Dave makichuk portfolio

Section F
MARITIMES
BY MOTORCOACH iNside BEACH RETREATS
Romance blossoms amid
CAVES, PLANES & BOATS
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L at e s t n e w s at c a lg a r y h e r a l d . c o m / t r av e l
Editor: Lisa Monforton 403-235-7428 lmonforton@calgaryherald.com saturday, apriL 2, 2011

Travel
NoTes i love Cuba. Goddamn, they play baseball for all the
right reasons: ’Cause they like it. They don’t play it
because they can make some more money and sell some
World more satellite dishes. They play it for all the right reasons.
of wonders Bill (Spaceman) lee

FINALISTS • Jeju, the largest
island off the south coast of
Korea’s mainland, is in the
running to become one of the
new 7 wonders of nature.
Jeju is the only location
worldwide to gain three
UnesCO world heritage
certifications: the Biosphere
Reserve in 2002, UnesCO
world Heritage site in 2007
and Global Geoparks in 2010.
the island’s central feature
is Halla mountain, a dormant
volcano, which rises 1,950
metres above sea level.
Jeju is one of 28 new 7
wonders of nature finalists.
You can see the entire list —
which includes Canada’s Bay
of Fundy — with images and
videos and enter your seven
votes at www.n7w.com.

Original image courtesy Dave Makichuk
the industriales lions host a cuban Baseball league
game at estadio latinoamericano, in havana.
Ladies only tour
to India
culture • If your idea of
a good time is travelling
with women only, China-
pac International has just
the vacation for you: a new
19-Day Ladies Only India
tour departing next Feb. 6.
while the itinerary includes
visits to famous sites like the
taj Mahal, it also promises a
glimpse into India’s cultural,
historical and architectural
diversity. You’ll visit 11 Indian
towns and have such experi-
ences as elephant and camel
rides, along with sari tying,
cooking demonstrations
and learning how textile is
woven.
the land package com-
mences in Delhi and is
priced from $4,099. Chi- Passion and sheer joy made one The crowd erupts — it’s
complete and utter pande-
fierceness of competition
and the undying loyalty of
napac International (www.
chinapac.com) can also visitor ‘fanatico’ for the game monium in the stands as the
runners round the bases. A
the fans, not to mention the
unparalleled experience it
arrange your airfares. dave makichuk swaying cheerleaders as deft pickup in the outfield is offers visitors to Cuba.
Three new calgary herald
HaVana
the Lions’ big hitter, Alex
Malleta, slowly strolls up to
followed by a precise throw
to second, which is relayed
Unlike the majority of
Canadians who fly south
guidebooks home plate. home . . . safe! in winter — most of whom

i t’s a typically warm The visiting Ciego de Instantly, I’m surrounded head straight to the nearest
ON THE SHELF • Let’s and sunny afternoon in Avila Tigers are in deep by a sea of joyous, bouncing beach, all-inclusive buffet
Go europe 2011 (Let’s Go, Havana and a gorgeous, trouble; it’s early innings conga-driven “fanaticos” as or bottomless pina colada
$21.95, 1,220 pages) — blue cloudless sky serves as and Los Azules (the Blue the entire Lions squad leaps — I came to experience a
the student-travel bible an appropriate backdrop at Ones), so named for their from the dugout to form week of “beisbol.”
has spruced itself up with the nearly packed Estadio Blue Jay-like blue and white a line of high-fives for the To say that Cuban base-
a more-readable design, Latinoamericano, home uniforms, have put two run- scoring runner. ball has left me — a tried
rewritten every listing and to the famed Industriales ners on base with only one Welcome to baseball and true MLB Detroit Ti-
added photos. entries have Lions. out. The Lions are about to Cubano-style! gers fan since 1967 — com-
youthful attitude and direct The 55,000-seat stadium close in for the kill, and the One only has to watch pletely and utterly spoiled
the backpacking crowd to is visibly rocking to the crowd senses it. one game in the Cuban for all time, is an under-
cheap, filling food, nightlife hypnotic, pulsating rhythms It’s a gutsy throw — a fast- National League to gain statement.
and affordable rooms. of a tireless group of conga ball right down the middle. an appreciation for the re-
■ Guided by a stone-Mason: drummers and young, salsa- Crack! A line drive to right. markable calibre of play, the See BEISBOL, Page F2
exploring the Cathedrals,
abbeys and Churches of
Britain by thomas Maude
(tauris Parke, $17, 176
pages) — How in the world
did workmen using simple
tools create the wondrous
Concierge dishes on how to get your wish
sanctuaries of the U.K.? this roSS Werland gating this rusty old world in ■ Hotels track your com- good service from some-
paperback will tell you. mcclatchy newspapers more princely fashion: plaints. If you are a nice body who’s afraid of you.”
■ all aboard: the Complete ■ No reservation at the guest, that will go on your ■ When trolling for celebri-
north american train travel In the fun book Concierge restaurant? No problem. record. You may be re- ties at restaurants, sit up
Guide by Jim Loomis (http:// Confidential, superstar Check in with the host, be warded even at other hotels. front, not in the back. In
takeatrainride.blogspot. Manhattan concierge Mi- engaging and acknowledge And if you’re a jerk, you may front, you’ll see the “whole
com) — not only will the chael Fazio explains how to that you’re an idiot. Say, be rewarded for that too. parade.”
third edition of this useful pry what you want out of the “Look, I know I’m a loser. I ■ If you have a reason to ■ In selecting a service
guide (Chicago Review Press, service world. He provides didn’t make a reservation. send food back, be very gra- person, do you want to see
$18.95, 354 pages) help you some intriguing insight into I’m in your hands.” Fazio cious no matter how you a cute face or get help? “I
plan a trip, but it also will tell the inner human brat that swears by it. feel. You might be surprised always look for the oldest,
you such fascinating tidbits service people often face. ■ Waiters have more clout at how well you’ll be treated. least glamorous person.” concierge confidential is
as why a train that’s late can For that, you’ll have to buy than you know and can re- ■ “Don’t make plans when Above all, treat service filled with great tips on
still be considered on time. the book. But here are a ward good customers. Tip you’re drunk. Trust me.” people as if you’re on their how to get your every wish
— Calgary Herald handful of his tips for navi- no less than 20 per cent. ■ “You’re not going to get team, and they will deliver. when you’re travelling.

