Mary Kay Holiday 2022 Gift Guide

The elves at Mary Kay Canada left a surprise under my tree again this year and like always, the gifts are fabulous!

The Warm Hues Eyeshadow Palette ($45) is my personal fave (you might want to grab one for yourself too). These shades transition from fall to winter and from day to night effortlessly!

There are 6 stunning pigments that range from shimmering champagne and purple garnet to bronze and peachy rose gold. The velvety matte hues are perfect for defining the crease and I love the silky texture and buildable color payoff – the quality is excellent! 

Mary Kay’s Hydrating Sheet Masks ($45) are a winter essential and there are eight in each box so you can pop one in everyone’s stocking.

Unlike regular masks, these are separated into two compartments – one side has the cellulose mask and the other side has gel essence. When you’re ready to use it, simply fold (as directed on the box) and break the seal between the two sides to push the serum into the mask. Keeping them separate like this ensures that your mask won’t dry out in the package and will remain fresh. It also guarantees that the mask is infused with a lot more hydrating botanical serum so skin looks soft, supple, plump and renewed. I can actually use each one twice! 

The Satin Hands Pampering Set ($55) makes a wonderful gift for everyone on your list including family, friends, teachers, co-workers and neighbors. I keep these products in my bathroom and guest bathroom – they are always a hit!

The set comes with: 

*Satin Smoothie Refreshing Shea Scrub - which doubles as hand wash. 

*Satin Hands Refreshing Softener – a thick, healing balm. 

*Nourishing Shea Hand Cream – to rejuvenate and soften. 

*Pampering Gloves – use these after applying the balm or cream. They lock in moisture and provide a healing treatment, especially overnight. 

I absolutely LOVE the Vinyl Shine Liquid Lip Sets ($22). There are two to choose from:

*Neutral - contains a deep brown and pink-neutral. 

*Bold - comes with vivid berry and luminous red. 

These bold, high pigment shades apply like liquid lipstick with beautiful shine. They are saturated, comfortable and gorgeous!

The Silkening Dry Oil ($24) creates a subtle luminous sheen and lightly perfumes the body with a delicate mood-boosting scent. The main accords are peony, fresh cut stems, bergamot, white tea, oak and water lily – very fresh and feminine. Apply some after a warm shower and smell amazing all day!

The Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion ($16) helps revive tired feet and legs with a refreshing cool mint formula. It is perfect for days when your feet are on the go and you can even apply it over sheer hosiery. 

For the makeup lovers on your list, Mary Kay also has a nice collection of Semi-Shine Gel Lipsticks ($21 ea). The cushiony soft formula delivers stunning color and luminous shine without drying out lips. 

*Shades seen here: Subdued Nude and Downtown Brown.

The Highlight Brush and Contour Sponge Set ($18) is another great stocking stuffer. These mini makeup tools are perfect for travel and touch-ups on the go.

Let’s not forget about the guys on your list. The Foaming Beard Wash ($21) pampers and refreshes facial hair with a plush cleansing formula and invigorating peppermint.

You can find all these gifts and more at marykay.ca

Holiday Gift Guide 2022: Best Gifts for Everyone on Your List

It’s that time of year again - time to hit the malls and online shops to find the perfect gifts and stocking stuffers for loved ones. 

Until a few days ago, I was vacationing in Italy so I’m a bit behind this year. I haven’t had time to deck the halls or trim the tree, but I have rounded up some fantastic gifts to help your holiday season go a little more smoothly.

First up we have the Knot Dr. All-in-One Mini Oval Dryer Brush ($39.99) by Conair. These blow dry brushes are very popular and have become an essential styling tool for all hair types. 

Last Christmas I was gifted Revlon’s bestselling Dryer Brush and ended up returning it because of the weird chemical smell, weight and bulkiness. 

Knot Dr. is much easier to use. The brush is lightweight, easy to hold and smaller which makes it simple to manoeuvre. Although it is classified as a “mini oval brush,” it is actually quite large and accommodates my long hair with ease.

