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The Best Coffee in Playa del Carmen
Kelsey Olsen
One of my favourite parts of travelling is getting to try different cafés and coffee shops in new places. It’s become an essential part of our travel routine- waking up, heading out for a morning walk, finding a local café, and ordering an iced latte. Not only is it a fun way to try a new spot, but it’s also how we’ve gone about finding the best coffee in Playa del Carmen, while exploring more of the area and stumbling across local hidden gems along the way. We’ve spent several months living in Playa del Carmen, and during that time we’ve been on the hunt for the very best coffee shops in the city. Our only stipulation? They had to …
First Timers Travel Itinerary for Vietnam: 2 and 3 Week Route
Kelsey Olsen
Vietnam will always have a special place in my heart. I’d heard amazing things about the country for years before I finally decided to go and experience it for myself, and it more than lived up to the hype. I spent months exploring Southeast Asia and loved every minute of it, but Vietnam stood out in a way that surprised me—and inspired me to create this travel itinerary for Vietnam based on my own experience. First of all, the people are some of the kindest and most genuine I’ve ever met. Whether it was a stranger going out of their way to help me or a friendly waitress chatting with me at a restaurant, I always felt welcome. Beyond the …
Winter Travel Essentials: 5 Must-Have Gear Items for Canadian Adventures
Kelsey Olsen
Canadian winters are absolutely beautiful and they are something that I think everyone needs to experience at least once in their lives. From festive Christmas markets to snowy hikes in the rockies, winter brings a whole new level of magic to the outdoors. Fluffy, sparkling snow, frozen lakes, and cozy cabins make the season unforgettable. When planning a winter adventure, being prepared is key in order to stay warm, safe, and comfortable while making the most of all the season has to offer. From layering the right clothing to bringing reliable gear for hot drinks and outdoor adventures, having the right winter travel essentials can make your experience both enjoyable and memorable. Over the years I’ve learned some of the …
Sunshine Meadows Hike Guide: Scenic Hiking to Plan Ahead For
Kelsey Olsen
Banff Sunshine Meadows is one of those hiking areas that require a bit of planning ahead, but the effort is well worth it. I had the opportunity to visit the magical alpine area at the end of the season in September, when the crowds had thinned and late summer wildflowers were still in bloom, complemented by the first hints of fall foliage. Sunshine Meadows trails are some of the best in the Rockies and I was grateful to finally experience the famous Sunshine Meadows hike. The scenery is what initially attracted me to this area, but the entire trip itself turned into a special experience, the lovely hotel, cozy accommodations, delicious meals, and wonderful hospitality all made this adventure even more …
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary – A Howling Adventure Near Calgary
Kelsey Olsen
Wolfdogs are fascinating creatures and the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary near Calgary is a nonprofit haven for them. It’s a place to see wolfdogs up close, to learn about wolfdogs and to learn about wolf behavior. This sanctuary was created to educate the public about responsible wolfdog ownership and to raise awareness about the large numbers of these animals that end up in shelters. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is less than an hour’s drive northwest of Calgary near the town of Cochrane, Alberta. Several different experiences are offered, but the most exciting part of a visit is getting to see wolfdogs up close and maybe even interact with them. You can also learn about wolves and how to contribute to the conservation …
Sunwing Airlines Review – The Good, the Bad, and Inbetween
Kelsey Olsen
Sunwing Airlines is a popular Canadian airline owned by Westjet. It offers flights from Canada and the U.S to over 45 destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, Florida, and Central America. I’ve flown with Sunwing several times, most recently on a trip out to Cancun, Mexico. Sunwing is often known for its affordable vacation packages, but what is it actually like to fly with them? In this Sunwing airline review, I’ll break down my personal experience, so you know what to expect before booking your next getaway. There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, Wander Woman Travel Magazine may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks …
Things to Do in New Brunswick: Houseboating and Indigenous Adventures on the Wolastoq
