matches with the town’s political elite.

We found it an intimate property with 53 guest rooms, many with balconies offering panoramic lake views. Our room was spacious and had a quaint old English charm. The hotel offers several restaurants, a spa, a marina, and a short boardwalk along the lake.

Big Horn tour decals

On the second day, we were all invited for morning coffee at August Luxury Motorcars in Kelowna and had our tour decals installed.

We formed a single line upon arrival as we eagerly waited to enter their service building. Once inside, we witnessed over a dozen employees installing our Big Horn tour decals on six Porsches simultaneously. This included a large tour decal on both doors, driver and co-driver names and an August Luxury Motorcars sticker on the rear of each vehicle.

Afterwards, we ventured across the street to the August Motorcars showroom, filled with over 100 used luxury, exotic, and classic cars such as Porsche, Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren and more. I admit I did not want to leave without taking a closer look at a red Porsche 356 coupe at the back of the showroom. Special thanks to President and CEO Matt August and his friendly staff for their generous hospitality during our visit.

Winding mountain roads

Today’s Big Horn driving tour took us north along the Okanagan Highway, BC 97, to Radium Hot Springs. It features winding single-lane mountain roads interspersed with brief sections of divided highway. According to the tour book, it spans 438 km and lasts about six hours.

Before noon, we encountered a construction zone, which reduced traffic to an alternative single lane over a small bridge. As we approached the two-lane line-up, I noticed a semi-truck with hazard lights flashing in the right lane. So, I quickly moved into the left lane and was relieved to discover that the left lane continued to move slowly forward.

As we arrived in Revelstoke for lunch, we had not seen any other Porsches from our group that morning. We were nearly one hour behind schedule, so we figured everyone was ahead of us. After a quick lunch, we returned to the highway, continuing north into the Rockies.

Radium Hot Springs

With light traffic, we enjoyed a spirited drive to Radium Hot Springs and checked in at Bighorn Meadows Resort for our two-night stay. To our surprise, we were only the second Porsche to arrive, so I used the car wash station and explored the resort grounds.

Bighorn Meadows Resort is in the Columbia Valley, surrounded by the Rockies and the Purcell Mountain ranges. The luxury suites are on a 9-acre site surrounding the lush green Springs Golf Course. That evening, we all had a casual dinner in the golf clubhouse, where we met members of the Inland Northwest Club.

On day three, we could visit the Radium Hot Springs geological thermal pool, chill at the resort or explore Banff National Park, now a UNESCO heritage site. We decided to visit the town of Banff, so we headed east for 130 km, which takes about 90 minutes one way due to the park’s maximum posted speed limit of 90 km/h.

Big Horn sheep checked out our Porsches

Outside of Radium Hot Springs, we discovered a herd of Bighorn Sheep along the highway. Several large Bighorn sheep were leading younger lambs alongside the rocky hillside above us; we counted over 15 sheep.

I grew up in British Columbia and have visited Banff several times. However, it is no longer the quiet, rustic Rocky Mountain town I remember from childhood. Today, the touristy souvenir shops along Banff Avenue have been replaced by outdoor fashion stores, art galleries, and a more diverse food scene catering to international visitors. I’m delighted to discover that The Spirit of Christmas, my favourite store in Banff, is still open for business in the village. 

Rundle Bar

My favourite stop on the Big Horn driving tour was visiting the Rundle Bar at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, which is on the edge of town. Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the hotel was opened in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway as one of Canada’s earliest grand railway hotels.

Located on the second floor, the Rundle Bar was awarded the ‘Best Patio Award 2024’ by Canada’s 100 Best, the definitive guide to the nation’s top restaurants, bars, and chefs.

It offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped Mount Rundle, named after Reverend Robert Rundle, a Methodist who the Hudson’s Bay Company invited to conduct missionary work in western Canada in the 1840s.

Due to strong winds, we chose a seat inside the bar with views of the mountain range. The interior design resembles a cozy living room, with bespoke furniture and intimate lighting pockets, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.

One of the greatest pleasures of the tour was spending that afternoon with fellow club members in the bar of a grand hotel. Sharing our Porsche adventures is a memory I will cherish for a long time.

The following day began with a time-distance challenge to Nelson. Our mission was to find Tour Host Francis Chin’s bright orange GT3 ahead on Highway 93 South. During the challenge, Francis made a breakfast stop and took scenic photos. Since we had already had breakfast before departing the Resort, we found him first, about 45 minutes too early.

