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The Inn Thing: 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York


A weekend getaway is always needed especially when you are a workaholic like myself from enjoying a good meal, getting a good night sleep and most importantly relaxing are key to a successful escape.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

Less than an hour drive from Kingston, Ontario to upstate New York, I found myself at the charming 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Designated a AAA Four-Diamond rated hotel after just one year in operation, I was immediately drawn in with the cozy nautical decor of the front hall. Upon check-in and a wonderful welcome from staff as well as a site tour from concierge Katherine, we settled into our spacious room. This was the start of a wonderful couple's getaway in the quaint town of Clayton, New York.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York


Look at Her

A gem of a place - 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel caters to romantic getaways, weddings, vacations and the list goes on! The staff are friendly and always happy to assist you with every need or event. From a variety of deluxe room and suite accommodations, the hotel also features quite a bit of family-friendly perks which include an indoor heated pool, an outdoor fire pit and a fabulous concierge who will help you plan the perfect family vacation itinerary.

While the hotel has several wonderful amenities, I also very much appreciated the laid back style that made me feel right at home from the moment I walked in.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

A Bed Thing

It sure is - especially when it involves a marvelous King size bed that allowed me to sleep in! We stayed on the third floor overlooking the St. Lawrence River and it was serene. Visiting in the off season was a plus as it meant it was slightly on the quieter side.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

Dinner Delight at Seaway Grille

If you love food, then the Seaway Grille is the place to go as an upscale dining experience awaits you and all our dining pleasures from breakfast, lunch and dinner.

With famished appetites, I was quite excited as my foodie partner-in-crime and I were seated. First thing to order? Wine of course! I tried the Thousand Islands Winery Riesling.

Glancing at the menu, everything caught my eye but decided to satisfy my seafood craving with hand breaded calamari served with spicy sundried tomato sauce. Though I may just have to return this summer to sample the hot crab dip - a cheesy, crab filled delight, served with Naan dippers. Seriously doesn't that sound amazing and also if you know me, you would know that nothing stands in the way of me and cheese. With that being said, as my main I ordered the wonderful duck breast accompanied with port wine cherry gastrique and wild mushroom risotto. Boy was it divine - moist and juicy! 

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

Nighty Night

With tired eyes and filled bellies from a delicious meal, we were surprised with a little treat of chocolate covered strawberries and turn-down service when we returned to our room.

But wait... being kids at heart we simply had to go take a dip in the indoor pool but also try out the jacuzzi and get a much needed back massages courtesy of the powerful jet system.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

Good Morning

After a wonderful night sleep and still in our pyjama's, we decided to stay cozy and order room service for breakfast. Of course coffee was a must and thanks to the hot beverage station located on each floor every morning, caffeine levels were certainly satisfied and refills were obtained.

As I drew the curtains open, I was welcomed with bright blue skies and a stunning view overlooking the St. Lawrence River - if you ever visit, always request for a waterfront view! You won't regret it.

With a knock at the door, breakfast was served. While my foodie partner-in-crime enjoyed eggs benny topped with Canadian bacon, house made hollandaise and home fries, I relished in strawberry stuffed French toast filled with cream cheese and strawberries drizzled with chocolate ganache served with local maple syrup. Goodness gracious was it delightful!

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

Exploring Time

After we checked out and said our farewell to the wonderful staff onsite, we decided that our journey to Clayton, New York was not just done yet.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

The trip wouldn't be complete without strolling through Frink Park, Riverside Drive and James Street for a visit to the ever so popular River Rat Cheese for some local goodness and Boat Brewery just a few blocks away for local brews.

If you like wine, then Coyote Moon Vineyards is the place to be though if you're into gin or whiskey, then Clayton Distillery is for you!

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton New York

Where: 200 Riverside Dr, Clayton, NY 13624, USA

Thank you 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel for the wonderful stay and sponsoring this post!
Rosalyn Gambhir
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A Winter Wonderland in Québec City


Québec City is a magical city and probably one of my favourites that I’ve been too - I was quite excited when I planned a trip for my mum and I to visit over the holidays. Though with that being said, as a Canadian, naturally I want to hibernate during the winter months, but sometimes you really get a reminder of just how magical winter can be, and a few days in Québec City can definitely remind you of that.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Transformed into a real Christmas village, wandering the historic district of old Québec was amazing with all the lights, decorations, and snow. It created an enchanting setting like no other.
Our two day journey allowed us to stroll through the cobblestones streets, admire the charm and of course indulge in local food.