F2 Saturday, April 2, 2011 travel Breaking news at calgaryherald.com

BEISBOL: Nothing quite like a Orlando makes
it easier to
plan your visit
Cuban National League experience ONLINE • On the heels of a long,
harsh winter which saw travel
numbers to Florida soar, Visit
Orlando has unveiled a new web-
FrOm F1 site that provides a user-friendly
vacation planning experience.
VisitOrlando.com — a one-
The experience starts at the stop solution for researching and
ticket window. A standard seating vacation planning — features
ticket for a game at Estadio Lati- a new look, enhanced planning
noamericano, home of Havana’s tools and is now available in eight
popular Industriales Lions, who languages.
some have called the New York Whether it’s accessing informa-
Yankees of Cuba for their impres- tion about attractions to choosing
sive string of championship titles, an evening of entertainment, this
is only 3 Cuban CUC, or about online portal offers travellers the
$3.50 Cdn. ability to research and pre-plan
Or, if you go with a local, who nearly every aspect of their vaca-
buys the ticket for you while you tion. Consumers can also share
stand out of sight, it will cost only itineraries with others to either
about 2 Cuban pesos — gasp! — provide tips or garner feedback.
for a pair. The equivalent of less Some of the features include:
than 5 cents Cdn! ■ Trip Ideas Generator — To kick-
No booze is allowed in the start vacation planning, travellers
stands, which is just as well, and answer a few questions about
police will search your backpack their travel party and activities of
should you have one (bottled wa- interest and this simple and fun
ter is OK). tool instantly offers a range of
That’s a good thing, by the way. customized ideas.
There is a strong police presence ■ Trip Itinerary Builder — For those
and they will spring into action at ready to dive deeper into vacation
the slightest sign of trouble. planning, the Trip Itinerary Builder
Not that there was much, to allows travellers to add accommo-
speak of. Cuban fans are rabid for dations, activities and restaurants
the game, but, to my surprise, they of interest to the itinerary.
are largely well-behaved. Emo- Visit Orlando has also launched
tional exchanges between fans of Herald Archive, Getty Images a mobile solution, VisitOrlando.
rival teams can be heated, but in a The Industriales Lions mascot greets supporters in the stands at Latinoamericano stadium in Havana. mobi, that offers the same
lighthearted way. research and planning tools but is
Like all sports stadiums, there is The new rule, which apparently made it off the field, with the aid years, the number of Cuban play- tailored to mobile devices includ-
a great assortment of snacks. is not popular with some fans, of the manager and a trainer. ers could even exceed that of the ing iPhones.
Hot pastries, ham and cheese automatically puts two men on Expecting a warm round of ap- Dominican Republic. To order a complimentary vaca-
sandwiches, popcorn and candy, base in the 10th, and subsequent plause, this poor fellow earned a In the words of Cuban defector tion planning kit that includes a
along with ultra-strong espresso innings if needed. round of taunting jeers, as soon as Alberto Castillo, who pitches for comprehensive Official Vacation
coffee, are for the taking. Teams can choose any batter he neared the dugout. Shocked, I the Baltimore Orioles: “Cuban Guide and Orlando Magicard or to
On to the ambience. to lead off, and then revert to the turned to a Cuban spectator next players, they were made to play purchase discount attraction tick-
There is nothing quite like the regular lineup after that. to me, asking him why this guy baseball.” ets, log onto VisitOrlando.com or
Cuban National League experi- Almost all games start at 1 p.m., got the raspberry. Suffice to say, in one Lions call a travel counsellor at 1-800-
ence. to take advantage of the daylight He responded, with a sharp homestand, I saw some great ac- 551-0181 or 407-363-5872.
For one thing, the conga drum- hours, and this is especially wave of the hand: “If you’re on the tion, including a fierce pitching — Calgary Herald
ming and lively dancing by team important at Estadio Latino- field, you’re the enemy.” duel with one of Villa Clara’s ace
“cheerleaders,” who are some- americano, where the lights have Clearly, there is no quarter pitchers, some incredible fielding
times on hand, never stops. reportedly been inoperable since given, or taken in Cubano beisbol! and hitting, a near bench-clearing
It doesn’t take long before you last season. As for the calibre of play, just brawl prompted by an argument
too, are swaying or tapping to the There are some subtle Cuban look at the number of past and over a called strike, not to men-
beat. More so during the mid- nuances, too. current Cuban players in the ma- tion some great conga music and
innings stretch, which allowed the Fans are asked to throw errant jors, and wonder how many more crowd shenanigans.
drummers and dancers to really foul balls back onto the field, to would be drawing mega-salaries It doesn’t take long to become
get into it. help the team cut down on ex- if the U.S. ended its decades-long a regular — a few games in I re-
Afraid to say, it puts the North penses. And, it was nice to see a trade and cultural embargo on the ceived taps on the shoulder from
American version of the seventh- female umpire, who worked the Caribbean nation. familiar fans, offering me ciga-
inning stretch to shame. third-base line. Though the ranks have been rettes, candy or just some good
Industriales also features a mas- One on-field incident I wit- depleted some after a spate of discussion on the previous play.
cot, a good-natured Lion who kept nessed also made clear the Cuban high-profile defections (reliever Cubanos share a passion for the
the crowd amused, albeit with approach to the game, or any Aroldis Chapman, a.k.a. the “Cu- game, and it’s downright infec-
some adult-oriented gestures to- game, for that matter. ban missile,” holds the record tious.
ward the opposing team. I watched as a Tiger left-fielder for the fastest recorded pitch in And I can only shudder at the
This befits the crowd, of course, raced to the foul line to catch a the majors at 105.1 m.ph. and was thought of what I would have
which is 90 per cent adult males, hard-hit, errant fly ball. The effort signed by the Cincinnati Reds last missed, had I just sat on some
with a few families sprinkled in. was valiant, but doomed. season to a six-year, $30-million beach, drinking pina coladas in-
On the field, the game is largely He smacked the wall with a contract), baseball experts say if stead. Courtesy, VisitOrlando.com
identical to MLB, but if the game huge thud, dropping the ball and the blockade was ended, dozens
is tied after nine innings, a tie- clearly injuring himself in the of players, if not more, would
breaker comes into play, so the process. jump to the majors.
game doesn’t drag on forever. Refusing a stretcher, he barely Not only that, but within a few
Every vacation needs
If You Go
■ GETTING THERE: Sunwing.ca
has numerous packages available
DIRECT NONSTOP FLIGHTS
FROM CALGARY TO THE UK
Tranquility
to Havana and other destinations
in Cuba. The flights can some-