That morning, our route for day five would cover nearly 400 km in about 4.5 hours. It began with scenic canyon driving, almost reaching the Canada – USA border, and then swept north to Nelson towards the pristine Kootenay Lake.

Nelson is the home to the grizzle bear

Upon arrival that afternoon, we learned that Nelson is home to ancient rainforests and iconic species, including the grizzly bear and Kokanee salmon. 

Our accommodations for the last two nights on tour were at the Nelson Prestige Lakeside Resort. Our room had views of the Lake and mountains and was within walking distance of downtown. 

With a population of only 11,000, Nelson has more restaurants per capita than foodie landmarks such as San Francisco, Vancouver, and Manhattan. That evening, we explored the downtown district and found Marzano restaurant on Baker St. It offers a genuine Italian dining experience with delicious artisan pizza, homemade pasta, and creative desserts.

Kohan Reflection garden

We had more options on our final day of the Big Horn driving tour. We chose a relaxing half-day counterclockwise loop that followed the Kootenay Lake shoreline on Highway 3 North to Kaslo, then east along Highway 31A to New Denver and returning south on Highway 6 to Nelson. 

The day’s highlight was our visit to the Kohan Reflection Garden in New Denver by Roy Tomomichi Sumi, a former Japanese internee at Tashme, Rosebery, and New Denver. He is a renowned master of bonsai and traditional Japanese gardens and an educator, designer, and builder. His Japanese gardens can be found throughout western Canada, and he was instrumental in creating the Nitobe Memorial Garden at UBC.

The highlight of our six-day tour was fully immersing ourselves in our country’s rich history and actively engaging with the locals. I especially relished picturing images of the British garden parties at the elegant Hotel Eldorado and partaking in stimulating conversations with fellow club members in the illustrious Rundle Bar at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs. We appreciate Roy Tomomichi Sumi for creating the enriching Kohan Reflection Garden. 

We initially signed up for the Big Horn driving tour to drive our sporty Porsches and connect with other members in the magnificent backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. However, this journey has also immersed us in local history, equipping us to forge stronger connections with the places and people we encounter and create enduring travel memories. 

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As consumer spending on luxury experiences outpaces that on luxury goods, luxury brands are broadening their offerings in the travel sector. Luxury travellers seek rare and exclusive experiences. They are willing to invest more in travel, yet prefer avoiding crowds and seeking complete privacy and a seamless experience.

Above photo: Cave Cay Island rendering

Related story: Wickaninnish Inn honoured with two Michelin Keys

The Bvlgari Resort & Mansions at Cave Cay in the Bahamas will consist of 64 suites and seafront villas, along with 48 Bvlgari-branded private mansions and estates available for sale. Cave Cay, a 220-acre private island in the Exumas, boasts numerous white-sand beaches, caves (as its name suggests), and hills offering views of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

The resort will feature a range of facilities, including a spa and wellness centre, a multi-sports enclave, a kids’ club, the signature beach club La Spiaggia, a Bvlgari Bar, and Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, curated by the three-Michelin-starred Chef Niko Romito. Additionally, a marina will accommodate the docking needs of residents and provide visitors with a promenade that offers a variety of shops and dining experiences. The marina will also serve as the starting point for extensive water sports and a range of local experiences, including excursions to secluded islands and sand dunes.

This project follows the previously announced projects in the Maldives, Miami Beach, and Bodrum, which are set to open between 2026 and 2027. Which brings the Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts Collection to 13 properties, including Milan, London, Bali, Dubai, Shanghai, Beijing, Paris, Tokyo, and Rome.

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This delectable dish is not just a staple; it’s a tradition steeped in history and a beloved favourite among locals and visitors alike. Packed with rich flavours and served in a toasty brown, flaky crust, Australian meat pies offer an unforgettable taste of the land down under.

During my recent visit to Sydney, I did not want to miss the chance to enjoy one of Australia’s finest gastronomic treasures—the humble yet extraordinary meat pie!

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When it comes to iconic Australian cuisine, few dishes can rival their legendary meat pies, particularly those served at Harry’s Café de Wheels. For over 80 years, this beloved establishment has been delighting locals and visitors alike with its famous ‘Tiger’ meat pies, originating from its initial location in front of Woolloomooloo’s naval shipyard in Sydney serving sailors. This is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience steeped in history and flavour.

