By Alicia Woodside, Modern Mix Vancouver Fitness Writer

Do you miss that epic party, also referred to as the Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games’ Cultural Olympiad?

Wether you soaked in never-ending parties at cultural houses, visited our local mountains in a new light, or let your hair go at amazing gigs around the city, we Vancouverites were sad to see our amazing global party come to a close in 2010. Encore, anyone?

Welcome, City & Slope!

In true 2010 fashion, Vancouver’s brand new signature winter festival celebrates our unique city and the winter sports, art, and music that we love. From February 10-12, expect a jam-packed weekend that brings you back to 2010, when the local mountains and party venues come alive with special events, and the streets of Yaletown light-up with the free lluminate Yaletown. Expect big name performers like Benny Benassi, local favourites like Hey Ocean, and special events at all the local mountains, including the spectacular 24 Hours of Winter at Grouse.

I had the chance to speak with Gregory Hegger, who is one of the organizers for this first-annual event. Greg set me straight with a few of my questions.

MMV: Hey Greg! We are excited to see a lot of Olympic connections here. How is this event going to be similar to the 2010 Olympics?

Greg: We want to harness that feeling that people had during the Olympics, that buzz in the air… the feeling that the city was alive! We definitely want to get that feeling back. With City & Slope, it’s that same combination of winter sports, music, and arts, that’s very inherent to Vancouver. Our company was involved in producing Heineken House, Vancouver House, and Alberta House during the Games, and so some of the City & Slope events will have the same feel. We’re tying this in to the Grouse legacy, with their 24 Hours of Winter, as well as the Cypress Olympic Legacy, where we will be taking over a lodge and giving it a Canada House feel with bands and activities, called Canadiana! We have a schedule online with all the events.

MMV: For our friends who already maxxed-out their credit cards this month, what would recommend as the top free event during City & Slope?

Greg: Definitely Illuminate Yaletown! It’s a completely free event, concentrated on Mainland Street, which we have closed down to cars from Nelson to Davie. There will be 20 different artists creating light projections, live ice-carving performances, building mapping, and as Mini Yaletown is a sponsor, we will see some creative art installations with Mini cars.

MMV: For the well-heeled types, what would recommend as the top splurge during City & Slope?

Greg: Definitely the pass to all the mountains, and the Benny Benassi concert at the Vancouver Convention Centre, which is expected to sell-out… We have some great “Stay and Slope” hotel deals and packages that combine music, skiing, and hotel deals, so a staycation would be the best way to spend an amazing weekend!

MMV: What is your vision for the future of this event?

For a complete schedule of events, we recommend you surf on over to City and Slope’s website here, and you can find out about some awesome packages here.

By Manveet Virk, Modern Mix Vancouver writer

Are you set to hang on to winter for one last blast Vancouver? Illuminate Yaletown is just around the corner with fourteen artists putting in their hearts and souls to give us awesome interactive light shows that will make the streets glow from blocks away.  Part of the popular City and Slope Event, Illuminate Yaletown is for those who want to stay within city limits and witness Yaletown making a remarkable transformation. If you still need convincing, check out the images from last year’s Flickr 2011 Illuminate Yaletown Photo Contest. All I can say is… eat your heart out LiteBright!

Vancouver TheatreSports League hosts the 24th annual St. Valentine’s Day Massacre – an international improv tournament of epic proportions. Hosting teams from as far away as Paris, this promises to be the best St. Val Massacre yet. Hold onto your seat as teams compete head-to-head! Come and experience styles of improv from across the globe.

Vancouver TheatreSports League is improv comedy – everything you see onstage is made up on the spot. It’s an interactive entertainment experience as the players ask for audience suggestions to create their scenes.  They’ll usually invite an audience member up onstage.

Tips for first-timers?

• Relax – Nobody gets picked on, or called up onstage, who doesn’t want to – there are plenty of audience members who gladly offer up suggestions, or get onstage.
• Enjoy – Vancouver TheatreSports has some of the best talent in the industry – many of their performers have been involved in improv since its rise to popularity in the 80s.  For example, Ryan Stiles and Colin Mochrie of Whose Line Is It Anyway are both alumni of TheatreSports.

St. Valentine’s Day Massacre pits world-class improv teams from across the continent and around the world against each other – resulting in some of the craziest, most hilarious improvised comedy ever seen!  Follow your favourite team as they duel their way to the final match. Joining the winners of the Vancouver competition are visiting teams from Austin,Bellingham,Chicago, Seattle, and Paris, France. Then, come and see them compete to be the last team standing in the Final Massacre!

