A big plush bear should have a place in every child’s life. They are after all, the best friend and companion anyone could ever ask for. Much like a dog or cat are considered treasured members of the family, if a child’s big plush bear should ever become ‘lost’ or misplaced, panic will set in, in addition to great apprehension on the child’s part when it comes time for it to be washed.

In 2007, the University of Alberta conducted a new study on the Alberta grizzly bear to determine what kinds of food the animal was eating and what its activity patterns were. It was the most comprehensive research ever done in Canada on what grizzlies eat. Co-author of the study, Dr. Mark Boyce, remarked: “Alberta bears have remarkably diverse diets. They’ll eat just about anything.”

Over a period of three years, researchers analyzed the feces of 18 grizzly bears and also used GPS (global positioning system) for tracking. In a 24 hour period, they discovered that grizzlies accomplish lots of activities. While there is a great deal of knowledge about what bears living in mountain areas feed on, there is not as much known about the grizzly bear diet when they live in boreal forests that are also used by humans. In addition to looking at what the bears were eating, the study also examined five activities they used to find food regardless of whether they were eating fruit, flowers, insects, plants, or other animals.

According to Dr. Boyce, “the diverse diet of the Alberta grizzly bear helps cushion them against climate change and other vagaries of the environment.” The team of researchers discovered that grizzlies living in the foothills were very effective in killing both moose and deer. They were most adept at killing moose calves during the spring when other types of food such as berries, were not yet available. In comparison, bears living in the mountains were mostly vegetarian.

Forty different food items were identified by researchers and each was examined so as to determine patterns of use depending on the season. The food was also looked at closely so as to determine the differences – if any – between the foothill and mountain environments. During early spring, the grizzly diet consisted mostly of the root of sweet vetch plants while in late spring, they fed on hooved animals (like moose and deer); 83 percent of the time, the bears fed on moose especially newborns (54 percent). White tailed and mule deer were consumed 16 percent of the time while elk was eaten just 1 percent of the time. The grizzlies also ate insects (mostly ants), rodents and birds. In early summer, they ate a great deal of green vegetation in addition to ripe fruit such as berries in early August.

In terms of activity, bears living on eastern slopes were much more active in the morning and evening in comparison to bears living in Banff National Park where activity was mostly nocturnal and coming into contact with humans was more prevalent.

A big plush bear has no food habits to speak of although their owner may require them to attend a tea party or two on occasion. Coming in to contact with humans, is of course, the mainstay of a big plush bear so unlike the real thing, they are quite used to this activity on a daily basis.Copyright Shelley Vassall, 2010. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/big-plush-bear-and-the-grizzly-bear-diet-3588004.html

One of the best ski resorts in Canada has to be Banff in the Rocky Mountains and state of Alberta. There are a number of reasons for this and it is not all about the skiing, although that is obviously a very important factor. For Banff the quality of the skiing is beyond question but you can also enjoy great apres ski, a place with natural beauty and a little bit of history.

Banff the town resides in Banff national park which is a world heritage site and a beautiful part of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. In the town you can explore the history of the native American Indians, eat and drink in the famous Banff Springs Hotel and have access to a loads of different types of accommodation, restaurants and bars all within an hour and half of the international airport and city of Calgary, once home to the winter Olympics. Needless to say your comfort and apres ski experience will be well catered for.

Now down to the important business of skiing, one of the biggest benefits of being based in Banff is that you can take out a tri-area ski pass and make the most of three separate ski resorts, each one superb in it’s own right.

    * Lake Louise
    * Sunshine Mountain
    * Mount Norquay

The quietest of the three, closest to Banff and my personal favorite is Mount Norquay, it is probably a little smaller than the other two but provides some really good slopes for all levels of skier, great lifts and hardly any queues, not that you would be queuing for long at either of the other 2 resorts either as they also have the sort of fantastic lift systems that you normally associate with North America plus skiing for all levels including beginners, intermediates and advanced.

To access the resorts from Banff does mean catching a bus, but as you are picked up for the most part right outside your hotel and most of the hotels will normally store your ski equipment for you, then this really isn’t a problem. The time on the bus passes pretty quickly and you are on the slopes before you know it with hardly any energy expended.

