Canada Dry

Yep, this is Vancouver...just got back from the Winter Games.

The place is gorgeous...filled with elegance and beauty...the setting alone is jaw-dropping. Mountains ringed with a deep, cold harbor - this is the prettiest city I've seen, outside of Paris.

With the games on the world stage, Vancouver was packed but unusually dry for this time of year. All which contributed to great strolling, ogling and eating!.

The city is so international, everything is available. No such thing as just one type of mushroom; you can get a dozen varieties at the corner grocer. A Japadog (Japanese hot dog street grub) was the hottest item with lines a mile-long.

Stayed right downtown and with the city swelling to over 8oo,ooo it was a loud but insanely polite.

To and Fro

Venturing out is what I do. Both here and there - last month I was fortunate to stay at Devil's Thumb Ranch - an elegant dude ranch outside of Granby, CO. You have to go if cross country, ice skating and snow shoeing are on your agenda.

Hecks restaurant, a gorgeous timber framed restaurant is the epitome of a handsomely rustic mountian retreat with excellent food and a vista you'll never quite believe.

On to the here and now.

Tried Frida's - latest Mexican on the horizon at 148th and Metcalf. Truly different and appealing. No cheese ... or very little, pleasing me to no end.

Cafe Trio - 45th and Main....excellent, cozy...all done up for Valentine's perfectly suited to a winter's evening. Had the Ahi tuna, roasted asparagus and split a bowl full of chicken ravioli. Loved the atmosphere and our waiter...

Amore Chocolate Pizza Company is a very sweet experience. Swig the Mayan hot chocolate.. it zings and stings but if you like this variation on the theme, you'll love this drink.