Key Benefits: 

*Flexible, well spaced bristles for painless detangling. 

*Voluminous perfect blowouts. 

*Tourmaline technology creates a smooth, polished, frizz free finish.

*Perfect size for travel.

*Three heat settings: cool, low and high.

*700 watts of power.

*Smooth and refresh hair between wash days.

 (Conair is available at conair.ca and Walmart) 

The Schick Intuition Lather & Shave ($17.99) comes with one advanced moisture razor with sure grip handle and three refill cartridges. The shaver is infused with organic vegan shea butter, oat and jojoba oil that is activated with water (no need for shave gel). Four blades gently glide and pivot over all your curves for a clean, precise shave that leaves skin soft and smooth. (Available at Shoppers Drug Mart)

One of my favorite skincare sets this year is the Neturogena Hydro Boost Collection ($29.99). Infused with a blast of hyaluronic acid, these products are great for dry winter months.

The set comes with: 

*Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel to remove impurities and makeup. 

*Non-greasy, fast absorbing Hydro Boost Gel Hand Cream. 

*Fragrance-free, skin quenching Hydra Boost Gel Face and Neck Cream. 

(Available at Shoppers Drug Mart) 

For couples looking for a fun intimate gift, Lelo has recently released the innovative DOT Vibrator ($239) featuring 8 intense pleasure inducing patterns that tantalize erogenous zones with unmatched precision. 

Lelo is a leader in luxury adult toys that are artistically crafted, fully waterproof, certified body-safe and made with easy to clean ultra-smooth premium silicone. The DOT also comes with a one year warranty, USB charging cord and storage pouch.

This toy is easy to use (solo or with a partner) and features infinite loop technology – arousing every nerve ending with a surprise elliptical pattern and shifting angles. The soft silicone tip bends and flexes rapidly creating a combined sensation of flicking, fluttering and intense vibration without leaving you numb. 

The sleek ergonomic design and versatility is definitely unique, highly focused, powerful, quiet and efficient. The ladies on your list will love it! Lelo is available online at lelo.com and select products can now be found at Shoppers Drug Mart. 

Makeup Revolution makes gorgeous, affordable palettes (my favorite being Revolution Reloaded). This holiday season, the brand has released the Forever Flawless Collection – I have the Affinity Palette ($19.99) which features flattering warm hues. The beautiful browns and neutrals are mixed with pops of hot pink and shimmer. There are 8 high pigment mattes, 9 shimmers and one glitter. (Available at Shoppers Drug Mart)

If you’re in the market for a luxurious gift for the home, I suggest Dr. Vranjes Firenze Rosso Nobile Oil Diffuser with Refill Bottle ($395). The glass is opulent and the fragrance smells amazing – fruity, sweet and rich. The main accords are grapes, berries, violent, magnolia and birch wood which combine to evoke feelings of relaxation throughout the room.

The design of the diffuser is a tribute to Florence’s beloved Duomo which I visited for the second time just last week! It definitely captures the essence of Tuscan artists and the unique olfactory experience of Italy. 

You can find this scent and other great gifts at drvranjes.ca 

So far my gift guide hasn’t featured many options for the men on your list, so let’s talk about my favorite cologne of 2022 – Boss Bottled ($138 / 100 ml). I describe this scent as, bold, masculine, sexy, robust, rugged and irresistible. Its potency lasts all day so a little goes a long way.

Top notes: mandarin and incense 

Heart noted: orris and fig tree 

Base Notes: cedarwood and vegetal leather 

(Available at Shoppers Drug Mart) 

My top fragrance choice for the ladies this year is Prada Paradoxe Eau De Parfum ($192 / 90 ml). This gorgeous floral amerby scent is inspired by the multi-dimensions of women and celebrating yourself. It is vibrant, fresh, warm and intoxicating. 

The perfume starts out strong with top notes of orange blossom, jasmine and vanilla and slowly fades into a lovely sweet, musky aroma that I can’t get enough of. It is perfect for daily wear and special occasions.

