Mecca & Bassem
Things To Do
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies: What to do
Hike Johnston Canyon or Grassi Lakes. Pack a picnic and visit Lake Minnewanka (where we got engaged)! Visit Lake Louise: Take photos, rent a canoe, hike, or enjoy coffee at the Fairmont Chateau. Relax at the Nordic Spa (Kananaskis): hot pools, saunas, and massages (book ahead). Ride the Banff Gondola for incredible views and then head for cocktails to the Banff Springs Hotel.
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies: Where to eat
Bar Bridgette (great pizza!) Le Fournil (French bakery in Canmore) 4296 (Canmore) Fondue at the Post Hotel (Lake Louise) Ankor (fine dining) Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. Lupo (cozy Italian, Banff) Hello Sunshine (sushi, karaoke, and fun vibes, Banff)
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies: Where to stay
The Malcolm Hotel (Canmore) Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (Banff) Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (Lake Louise – request a room in the newly renovated section if possible!) Ask Mecca to email you her list of great Airbnbs in the Rockies!
If you're staying in Edmonton?
What to Do: Explore West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest in the world. Rent an e-bike or hike through the scenic Edmonton River Valley. Where to Stay: JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District (hotel block here!) Fairmont Hotel Macdonald Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel Where to Eat: Ace (Coffee) Pip (Brunch) Iconoclast (Coffee) The Colombian (Coffee) Va (Excellent lunch spot with great coffee) Flat Boy Burgers (Get the double flatty with table fries) Happy & Olive (brunch) OEB (brunch) Duchess (best bakery!) Rge Rd (high end farm to table cuisine) Sabor (Portugese, seafood) Japonais Bistro (Japanese cuisine) Bar Bricco (Italian-inspired small plates) Olia (Italian Food) Thanh Thanh Oriental Noodle House (legendary pho and spicy peanut beef satay) Baiju (energetic, cocktail bar) Bar Henry (sophisticated, chic, Italian bar) Kind Ice Cream Made by Marcus (Ice Cream, Rotating flavours)
Explore the Oakanagan Valley
If you're looking to turn the trip into a little adventure, consider a quick getaway to the breathtaking Okanagan (Kelowna and Penticton are stunning!). It's just a short 1-hour, 15-minute flight away. With its rolling vineyards, stunning lake views, and incredible dining, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. If you make the trip to Penticton, be sure to check out: Chulo – Flavorful tapas and a warm, inviting atmosphere Elma – Beautifully crafted Turkish cuisine with a lakeside view Wayne & Freda – A stylish café serving great coffee and fresh breakfast options BRODO – Cozy soups and sandwiches, perfect for a laid-back meal