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May18

May Cocktails and Mocktails!

Blog, British Columbia, Food and drink no responses

May Cocktails and Mocktails!

May Cocktails and Mocktails! Spring is in the air this month and we’ve put together a couple of fun cocktails and mocktails for the whole family!

Enjoy the season of freshness with some tasty drink recipes. So many people automatically think of Spring fresh drinks and flower blossoms and fresh new sprouts, when they think of May and Spring. So let’s jump into Spring and get the taste buds dancing with delight! May Cocktails and Mocktails!

Mint Julep

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 oz Bourbon
  • 1/2  oz of simple syrup
  • Fresh Mint Leaves
  • Crushed Ice
  • Garnish with a sprig of mint

Stir gently to incorporate all the flavours. Add ice as desired. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint.

Berry Basil Lemonade

Ingredients

  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberry, raspberry and blueberries
  • 3 oz of Lemonade
  • Fresh Basil leaves
  • Muddle berries and basil together, then top with lemonade.

Add all the ingredients except the lemonade and mix for 1-2 minutes. Pout lemonade over the berries and basil and stir, add ice if desired. Garnish with fresh basil. See the smiles for miles with this fun Mocktail. Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share! May Cocktails and Mocktails!

 

Save these recipes for when visiting us at Breakaway Cottages this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @Breakaway for a chance to be featured!  Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!

Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share!

Still looking to book your cottage getaway? Look at our amazing rentals and get in touch if you have any questions!

 

 

 

Describes drink recipe
Apr26

April Cocktails and Mocktails!

Blog, British Columbia, Food and drink no responses

April Cocktails and Mocktails!

April Cocktails and Mocktails! Spring is in the air this month and we’ve put together a couple of fun cocktails and mocktails for the whole family!

Enjoy the season of freshness with some tasty drink recipes. So many people automatically think of Spring fresh drinks and flower blossoms when they think of April and Spring. So let’s jump into Spring and get the taste buds dancing with delight! April Cocktails and Mocktails!

Cherry Blossom Martini

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Gin
  • 1 oz of Cherry Liqueur
  • 1/2 oz Elder Flower Liqueur
  • Splash of Vermouth
  • Garnish with a Cherry Blossom

Stir gently to incorporate all the flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish with a fresh cherry blossom.

Sparkling Peach Lemonade

Ingredients

  • 2 oz of Peach puree
  • 3 oz of Lemonade
  • Sparkling water
  • Garnish with a slice of Peach.

Add all the ingredients except the Sparkling water to a blender and mix for 1-2 minutes. Garnish peach slice. See the smiles for miles with this fun Mocktail. Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share! April Cocktails and Mocktails!

 

Save these recipes for when visiting us at Breakaway Cottages this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @Breakaway for a chance to be featured!  Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!

Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share!

Still looking to book your cottage getaway? Look at our amazing rentals and get in touch if you have any questions!

 

 

 

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Mar22

March Cocktails and Mocktails!

Blog, British Columbia, Food and drink no responses

March Cocktails and Mocktails!

March Cocktails and Mocktails! Spring is in the air this month and we’ve put together a couple of fun cocktails and mocktails for the whole family!

Enjoy the season of freshness with some tasty drink recipes. So many people automatically think of green drinks and shamrocks when they think of March and Spring. So let’s jump into Spring and get the taste buds dancing with delight! March cocktails and Mocktails.

Irish Mule

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Irish Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz of Lime Juice
  • Ginger Beer
  • Garnish with a slice of Lime

Stir gently to incorporate all the flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish will a fresh slice of lime.

Minty Shamrock Shake

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Vanilla Ice cream
  • 1 cup of Milk
  • 1/2 tsp of Peppermint Extract
  • Green food colouring(Optional)
  • Whipped cream and green sprinkles to garnish.

Add all the ingredients except the whipped cream and sprinkles to a blender and mix for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with whipping cream and green sprinkles. See the smiles for miles with  March  Cocktails and Mocktails. Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes. We will be sure to share! Here is a link to some other tasty recipes to pair with your drinks March Food Recipes

Save these recipes for when visiting us at Breakaway Cottages this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @Breakaway for a chance to be featured!  Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!

Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share!

Still looking to book your cottage getaway? Look at our amazing rentals and get in touch if you have any questions!

 

 

 

Rathtrevor Beach location Destination
Feb21

Rathtrevor Beach: A Hidden Gem on Vancouver Island  

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia no responses

Rathtrevor Beach: A Hidden Gem on Vancouver Island  

Are you feeling stressed out and in need of a break? Consider taking a trip to Rathtevor Beach!  This stunning beach is a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a range of surprising health benefits. Here are just a few reasons why spending time at Rathtevor Beach could be just what the doctor ordered: 

  1. Come Soak Up the Sun: Rathtevor Beach is known for its warm and sunny climate. This makes it the perfect place to soak up some Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, a strong immune system, and even improved mood.

  

  1. Get Moving: Whether swimming in crystal-clear waters or taking a stroll on the sand, spending time at Rathtevor Beach is a great way to get moving. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost energy levels, and even improve cognitive function.

  

  1. Breathe Easy: Are you ready for some sea air at Rathtevor Beach? The sea air is rich in negative ions, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce stress levels. Breathing in this fresh sea air can also help to clear your lungs and improve respiratory function. take a breath of fresh Sea air.

  

  1. Take time to Unwind and Relax: When you hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore has a soothing effect on the mind and body. Spending time at Rathtevor Beach can help to reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and even improve sleep quality.

  

  1. You can Boost Your Mental Health: If You like Spending time in nature it has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. The beautiful scenery, fresh sea air, and peaceful surroundings at Rathtevor Beach can all contribute to a sense of calm and well-being.

Rathtrevor Park Map

Activities

Parksville Qualicum Beach 

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Rathtevor Beach for a rejuvenating and health-boosting getaway! 

Share your favourite way that Rathtrevor Park benefits your health and come visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @breakawayvacations for a chance to be featured!

Are you still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and you can get in touch if you have any questions! We are always happy to help you book your amazing getaway! Call us today

 

 

 

To showcase a recipe.
Feb15

February Cocktail & Mocktails!

Blog, British Columbia, Food and drink no responses

February Cocktails and Mocktails!

Love is in the air this month and we’ve put together a couple of fun cocktails and mocktails for the whole family!

Enjoy the season of love with these fresh and tasty drink recipes. So many people automatically think of strawberries as the ‘fruit of Valentine’s Day’ – chocolate dipped, mixed in drinks, or just on their own. But we think raspberries are just as worthy and we can’t wait for you to try out these tantalizing recipes.

Raspberry Rose Fizz

Ingredients

  • 2 oz of Gin
  • 1 oz of Raspberry Liqueur
  • 1/2 oz of Rose Syrup
  • Champagne

Stir gently to incorporate all the flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

Love Potion Mocktail

Ingredients

  • 3 oz Cranberry Juice
  • 2 oz of Pomegranate Juice
  • 1 oz of Raspberry Puree
  • Splash of Club Soda

Stir gently to incorporate flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.

Save these recipes for when visiting us at La Casa Cottages this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @lacasacottages for a chance to be featured!  Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!

Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share!

Still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and get in touch if you have any questions!

 

 

 

Feb10

Sweet Selection: Types of Chocolates to Consider for Valentine’s Day

Blog, British Columbia, Event Planning no responses

Chocolates, with their luscious textures, rich flavours, and irresistible aromas, have been captivating our taste buds for centuries. This delectable treat, derived from the cacao bean, has evolved into an art form that transcends mere indulgence. In this blog, we embark on a delightful journey through the world of chocolates, exploring their history, diverse varieties, health benefits, and the sheer joy they bring to our lives.

A Brief History of Chocolate:
Chocolates have a fascinating history that dates back to ancient Mesoamerica, where the Mayans and Aztecs revered cacao as a divine gift. It was considered a precious commodity and used in religious rituals, as well as for currency. It was only after the arrival of cacao in Europe that it underwent transformations, becoming the sweet, creamy treat we adore today.

