Loulou's views

Ten years ago, we visited  Atlantis Paradise Island  in the Bahamas for the first time. Our boys were much younger, and we didn't enjoy all the resort had to offer (like the water slides) but we still had a wonderful vacation, and planned on going back when the children were older. A few weeks ago, we had the pleasure of travelling to Atlantis again with our entire family, including my sister, her children, and my parents. I was invited to this amazing resort for a media review, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity and the wonderful memories we made. From the moment we arrived to Bahamas (and were driven to the resort by limo–my boys thought this was so cool!) until the day we checked-out, we had a blast.  I don't think it's possible to visit Atlantis and have a bad time; it's a resort that truly offers something for everyone, whether you love to swim, golf, explore, shop, or relax. Bonus: the weather was perfection the entire week we were there. W...

Ever since my 13 year old was two years old, we have been vacationing at the Diplomat at least once a year—in the winter, and many summers, too. It's a beautiful resort that's so familiar to us now, it feels like our home away from home. Fresh from a $100 million dollar renovation, the Dip is now better than ever, with new rooms featuring a fun beach vibe. You can choose sunrise rooms, with oceanfront balconies and spectacular sunrises, or sunset rooms, where you can enjoy city views and a killer sunset from your balcony. Whether you're travelling with family or friends, here's why a stay at the Diplomat Beach Resort is an excellent idea: Outdoor paradise The best thing about the Diplomat Beach Resort can be found outside. As soon as you walk out the doors passed the main lobby and hotel bar, you'll be in lush, tropical surroundings, surrounded by never-ending ocean views, comfortable seating around fire pits, and an outdoor bar. The infi...

I love everything about summer—the hot weather, backyard BBQ's and pool parties, time off with my family, and, of course, going on vacation. I travel as often as I can, taking a couple of big vacations a year, with lots of weekend trips throughout the year. If I could travel every other week, I would. From airports to hotels and the journey in between, there is nothing I don't love about getting away, making new memories, relaxing in favourite hotels and just taking in the sights and sounds around me. As you plan for your summer or fall getaway, remember this: you don't need to overpack. Trust me. When you're a smart packer, bringing with you only the travel essentials you need, travelling will be easier, and less complicated. I was on Daytime Ottawa recently, talking about must-have travel essentials. Here's what you need to pack before you travel:  Carry-on luggage I usually pack a large suitcase when I travel—even for weekend getaways. I don't...

One of the great things about living in Ottawa is how easy it is to plan a weekend getaway somewhere that's close to home—like Mont Tremblant. Skiing is the best part about Tremblant in the winter, but there are countless things to do in the summer months, too: golfing, cycling, go-karting, horseback riding, rock climbing, hiking, tennis, swimming, zip-lining, gondola rides, sailing, canoeing, shopping, fine dining, and lake cruises on the water. (And if you love driving, you have to check out the Circuit Mont Tremblant , because it's considered one of the finest racing circuits in North America). Summer in Tremblant is full of amazing festivals, sporting events, and music shows. The 24th edition of the International Blues Festival of Tremblant is taking place July 8th to 16th, and this popular event is perfect for music lovers who love R&B, blues, country, and folk music. This year's lineup is great, and most shows are free and open to the public,...