One of the things that is really important to me is shopping local and supporting Manitoulin Island businesses. Yes, there are times my family goes off island or makes online purchases, but for the most part, we try to support local as much as we can. Many people ask me about shopping local Manitoulin. There have been quite a few new and exciting businesses that have … [Read more...]
Where to Stay on Manitoulin: Motels, Inns, B & B, Camping
One of the first things people ask when planning a trip to Manitoulin Island is, "Where to stay on Manitoulin?" When it comes to where to stay on Manitoulin, there are many options. Accommodations range in price depending on your fancy. You can go for a rustic experience and sleep in a tipi or a bunky, or go camping or bring your RV. You can rent a cottage by the water. … [Read more...]
Island Treasures ~ Made on Manitoulin Island
Manitoulin Island - A place where many island treasures can be found. One of the things I love about Manitoulin Island is that it is home to many talented artists and craftspeople. It's no surprise, since it is easy to find inspiration on this beautiful island. Each summer, visitors and locals go on the Island-wide Art Tour and stop in and admire the artwork of local … [Read more...]
Buoys Eatery – A Manitoulin Gem
Back in 2004, I left Toronto and moved to an island in the middle of Lake Huron. Never would I have guessed back then that I would make so many meaningful connections with people on all ends of the island. One of those special connections is with Buoys Eatery in Gore Bay. I'm the person who went to Singapore because I wanted real Singapore noodles and so I could say I had … [Read more...]
Where to Shop Locally this Season on #Manitoulin
I would be lying if I told you that we only shop locally, because we don't. There are times when we travel off-Island to get items that we cannot find on the Island. There are also times when we shop online and have items delivered to our home. This said, I firmly believe that people should first shop locally as much as possible, and as often possible. We're a farming … [Read more...]
Taiwanese Night at Buoys Eatery
When I moved to Manitoulin Island in 2004, aside from my friends and family, one of the only things I missed the most was the variety of different types of cuisine available. In order for me to enjoy international cuisine, I had to cook it myself. Thus the birth of "International Dinner Nights" came about. A group of friends and their families would take turns hosting … [Read more...]
Buoys Eatery #Manitoulin
Most people may not know that Manitoulin Island, though considered by many a small island, isn't exactly that small! Its area is actually 2,766 km2 (1,068 sq mi). It can take us two hours to drive from one end of the Island to the other! We live on the south end of the Island and it takes us two hours to get to most western tip! Meldrum Bay is the furthest from where we … [Read more...]
How to Sprout Seeds, Grains, and Beans
From my earliest recollections, sprouting our own bean sprouts has been something our family did. My Dad, being an expert green thumb and fan of all things innovative and science-based, always had some kind of "science project" going on. Whether it be hybridizing and creating new species of fancy Japanese goldfish to cross-pollinating flowers like orchids and daylilies, or … [Read more...]
#ManitoulinSpotlight: Manitoulin Island Art & Mutterings
Manitoulin Island is not only the largest freshwater lake island in the world, but it is also home to many talented artists. One artist whose work I admire is Jack Whyte. I became a fan of Jack Whyte's art work when I first moved to Manitoulin Island and recently learned that Whytes has started carrying Pocket Art. It's a miniature collection of some of Jack Whyte's … [Read more...]
Ice Caves on Manitoulin Island
People often ask me what there is to do on Manitoulin Island in the Winter. True, many of the businesses are closed until tourist season starts again in May, but there's always something going on! If you're an outdoor enthusiast and love keeping active with your family, you have got to check out the ice features and ice caves on Manitoulin Island. Beware, as the … [Read more...]
Local Manitoulin Gifts for the Holidays
Everyone who knows me knows how much I love to shop locally and support local businesses. We grow a lot of our food on our farm, we buy from other farmers, and when it comes to gifting, I love hitting up the Christmas Bazaars and Craft Sales for some local Manitoulin gifts. I find special, one of a kind items for loved ones when I buy from local mom and pop shops and … [Read more...]
Main Street Cafe in Kagawong #Manitoulin Island
There is a very special place on Manitoulin Island that captures the hearts of those who visit. Kagawong is a stunning jewel nestled between the cliffs of Mudge Bay. The view is spectacular and there are always adventures to be had. Whether it be walk on the trails or a dip in the water, or hanging out at the Bridal Veil Falls and then going to the Chocolate Works for a … [Read more...]
Perivale Gallery – #Manitoulin Island
There was a time in my life when I dreamed of becoming a curator of an art gallery. I studied art history in my Liberal Arts program in c.e.g.e.p. and took more courses in university as part of my electives for my B.A. program. It was just a dream, as I knew I wanted to teach English. Who would have thought that decades down the road, I would be working in social … [Read more...]
Manitoulin Mornings ~ Lifestyle Magazine #ManitoulinSpotlight
If you've ever visited Manitoulin Island, you'll quickly note how unique the Island is. Pristine beaches and lots of natural beauty capture the hearts of those who visit. There's just something so magical about the Island. If you enjoy hiking, cycling, kayaking, boating, or even if you just want a place to retreat to for some rest and relaxation, Manitoulin Island is the … [Read more...]
Where to Eat on Manitoulin Island: Comfort Food Edition #Manitoulin
Whether you're a locavore, ultimate foodie, or just hankering for some good 'ol home cookin', there's something on Manitoulin Island for everyone. What I love about living on Manitoulin Island is that I know where my food comes from. We grow our own fruits and vegetables on our farm, our beef comes from our farm, our chicken and eggs are from local farmers, my Dad catches … [Read more...]