When we visited the temperatures were a very chilly -40C with wind chill, this was pretty extreme however as we were unlucky enough to arrive in the coldest week of the Canadian winter that year. But it is worth bearing in mind and making sure you have got kit with you to suit those sorts of temperatures, basically you have to cover up all of your skin as any skin that is exposed to the environment is likely to end up seeing frost bite as a result of the extreme temperature. This isn’t as bad as it sounds, a simple scarf pulled up to a pair of goggles and a woolen hat or similar pulled down to the top of your goggles will normally do the trick. Also worth noting that the cold is generally very dry and as such does not feel as biting as the damper climate in Europe where it can feel much colder at temperatures not even close to the ones described.

With winter nearly over, it may be just the right time to consider a ski vacation for some exciting down hill fun. You can great flight deals on flights to many ski destinations. Below are a few of the top picks for après ski destinations:

Whistler: The Wildflower Restaurant at the Fairmont Chateau provides some of the best meals such as cedar planked salmon with a maple glaze. The maple glaze is prepared months before the chef uses it and it is processed through 200 liter oak barrels, maple syrup, whiskey, and stirred 4 times per day.

Aspen: In Aspen, you will not only have a great time on the slopes, but you will also enjoy delicious cuisine at the Sky Hotel 39 Degrees Bar. They also have a relaxing hot tub where you can enjoy martinis.

Telluride: Telluride has a pleasant neighborhood feel with its fantastic slopes, delicious restaurants, and stylish bars. Victorian buildings have been transformed into bistros, shops, and bars. Stars like Tom Cruise and Oprah Winfrey have been seen around the beautiful San Juan mountain area. Also, check out the New Sheridan Bar.

St. Anton: The skiing is fantastic in St. Anton. Other fun activities include visiting bars such as Senn Hutte where a German show gets guests to dance on tables and Krazy Kanguruh which is famous for its parties. There are also many karaoke bars and discos.

Jackson Hole: The Jackson Hole has been frequented by such stars as Harrison Ford and Uma Thurman. The Wyoming landscape is a beautiful sight to take in. Make sure that you dine at Four Seasons and have a drink at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar or Mangy Moose. St. Mortiz: St. Mortiz is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. The area shares trails with Pontresina, Celerina, and Silvaplana, where travelers diversity of slopes, exciting social scenes, and fun lounges and social scenes. The lobster, ski fondue, terraces, and sun decks, definitely make its après ski atmosphere exciting.

Chamonix: Stars seen at this exciting alpine resort include Kylie Monogue and Elin Nordegren. Mont Blanc is a popular place, including Le Privilege, which is a continuous party spot.

Vail: Many celebrities have come to Vail such as Kelsey Grammar, Cameron Diaz, and Clint Eastwood. The Red Lion is known as a venue for nightly live music. As well, Garfinkle’s in Lionshead also has live music as well as a big outside deck that overlooks the beautiful terrain.

Banff: The landscape in Banff is amazing with its crystal blue lake. Make sure you check out Banff’s upper hot springs, which usually remains at about 100 degrees F. As well, enjoy fine dining at the Maple Leaf or more traditional dining such as at the Grizzly House or the Saltlick.

Although winter may seem to be almost over, it does not have to be when you travel to one of the après ski destinations. The skiing at these destinations is amazing and they also have great restaurants, luxury accommodations, and exciting activities. As well, you may just see a few celebrities walking around, in a trendy shop, or on the great slopes. If you are going to splurge on one of these destinations before the winter is over, you might as well save money on your flight by using an online discount travel site.

If you have not had that opportunity to take some time to yourself, then perhaps a trip to the Great White North would do you some good for what’s considered one of the best ski resorts in North America.

Fly through fresh powder on more run options than you can get to, while taking in a magnificent view, and you’ll soon find there is no place like it. Come back to one of the scene setting hotels in Whistler and warm up by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate and family. The restaurants, shops, bars and hotels Whistler has to offer make the social life after hours an exciting scene. After a long day on the hill people gather together, relax and have a good time; such is the mountain life.

Even if you have a low budget this season, there is plenty of cheap hotels still centrally located. Whistler is a great spot for the holidays for all to come and enjoy themselves. If you are not a fan of the cold you can make your way up in the summer for all kinds of events and activities. This year-round city is a must go destination.

Plan your trip accordingly if you feel the urge to watch the 2010 Olympics this year up close and personal. Be at the finish line as this years winner flies down the ice at top speeds on the luge. Or take the opportunity to see your favorite skiers and snowboarders perform. The excitement this year is going to be packed full of all kinds of people joined together for an ancient tradition, this year you can be a part of it instead of watching from your TV.