Once we reached our destination via train, we settled into our room at Auberge Saint-Antoine - a quaint boutique hotel in the heart of Québec City. The first thing that caught my eye upon checking in were the artifacts integrated within the space throughout the hotel that were actually found during an extensive archaeological dig on the property.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

After we freshened up and made ourselves at home, mum and I settled on a dinner spot just a few minutes away at Côtes-à-Côtes Resto Grill. I enjoyed my first Québecois meal of pea and ham soup followed by a scrumptious seafood seashell and to top it of a trio of crème brûlée. The symphony of flavours in the desert was heavenly with individual servings of maple, lemon and vanilla.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Upon our return to the hotel after exploring the town, a lovely good night note was placed on our beds during turn down service where staff get your bed prepped. It was the cutest thing and so unexpected!

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

The next day was filled with adventures and I had a spot for every hour of the day planned out. No matter what time of the year you arrive, there is plenty to explore, but Québec City is one of those places that actually comes alive during the cold season.

Here's a sneak peek at the must-see places in Québec City:

Panache 

What better way to start a winter adventure than with a mighty breakfast filled with flavour! Within the Auberge Saint-Antoine lies a hidden foodie gem called Panache. I enjoyed poached eggs with spinach, duck, wild mushrooms, classic hollandaise sauce and bacon. Goodness gracious was it so darn tasty and quite filling.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Winter is quite the chilly season but that’s no excuse not to bundle up and hit the streets of Old Québec. Boasting nearly five kilometres of fortifications, Québec City is actually the only walled city in North America and has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Quartier Petit Champlain

One of the most picturesque spots in the city, this area has narrow, winding cobblestone streets and is considered the oldest commercial street in North America. Looking for souvenirs? Local stores are filled with maple syrup, cozy toques and other Québec favourites.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Looking to see the majestic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac or Dufferin Terrace but don’t feel like tackling the stairs to get back up? Hop on the funicular, which takes about 30 seconds to get to the top and only $2 per ride - seriously this saves you time and the view is breathtaking. 

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac 

Once you've reached the top, you are greeted with a warm welcome by more than just a hotel but a a Québec City icon. A tourist hot spot, we ventured inside to admire the grandness but also to relish in some wine and charcuterie at Bistro Le Sam. Simply put, Le Château Frontenac has been the true-life castle of many people's dreams.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

As you stroll along the Dufferin Terrace, be sure to stop and enjoy maple taffy - a true Québec signature item!

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

On top of our list was the gorgeous cathedral located only a short walk away. Originally built in 1647, the church main features are its neo classical facade with its two asymetrical towers, its stained glass windows, its wonderful organs, as well as the chancel golden sculptures. As you walk in, you will be left with a sense of awe.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Architecture

As you stroll around Old Québec, you realize you are surrounded by European charm and surrounding by an built in an architectural style similar to the French style. Be sure to take a moment to admire all the buildings as Québec city is one of North America's oldest cities, founded in 1608.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

La Maison Smith

Looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a warm beverage? This is the go-to place located in Place Royal - perfect for people watching!


A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

Place Royale

A gorgeous little plaza, framed by historic buildings including the towering Notre-Dame des Victories cathedral.

A Winter Wonderland in Quebec City

As evening approached, mum and I returned to our hotel and enjoyed a cozy night-in at Cafe-Bar Artefact. p.s. If you have a sweet tooth, the salted caramel ice cream combined with maple popcorn and dark chocolate sauce and cheesecake was amazing! Let's just say, our trip to Québec City was lovely and filled with lots of new magical memories!

-xoxo
Rosalyn Gambhir
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Hello 2017


If you're anything like I am, you have mixed feelings about New Year's resolutions. Rather I find pleasure in reflecting in the past year. 2016 was filled with many opportunities, new employment, gaining better perspective, continued love and happiness but let's not forget the ups and downs as well.