During my recent visit to their Darling Harbour location, I indulged in a Tiger Pie that was full of flavours. The rich gravy mingled beautifully with the pieces of beef, all lovingly topped with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh mushy peas. There is also a chicken pie option, which I am told is just as tasty. It’s no wonder that this iconic dish has attracted celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Sir Elton John, and even Prince Harry himself!

British settlers and convicts brought pies to Australia

The origins of the meat pie date back to medieval England, where street vendors sold them to the poor.  British settlers and convicts in the 18th century brought this delightful snack to Australia. Aussies began experimenting with various ingredients and crafted smaller pie versions over time. By the 1800s, these pies gained immense popularity and became a staple throughout the 1900s—kids grew up enjoying them in school cafeterias while families frequented bakeries on weekends.

What makes these Australian meat pies so popular is their versatility; they are perfect for every season! On chilly winter days, there’s nothing quite like the comforting steam rising from a freshly baked pie. In summer, they make for an ideal beach snack after a morning surf or barbeque favourite—mini-party pies are often seen alongside sausage rolls at outdoor gatherings. And let’s not forget about sports games; no Aussie football match day is complete without grabbing a meat pie from the kiosk pie warmer.

If you want to immerse yourself in an authentic Australian dining experience while savouring one of their most cherished culinary traditions, head over to any Harry’s Café de Wheels locations around Sydney. Taste history with every bite! 

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Situated in the Okanagan Valley in the southern interior of British Columbia, Penticton is nestled between the tranquil Okanagan and Skaha lakes. With only 40,000 residents, it radiates a simpler time, a small-town charm that is increasingly rare today. 

Penticton Porsche travel adventure story featured in C2Sky magazine (PDF).

Above Photo: S.S. Sicamous Marine Heritage Park, Penticton B.C. | Edward Quan

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Forgotten gold rush mining towns

My Penticton Porsche travel adventure begins in Vancouver and will take me 395 km, a four-and-a-half-hour drive east along Trans-Canada Highway 1 to Hope, which connects to Highway 3.

I loved the exhilarating experience of cruising along Highway 3 in my Porsche Boxster. This road is ideal for driving enthusiasts. The scenic route offers an engaging, twisty road – including 360-degree hairpin turns – through coastal mountain valleys, melting snow-cap-fed rivers and untouched forests. Along the way, you might spot wildlife such as deer, black bears, mountain goats, and forgotten gold rush mining towns.

During my two-day visit to Penticton, I visited its brewery scene and several wineries offering elevated dining experiences. My Porsche travel adventure took me north to Naramata Bench, where I enjoyed stunning lake views, orchards, and vineyards. On the second day, I took a circular drive south to Okanagan Falls and around Skaha Lake before returning to town. 

Everyone here is friendly

Penticton summers are sunny and hot, and the region offers various outdoor activities for all ages and families. These include relaxing on the sandy beaches, water activities on the lake, hiking and biking along the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) trail, and skiing or snowboarding on local hills in winter.

On my first day, I quickly noticed that the residents moved much slower than city folks. The exception was a senior woman on an electric mobility scooter barreling down the sidewalk as I stepped out of the pastry shop. Perhaps she has a Porsche, too?

Main Street is lined with mom-and-pop businesses, such as coffee shops and artist galleries. Everyone is friendly. You will find a wide range of hotels, breweries, wine-tasting rooms, and restaurants, all within walking distance. Feel free to leave your Porsche parked for the night and enjoy the small-town charm of Penticton.

Cannery Brewing

Arriving later in the morning, I was excited to delve into Penticton’s thriving brewery scene, which currently features eight breweries. 

Cannery Brewing, located on Ellis Street in the downtown district, is a must-visit. Upon arriving for lunch, I met Patt Dyck, Co-Founder and General Manager. As we toured her facility, I quickly learned they are passionate about brewing beer. She shared with me that her business is more than brewing beer; it’s about their customers and the local community. 

The taproom offers 12 taps, local wine and cider, locally sourced and house-made snacks, and live entertainment on Sundays. During my visit, I enjoyed a flight of light ales and their locally famous nachos, which did not disappoint.

Cannery Brewing has a dog-friendly outdoor backyard that is open to families. Food trucks are present on weekends, or you can order delicious features from the Cannery Shack in the Cannery’s Backyard. It’s a welcoming spot for the whole family.

Hillside Winery & Bistro

On my first Penticton Porsche travel adventure evening, I headed north on Naramata Road to Hillside Winery & Bistro for dinner. This winding road is situated on the east side of Okanagan Lake. With my Porsche top down, I passed by numerous orchards and vineyards, enjoying views of the lake and the KVR trail, which crosses the road into the mountains.

