Kiss and tell; Oxford Renaissance Festival and Wasaga under Siege

   One-Tank Trip for April 19/14

   (c) By Jim Fox

   Pucker up!

   A survey has determined Canada’s top five romantic spots to share a kiss.

   “Most of us have got a passionate kiss or two seared in our memories,” said Stephen Murdoch, publicist for Vitamingum Canada Inc.

   The maker of the multivitamin-infused chewing gum came up with the list of top spots to smooch.

Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, with its famous lighthouse on the rocks, is one of Canada’s top romantic spots. (Jim Fox photo)

   “Canada is such a naturally beautiful country and it has a great mix of amazing cities and picturesque towns, all of which provide great backdrops to share a romantic moment,” said Brendan Kover, company president.

   Kiss and tell

   Here’s the list of the top five, in no particular order, with some suggested locations:

Niagara Falls, the Honeymoon Capital, made the list of Canada’s top romantic spots to kiss. (Barbara Fox photo)

   - Niagara Falls: They don’t call it the Honeymoon Capital of the World for nothing.

   The stunning scenery of one of the most famous waterfalls has been drawing newlyweds and lovebirds for more than 200 years, the survey said.

   Visitors can stroll along the same viewing area at Table Rock where Marilyn Monroe filmed parts of Niagara in 1953 and enjoy a kiss with their partner at the brink of the falls.

   - Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia: Just short drive outside Halifax, this seaside spot and its famous lighthouse draw thousands of visitors a year.

   They’re looking for a close-up view of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged beauty of the coastline. It also makes a great make-out spot for couples, especially at sunset.

The history and charm of Old Quebec City make it one of the country’s most romantic spots. (Jim Fox photo)

    - Old Quebec City: One of the oldest European settlements in North America, the ancient city is steeped in fascinating history and charm.

   Strolling through the old city’s narrow lanes and cobblestone streets between beautiful stone buildings is as close as you can get to feeling like you’re in Europe without actually leaving the continent.

   “Fabulous restaurants, cafes and entertainment – all a stone’s throw from the beautiful St. Lawrence River – help set the mood for romance,” the survey says.

   - Lake Louise, Alberta: Set in the remarkable Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise has a well-earned reputation as one of the country’s most stunning locales.

   The lake’s vibrant blue water has graced countless postcards and the towering mountains that surround it are popular with skiers and snowboarders from around the world.

   As with Niagara Falls, Lake Louise is also popular with newlyweds who want to lose themselves in the breathtaking scenery.

   - Stanley Park, Vancouver: Even though located in one of the country’s busiest cities, Stanley Park is truly a place get away from it all and enjoy the majestic west coast.

   “In addition to its famous seawall, the park features 400 acres of rainforest, pristine beaches, amazing views of the ocean and plenty of interesting cultural and heritage landmarks to explore.”

   It’s also an ideal spot for a romantic weekend picnic with the love of your life.

   For more information: chewvitamingum.ca

   Mark your calendars

   Jousting on horseback is a popular event at the Oxford Renaissance Festival returning to Woodstock.

   - Oxford Renaissance Festival: Returning to Woodstock for its second year, visitors can “feel the rush of live jousting.”

   There will be “hand-to-hand combat and watching the legends of knights and maidens brought to life through medieval comedy, fire-eating performances, magic shows, jousting on horseback, Celtic music and ale,” says event organizer Greg Schuurman.

   It happens from June 13 to 15 at the Woodstock Fairgrounds (875 Nellis St.).

   Featured are Zoltan the Adequate, with a “geek-style” approach to magic; the  Knights of Valour displaying horsemanship, bravery and chivalry; and the  Splatter Time Mud Show with twins James and Lickity. oxfordrenfest.ca

   - Wasaga under Siege: The 12th annual event takes place from Aug. 14 to 17 at Nancy Island Historic Site in Wasaga Beach.

   It will remember the Battle of Nottawasaga Bay and the sinking and destruction of HMS Nancy, said publicist David Brunelle.

   “Nancy Island will come to life once again with the roar of cannon and musket fire as we commemorate the 200th anniversary of the only War of 1812 battle to take place in the southern Georgian Bay region,” he added.

   There will be more than 500 re-enactors taking part in “echoing history through the streets and waters of the Town of Wasaga Beach, Wasaga Beach Provincial Park and Nancy Island Historic Site.” wasagaundersiege1812.com

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Jim Fox can be reached at onetanktrips@hotmail.com

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