Chocolate Varieties:
1. Dark Chocolate: With a high cocoa content, dark chocolate offers intense, bittersweet flavors. It’s cherished for its potential health benefits, including antioxidants and potential mood-boosting properties.

2. Milk Chocolate: Creamy and sweet, milk chocolate is a beloved choice for many. It contains milk solids, giving it a smoother texture and a milder flavor.

3. White Chocolate: Though technically not chocolate (as it lacks cocoa solids), white chocolate is a sweet confection made from cocoa butter. It’s characterized by its sweet, vanilla-rich taste.

4. Ruby Chocolate: A relatively new addition to the chocolate world, ruby chocolate is naturally pink in color, with a unique berry-like flavor. It’s created from special ruby cacao beans.

5. Artisanal and Craft Chocolate: Small-batch, artisanal chocolates have gained popularity for their attention to detail and unique flavor profiles. Craft chocolatiers often source high-quality cacao beans and experiment with various ingredients to create exceptional chocolates.

Chocolate and Health:
While it’s essential to enjoy chocolates in moderation, they do offer some surprising health benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Dark chocolate, in particular, is a good source of antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress.

2. Heart Health: Some studies suggest that moderate consumption of dark chocolate may have a positive impact on heart health, including lower blood pressure and improved blood flow.

3. Mood Enhancement: Chocolate contains compounds that can stimulate the production of endorphins and serotonin, potentially contributing to improved mood.

4. Brain Function: The flavonoids in chocolate may help enhance cognitive function and memory.

The Joy of Chocolate:
Beyond its nutritional benefits, chocolate plays a significant role in our emotional well-being. It’s a universal symbol of love and affection, making it a favorite gift on occasions like Valentine’s Day. Chocolate has the magical ability to comfort, soothe, and bring smiles to faces, which is why it’s often turned to in times of celebration, solace, or simply to savor life’s little pleasures.

Dec15

Baking Up Holiday Magic: The Art of Christmas Cookies

Blog, British Columbia, Events, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays no responses

The holiday season is synonymous with many things: twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and, of course, the delightful aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies filling our homes. From classic sugar cookies to intricately decorated gingerbread houses, Christmas cookies are a cherished tradition that brings joy and warmth to this festive time of year. In this blog, we’ll dive into the sweet world of Christmas cookies, exploring the history, popular varieties, and tips for baking and decorating these delectable treats.

The Sweet History of Christmas Cookies:
The tradition of baking cookies during the holiday season has a rich history. In Medieval Europe, spices and dried fruits were expensive and reserved for special occasions, including Christmas. These ingredients found their way into cookies, creating the foundation for the modern Christmas cookie.

Popular Christmas Cookie Varieties:
1. Sugar Cookies: These classic treats are a canvas for creativity, often decorated with royal icing and festive sprinkles.

2. Gingerbread Cookies: Gingerbread cookies, including the iconic gingerbread men, offer a warm and spicy flavour that evokes the holiday spirit.

3. Peppermint Bark Cookies: Combining the flavours of chocolate and peppermint, these cookies are a refreshing delight.

4. Snickerdoodles: Cinnamon-sugar-coated snickerdoodles provide a comforting and nostalgic taste of the holidays.

5. Thumbprint Cookies: These cookies, with their indents filled with jam or chocolate, are both visually appealing and delicious.

6. Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and crumbly, shortbread cookies are a melt-in-your-mouth delight that can be shaped into festive designs.

7. Rugelach: A Jewish pastry, rugelach, is often enjoyed during Hanukkah and Christmas, featuring a flaky dough filled with nuts, raisins, and cinnamon.

Baking and Decorating Tips:
1. Plan Ahead: Start by choosing the cookie recipes you want to bake and make a shopping list. This ensures you have all the ingredients you need.

2. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality ingredients, such as real butter and fresh spices, can make a significant difference in the flavour of your cookies.

3. Chill the Dough: For cookies that hold their shape, chill the dough before rolling it out and cutting shapes.

4. Get Creative with Decorations: Use royal icing, fondant, and food colouring to create intricate designs and festive patterns on your cookies.

5. Package with Care: Share the joy of Christmas cookies by gifting them in beautifully decorated tins, boxes, or cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons.