49 $99 $149
times depart late, and legroom is
limited (unless you buy the $40
upgrade) on those stretch 737-
800s, but FA staff are definitely a
$
notch above and inflight meals are
included, along with headphones
and other freebies. Manchester London Glasgow
■ WHERE TO STAY: I stayed at one way, exc taxes one way, exc taxes one way, exc taxes
the fabulous Nacional Hotel in
Vedado, which features an incred-
Leather SeatS • ChiLd diSCountS • Premium/CLub CLaSS uPgradeS
ible breakfast buffet (17 CUC) in a Seat baCk tV’S (SeLeCted fLightS) • moSt generouS eConomy Legroom
classy atmosphere and my eighth-
floor room also had a stunning
view of the Malacon. Also, it’s only
a 6 CUC cab ride from the Nacion-
1-866-815-5088 canadianaffair.ca
Lowest fare shown, subject to availability. Prices exclude taxes surcharges. Available for selected dates in Apr May 2011.
al to Estadio Latinoamericano, but Taxes $209. Fares are one way based on roundtrip travel. Terms Conditions apply. Reg in BC #32410
you can also take a bicycle taxi for CALCH032793_1_1

only 1 CUC.
Whether you’re travelling outside of Alberta, to the United States or overseas,
■ BASEBALL INFO: The National even the smallest injury or illness can be devastating. Protect yourself with
Series features 16 teams split emergency travel medical insurance while travelling, and receive the best
into west and east divisions. The value with annual multi‑trip plans:
season runs from late Novem-
• no age limit • new BounceBack coverage protects you
ber to March, with the playoff
• deductible from $0 to $10,000 in the case of hospitalization or death of an
quarter-finals starting in early
April. Unfortunately, both Havana- • 24/7 access to qualiﬁed physicians immediate family member or a disaster at
based teams, including defending
champion Industriales and the
Metropolitano Guerreros (War-
FREE Travel Talk (in select U.S. cities) your home, for only $50 per person

Top up your plan
Best Value
riors), did not make the cut. for extended stays
■ SOURCES: Finding an accurate Travel Talk When Location Annual Plan If purchased at Top up cost per Top up cost per
season or playoff schedule can Active Europe Apr 13 6:30 815 - 10th Avenue SW with unlimited daily rate for 2 x day for an extra day for an extra
be daunting, but for basic info, 30 day trips* 30 day trips** 1 to 30 days 31 to 60 days
go online at http://www.base-
Ever thought of trekking Mont Blanc? How about walking the coast Per Person $122 $222 $3.74 $3.86
balldecuba.com/indexeng.asp.
The Spanish link can be accessed of Cinque Terre, sailing the Greek islands, Cycling in Turkey or trying
at http://www.baseballdecuba.
com/Index.asp. Also, if you search
SWAT training in Prague? Join us and learn how you can travel in a Tranquility
“Cuba National Baseball Series” small group and see Europe a different way. Travel Medical insurance
on travel websites, such as
TripAdvisor.com, you can find a RSVP to calgary@atcadventure.com More than a destination
wealth of information. To contact 815 - 10th Avenue SW 403.262.6632 Prices based on 55-59 age group. Travellers age 60 plus will be required to complete a medical questionnaire, and rates may vary. Rates subject to
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the Federacion Cubana de Beisbol number of trips in one year, up to 30 days each. **2 x 30 day trips – price if purchased at daily rate for 2 trips, up to 30 days each.

in Havana, phone 07-879-7980. TheAdventureTravelCompany.com Underwritten by The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (Manulife Financial).

