My absolute favourite adventure in British Columbia was my all-day trip to Whistler, about 1.5 hours north of Vancity.  I spent the day at Whistler Blackcomb, equipped with my GoPro HERO, snowboard, and an EDGE card for full access to the resort, including the AMAZING “Peak 2 Peak” gondola.

Whistler is a MUST for anyone interested in heading to BC. While you’re there, you’ll want to grab a photo in front of the 2010 Olympic podium, which sits atop the mountain. FYI – Whistler was the site for the Nordic events five years ago, and was one of the largest celebrations in the municipality’s history. And of course, the area continues to see thousands of visitors for sporting events; a few weeks ago, it held its World Ski & Snowboard Festival.

NOTE TO TRAVELLERS: Use Epic Rides as a affordable shuttle from Vancouver to Whistler. I got a return ticket for $35 CAD, which is cheaper than many of the competitors, and I found the service to be phenomenal. Did I mention the views on the drive there were INCREDIBLE? Bring a camera, and be sure to sit on the LEFT side while en route to the resort.

If you ever have a chance to visit the capital of the United States, you should schedule it around the cherry blossom season in Washington, DC.

I haven’t been lucky enough to be there in peak season; I’m usually too early or too late. But if you’re planning on going this year, the best dates are April 11-14.

You’ll also want to check out the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which is on now until the 12th. According to festival’s official website, “The date when the Yoshino cherry blossoms reach peak bloom varies from year to year, depending on weather conditions. The mean date of blooming is April 4, but nature is not always cooperative and the National Park Service horticulturists cannot make an accurate prediction much more than 10 days prior. The blooming period starts several days before the Peak Bloom Date and can last as long as 14 days; however, frost or high temperatures combined with wind and/or rain can shorten this period. See more information about the blooming period.”

The site also suggests visiting three key areas: the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, in East Potomac Park (Hains Point), and on the Washington Monument grounds.

I stuck to the Washington Monument grounds – and a heads up, it is very busy and very hot. Unlike the frosty temperatures of Toronto right now, you’ll want to pack a light jacket, t-shirts and possibly shorts if you’re lucky!

One of the holiday events now on my yearly bucket list is the annual Toronto Christmas Market in the city’s historic Distillery District.

The Toronto Christmas Market generally runs from the end of November until the last weekend before Christmas. This is my second year visiting the “festival.” If you haven’t had a chance to see my post from last year, check it out. I stopped by during the evening — the lights always look the best in the darkness of the night.

I waited until the last day to stop by the Christmas Market, mainly because I’ve been pretty busy. Hundreds (if not thousands) of people packed the area to taste the food (i.e., sausages, baked goods and some artisan cheese), while others snapped photos with Santa, and rode the carousel and ferris wheel.

We had fun, although next year, I think I’ll stick to a quieter time to check out the market. It was overly crowded and I wasn’t able to enjoy the vendors as I originally hoped.