Kelsey Olsen
I’ve travelled to several of the provinces in Canada, but had never visited New Brunswick until this past June on a trip with my family. Aside from it being a coastal province, with great seafood and beaches, I really didn’t know what to expect. Funny enough, our trip barely involved the ocean at all. Instead, we experienced New Brunswick from a fresh perspective- on the Wolastoq, or Saint John River, by houseboat with Lakeway Houseboat Vacations, along with a few other Indigenous-led outdoor adventures. It turned out to be a truly memorable trip, full of family time, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. It also made me realize that New Brunswick offers plenty of unexpected, worthwhile experiences for travellers willing to …
The Crossing at Ghost River: A Stunning Alberta Retreat
Kelsey Olsen
I’ve lived in Cochrane, Alberta for about five years now and it wasn’t until very recently that I learned of The Crossing at Ghost River. Set amid 145 acres of wilderness, the cozy property is the perfect Alberta retreat. Despite being only a 20 minute drive from Cochrane and a 45 minute drive from Calgary, I felt completely disconnected from city life, in the best possible way. The remote location in combination with the optimal service and comfortable accommodations truly make this property one of Alberta’s best hidden gems. I had the opportunity to experience The Crossing at Ghost River earlier this summer as part of a small media trip, and from the moment I arrived, I understood why so …
10 Days Thailand Itinerary For First Timers: Southern Thailand
Kelsey Olsen
I’d wanted to visit Thailand for years before I finally made the trip happen in 2023 and it absolutely lived up to the hype. The pristine beaches, ornate temples, and rich culture make it the kind of destination you can visit time and time again. Months before the trip, I spent so many hours researching on where to stay and what our itinerary should be that I figured I may as well help others out with this simple 10 days Thailand itinerary. As with many big trips, figuring out your route can be overwhelming, especially when you’re short on time. If you want to see everything, I’d recommend spending at least two weeks in Thailand. But since that’s not always …
Carricitos Beach near Sayulita, Mexico: Everything You Need to Know
Kelsey Olsen
Sayulita, Mexico is a small surf town located near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I’d only ever visited the little town on a day trip during a vacation to Puerto Vallarta, but I instantly fell in love with it. The cute Mexican flags overhanging the main streets, locals and tourists driving around in golf carts, and the vibrant energy of the town made it feel like a hidden gem. Street vendors sold fresh fruit and handmade jewelry, while the scent of tacos and grilled seafood filled the air. Plus, gorgeous beaches were only a short walk away, including the secluded Playa Carricitos. It had the perfect mix of laid-back beach vibes and lively culture, making me wish I had more than just …
Articles, British Columbia, Canada, Canada Provinces, Fine Dining, Indigenous Experience, Luxury Travel, Places To Stay, Things To Do, Where To Eat
Vancouver Itinerary: 48 Hours of Luxury and Culture
Kelsey Olsen
Vancouver is a city that I’ve visited many times throughout the years and I continue to go back for its outdoorsy vibe, rich blend of cultures, amazing food, and luxurious accommodations. My most recent trip to the city was a special one, as I had the opportunity to experience Vancouver through a fantastic trip that highlighted its local culture, sustainability initiatives, and high-end hospitality. Over the course of 48 hours, my Vancouver itinerary explored some of the city’s best experiences, from an Indigenous-led tour of Stanley Park with Talaysay Tours to a rooftop beekeeping experience at the Fairmont Waterfront. I dined at Vancouver’s only Indigenous-owned restaurant and enjoyed world-class luxury. If you’re looking for a weekend of both authentic local …
Wineries in Kelowna: A Perfect Wine Lover’s Getaway
Kelsey Olsen
Kelowna is one of my favourite places to visit, which is why Garrett and I decided to spend our anniversary weekend there this past year exploring many of the renowned wineries in Kelowna. The fact that we had spent one of our first weekends away together in Kelowna five years prior made it an even more special getaway. The stunning views of the Okanagan Lake and so many picturesque vineyards make it a perfect destination for a romantic couples getaway. Plus, there are over 40 wineries to explore and sample some of the best wines you’ll find in British Columbia. If you’re a wine lover or a lover of the outdoors, consider making a visit to Kelowna. Being from Alberta, …