Tickets are as affordable as $8.75 for students and $11.75 for adults.  For show times, information and ticket sales see www.vtsl.com

MMV Giveaway:  Modern Mix Vancouver is giving away two pairs of tickets to the performance of St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.  Leave a comment below telling us who you’d bring with you to the improv show and a random winner will be chosen from the comments below.  Be sure to leave your email address so we can contact you if you’re a winner.  Contests ends Saturday January 28th (11:59pm PST).  Open to BC address only (how are you going to make it to the show if you’re from out of town?).

For additional entries, you can do the following things;

• For a second entry: Follow @ModernMixVan on Twitter and tweet “I want to win a pair of @VanTheatreSport tix to St. Valentine’s Day Massacre from @ModernMixVan http://bit.ly/yvw5Qq RT to enter!”
• For a third entry: “Like” the Modern Mix Vancouver Page on Facebook and post on the wall “I want to win a pair of Vancouver TheatreSport tickets to St. Valentine’s Day Massacre from Modern Mix Vancouver”
  !”

By Manveet Virk, Modern Mix Vancouver Writer

It is officially safe to say 2012 is in full gear, and with the next long weekend a long trek away, a downtown Vancouver staycation may be the perfect remedy for a mini but sure needed break. When trying to choose a boutique hotel, if you’re anything like me, you sometimes want all the typical hotel bells and whistles but not have the 5-star rates, correct? If you want a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel experience that still includes a complete list of amenities and friendly concierge team, the Loden Hotel gives you just that, and is right smack in the middle of the best that downtown Vancouver has to offer. Plus, being in Coal Harbour, the views, atmosphere and proximity to Stanley Park gives this hotel a location advantage.

Upon entering the lobby of the Loden, there is the instant feeling of opulence with the very retro-mod inspired décor. While taking a tour with the Director of Sales, Richard Graham, he mentions that the guests of the hotel are “trendy, design centric individuals,” and I immediately see why. It’s cool yet mature and refined. From the colour-rich artwork to the floor-to-ceiling striped marble fireplace, and learning that A-list celebrities are known to frequently stay at Loden, I wouldn’t mind lounging here all afternoon long and perhaps capture a star-sighting too.

Once we make our way to view the rooms, I can’t help but think, ‘gosh, no wonder celebrities like coming here!’ The guest rooms offer a stunning first impression; soft hues with nature-inspired contrasts, oh-so-comfortable beds, über-luxurious bathrooms, technology plugins and best of all, rooms so quiet that you’ll forget you’re in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle or that there are rooms right next door.

Then it’s time to see what else a stay includes and I discover that the Loden has it all. The BeFit Studio fitness centre is complete with on-site personal training options, the spa room can be booked for solo or couple services, the business centre is small yet private to get work done if needed and the top amenity is the French bistro, Tableau Bar and Bistro located off the lobby.

Tableau, voted Best in the City by Georgia Straight in 2011, is such a nice recent addition to Loden. Richard mentioned that the menu that has been brilliantly crafted by Executive Chef Marc-André Choquette, was inspired greatly by New York and Paris culinary scenes to offer a unique option to our very high caliber Vancouver restaurants’ list. What really stood out to me was the growing popularity of brunch at Tabeau. In a city that needs more options for winding down on Saturdays and spending time with your loved ones on Sundays, we all can really use a weekend brunch tradition. Tableau is becoming the choice for locals and hotel guests, and quite simply, must really be experienced.

So my verdict? A Loden weekend staycation (especially with Valentine’s Day coming up!) and brunch at Tableau are really going to be hard to resist doing over and over again.

MMV Giveaway: Modern Mix Vancouver is giving away a $70 gift certificate for brunch at Tableau Bar & Bistro. Leave a comment below telling us your favourite brunch item on the Tableau brunch menu (click here to see the menu) and a random winner will be chosen from the comments below. Be sure to leave your email address so we can contact you if you’re a winner. Contests ends Tuesday January 31st (11:59pm PST).  

For additional entries, you can do the following things;

• For a second entry: Follow @ModernMixVan on Twitter and tweet “I want to win $70 to @TableauBistro at @LodenHotel from @ModernMixVan http://bit.ly/AERGRo RT to enter!”
• For a third entry: “Like” the Modern Mix Vancouver Page on Facebook and post on the wall “I want to win a $70 gift certificate to Tableau Bistro at Loden Hotel from Modern Mix Vancouver! http://bit.ly/AERGRo”

LASTLY, want to try out the award winning Loden Hotel for yourself? Contact Director of Sales, Richard Graham at Richard.Graham@theLoden.com and mention Modern Mix Vancouver or this article to receive a special 15% off* the Best Available Rate of the day!