Another skincare set that your loved ones will enjoy this Christmas is the belif Moisturizing Bomb Holiday Home & Away Set ($55) which comes in a cute little gift box. You get one full-size and one travel size jar of the brand’s bestselling cream. The light, refreshing, cushiony formula provides dull, flaky skin with an explosion of comforting moisture that lasts up to 26 hours. This is exactly what you need to battle harsh winter conditions. 

(Available at Sephora.ca)

STOCKINGS STUFFERS FOR $20 AND UNDER: 

*Quo Everyday Basics Eye Kit ($20) – includes the Pump Up Volume Mascara, Precision Liquid Liner and a neutral Eyeshadow Crayon. 

*Quo Gua Sha Face & Neck Relaxation Tool with Velvet Pouch ($15) 

Gua Sha is technique used in traditional Chinese medicine. It involves massaging the skin with stone to stimulate blood flow, fluids and energy within the body so skin appears radiant and less puffy. It also eases tension. 

*Quo Limited-Edition Beauty Mini Delights Brush Set ($20) – perfect for touching up your makeup on the go.

*Quo Blending Sponge Trio ($18) – great for applying liquid, cream and powder foundation, concealer and blush. 

*Cosmetic Crackers ($18) – Comes with 6 sheer mini lip glosses in various shades. 

 (Quo is exclusively available at Shoppers Drug Mart) 

*Manna Double Wall Vacuum Isolated Stainless Steel Mug ($11.99) – keeps liquids cold for 18 hrs or hot for 8 hrs. BPA free and leak proof. (Available at Shoppers Drug Mart) 

*Kim Chi Chic Candy Lip Scrum - Minty Kisses ($14) – buff away rough, dry skin with a blend of jojoba and Vitamin E. This refreshing formula leaves skin smooth, soft and hydrated. 

(Available at Shoppers Drug Mart)

*Biosculpture Gemini Nourishing Nail Polish ($20.50 ea) is a healthy alternative to traditional lacquer. They have a built-in UV filter and contain a hardening plant extract derived from aloe vera, lemon and ginseng. The formula does not contain any of the harsh, damaging chemicals found in most polish – making it better quality and much healthier for your nails. The rich color glides on effortlessly and lasts longer. 

Shades seen here: 98 To Date, 274 Perky Pollen and Hot Chocolate. 

(Available at irisbodyandbeauty.com)

*Lindt Lindor Milk Chocolate ($13.99) available at Shoppers Drug Mart 

*PC Cake Donut Mix ($3.99) – gather the family around for a decorating party during the holiday season! (Available at Shoppers, Loblaws, Zehrs, Real Canadian Superstore and No Frills)

Hope you enjoyed this holiday gift guide. 

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram - @DiaryofaTrendaholic

Estee Lauder Best in Class Skincare Essentials

Estee Lauder is one of the leading luxury brands in the beauty industry, but if you haven’t tried their skincare, or don’t know what to try next, why not start with 5 of their bestsellers.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a complicated 10 step routine to achieve clear healthy skin. All you really need are a few great essentials that revitalize and nourish your complexion.

Using Estee Lauder’s “best-in-class” lineup, I have created the ultimate night time routine to keep your skin supple, youthful and hydrated all winter. These products work wonders! 

STEP 1: CLEANSE 

Whether or not you wear makeup, cleansing should always be the first and most important step in your routine. Starting with a clean canvass allows products to absorb more efficiently and work much better. 

The Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Balm ($58) is a lightweight silky oil that melts as you massage it onto the skin. It quickly loosens the most stubborn makeup and removes dirt, pollutants, impurities, sweat and pore clogging debris.

After you’ve rubbed it in, add a bit of water to create a clarifying milky emulsion. It rinses clean and leaves skin soft and moisturized. 

The balm is usually enough to remove all traces of makeup but I still recommend washing your face with your favorite gel, cream or foaming cleanser. 

