Trip Inspiration | London

Going out into the world can be a bit overwhelming. There are many important rules, additional expectations, and a lot more signage to pay attention to. Even though these changes seemed strange at first, they are in place to keep you safe and must be taken seriously. 

The best part about supporting local is getting to know the people behind the businesses that make it all happen. This knowledge allows you to properly appreciate everything that goes into running the restaurants, bakeries, distilleries, breweries, and experiences that you love.

To help you get to know the new gems across Ontario’s Southwest, we interviewed 5 tourism businesses that either opened, or were in the process of opening a new component, right before the pandemic hit.

Staying home, safe, and social distanced means that you aren’t traveling during the colder months. If being home at this time of the year is new to you, or even if it isn’t new, challenge yourself to be as open to new experiences as you’d be on vacation. Locals often overlook the amazing experiences within their own backyards because they aren’t in the “tourist mindset”.

It’s so important to embrace winter. Enjoying the season is such a fundamental part of being Canadian; not to mention a great way to keep the mind, body and soul in good shape.

You don’t need to stop exploring our region’s Carolinian forests just because the temperatures have

Keep up the spirit of dinner parties by hosting a virtual one this winter. Pick your video chat

The passion for crafting delicious flavours doesn’t hibernate during the winter in Ontario’s Southwest. These tasty food and drinks destinations highlighted in our Next Stop: Taste video series make it easy to warm up and stock up with local goodness during the snowy months.

Independently owned small businesses are the heart of communities. They are owned by your neighbours and not only are they investing their livelihoods into the towns and cities we call home but also sharing their passions with you. 

We’re all spending more time with remotes in our hands, making our way quickly through our video libraries and scrolling one, or many, streaming services. No matter what you're watching, you can’t have a binge session without something yummy to go along with it. Thankfully we are spoiled for options in Ontario’s Southwest. 

Entertaining this holiday season will look a lot different than in previous years. However, that doesn’t mean your evenings needs to be any less delicious. Plan a cocktail hour in your own home with your significant other and put together your own charcuterie board to go with your favourite drinks.