— Dave Makichuk
ON–4499356/4499372 | BC–33127/34799/34798 | QC–7002238 | Canadian Owned 1-866-989-6595 | ama.ab.ca/Travel-Insurance
CALCH020805_1_1 CALCH034572_1_1

Breaking news at calgaryherald.com Friday, august 28, 2009 F5

Driving.ca
preview: 2010 aston martin dBs volante

vivacious
volante
refinement
meets excitement
in all-new DBS
Aston Martin’s The Specs
510-h.p. supercar ■ Body:
two-door convertible body style
surprisingly with 2+2 seating
aluminum, magnesium alloy and
easy to handle carbon-fibre composite body

■ Roof:
Dave Makichuk motorized retractable, fabric
Calgary Herald
■ engine:

“B
photos, Calgary Herald
e careful going down the all-alloy, quad overhead cam- The 2010 DBS volante roadster is unmistakable in its aston Martin DNa — stunning on the outside and
curb, the front spoiler shaft, 48-valve, v-12. lavishly equipped on the inside. To start the formidable 510-horsepower v-12 engine, the emotion control
costs about $10,000.” Front-mid mounted engine, rear- unit (below left) must be inserted into a console slot between the shift buttons.
The words from the Aston wheel drive
Martin rep reverberated in my max power: 510 b.h.p. @ 6500
brain, leaving a distinct impres- r.p.m.
sion, as he handed me the Emo- max torque: 420 ft.-lbs. @ 5750
tion Control Unit — essentially r.p.m.
the keys to a brand new lightning acceleration: 0-100 km/h in
silver $325,000 Aston Martin DBS 4.3 seconds
Volante roadster. max speed: 307 km/h
I couldn’t help but be reminded
of a similar scene which had ■ Transmission:
played out on the big screen sev- rear-mid mounted ‘touchtronic 2’
eral times from my youth to pres- six-speed gearbox with electronic
ent day: “Try to bring it back in shift-by-wire control, or manual
one piece 007,” an exasperated Q
warns James Bond. ■ Brakes:
All to no avail of course. More dynamic stability Control (dsC)
often than not, the car got trashed, with track mode
but usually for a good cause — anti-lock Braking system (aBs)
saving the world and so forth. electronic Brakeforce distribution
But on this day, we won’t be (eBd)
chasing any bad guys on dark- emergency Brake assist (eBa)
ened, twisty roads, in a desperate traction control
search for a kidnapped British
agent, or banging doors at high ■ in-car entertainment:
speed along twisty tunnels lining Bang olufsen Beosound dBs
the shore of Lake Como. sound system with 13 speakers
In fact, I showed up at the North
American Volante’s launch in Price:
Calgary, hosted by Aston Martin ■ dBs volante (touchtronic)
of Calgary and the Dilawri Group, $325,195
with a passenger — fellow auto
aficionado and longtime buddy JR
— to play the part of co-driver. were the Park, Reverse, Neutral plus GST. But back to the car . . . — credit offered to the designers Pulling onto the Deerfoot 500
As well as offering his impres- and Drive buttons. While the The very first impression was and engineers at Aston Martin’s for the last leg of our test drive,
sions of the vehicle, he would DBS also had shift paddles, Ro- unmistakable. Gaydon factory. I tensed up with concentration,
more importantly act as my manosky pointed out that the car “My god, do you hear that Driving a suggested route bound and determined to avoid a
second set of eyes on Calgary’s was quite content as a cruiser, and exhaust note?” JR said. “That is through south Calgary, we quickly windshield stone chip — a
precarious, construction-strewn using the shift paddles wouldn’t incredible.” get the feel of this remarkable Calgary souvenir almost as rou-
roads, warning me in advance, I be necessary for our test drive. How can one fall in love with an roadster. tine and traditional as getting
hoped, of any unseen dangers that “What if I touch the paddles by exhaust note, you ask? Quite eas- Smooth, controlled and just white-hatted at City Hall.
came our way. mistake,” I asked sheepishly. ily, actually. downright fun to drive No sooner had we hit the Deer-
Aston Martin rep Lawrence Not to worry, I was told, the car The V-12 power plant purrs so (Romanosky was right), drawing foot, when two rolling tandem
Romanosky gave us a quick pre- stares wherever trucks appeared in my rear-view
flight rundown as we circled the it stepped, one mirror. They were right smack
DBS Volante, which sat unassum- could not help behind us and closing fast — and
ingly outside the dealership in but get the im- I could already imagine the spray
Glendeer Circle. The v-12 mense feeling of gravel if they blew past us.
We learned that this particular
roadster was the 16th convertible power plant the Volante ea-
willing and
was I called on the V-12 for help,
adding an oh-so-slight touch to
model produced in the company’s purrs so ger to go faster, the accelerator.
95-year history.
Romanosky rattled off a litany
beautifully, if calledand low
Sleek
upon. In an instant, we were launched
to safety — without an ounce of
of impressive specs: an all-alu- so elegantly to the ground, shimmy. A tap of the ventilated
minum frame with carbon fibre . . . one dare everything carbon ceramic brakes, and we’re
trims; 510-horsepower V-12 engine
capable of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3
not turn seemed faster,
JR remarked,
back to cruising.
Trouble averted.
seconds; Touchtronic 2 six-speed on the . . . noting that No wonder the DBS is standard
gearbox with shift-by-wire; 1,000 1,000 watt superlatives issue for double-O secret agents.
watt Bang and Olufsen BeoSound alone fell short Mission accomplished, our life-
DBS stereo system; Dynamic Sta-
stereo in describing time Aston Martin bucket list now
bility Control; Servotronic speed- the precise, checked off, the DBS Volante left
sensitive steering; Pirelli P Zeros will correct things for you. beautifully, so elegantly . . . and exotic feel of this supercar, which, us aglow, and wanting more . . . as
front and back, etc., etc. . . . Now, for anyone who has never with so much power — one dare by the way, surrounds you in a in, more time in the car.
The rest I didn’t hear as I drifted driven a $325,000 roadster su- not . . . repeat, dare not turn on the sea of hand-stitched leather and a It also left us somewhat spoiled.
off into a Homer Simpson-esque percar off a dealership parking 1,000-watt Bang Olufsen stereo. luxurious dash layout worthy of a Having tasted such a rare vin-
state of bliss, feeling somewhat lot, I can say quite honestly that Even if it has 13 speakers. prince. tage, the mixture of imports and
overwhelmed by the driving ex- my emotions ran somewhere “Let’s not turn on the stereo,” With deference to Calgary’s ex- domestics that ply the streets all
perience that was about to come between abject fear and a place JR said, and rightly so. Who wants pansive web of speed traps, I had seem so trite now.
my way. of higher glory — coupled with a to listen to Calgary FM stations no intention of pushing the V-12 Blame it on the wizards of
“This is the Emotion Control childlike joy I’ve never quite felt when the Picasso of exhaust notes anywhere near its lofty comfort Gaydon, the Aston Martin mys-
Unit,” Romanosky said, as he before on four wheels. massages your very senses. zone — which was clearly well tique, or the remarkable sports
handed me an oddly-named and What Boomer from my genera- I hadn’t heard anything this above mine. Unlike 007, our mis- car passion of this luxury brand.
odd-looking pocket-sized de- tion didn’t have the Aston Martin good since I stood next to a rev- sion on this day was to make sure A downside? Just one . . . the
vice about the size of a cigarette Corgi die-cast toy from Goldfin- ving Alfa Romeo V-12 at the Long we brought this voluptuous grand DBS is available as a 2+2 or with
lighter. Bearing a beautiful sap- ger, complete with ejection seat, Beach Grand Prix, way back in the tourer back in one piece. a back shelf. The 2+2 option be-
phire crystal embossed with the bulletproof shield and machine ’80s. The Alfa’s V-12 was still the Briefly stopping in the coming completely useless, as no one
Aston Martin badge, Romanosky guns? best sounding engine of all time, munity of Acadia, we snapped a larger than a hefty sized cat could
demonstrated by inserting it into I deliberately held back from but the Aston was definitely right few pictures of the Volante, which possibly sit back there.
the dash and holding it there a asking the rep where the ejection up there. looked intoxicatingly gorgeous And we did turn on the stereo.
second. Suddenly, the muscular seat button was, knowing full well Completing the topless experi- against the lush, green back- It’s great . . . but nowhere near as
V-12 sprang to life. it must be kept hidden until you ence is an almost total lack of ground and unmistakable in its great as that incredible exhaust
On either side of the key fob bay actually plunk down the 325Gs, wind buffeting in the cabin area Aston Martin DNA. note.

