Story | Leslie Yip Boucher-Harris
From coast to coast, four travel experiences showcase Canada’s natural beauty—plus curated fashion, travel gear and lifestyle picks from brands that call our stunning country home.
The Great White North
Aurora-gazing at Northern Lights Resort & Spa, Whitehorse
For those seeking a truly unforgettable Canadian experience, Northern Lights Resort & Spa offers the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence in the heart of the Yukon. Located just outside Whitehorse, this all-season luxury destination invites guests to witness the magic of the aurora borealis, visible right from your private chalet or the panoramic glassfronted lodge.
Summer visits promise warm days filled with scenic hikes, wildlife sightings and midnight sun adventures, but if you want to see the aurora borealis, November to March is the best time to visit as the long, dark nights offer optimal viewing conditions. You can also try other winter activities, like dog sledding, snowmobiling and more.
Enjoy hearty northern-inspired cuisine made with local ingredients, then unwind in the wellness area, which includes a Finnish sauna, a mini gym and professional massage treatments. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, so you can stay connected—even off the beaten path.
The beautifully crafted timber-frame chalets offer both comfort and seclusion, perfect for couples or families. Getting there is easy, for there are flights to Whitehorse International Airport (YXY) available year-round, with direct connections from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton. Packages include round-trip airport transfers for a seamless travel experience.
Owned and operated by a Chinese-Canadian entrepreneur who left a finance career behind, the resort is a celebration of nature, hospitality and the Canadian spirit. Heading north to experience it? That makes you a true Canadian.
What to Wear
Canada goose Rupert Rain Jacket | $795, canadagoose.com
This 100% rain-proof jacket is made with a new flexible three-layer fabric for breathable comfort and performance. The brand rates this lightweight shell for temperatures between -5°C and 5°C.
Stanfields Unisex Logo Fleece Hoodie | $116, stanfields.com
“Strong and Free”: need we say more? From the Nova Scotian clothing company made famous by their “unshrinkable underwear” in the 1897 Klondike gold rush comes this this perfect layering piece. The licensed design is also available on T-shirts and Henley’s.
Roots Olivia Cable Toque | $34, roots.com
Roots Olivia Cable Scarf | $44, roots.com
We love the luxurious feel of these matching chunky cable-knit scarf and toque.
Salmon Arms Raber x Arms Orange Mitts | $99, salmonarms.com
A Canadian staple since 1941, these pile-lined mittens have an extremely durable leather outer and a long elastic cuff to prevent any snow or cold air from getting in.
Norda 003 Laceless Approach Light Trail Shoes | $294.95, nordarun.com
Designed in Quebec by runners for runners, these laceless trail shoes have a seamless elasticized upper that won’t stretch out over time. Custom-designed for cushioning, support, energy absorption and traction, they are the perfect choice for an adventure holiday.
What to Pack
Proclaim your love of home and native land with this set of luggage, flaunting icons and landmarks designed by renowned digital artist Fernando Volken Togni.
Heys Fernando by Heys FVT – Canada Spinners II 2 piece luggage set (21”/30”) | $979.96, ca.heys.com
Heys luggage company was established in 1986 in the suburbs of Toronto. Dubbed the world’s lightest carry-on, the brand was the official luggage provider for the Canadian Olympic teams at the Sochi and Rio de Janeiro Games.
A visit to Yukon is probably a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and you’ll want to capture every special moment on camera. Protect your gear with a hard case made in Canada by Nanuk, the same company that supplies professional film companies and emergency responders, among others.
Nanuk 920 Camera Case – Pro Photo Kit | $994.95, nanukcases.ca
The name is Inuit, meaning polar bear, which inspires this Quebec company with its strength and fearlessness.
Most of us are pretty good at applying sunscreen when we head out, but for all-day protection, especially in northern latitudes where the summer days are super long, it must be reapplied regularly.
IDC Solis+ SPF 50 Mineral Powder Sunscreen, 6g | $61.99, idcdermo.com
This No. 1 mineral powder SPF 50 sunscreen from Quebec is quick and easy to apply.
Bring the Experience Home
YHM Designs YXY Whitehorse Yukon Throw blanket (50” x 60”) | $69.99, yhmdesigns.ca
YHM Designs YXY Whitehorse Yukon 25 oz (739 ml) Travel Mug | $49.99, yhmdesigns.ca
This thermal travel mug and blanket feature airport code YXY, which belongs to Erik Nielson International Airport in Whitehorse. It is a product of YHM Designs, named after the airport code of Hamilton’s John C. Munro International Airport, home of company founder Tom Ratcliffe.