When you first arrive at Hillside, you encounter a towering structure constructed from wood and stone reminiscent of old-world European architecture.

At the Bistro at Hillside Winery, you are encouraged to relax and slow down, offering a menu of sharing plates with locally sourced ingredients. My guest and I shared the Tacos with duck confit, corn tortilla, garden herbs cherry gastrique, and blueberry labneh with housemade hot sauce, which were very good.

This was followed by the sockeye salmon paired with a 2020 Merlot. As sockeye salmon has a more robust flavour than other species, pairing it with a medium-body, fruit forward Merlot was a new and exciting taste sensation. 

Petrasek Bakery

The following morning, I started my day by looking for breakfast and stumbled upon Petrasek Bakery on Main Street, which is in a new, larger location that they just moved to in April. It’s an artisan European bakery where everything is traditionally handcrafted and made from scratch.

A local informed me that Silvia and Jan Petrasek are famous for their chocolate croissants and fruit tarts. Therefore, I indulged in a delightful peach tart while relaxing on the front patio, observing the town slowly spring to life.

With the sun out and the top down, I departed on my Penticton Porsche travel adventure and drove south on Lakeside/Eastside Road, which hugs a windy shoreline along the east side of Skaha Lake. It was a leisurely 24 km drive, taking me about 30 minutes since I had the road almost entirely to myself. Much of the road surface is nearly level with the lake, providing an impressive view of the calm water and the hills on the opposite side, making it an unadulterated driving pleasure.

Liquidity Wines

My lunch destination was Liquidity Wines, located south of Okanagan Falls, nested on a hillside overlooking Vaseux Lake and nʕaylintn (McIntyre Bluff). Upon arriving in the parking lot, I discovered two Porsche EV chargers, a rarity these days.

Upon entering the winery, we were offered a complimentary tasting of their 2022 Estate Viognier. 

At the Restaurant at Liquidity Wines, Chef Josh Mueller creates a seasonal, three-course lunch menu centred around wine, allowing guests to indulge and savour a symphony of flavours that excite their palates.

Our server, Kellen, gave us a table on the patio overlooking the infinity pond and brought us freshly baked rosemary focaccia, whipped coconut butter, and preserved lemon.

I started with the Smoked Cod on potato and rutabaga, leek emulsion, and lemongrass. It was paired with their 2022 Estate Viognier, fresh, crisp, acidic flavours with herbal notes to complement my fish serving.

A Fraser Valley Chicken entree with coffee lentils, brown butter kale, fire morels, and black apple jus followed. The chicken had a crispy skin wrap with a rich, smoked taste, which was delightful. They paired it with their 2020 Dividend, a Bordeaux-inspired blend with aromas of juicy red strawberry and toasty notes that complimented the chicken dish nicely.

I finished my lunch with Black & Blue: blackberries, blue cheese, and chocolate for dessert, paired with the 2020 Estate Merlot, which is bright, juicy, and complex. You can’t go wrong with a fine Merlot with chocolate!

Liquidity Wines was one of the highlights of my Penticton adventure. They plan to launch a dinner service starting June 21. Visit their website for further details. 

District Wine Village

After lunch, we continued south on the Okanagan Highway 97 towards Oliver for a 12 km – 12-minute drive to the District Wine Village, Canada’s first and only wine village.

The District Wine Village is located just south of nʕaylintn (McIntyre Bluff) and has 11 wineries, one brewery, one distillery, and a restaurant. Each tenant is housed in individual buildings with seating areas and the full production wineries produce right on-site. The venue consists of 16 units arranged in a circle facing a central outdoor plaza, which can be used for public seating, hosting music artists, game shows, private weddings, and family events.

Canter Cellers

After a brief tour, Darcel Giesbrecht, the General Manager, introduced me to their newest winery, Canter Cellars. Canter is a horse’s gait with three distinct beats, representing a winery with three founding families. With a shared history with horses, they draw parallels to them as a powerful symbol of tamed beauty—much like the process of history and winemaking in the Okanagan Valley.

My tasting started with a Rose 2023 Cabernet Franc, an outstanding summer patio wine. Bright and attractive, it has pink grapefruit and raspberry aromas and sea minerals. I then tried their Field Blend 2022, an unoaked chardonnay with subtle tropical fruit notes. Both were delightful, and I highly recommend Canter for your next visit to the District Wine Village.