If you need another option head over to Banff this season for mountains of skiing and warm up in the Banff National Hot Springs. Nothing replenishes the body like soaking in hot, fresh spring water. Walk directly from the bottom of the hill to your peaceful cabin or hotel;Banff is full of accommodating options for whatever your idea of vacation is. Take a day to snowmobile around the area and spend the night exploring the many shops, and dining options. Stay at an exquisite hotel in Banff conveniently located and take a horse carriage ride exploring the city. The breathtaking view and luxurious hotels Banff is known for are certainly something you do not want to miss. There is constantly new events and festivals going on in this area for your enjoyment all year. More people everyday are drawn into the magnetic pull of the Rockies, and some do not even come back. This lifestyle is one that definitely needs to be experienced, so book your ticket today!

After catching a lovely and much needed rest at the historic Twin Gables Bed and Breakfast we set off to explore the immediate neighbourhood, the restaurant area on 4th Street. We were going to walk, but considering I had been really sick with an aweful chest cold in the last few days, venturing out into the cold evening air had me a little leery. Henry from the Twin Gables was really kind to offer us a drive a few blocks up to a restaurant called Il Giardino, one of the places that had come highly recommended for this area from Tourism Calgary.

We entered a Mediterranean-looking restaurant that was just packed with people. We sat down at a cozy table and had a chance to spend some time with the owner, Mike Ciccaglione, and his restaurant manager Dorothy, to find out more about this establishment. Wherever I go I try to get the human stories, and boy, was I in for an interesting one here. I did not realize that I had connected with one of Calgary’s most successful entrepreneurs, a real immigrant success story.

Mike was born in the Italian region of Molise and left Italy when he was 16 years old to study business administration and restaurant and hotel management in Switzerland. He came to Canada in 1962 following which he worked in a variety of hotels and restaurants in Calgary and Banff. He also studied English as a second language. In 1967 he opened his first restaurant called the Prairie Dog Inn which initially specialized in Mexican food.

As if that wasn’t enough, Mike went on to open the Mexican Village chain of fast food restaurants in several shopping malls and in 1980 he opened the “Pied Pickle” chain.

Logically he decided to expand his business to encompass the supply and distribution of tortillas and other Mexican foods: El Molino food manufacturing was born. This company manufacturers Mexican food products as well as pizzas and Italian pasta dishes and distributes its products to warehouses in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal.

In 1998 Mike opened “Il Giardino” (the ultimate in Italian food and fun), a restaurant where all the dishes were home-cooked had always been his big dream.

When we walked into this restaurant I had no idea that we we would meet such a successful Canadian entrepreneur. At the same time, you’d never know it – Mike walks around in casual clothing, laughs and smiles a lot and always keeps his eyes open to check on his guests’ enjoyment. During our conversation he got up several times to greet or say goodbye to guests and Dorothy referred to him as a “big flirt”. It is plainly obvious that even at 65 years of age, Mike loves what he is doing and Dorothy told us that he does the rounds throughout his various Calgary businesses on a daily basis. Mike is one of those people who loves his work and always has a twinkle in his eyes.

Dorothy has an interesting story herself: she is originally from Montreal and her husband, an engineer in the oil industry, hails from England. Before Calgary they have lived in Montreal, St. John’s / Newfoundland, as well as Jakarta where they ended up as refugees in Singapore for a month during President Suharto’s coup. Now they settled into a calmer life in Calgary.

Mike attributes his success to a strong commitment to quality ingredients and preparation, and he credits great support from his wife Lucy, his daughter Judy and his son Michael Jr. for much of his fortune and he hopes that one day his children will take over. He also recognizes the importance of his employees as a critical success factor. He told us that he feels it’s very important to reward his employees and many of the staff at the Il Giardino Restaurant have been there 10 and more years. A young couple, the evening manager and the hostess, have 15 years of service (5 years at Il Giardino and 10 years at the Pied Pickel) between them and Dorothy confirmed that people really enjoy the work here. Mike says “You’re nobody until people make you somebody”, that’s why treats his employees well and appreciates his winning team.