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SECTION F
INSIDE ON THE ROAD: A Datsun meet with a twist Page F2 BRZ: Floats like a butterfly, stings like a bee Page F7

DRIVING.ca L AT E S T N E W S AT C A LG A R Y H E R A L D . C O M /C A R S
EDITOR: DAVE MAKICHUK 403-235-7302 DMAKICHUK@CALGARYHERALD.COM FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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R E M E M B E R I N G C A N A D A’ S L E G E N D I N F O R M U L A O N E

Memories of
Gilles
“Either you drive, or you don’t.
I can’t see that there’s
anything in between.”
car kept going into the wood
chips, there was no choice
but to act.
— Gilles Villeneuve Leaping out of the way, I
banged my head on a gigantic
DAVE MAKICHUK telephoto lens held by a Ger-
CALGARY HERALD man photographer just above
me. He cursed loudly when

P erched at treacherous
Tarzan corner, aim-
ing my telephoto lens
down the long straightaway
at Zandvoort, the wind-
the camera he was holding
smashed into his face. We
— an assembly of terrified
photog-types — scattered in
all directions, as the bright
blown seaside Formula One red Ferrari somehow slid to a
track hosting the 1981 Dutch stop, just short of the tire bar-
Grand Prix, it was all too rier in a huge cloud of dust.
obvious what had happened, Seconds later, Villeneuve
and what was going to hap- was safely out of the car,
pen. the grid had passed, and his
Gilles Villeneuve, in his banged-up 126C was being
turbo-charged Ferrari, had hoisted out of trouble by a
banged wheels with someone gigantic crane, positioned at
in mid-grid at the start, and that infamous corner in an-
was now spinning, bounc- ticipation of carnage.
ing and careering in our Such was my heart-pump-
direction, at a very high rate ing baptism by fire, covering
of speed. At that moment, the very first F1 race of my
getting the “great shot” was career.
not as important as surviv-
ing, and as Villeneuve’s race SEE GILLES, PAGE F5

Photos, courtesy, Dave Makichuk
Canadian Formula One great Gilles Villeneuve would claim six Grand Prix victories in 67 races, before his life was tragically cut short in Belgium at Zolder, in May of 1982.