*This MMV offer is valid until February 29, 2012, subject to availability, is based on double occupancy, cannot be combined with any other promotion and is not valid on February 14, 2012.

The East Van Wine Academy‘s upcoming event at The Waldorf on Tuesday January 10th at 6:30pm, takes you “Around the World in 80 Minutes” event.  Think “Wine 101″ but at breakneck speed, covering all the major countries, wine grapes, how to read labels, food pairing tips and more! Walk away knowing your Bordeaux and Burgundies from your Riojas and Chiantis with dozens of regions to spare.  Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online here.  For more information about the East Van Wine Academy and Modern Mix Vancouver’s Q&A session with event host and producer Kurtis Kolt, click here.

New rooms, new courtyard, new attitude – the works. It’s a fitting revival for one of Vancouver’s last remaining mid century hotels; an extensive 8-month construction and interior design project to reimagine, rebuild and refresh every last inch of the old hotel.  Under new ownership, The Burrard was put through a massive renovation earlier this year and continues to evolve by being far from ordinary, a unique lodging without the higher boutique hotel pricing.  Moving forward, the Burrard is poised to attract what it calls “socially active urban travelers who crave experiences outside the mainstream.” With a hip, retro L.A. vibe and a cheeky attitude, the Burrard’s hotel concept is poised to satisfy these cravings unlike anything else in the city.

Earlier this month, Modern Mix Vancouver was invited for a staycation at The Burrard.  In the brightly lit lobby, terrazzo floors, dark woods and a splash of colour gives you a hint of the overall hotel experience – a mix of retro influences with modern design touches.  The lobby design looked strangely familiar … then I found out that The Burrard’s lobby was designed by Hodgson Design Associates, a local Vancouver interior design firm who also has several branches of aritzia and Goldfish Pacific Kitchen in Yaletown under its portfolio.  Look at the photos below … the concierge desk is definitely in the style of Aritzia cashier counters, and the colour scheme and light fixture look very familiar.

Before checking into our room at The Burrard, I was given a tour by general manager Danielle Pretto.  I was pleasantly surprised that The Burrard opened up into a square garden courtyard.  In the summer, guests can sun themselves in replica 1970s Solaire chairs under an expertly landscaped canopy of mature palm trees, while a fountain gurgles quietly in the background.  To quote the Burrard website, “it’s like Melrose Place, only there’s no pool to drown in.”   Fashion Photographers: consider The Burrard courtyard for your next photo shoot location!  In the winter, you can admire the courtyard and wish it were summer.  Do the brightly coloured plastic chairs look familiar to you?  The Solair Chairs are from Vancouver Special on Main Street.

Along three levels of outdoor courtyard hallway, brightly-painted doors of yellow, turquoise and slate invite you into one of four stylish room types. Every room has been completely renovated from top to bottom, with new designer bathrooms, luxurious beds, flatscreen HDTVs and more.  Other perks include free high-speed wireless internet (ask for the password when you check-in) and free calling anywhere in North America. Recognize the chair?  It’s the “Eames” style chair from local Gastown furniture store Nood (151 Water Street).

Make sure you try the Nespresso CitiZ coffee machines. Not a coffee drinker?  You other option is The Burrard branded BC spring water provided in a 100% recycled bottle.

Bathrooms were stark white and spotless.  Hexagonal floor tiles gave the bathrooms a vintage feel.  There was a cheeky sign (branded in The Burrard font) directing you to the “swimming pool” and pointing you straight towards the bathtub.

The next morning, we made use of another amenity The Burrard provides and borrowed the Electra Cruiser bikes for a few hours.  In the cold, Vancouver weather (we had to stop by London Drugs to purchase gloves), the free-to-rent bikes were readily available.  But apparently, in the summer, they are few and far in between.  Full of self-expression and individuality, the Electra Cruiser bikes are a perfect fit for The Burrard.  The wide handle bars allowed for maximum comfort and you could choose from an assorted variety of unique bikes – some flashier that others, some with baskets, others with bright colours.  We opted for the plain silver bikes.  Undoubtedly, the Vancouver winter weather was hardly as beautiful as in the below photograph, but you get the idea.  Locks and helmets are provided.