This is by far one of the BEST cleansing balms on the market. I even used it to remove my sister’s heavy wedding makeup and it worked like a charm! 

STEP 2: PREP 

To balance, tone and prepare the skin for product absorption, apply a refreshing layer of the Micro Essence Skin Activating Treatment Lotion with Sakura Ferment ($142).

The water-light formula works deep under the surface to stabilize, smooth, plump, hydrate, minimize pores, repair, strengthen, brighten and promote a youthful glow. 

The Essence is suitable for all skin types (no need to rinse). 

STEP 3: REPAIR 

The advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex ($95 - $105), has been Estee’s most popular product for many years. In the beauty community, this serum is considered liquid gold – it totally transforms your complexion.

I gift this serum to the ladies in my family every Christmas and it is always a huge hit. 

Recently the formula has been revolutionized with Chronolux Power Signal Technology – which is just a fancy way of saying that it penetrates faster, increases collagen renewal, smooths, firms, protects against environmental assaults and reduces signs of aging. 

Night Repair is supposed to work wonders on wrinkles but since I don’t have any, I use it to moisturize, plump, renew and boost radiance – it completely revitalizes my skin. The serum is also enriched with 8-hr antioxidant power and a 72 hr hydration complex derived from hyaluronic acid. 

STEP 4: MOISTURIZE 

It is always a good idea to layer serum or facial oil with a great moisturizer and the Revitalizing Supreme+ Bright Power Soft Creme ($128) is a youth boosting, radiance recharging formula that fades dark spots, acne marks and blemishes to minimize discoloration and dullness.

This is the product you need for clear, even skin and as a bonus, it also refines texture and fades the look of fine lines and wrinkles. (Suitable for all skin tones) 

STEP 5: EYE CARE 

The Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate ($88) plumps, cushions and hydrates to brighten dark circles and diminish under eye bags. Dab some on the outer corners to smooth fine lines and apply on the eyelids to reduce puffiness.

When used daily, this serum rejuvenates tired eyes and makes you look well rested. I even use it as a lash serum.

After completing all these steps, your skin will look amazing but there is one more product that ensures your face remains flawless for makeup the next morning – Estee’s Futurist Aqua Brilliance Watery Glow Primer ($54).

This silky base triples the skin’s moisture, plumps, smooths and protect against environmental stressors. The breathable formula is lightweight, ophthalmologist tested and free of synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, sulfites, drying alcohol and mineral oil to ensure your makeup and skin looks incredible all day. 

Estee Lauder is available at Holt Renfrew, Shoppers Drug Mart, The Bay, Murale, Sephora, Nordstrom, Saks and esteelauder.ca

Mary Kay 2022 Fall/Winter Skincare Collection

I’m a bit behind on the fall beauty trends this year, but one thing I never do is neglect my complexion. As the weather gets colder and our skin gets drier, Mary Kay’s new collection of hydrating serums and anti-aging products are essential to my beauty routine.

Let’s start with the products I’m most excited about – the new Clinical Solutions Serums/Boosters. The C+ Resveratrol Line-Reducer ($42) targets visible signs of aging with 3 core components – Mary Kay’s highest concentration of Vitamin C, resveratrol and acetyl hexapeptide-8. When used consistently over time, this formula may soften and reduce the look of wrinkles, fine lines and environmental damage on the skin’s surface while supporting collagen production to lift and tone. 

Since I don’t have any wrinkles or visible signs of aging, I let my mom test the booster. She is 60 but appears to be in her late 40’s with very few signs of aging (no wrinkles). So far she likes the formula’s ability to smooth and soften her skin with no adverse reactions. Her complexion definitely looks more radiant and there seems to be less discoloration/hyperpigmentation.

I’ve been using the HA+Ceramide Hydrator ($42) which is packed with hyaluronic acid to plump, replenish and moisturize parched unbalanced skin. The formula is very light, liquid-y and fast absorbing with no residue or stickiness. I apply a few drops prior to makeup application and before bed to hydrate, smooth and plump. During the winter, this will be my first line of defense against cold weather. It helps improve texture and prevents peeling and itching. 