The construction of Il Giardino is a story in itself: Mike designed the restaurant and one of his long-time friends, Walter Petrin, did all the brickwork while his other great friend Vic Finot was the general contractor. Every Friday he and these two special friends get together to solve the problems of the world. Strangely enough, the next day the problems start all over again.

Outside of work Mike loves to spend time with friends, some of whom he has known for 40 years now. His family is very supportive of him and his wife dedicates a lot of her time to charitable work. Mike also supports the United Way and various fundraising drives for breast cancer and the Calgary Children’s Hospital.

He still goes back to Italy every once in a while although he says he’s seen almost everything in his home country. So now he is thinking of traveling to places like Asia, Africa and Latin America as long as it is safe and reasonably clean. Mike loves soccer and he even used to own a local soccer team that was called the El Molinos Dinos. Another one of Mike’s big passions is his Ferrari and he said that every once in a while he puts it on sale just to see the interest on the part of potential purchasers. But when it comes down to it he really has no intention of selling it.

But that’s not all: Mike is a movie star as well! He has had roles in “Honey, I Shrunk The Kids” as well as in “Cool Runnings”. It seems Mike is always up to something, and when you listen to his list of endeavours it seems incredible that one person can get all this done.

Mike embodies hospitality and while we were there he insisted that we get a real taste of what his kitchen is capable of. For starters we got to sample Il Giardino’s soups: I tasted a Stracchiatelle egg drop soup while my husband got the “Brodo con Polpettine e Pasta” (chicken broth with tiny meatballs and pasta). Then I got to sample a taste of Il Giardino’s famous Calamari (extremely tasty and tender) while Nigel had their Bruschetta bread. We also received a sampler plate of appetizers – Antipasto Italiano (prosciutto with melon).

That wasn’t all: we also got a taste of Il Giardino’s home-made Gnocchi della Nonna which, by the way, are home-made by Mike’s 70 year old sister. Then, we couldn’t believe it, the main course arrived: a sampler plate of three of Il Giardino’s specialties: Pollo ai Funghi (chicken breast in a white wine sauce topped with mushrooms), Piccata al Limone (veal in lemon and white wine sauce), and Agnello al Rosmarino (rack of lamb in a rosemary, mint and red wine sauce). I am not usually a huge meat eater, but these dishes were phenomenal, the meat was tender, the sauces very tasty without being overpowering. Mike topped a fabulous meal off with a tasting of the most famous Italian desert: tira misu.

Without exaggeration, our culinary experience at Il Giardino ranks right up there as one of my best restaurant experiences of a life-time, the food was that delicious. I love Italian food, and the folks at Il Giardino certainly know how to prepare Italian delicacies. We had to take a doggy bag back to our bed and breakfast, there was no way we could actually eat all this delicious food. There is no doubt that Il Giardino serves great, freshly made food. And even more so, it was a pleasure to meet the creator behind this welcoming neighbourhood institution.

If ever there was a place on earth where you could swing your clubs in the stunning backdrop of nature, it has to be at Banff in the Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. Known for its picture perfect beauty with its snow capped peaks, hot springs, greenery, crystal clear lakes and unending blue skies, a Banff summer golf vacation will be the memory of your lifetime.

North America’s most popular tourist destination, Banff has a plethora of activities that will make you one with nature. Biking, hiking, canoeing, skiing, kayaking, camping, fishing and of course golfing for all you golf addicts. The most spectacular championship course is the Banff Springs course. At the foot of Mount Rundle and along the picturesque Bow River this course has incorporated its natural surroundings into that of the play area flawlessly. Designed by Canadian golf architect Stanley Thompson this was originally an 18 holes course. 9 more holes were added to it in the year 1989 making it a 27 holes challenging course. Amateurs and professionals alike will be astounded by its design and panoramic beauty. Natural beauty presents interesting optical illusions while you tee off and makes your game enjoyable. You also get to use clubhouse facilities, the pro shop, rental equipment, shoes and also use the practice area to brush up on your strokes.

The Stewart Creek in Canmore, Alberta is another scenic 18 hole course. Golf Digest has rated this course as Canada’s second best in its 19th annual ranking of courses. The course design and the views are enough to get you high playing golf. The Silver Tip course is a course which has its execution to perfection. The valleys and mountains are a part of this course and give you the most challenging game of your life.