The Joy of Christmas Cookies:
Baking and sharing Christmas cookies is not just about the delicious treats themselves; it’s about creating memories, traditions, and moments of togetherness with loved ones. Whether you’re baking with family, hosting a cookie exchange, or leaving a plate of cookies for Santa, these sweet delights bring a sense of warmth and goodwill to the holiday season.

Christmas cookies are more than just baked goods; they are the embodiment of the holiday spirit. Whether you’re indulging in the cozy process of baking or savouring the final delicious results, Christmas cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the magic of the season. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the sweet traditions of Christmas cookies fill your home with joy and love this holiday season.

Dec01

Tis the Season: Vancouver Island’s Charming Christmas Market Events

Blog, British Columbia, Events, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays, Vancouver Island no responses

The holiday season is just around the corner, and Vancouver Island is gearing up for a festive celebration. With Christmas markets, craft fairs, twinkling lights, and delicious treats, the island is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Here’s a guide to some of the magical Christmas events happening this year:

Coombs Christmas Market:
Location: To be determined
When: December 2 & 3, from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Kick off the holiday shopping season at the Coombs Christmas Market. Discover the perfect, locally crafted gifts for your loved ones. From artisan crafts to gourmet food items, this market is a treasure trove of handmade, local Christmas goodness. For more details, visit the Arrowsmith Agricultural Association.

Christmas Market & Walk of Lights at Arbutus Meadows:
Location: 1515 Island Hwy E, Nanoose Bay
Dates: December 2, 9, and 16, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm; Festival of Lights on December 23

Experience the magic of Christmas at Arbutus Meadows every Saturday in December. Explore the indoor venue with talented local vendors, enjoy live music, and savor delicious food. Outside, you’ll find a Festival of Lights Walk, Bethlehem Village, a live Nativity Scene, farm animals, hay wagon rides, bonfires, smores, a Lego Winter Village Display, and more. It’s an enchanting holiday experience.

The Holiday Market at Nanaimo North Town Centre:
Location: Nanaimo North Town Centre
Dates: December 2-3; 9-10; 16-17
Hours: Saturdays – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sunday – 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Hosted by The Mom Market Vancouver Island, this Christmas vendor market is your one-stop shop for holiday gifts and goodies. Explore a winter wonderland with free admission, grand prizes, music, Christmas cocktails/mocktails, and more. This market is for everyone, not just moms, and is perfect for finding unique and special presents.

Providence Farm Christmas Craft Fair:
Location: 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan
Date: Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Step back in time and visit the Providence Farm Christmas Craft Fair, set in the historic heritage property. Over 40 local vendors will showcase their handmade crafts, from candles and carvings to toys and clothing. Explore the three floors, take pictures with Santa, engage in kids’ crafts, enjoy live entertainment, and savor nostalgic food in the Dining Room. Best of all, this fair supports Providence Farm’s therapeutic programs for adults and seniors with various challenges.

St. Mark’s Christmas Bazaar:
Location: Church Hall – 138 Hoylake Rd. W, Qualicum Beach
Date: Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Don’t miss St. Mark Anglican’s Christmas Bazaar. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up delightful Christmas baking and preserves and discover handcrafted gifts, books, curios, treasures, and mysterious mystery bottles. Relax with a muffin and a cup of tea with friends while you’re there.

The holiday season on Vancouver Island is a time of joy, community, and cherished traditions. These Christmas events offer a chance to find unique gifts, enjoy delicious treats, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. As the island transforms into a winter wonderland, there’s no better time to embrace the festive spirit and celebrate the magic of the season.

Nov26

Whale Watching on Vancouver Island, BC: A Majestic Marine Safari

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Holidays, Luxury travel, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island no responses

Nestled off the southwestern coast of British Columbia, Vancouver Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, and one of its most breathtaking experiences is whale watching. With its diverse marine ecosystem, the island offers the chance to encounter a variety of whale species in their natural habitat. Let’s embark on a virtual marine safari to explore the magnificent whales that call the waters around Vancouver Island home.