Hello 2017 New Years

As I look towards 2017 - I hope to find new ways to channel my imagination and creativity as I prosper in my blogging adventures but also daily life. With that being said, I'm sharing my tips on how I have grown as a blogger this year and managed not to be such a workaholic. Let's start the year with a fresh start and a new mindset:

1. Learning to Say No

As a blogger, you posses many hidden talents that slowly reveal themselves with the trade. Over the years, I have expanded my portfolio to include freelance writing, social media management and photography which now days keeps me quite busy on top of my amazing full-time job. So when approached with an exciting opportunity, it's always important to make an educated decision which will truly tell you if you are passionate about the project. Learning to say no is realizing that you are valuable and choosing your own opinion about yourself over others. With the urge to say yes, also comes a lack of self-confidence and self-value, this is a hard challenge especially when your plate is full. Remember you are an asset to your brand. Don’t be tempted by the perks because in the long run if it’s not great for your brand, your audience will know and become less engaged. Think longterm!

Hello 2017 New Years

2. Staying Positive When Facing Adversity

As a blogger, conquering challenge and failure is essential to the success of your business. You can learn to cultivate that resilience by training your brain to stay positive when times are tough. A valuable takeaway I learnt from BlogPodium this past year, was to share the love and stepping away from negativity - no competition, no agenda and pardon my language, no freakin' bullshit. Staying positive leaves us more motivated, productive, and of course likely to succeed. Remember to fuel your passion and go that extra mile - blogging can be quite demanding with struggles of burnouts and criticism. So keep your head held up high and rock what you've got!

Hello 2017 New Years
{Image by Explore YGK}

3. Strong Social Networking

It's hard to believe but it has been 5 years since I started my blog yet it was only this year that I found my tribe of supportive and like-minded women who are all individually each committed to their passions. But most importantly lift each other up. It is key to be your own person, create your own happiness and not let others bring you down. Through social networking, you can build a support system of gals who have your back. Don't hesitate to get outside your comfort zone - whether it's a conference, event or dinner to mingle with a fellow blogger or creative mind. The more you escape your little bubble, the more you're representing your brand.

Hello 2017 New Years

4. Don't Be Afraid to Take Risks

Success doesn't happen overnight - it takes persistence and tenacity to get your foot in the door. But patience is the holy grail of hustling to get your way in the blogsphere. You can't be afraid to go the extra mile and while there's lots of ugly, you also need to also find a middle ground that will allow for work life balance. Trust me - juggling a day job, freelance writing, blogging and the list goes on, I have found my happy medium that keeps me sane yet I love it all. You need to work hard to play hard - no blogger woke up one day and instantly got amazing opportunities. They worked their butts off to get to where they are today!

This year I made the proud decision to leave what I thought at the beginning was a happy 9-5 job when I realized it was hurting my life, my creative abilities and my mental well-being. What followed were great months where I dedicated my time to my blog and revived that passion within me but also realized that I turned my blog into a business with a viable income. Remember to find the silver lining in each experience to stay motivated and that each mistake is a learning experience. As time went on, the circle came back around and I accepted another job in the tourism industry and have loved every second of it! Taking risks can be scary yet in the long run can also benefit you.

Hello 2017 New Years


5. Self Care is Key

Taking care of your inner world as a blogger is crucial to not burning out. Self care comes in all shapes and sizes - whether it's taking a vacation, attending yoga sessions, spin classes or a movie night with friends. Life can be amazing and life can be challenging especially within the blogsphere. That is where self-care comes in. Taking care of myself is what I finally realized was the important next step I needed to take. It allowed me to have something left to give back to others. Taking care of oneself allows you to pull yourself back up into the world of the living.

And with self-care in your routine? Honey, you can take on the world!

Cheers to a new year!

- xoxo
Rosalyn Gambhir
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[name=Rosalyn Gambhir] [img=https://i.imgur.com/9rNiMGU.jpg] [description=Rosalyn Gambhir is the gal behind the blog The Staycationer. Whether it's exploring the local food scene with her foodie partner-in-crime or taking in the view from her favourite cafe, Rosalyn is always a tourist, looking for the next exciting adventure within Kingston, Ontario and beyond. The Staycationer allows you to rediscover hidden gems in your very own backyard.] (facebook=https://www.facebook.com/thestaycationer) (twitter=https://twitter.com/rosalyngambhir) (instagram=https://www.instagram.com/rosalyngambhir/)

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