Be in it to win it. Banff Centre’s 38th Midsummer Ball silent auction is now live with incredible experiences and art pieces. Silent auction proceeds go directly to the Midsummer Ball Artists’ Fund. The contributions provide artists who come to Banff Centre with the support, mentorship, time, and space they need to unleash their creative potential. The auction closes at 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 22, 2017. My favourite picks are below. The online auction is accessible to

"From novice downhill slopes to back country cross-country, and expert heli-skiing, the Canadian Rockies and surrounds suit every level of ski ability. Canada is an easy choice for ski families, with powder light snow, a long season, easy direct flights, and plenty of luxury accommodation choices." Read the full piece with our favourite places to stay, including Fairmont Banff Springs, The Post Hotel, Lake Louise, and Four Seasons Whislter. Top Flight Family (March 2017). #f

I have a new love for a place that is not known by many, Sardinia. It is an Italian island off the west coat of Italy and for many years, an old University of Florence classmate, Luca, told me stories of his beautiful and ancient home. We decided to add Sardinia to our European summer because we wanted a sea experience without the crowds at Positano, the masses in Mykonos, or the Brits in the South of France. A quick Google on Sardinia, and the bluest sea and clearest water