AWESOME COMES STANDARD.

Breaking news at calgaryherald.com Friday, May 21, 2010 F5

DRIVING.ca
TEST DRIVE: 2011 ASTON MARTIN RAPIDE

BEAUTY
The Specs
■ Body: Four-door body style with tail-
gate and four individual seats. Extruded
aluminum bonded body structure.
■ Engine: All alloy, quad overhead
camshaft, 48-valve, 5.9-L V-12.
■ Horsepower: 470-horsepower @
6,000 r.p.m.
■ Torque: 443 ft.-lbs. @ 5,000 r.p.m.
■ Acceleration: 0-100 km/h 5 seconds.
■ Maximum speed: 296 km/h.
■ Transmission: Rear mid-mounted
Touchtronic 2 six-speed gearbox with
shift-by-wire control system.
■ Wheels: 20-inch alloy wheels.
■ Tires: front: Bridgestone Potenza
245/40 R20; rear: Bridgestone Potenza
295/35 R20.
■ Brakes: Dual-cast brake discs
■ Interior: Full grain leather, walnut fas-
cia trim, iridium Silver centre console
outer finish and Graphite inner finish.
■ Entertainment: 1000 watt Bang
Olufsen BeoSound audio system with
15 speakers.

Courtesy, Andrew Gilluley
The 2011 Aston Martin Rapide
is arguably one of the most
beautifully designed vehicles
in its class.

Aston’s Rapide good position — out of the line of
sight, but you can see it with one
has luxury, glance.”
All told, the console is nicely
looks and designed and laid out — every-
thing is within easy reach and
V-12 power markings are intuitive but not
overstated. Photos, Dave Makichuk, Calgary Herald
Other than the habit of con- Back seat passengers will like
DAVE MAKICHUK stantly reaching for a shift lever, the LCD screens inset into the
CALGARY HERALD which is not there, and the mag- headrests.
nesium manual shift paddles that Below, the Rapide maintains its