For dark under eye bags, try the Instant Puffiness Reducer ($40). This works wonders – especially in the morning when you want to look well rested and refreshed before work. It also offsets the impact of pollution, allergies and stress. 

The Age Minimizing 3D Eye Cream ($44) is ideal for smoothing and reducing fine lines, sagging and dark circles. 

When the skin under my eyes is dry, sensitive and irritated, I usually switch to the Indulge and Soothing Eye Gel ($22). It contains botanical extracts to revitalize and increase moisture by 130%. The cool, invigorating formula feels amazing, especially if you keep it in the fridge.

The Masking Minis Set is perfect for travel and gifting. My favorite is the Clear Proof Deep-Cleansing Charcoal Mask. It contains activated charcoal, rosemary, honeysuckle and peppermint to draw out impurities and rejuvenate the complexion.

The Moisture Renewing Gel Mask deeply hydrates rough flaky skin and you can leave it on overnight. It can be a bit tedious to rinse off but I love the supple finish. My face feels great for days! 

A good eye makeup remover is definitely a beauty essential, especially when you wear a lot of eyeliner, mascara and waterproof products like I do. The Oil-Free Makeup Remover ($21) is one of the best I’ve ever used! The gentle, non-irritating formula eliminates the most stubborn makeup in a few quick swipes – no tugging or fussing. 

Try it with the soft reusable facial pads ($16) that come with a mesh bag you can toss in the washing machine.

Skincare is a head-to-toe commitment so I’ve stocked up on the Satin Body Waterlily Shea Scrub ($24) and Indulgent Whipped Shea Cream ($28). They smell incredible and pamper my entire body.

The Hand Cream Minis make great stocking stuffers! This cute set comes with 3 indulgent scents – Pink Freesia, Peach Gardenia and Citrus Fields. They all have a light perfume fragrance and a hydrating formula.

Last but not least – a daily Multivitamin ($30) because healthy skin starts from within. This superfood blend of botanical extracts contains the antioxidant equivalent of one serving of fruit and vegetables to reduce fatigue and support normal body functions.

These great products are all available online at marykay.ca

Vancouver Travel Guide: How to Spend 4 Days in BC

Vancouver is one of Canada’s most picturesque cities - known for its art galleries, restaurants, shops, parks and recreational activities. It is surrounded by sprawling mountains, beautiful lakes and bustling harbours. The locals are friendly, the food is great and there is a hip urban vibe that radiates through each unique neighbourhood – I absolutely love it!

If you are planning a trip to BC and only have a few days to do some sightseeing, this guide highlights some of the best attractions and day trips.

 Transportation / Car Rental

The flight from Toronto to Vancouver is approximately 5 hours and renting a car is one of the best ways to explore. There are many opportunities for memorable road trips and parking is quite reasonable.

We visited Vancouver at the end of September and rental car companies at the airport (including Thrifty, Budget and Dollar) were charging over $1,000 CAD for 4 days which is higher than normal. (Rates vary by season and availability). 

Travel Tip: If you don’t want to purchase car insurance every time you travel, you can obtain coverage for rentals through your personal car insurance provider.

**Important Travel Information: If you plan to rent a vehicle to drive from Vancouver to Whistler from October 1^st to Mach 31^st along the Sea to Sky Highway, you are legally required to have winter/snow tires. Cars with these tires cost extra and are subject to availability. You must ask for them at the time of booking and SUVs with winter tires are extremely limited.

 

Day One: 

Vancouver to Victoria Island – BC Ferry and Rates

Since our flight arrived early, we decided to spend the first two days in Victoria.

From the car rental company, we drove to the BC Ferry (Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay). The ferries carry passengers and vehicles to the island – you can drive your car right onto the boat.

It costs extra to transport a car but I highly recommend it. The drive from the ferry terminal to downtown Victoria is quite lengthy and having a car makes it easier to tour the island.