Overall, The Burrard is a wonderful, quirky, alternative and affordable enough to stay at for a night even if you live in the Lower Mainland. Booking rates at The Burrard start at $89 during the holiday season.  For those of you living in the Lower Mainland but outside the downtown core, The Burrard would be a great place to stay at on NYE or during upcoming game nights.  The twin bed rooms were a hit during the recent Grey Cup. Still curious but not quite sold?  Come see for yourself the next time you’re in The Burrard neighbourhood and take a stroll through the lobby and experience it for yourself.

By Alicia Woodside, Modern Mix Vancouver Fitness Writer

Ever heard of a yoga rave? No, neither had we! That is, until we got wind of Lululemon Athletica’s upcoming Yoga Rave event, which sparked our imagination. To help you satisfy your curiosity, MMV fitness writer Alicia had the chance to get the scoop on this event with instructor Gloria Latham and with Lululemon Regional Community Manager Lindsay Claydon.

Event: Lululemon Yoga Rave
Date: Thursday, December 8, 2011
Time: 7:30pm
Location: 142 Water Street
Facebook Event: Yoga Rave

MMV: Who thought of this idea, and how was the event inspired?

Lindsay: Every Monday and Friday night, Gloria teaches an amazing Kundalini class at Semperviva that resembles a rave. We love the energy and overall experience of this class and wanted to share it with the community of Vancouver.

MMV: What is Lululemon’s goal with this event?

Lindsay: Our goal with this event is to share this amazing practice with the Vancouver community and bring everyone together to practice yoga in a unique environment.

MMV: So, what is a yoga rave?

Lindsay: Expect an invigorating Kundalini class, packed with your closest friends, your favourite dance music, and glow sticks.

MMV: How do you expect the yoga rave to differ from a regular yoga class, in terms of music, atmosphere, lighting, people? Do you think the yoga rave will appeal to different audiences that might not normally consider a yoga class?

Gloria: Kundalini yoga is a style not known to most. The class I teach draws from this tradition. It will feel a little different even to regular devotees of the yoga practice. This is going to be a great place to be if you want to release some built up tension, make some new friends, and have a lot of fun. In terms of music, I like to incorporate everything from mantras to Enrique Inglesias and PitBull.

MMV: Who should come?

Lindsay: Anyone who wants to move their body, free their mind and have fun!

MMV: What type of yoga experience should yoga ravers have?

Lindsay: No yoga experience is required. The event is open to all levels.

MMV: Gloria, have you taught a Yoga Rave before?

Gloria: I’ve never taught a “yoga rave” before but I’m often told that my evening classes, particularly Monday and Friday nights resemble a rave. I think it is because Kundalini yoga is such a freeing practice that people feel they can really let loose. Some good music always helps things along. The class will incorporate everything from traditional poses like down dog, to lots of dancing, sweating and singing. Come with an open mind and an open heart.

MMV: Judging by the number of Facebook confirmations, it looks like it’s going to be super busy! What is the event’s capacity, and what time should participants arrive to ensure they can take part?

Lindsay: We are anticipating a large group of people. Guests should arrive at 7:30pm to ensure a spot!

MMV: Is there any cost associated with the event?

Lindsay: The event is complimentary.

So, there you have it… An unconventional chance to combine two typically disparate, but totally fun activities, in a way you never would have expected! See you there Vancouver!

*Full Disclosure: Since this article, the author is now doing yoga raves daily working at lululemon.

The 12th annual Shiny Fuzzy Muddy takes place on December 10th & 11th at Heritage Hall (3102 Main Street).  Come by a collection of local artists selling handmade art, fine craft and fashion.  Free admission.

Sale Hours:

• Saturday December 10, 2011 | 11am – 9pm
• Sunday December 11, 2011 | 10am – 6pm

Present at the event will be: Adhesif Clothing Co., BETA5 chocolates, Caroline Miller Design, Erin Dolman, Hammypie, heyday design, Jessie Turner Designs, LAUREN ELGEE Jewellery, Loden, LUprints Homewares, MaryMary, MIKIND Handmade Ceramics, mimosa, Morena clothing, Mellon Glass Studio, Nana Fro Textile Art, sandpiper studio, These Gray Days, thistletown, Track and Field Designs.

Some of the perks of the night:

• 25% off Gap’s new holiday collection
• Get braided at Blo’s Braid Bar
• Stay energized with Frankie’s Candy Bar, Jones Soda and the sounds of DJ Ana
• Swag bag with $50 purchase, 10 bags will randomly contain a FREE pair of premium denim (valued up to $79.95)
• Win a Gap outfit (valued up to $500)