W hat is it about the en- get in the way of the turn signal stunning sleekness, despite its
during mystique of As- After ogling the interior, Andy lever, the environment seems to four-door sedan design.
ton Martin that seems and I attempt the back seat test. offer a nice blend of old-world As-
to alight the senses and get the At six-foot-one, I find it a bit of ton and high-tech.
blood pumping? Could it be that a challenge to get in, but once I Though it’s a relatively warm
recognizable Aston DNA and master the Cirque du Soleil ma- spring day in Calgary, the venti-
British racing heritage reflected in noeuvre (right foot first), it’s not lated seats work nicely, keeping
its sultry curves, toothy grille and bad at all. Headroom is ample. us cool and comfortable as we
winged badge? Legroom, well, not so much. Let’s engage the Driving button, unlock
Or is it the slick, rapier-like call it adequate. the electronic parking brake and
Daniel-Craig-in-a-tuxedo cine- Conveniences, on the other prepare to point the Rapide out
matic good looks, evoking images hand, are quite stellar. Helping on the town.
of classy women, elegant casinos to up the touring experience are I find the two tweeter speak-
and mysterious secret agents. dual 6.5-inch LCD Rear Seat En - ers (two of 15 speakers mated to
Like its supercar competitors, The centre console is well laid tertainment (RSE) screens inset the 1,000-watt Bang Olufsen The Rapide is superbly quiet
it’s packed with high-tech toys out. Above right, the Rapide also into the headrests. The infotain - BeoSound audio system) on with its double-glazed windows
and luxury conveniences, and boasts “swan wing” doors. ment system displays input from either side of the dash, which up — creating a soothing cabin
what can one say about that oh- a six-DVD changer, MP3 players, automatically elevate at startup, experience.
so-lovely 470-horsepower six-litre the divider and folding the seats games consoles or other auxiliary a bit distracting, but after a few Side mirrors are wisely gener-
V-12 engine and its testosterone- down. devices and allows each back seat minutes at the wheel, one forgets ous, boosting rearward visibility
tingling roar — an exquisite piece Underneath that gorgeous skin occupant to watch independently they’re there. and making lane changes rela-
of engineering worthy of its Le the Rapide is constructed using using wireless headphones. In “Normal” or “Sport” tively easy in tight traffic.
Mans pedigree. the carmaker’s extruded alumi- Passengers also have individual mode, the Rapide’s six-speed Surprisingly, there is no North
Perhaps it’s all of the above. num VH (vertical-horizontal) entertainment and ventilation “Touchtronic 2) transmission American-style vanity mirror
Then again, maybe it’s like asking architecture, providing increased controls, much like in a modern works seamlessly, and in concert light on the front passenger side,
Hemingway how he penned The torsional rigidity, better on-road airliner. with, the same V-12 engine that but there are side-roof mounted
Sun Also Rises, or why Marilyn dynamics and overall safety. For his part, Andy, whose powers the two-door DBS. dome lights that offer ample light
commanded so much screen pres- Bodywork is a combination of stature is more compact, has no Coupled with a standard adap- for those last-minute makeup
ence or why JFK inspired. Partly aluminum, steel and composite, problem at all getting in or out, tive suspension system, it all but touch-ups on the way to the op-
borne of human inspiration but with magnesium trunk-lid finish- and finds the back seat experience guarantees precise control and era, and yes, it does have cuphold-
also that elusive, unknown star ers running the width of the car, quite royal. taut handling. Touch the “Sport” ers front and back.
quality we can’t quite put our fin- stainless steel cant rails and zinc Conclusion: As a four-door button, and the suspension auto- Eight airbags and four door-
ger on. hood louvres. The signature grille sedan, the Rapide would suit matically stiffens to provide a bet- mounted inflatable curtains pro-
It just is, so accept it. is also aluminum. the commuting purposes of an ter ride on twisty roads, sharpen- vide ample safety, and a test of the
This thought came to mind as And that Aston badge? It’s made urban family, and perhaps even ing and shortening the gearshifts handy parking distance control
my guest co-driver, Andy Gilluley, of pewter and enamel, as it has for offer enough utility for outbound and giving the throttle a touch system showed why this is an im-
and I stood in front of a pre-pro- generations. trips of short duration. Without a more response. portant feature.
duction Rapide four-door sports Standard Bridgestone Potenza doubt, kids will get a kick out of Not that you really need it. Rear-mounted sensors alert the
car at Aston Martin Calgary — the S001 performance tires on 20-inch the back seat luxury and enter- The Rapide’s demeanour is so driver to the proximity of objects
Alberta stop being just one on its forged aluminum wheels give the tainment. Beyond that, it might be deceptively relaxed, cornering or with beeping sounds — becoming
North American tour. car a bona fide racing stance, and a tad confining for passengers of cruising at a relatively high speed a steady hum when an object is 15
Since it was first teased as a a discreet strip of LED lights run- the taller, basketball variety. Then feels as if you’re barely moving, centimetres away.
concept at the 2009 Frankfurt ning along the edge of the head- again, this is about looking good with little in the way of unwanted And as for gas mileage, don’t
Motor Show, the reaction to this light fairing add an elegant touch and feeling good as you drive up body motion. The speedometer, even ask. It’s a V-12, after all.
car has been unanimous — it’s to the nose. to the country club or the kids’ which ends at 330 km/h, is a stark The Rapide marks the begin-
nothing short of drop-dead gor- Flip open the doors, which are soccer practise. reminder that this is, after all, a ning of a new era for the company,
geous. conveniently of the “swan wing” From the driver’s seat, the view supercar. as it launches a vehicle it hopes
This, on its own, makes it a variety, and a wealth of luxury is is much better. Andy summed up the ride suc- will compete for the deep-pockets
strong competitor to its main revealed. The seats, dash and door Slide the sapphire crystal Emo- cinctly: “The first thought is, crowd with the Panamera and
rival, the slightly larger but more sections are exquisitely trimmed tion Control Unit into the dash, ‘Wow, it’s very calm’ . . . but it’s other luxury sedans, and possibly
bulky Porsche Panamera (fea- in hand-stitched leather (10 hides hold it in place and the V-12 bur- not like you have to rein it in. The even high-end SUVs.
tured on Page F9). are used in each Rapide), while the bles to life. power is there if you want it. It’s While the DBS, DB9 and Van-
A quick tour of the shiny, suave centre console, set in graphite and The information display above quite civilized.” tage, its two-door siblings, are
Rapide in Black Onyx paint re- ringed with iridium silver, houses the centre console pops up and Which, by no coincidence, is currently built at Aston’s factory
veals it is actually a hatchback, the climate and stereo controls, as a touch of the navigation button exactly what Aston Martin engi- in Gaydon, England, and share the
with room in the trunk to store a well as the Aston’s unusual P, R, N reveals our exact location on a neers intended for the first four- same V/H platform, exactly 1,500
few small pieces of luggage. and D buttons. brightly lit screen. door designed by the company in Rapides will roll off the line at a
Not surprisingly, Aston designs The instrument clusters are also “At least you don’t have to be 20 years — the ultimate in a sport- new manufacturing plant in Graz,
and sells luggage that’s made to fit classic Aston, with fine zirconium a navy SEAL to use the nav,” ing, family car, yet still capable of Austria, later this summer.
the 886 litres of expanded space, dials bearing the finish of a top-of- remarked Andy, who also com- 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. In Canada, the Rapide will carry
that is maximized by lowering the-line luxury chronometer. mented on its placement. “It’s in a Other observations: an MSRP of $215,000 Cdn.


Driving.ca
Breaking news at calgaryherald.com Friday, September 25, 2009 F5

FirSt glance: 2010 Spyker c8 aileron coupe

‘Spyke’ of adrenalin
dave Makichuk, calgary Herald

courtesy, Bud Moore photography
The 2010 c8 Spyker aileron
presents a super-sleek profile on
highway 22, near Millarville.