 Fares:

$17.60 per adult

$59.50 – undersized vehicle + 50 cents fuel rebate

We paid $200.50 round trip - 2 adults + 1 car.

For current prices please refer to the BC Ferry website and schedule.

If you do not book a specific departure time online and you miss the ferry, you may have to wait 30-60 mins for the next one. It takes 90 mins to reach the island but the journey is picturesque. Head to the upper deck and enjoy the ride (you might want to bring snacks).

 Where to Stay on Vancouver Island

Downtown Victoria is the best place to book a hotel on the island because it is centrally located on the harbour.

We stayed at Huntingdon Manor – a gorgeous Victorian hotel known for its glamorous high tea service and tranquil garden. I booked on Expedia for $254.00 CAD per night with breakfast included. Rates may be higher during peak season.

 Things to See and do in Downtown Victoria

 *The Parliament Building

 *Inner Harbour and Victoria Pier – there are many popular fish fry restaurants in this area.

 *Boat Tours

 *Whale Watching Tours – these expeditions start at about $100 per person and take at least half a day so plan ahead.

 *Sea Plane Tours

 *Craigdarroach Castle – Victorian-era Scottish baronial mansion.

Tickets - Adults: $20.60, Kids: $10

 *Royal British Columbia Museum – natural and human history museum founded in 1986. 

Tickets –$5, kids under five are free

 Travel Tip: Superbaba restaurant in downtown Victoria makes fresh, tasty wraps, healthy bowls, soups and salads.

*Fairmont Empress Hotel - a great place for afternoon tea.

 Day Two

On the second day, we woke up early (way before checkout) and spent the morning road-tripping around the island.

 Places to Visit:

 *China Town (makes sure to check out the narrow side alleys)

 Places to Stop on the Victoria Waterfront:

 *Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place for dinner or lunch, especially if you like fresh seafood. The colourful buildings make a vibrant backdrop for photography.

 *Ogden Point Breakwater

 *Finlayson Point

*Snap a photo at the Mile Zero Marker Sign on Douglas Street. This is the start of the Trans-Canada Highway which is over 8,000 km / 4,970 miles. It was formerly the longest uninterrupted highway in the world.

 *Butchart Gardens

If you only visit one attraction in Victoria, I highly recommend Butchart Gardens. It is located in a lush forest and features several exhibits with various themes and styles. The abundance of vibrant flowers, plants and foliage gives the illusion of floating through a magical wonderland. It is simply exquisite!

-Tickets: $36 per person, parking included.

*Sidney Waterfront

Sidney is a cute little beach town with restaurants, shops and water sports. It is a great place to kill time before heading back to the ferry terminal. If you want to grab lunch, check out Maria’s Souvlaki. They make excellent wraps and you can try authentic Greek sodas.

Day Three

After taking the ferry back to Vancouver and relaxing at our hotel, we were ready for our next adventure.

We planned a road trip from Vancouver to Whistler along the famous Sea to Sky Highway – one of the most picturesque roads in Canada. It isn’t as scenic as the Icefields Parkway in Banff, but it is definitely worth checking out.

Before getting onto the Sea to Sky Highway, you will come across one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions – The Capilano Suspension Bridge. If you have an aversion to heights, consider skipping this attraction, otherwise give yourself a couple hours to explore the park.

The bridge is suspended between two cliffs so it sways and bounces in the wind (be prepared if you are prone to motion sickness).

Entrance fee for Capilano Bridge:

Adults: $54.95

Youth: $29.95

Child: $18.95

Senior: $49.95

Parking: $6

 Best Places to Stop Along the Sea to Sky Highway

*Porteau Cove – excellent place to picnic, take photos and use the restroom.

*Brandy Wine Falls

*Alice Lake

*Shannon Falls – Short easy hike from the parking lot.

*Travel Tip: You can hike from Shannon Falls to the Sea to Sky Gondola instead of driving to the lot up the road. The dense, mossy forest makes for a beautiful hike and it is a great way to get your steps in (we did over 12,000 that day).