My route back to Penticton would be primarily on two-lane paved country roads on the west side of Vaseux Lake. As I exited the District Wine Village, I turned south onto Highway 97 and travelled about 2 km before turning right onto Seacrest Hill Road, which leads me up into the hills and offers beautiful views of Tuc-el-nuit Lake. 

Seacrest Hill Road eventually connects to Willowbrook Road, only 4 km—5 minutes. I kept to the right and headed northbound on Willowbrook for 4 km—4 minutes. I turned right onto Green Lake Road, which offers a winding, narrow drive through wooded forest and cattle fields with varying elevations, providing an enjoyable drive.

Along my route, I passed Mahoney Lake, Nighthawk Vineyards, Green Lake, and See Ya Later Ranch, which are lovely wine stops if you have the time. At the end of Green Lake Road, you take a left to head north on Highway 97, which brings you along the opposite side of Skaha Lake, past small town Kaleden, and back into Penticton.

The Restaurant at Naramata Inn

My final evening dining experience was at The Restaurant at Naramata Inn, a 16 km—20-minute drive north of Penticton. They offer a seasonal dinner menu with a sommelier-curated wine pairing. Their restaurant wine list features primarily local wines, but many international wines are available.

I selected Naramata Bella Buddha’s Blend Rose sparkling wine to celebrate my two-day visit. It has a candied apple nose with a pale pink hue, tart strawberry-apple and white graphite pith on the palette.

I began with the Cauliflower soup with toasted seeds, brown butter, and green oil. It was thick, creamy, and full of flavour.

Followed by the slow-braised BC Grass-Fed Beef Short Ribs for my main course with celeriac potato puree, spring vegetables, and old-fashioned mustard. Each morsel melted my taste buds, so it was well worth the drive. 

To finish, I ordered the house-made chocolate dessert with Plot Twist Serrano Ice Cream, Coco Nib Glace, Port Jelly, and Walnut Crumble. The dessert was divine.

Four Points by Sheraton Penticton

During my visit, I stayed at the all-new Four Points by Sheraton Penticton at the Convention Centre, which just opened at the beginning of the year. Aditya Bhardwaj, Operations Manager, welcomed me upon arrival and ensured my check-in was smooth and efficient. 

The Four Points hotel caters to business and vacation travellers and is a 20-minute walk to downtown. Throughout my stay, I noticed a substantial presence of staff on duty, underscoring the property’s unwavering commitment to exceptional guest service.

A must-do is to visit the Four Points rooftop bar, the Rooftop at Palmer, which offers panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the giant Penticton sign on Munson Mountain. On the ground floor, Palmer Casual Steakhouse, with its outdoor patio, serves delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners next to the lobby. I highly recommend the Banana Bread French toast on the breakfast menu; it was marvellous.

Discover the charms of Penticton, a wonderful town that is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Porsche travel adventure. It is surrounded by exceptional wineries that offer elevated dining experiences, so you won’t be disappointed.

On my last evening, while driving my Porsche from Naramata, I gazed through the front windshield at the vineyards spreading across the lush, rolling landscape of the Penticton wine region. It was tough to say goodbye, but I knew I was soon heading back to the hustle and bustle of big city life, anticipating the congestion on Trans-Canada Highway 1.

This travel story was originally published in C2Sky, Porsche Club of America – Canada West region magazine in Summer 2024.

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Located on the Tanglebank Estate in Abbotsford, B.C., this haunted attraction is best visited after sunset. Get ready to be immersed in eerie Halloween sights and sounds, terrifying creatures such as a werewolf and the chainsaw man lurking just beyond the twisted paths.

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Locals insist that venturing into the woods alone is not advised, as the Terror of Tanglebank Estates adventure is not for the faint of heart! Wander through fog-shrouded trees as you encounter chilling characters and spine-tingling hanging bodies that will leave you breathless. 

It’s a perfect outing for families looking to embrace the spirit of Halloween while enjoying country-fresh meals in the Bistro that tantalize your taste buds. After navigating their haunting trails, shop for Halloween goods ranging from home décor to scary masks—there’s something for everyone! 

Remember to visit their pumpkin market, which features pumpkins of every shape, size, and colour to enhance your home this season. 

Experience the Terror of Tanglebank Estates this October. It’s more than just a haunted display—it’s an adventure filled with family fun and memories waiting to be made! 

Open Friday and Saturday until October 30th. For more details, visit Tanglebank Estates.

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