1. Orcas (Killer Whales):
– These iconic black and white creatures are the stars of the show in these waters.
– The southern resident orcas are known for their unique family groups, each with distinct dialects.
– Witnessing orcas breach the surface or work together in hunting pods is a sight to behold.

2. Humpback Whales:
– Humpbacks are celebrated for their acrobatics, including jaw-dropping breaches.
– Their intricate songs, believed to be a form of communication, add to the wonder of encountering them.

3. Gray Whales:
– Catch a glimpse of gray whales during their annual migration, as they travel from their breeding grounds in Mexico to their Arctic feeding grounds.
– These gentle giants are recognized by their mottled, barnacle-covered skin.

4. Minke Whales:
– Minke whales are the smallest baleen whales and are often seen in the region.
– Their elusive nature adds an element of surprise to any whale-watching tour.

5. Pacific White-Sided Dolphins:
– While not a whale, these playful dolphins are frequent companions during whale-watching trips.
– Their striking black-and-white markings and acrobatic displays make for entertaining sightings.

6. Fin Whales:
– As the second-largest whale species globally, fin whales are known for their sleek appearance and streamlined bodies.
– Although they are not the most common sighting, their presence is always a thrill.

7. Blue Whales:
– The largest animal on the planet, the blue whale is a rare but awe-inspiring sight in the region.
– Their sheer size and the breathtaking blue-gray coloration of their skin leave a lasting impression.

Vancouver Island’s marine environment provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and witness the majesty of these magnificent whales. Whale-watching tours offer not only the chance to observe these creatures up close but also promote the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. As you plan your next adventure, consider embarking on a whale-watching excursion around Vancouver Island, where every glimpse of these gentle giants is a testament to the beauty of our natural world.

Nov10

Bringing the Outdoors In: Indoor Plants Perfect for Winter in British Columb

Blog, British Columbia, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island, Winter no responses

We know that Winter in British Columbia can be a challenging time for those who do not like the cold including our plant babies. With cold temperatures and limited sunlight, maintaining outdoor gardens can be a daunting task. However, the solution to keeping your green thumb active during the winter lies in embracing indoor plants. These resilient houseplants not only add a touch of nature to your living spaces but also improve indoor air quality. Here’s a selection of indoor plants that are perfect for the winter months in BC:

1. Spider Plant:
– Spider plants are hardy and adaptable, making them excellent choices for BC’s winter. They thrive in moderate light conditions, which are often the norm during the winter months.
– These plants are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them ideal for improving indoor air quality.

2. Snake Plant:
– Snake plants are virtually indestructible and can tolerate low light and infrequent watering.
– Their striking upright leaves add a unique aesthetic to your home while requiring minimal care.

3. Peace Lily:
– Peace lilies are popular for their elegant white flowers and their ability to thrive in low light.
– They can help remove common indoor air pollutants, providing a breath of fresh air during the winter.

4. ZZ Plant:
– ZZ plants are incredibly resilient and can tolerate low light, drought, and fluctuating temperatures.
– Their glossy, dark green foliage adds a touch of sophistication to any room.

5. Aloe Vera:
– Aloe vera is not only a beautiful succulent but also a practical one. Its gel is well-known for its soothing properties, which can be used to treat minor skin irritations.
– Place it in a sunny spot near a window to ensure it gets adequate light.

6. Philodendron:
– Philodendrons come in various species, and many are suitable for indoor growing during the winter.
– They are low-maintenance and can tolerate low light, although they appreciate a bit of indirect sunlight.

7. Pothos:
– Pothos is an excellent trailing plant that can thrive in low to moderate light.
– It’s also known for its air-purifying abilities, making it a great choice for indoor winter spaces.

8. Ficus:
– Ficus plants, including the weeping fig, add an elegant and classic touch to your interior decor.
– They prefer bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.

9. Ferns:
– Ferns, such as the Boston fern or maidenhair fern, are known for their delicate, feathery fronds.
– While they do require more humidity, they can thrive indoors if provided with adequate moisture.

With a little attention and the right selection of indoor plants, you can enjoy the benefits of greenery and fresh air throughout the winter in beautiful British Columbia.