It is in Banff where golf gets new dimensions, and new challenges which makes the game a rare package of high adventure and classic serenity; a truly rewarding experience. When you are in Banff, your vacation will be incomplete without sampling its shopping highs, exploring the town of Banff or skiing and mountain biking at the 3 ski resorts of Mount Louise, Sunshine Village and Ski Norquay, which are in close proximity.

If you want to unwind after all the adventures of Banff then head to the Banff hot springs. The spas and fine dining experiences will make your day worthwhile. Heading to Banff during the summers mean warm temperatures of 70-72 F and daylight hours of up to 11 pm during the summer solstice. However more time in the sun means you can suffer from over exposure to the sun so it is wise to carry ample sunscreen, sun hats and sunglasses.

So what are you waiting for?? Make Banff your next golf vacation destination.  Get your vacation booked through a golf vacation planner so that you are not left to the tortures of an unplanned holiday. The best deals with nature are only at the recognized World Heritage Site – Banff. Make the most of it.

Canada is the second largest country in the world that shares the land borders of northwest and south United States. The average winter months here made it popular to many tourists to do winter activities. A number of winter getaways in Canada assures the best time of hitting the slopes as well as relaxing at the popular resorts. Among the winter getaway spots to entice many tourists are:

Mont Tremblant Ski Resort

Mont Tremblant is the highest peak in Laurentians located mainly in Quebec. Mont Tremblant Ski Resort lies on this mountain wherein an excellent ski condition is popularly known. The mountain has 94 runs that overlook the countryside and is just 1 ½ hour drive from Montreal. It offers a wide range of winter activities such as sleigh rides, ice climbing, downhill skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowboarding, horseback riding, cross country skiing and helicopter tours.

Snowboard enthusiasts will enjoy the 620 acres of skiable terrain, 18 acres of ramps, jumps and rails with Olympic calibre superpipe. Also, the Adrenaline Park at South Side showcases different ski styles and dimensions. Ski valet are located right of the Gondola wherein visitors can store their equipments. Those who want to go hiking can access the 94 trails with 17 novice runs and 31 intermediate trails. The resort offers an instant natural snow with their snowmaking system of 1037 snow guns. There are also lift system that handles 27,230 skiers per hour.

Mont Tremblant Ski Resort provides lunch spots like the Crêpes Bretonnes bar, la Fourchette du Diable on the northern part and le Chalet des Voyageurs on the south.

Tourists can take advantage of the indoor activities. There are indoor pools, shops, restaurants, spas and a daycare center called Kidz Club. Lodging is never a problem. Mount Remblant has over 30 overnight stay accommodations.

Willow Stream Spa

Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs is a relaxing getaway rated as one of the top spas by Conde Nast Traveler. Fairmont Spa accepts adults only for a special treatment on their spas with the help of message therapists and aestheticians.

Guests can stay at the mineral pools, Aromatherapy steam room and guest rooms that overviews the scenic valleys and mountains surrounding the place. Willow Stream’s sacred waters gives a healing power as well as the mountain’s energy help balances body rhythms to awake your senses. Spa facilities include a Deluxe Couples suite, Men’s and Ladies Spa locker areas, Lounges, Men’s and Ladies whirlpools, Eucalyptus inhalation rooms, saunas, Spa terraces and food service lounge.

A splash of heated water can be enjoyed at the Aquatic Center. This includes a 20-meters outdoor pool, indoor hot tub, 32-metre lap pool and a children’s wading pool.

Willow Stream fitness center are equipped with Machine and Free weights, Stationary bikes, Treadmills, Yoga mats, blocks and straps. Visitors are handled by Trainers for personal training and fitness assessments.

Horseshoe Resort

Horseshoe Resort in Horshoe Valley Ontario offers a world-class spa and recreational spot. It is situated on 1600 acres of land just one hour north of Toronto. Visitors can do snowmobiling, hiking and snowshoeing. The resort also offers great ski hills, trails and golf courses all year round.

Guests who want full relaxation can have a service of the resort’s salon, spa and sauna. Games room, gift shops and live entertainment are also available for a day of pleasurable fun.

Horseshoe Resort provides restaurant and dining areas like the Silks fine dining, Fireside Café and the Crazy Horse Saloon. Choose from the available lodging areas nearby that include a horseshoe room, parlour suite and loft suite.

The extraordinary activities of these resorts give an outstanding pleasure to most of winter day lovers and sports enthusiasts. Tourists can transform their weekend winter getaway into a pampering heaven with the popular winter spots in Canada.