Sea to Sky Gondola

For one of the most amazing views, take the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish BC. The ride to the summit is exhilarating – a vertical climb up steep rocky mountains. If you don’t like heights, this probably isn’t for you. It was a bit terrifying but totally worth it!

- Gondola ticket price: $56 per person.

Once you reach the summit, there is a cliffside cafe with an incredible view, another suspension bridge (free to cross), several scenic hiking paths and lookout points. Follow the map provided with your ticket to make the most of your time. You’ll probably need 1-2 hours.

Whistler

Whistler Village is a charming little town where the athletes stayed during the 2010 Winter Olympics. It is nestled at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and has a variety of shops, restaurants, ski resorts and luxury chalets. The drive from Vancouver to Whistler is about 1 hour and 38 mins but expect traffic delays.

We visited in autumn so the village was awash with fall colours.

*Lost Lake (near Whistler Village) – parking is limited.

Day Four

We did quite a bit of driving on this trip, so our last day was dedicated to touring the city on foot.

Places to Visit in Vancouver

*Granville Island Public Market was our first stop of the day. Parking is only $1 per hour but space is limited so try to arrive before lunch.

The market is a great place to get fresh produce and treat yourself to a cup of decadent ice cream at Soft Peaks. The marina is located in the heart of the city with a wonderful view of the skyline. Grab some tasty food and find a seat outside to enjoy the scenery. Most days there are live musical performances.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the boardwalk, do some shopping or embark on a sightseeing cruise.

In the food court I tried a yummy pizza slice and shared a big taco bowl with my husband.

Another great place to enjoy the skyline is Longsdale Quay. There are bars and restaurants right on the water, an indoor food market and a patio/boardwalk where you can see the entire city.

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions. It is a wonderful place to spend the day and picnic.

The park is expansive so below I've listed a few of the best ways to explore:

*Rent a bike and cycle around the Seawall on the perimeter of the park.

*Walk around the seawall and enjoy the beaches.

*If you don’t have the energy to walk or bike, get a free park map from the information booth or use Google Maps on your phone to pinpoint scenic spots around the Seawall and throughout the park you can drive to. On Goggle Maps places of interest are marked with a camera icon.

 Places to Stop in Stanley Park

*Prospect Point Lookout is one of my favourite attractions. There is a stunning view of Lionsgate Bridge (Vancouver’s version of the Golden Gate Bridge).

 *Siwash Rock

*Tea House & Ferguson Point

*Brock Point Lighthouse

*Totem Poles

Gastown

Gastown is known for its whistling Steam Clock, indie art galleries, Victorian architecture, trendy restaurants, bars and lounges. Parking in the impark lot near Steamworks Brewing Co. is $12 per hour.

If you want to shop till you drop, Robson Street is the place to do so! There are hundreds of stores and restaurants to choose form.

The Richmond Street Market opens at 7 pm – 12 am Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the summer months. Because of its growing popularity we decided stop by. Parking is available but the lot fills up quickly and there is usually a long line of people waiting to get in. Make sure to arrive early.

- Entry fee is $5 per person which includes parking.

Once inside, you will find a few rows of food vendors selling Chinese/Asian street food and cheap flea market goods. Many of the dishes are deep fried and there is a lot of seafood (which I’m not a fan of). The quality and variety of food was not impressive so I left shortly after arrival.

La Casa Gelato is a fun family owned ice cream shop located on the outskirts of town. They offer 238 different flavours of gelato and many are quite unique!

Some of the unusual flavours include: nori, garlic, smoked salmon, wasabi, durian, roasted red pepper and feta, purple yam, maple bacon and corn cheddar.

You can also get normal flavours like cherry, mint chocolate, Fererro, almond, pumpkin, apple and blueberry.

We had an amazing time in Vancouver. The city is surrounded by nature and most of the locals are friendly and polite. I look forward to visiting again soon.

You can follow my food and travel adventures on Instagram - @DiaryofaTrendaholic