All-new C8 ers, as well as airplanes and air-
plane engines for the First World
drivetrain. A mid-mounted 4.2-li-
tre Audi V-8 provides 400 h.p.
Aileron sports War. After changing ownership it
would run out of money in 1926
and 354 ft.-lbs. of torque at 7,200
r.p.m., providing a top speed of

the right stuff after producing about 2,000 ve-
hicles in total.
That same aviation heritage
300 km/h and a neck-snapping
0-to-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds.
Weighing in at about 1,360 ki-
Dave Makichuk is overtly reflected in all Spyker lograms (3,000 lbs.), the Aileron
calgary Herald sports cars, and especially the boasts an enviable power-to-
new C8 Aileron. weight ratio.

S trapping in — no, let me re-
phrase that — climbing in to
the Spyker C8 Aileron feels a
little like being a test pilot.
Not only does it take a little
The first styling cues that catch
one’s eye are the sweeping duct-
ing tubes on the roof and side
panels, which bring cool air to the
engine compartment, brakes and
The test car was also equipped
with a Tiptronic six-speed auto-
matic ZF gearbox, with manual
override. (A manual Getrag six-
speed gearbox is also available.)
practise to squeeze under those cabin. To say this car likes to rev is an
pivoting gull-wing doors, but The 19-in. turbine inspired Ro- understatement. Merely pulling
once in place, the panel in front of torblade wheels are also hard to away from a light brings a menac-
you is lined with toggle switches miss. Reminiscent of the blades ing roar that telegraphs to every
and aviation-style gauges on a of a modern jet engine, they carry living thing within a block that
spartan, brushed aluminum dash- race-ready Z-rated Michelin tires this is no ordinary set of wheels.
board. (235/35 up front, 295/30 in back) Yet the Aileron is not a wild-
The leather-lined cabin is cav- for optimum handling. cat that requires a Formula One
ern-like and tightly enclosed, vis- The Spyker logo itself also driver to tame it. Spyker appears
ibility is aimed at the road ahead, sports a propeller, and stamped to have found the right balance in
the engine tucked smack right be- on the exhaust pipes is the Latin its newest model.
hind you — all told, a very serious motto of the original car com- The Tiptronic allows the driver
environment. pany: “Nulla tenaci invia est via,” to sit back and enjoy the sights,
Ladies and gents, this is not which translates to: “For the tena- sounds and sensations . . . or to
your uncle’s Sunday driver. cious no road is impassable.” use the steering-column mounted
That feeling — what serious Tenacious or not, the Aileron shift paddles.
drivers call the pucker factor represents a new direction for the Another Spyker oddity — one
— increases when you begin the boutique car company. which I’ve never seen in any other
start sequence; flipping up the red Spyker has refined and dis- car — is a fully exposed console
guard switch, pushing the ignition tilled some of the racetrack shifter. Instead of hiding the link-
button and engaging the auto- rawness seen in its other avail- age under the console, as in most dave Makichuk,
matic Sport mode. able models, the popular Spyder other cars, it is exposed and pre- calgary Herald
At this point, and much like convertible and the Laviolette sented in polished silver, adding
a test pilot, you had better get coupe, and made the Aileron to the lustre of exclusivity.
your seating position right and as much an exhilarating daily Where one can’t see brushed
the mirrors at the perfect angle.
You might also want to tie your
driver, as it is a street legal, full-
blown sports car.
aluminum, every inch of the Aile-
ron’s cabin is covered in luxurious
The Specs
shoelaces, too, because what you They also widened and squared leather from Hulshof Royal Dutch ■ type: advanced mid-engine, six-speed automatic ZF
are about to experience is nothing off the frame and given the all- Tanneries. two-seat sports car gearbox with manual override
like any other sports car on the aluminum body a stunning new Fourteen standard colours are ■ Body: Structural aluminum (automatic transmission), or
road. look which, arguably, makes it available, but Spyker will also space frame chassis Synchromesh six-speed trans-
Last week, the Netherlands- obscenely noticeable wherever it make it any colour “if desired by ■ Brakes: Spyker branded axle getrag gearbox (manual
based carmaker brought its first goes. So much so, in fact, rubber- the customer.” aluminum ap brake calipers transmission)
pre-production model C8 Aileron neckers can pose a menace as they Noticeably absent from the (four-piston), ap brake discs, ■ performance: top speed, 300
— yes, you heard right, the one pull up alongside to get a look. pre-production car’s cabin was cross-drilled and ventilated; km/h; acceleration 0-100 km/h
and only first production model But the Aileron is more than a dash-mounted stereo. The fol- Bosch aBS system with eBd in 4.5 seconds
C8 Aileron coupe — to North good looks. Beneath that ultra- lowing production models won’t ■ engine: audi 4.2-litre V-8, ■ price: Manual, $252,000;
America and Tony Dilawri’s sporty skin lies a formidable have one either, though it will 40 valve, mid-mounted, multi- automatic $263,000. plus
Spyker Calgary dealership for a have an iPod input, 300-watt amp point fuel injection system with freight pdi, $3,000, and
series of media test drives. and a six-speaker Kharma sound electronic ignition; 400 h.p. transport canada green levy,
So raw was this first model, that system. According to the rep, this @ 7,200 r.p.m. $5,000
some of the fit and finish on the is not in keeping with the Spyker ■ transmission: tiptronic — courtesy, Spyker
vehicle had not yet been final- driving experience.
ized. By the time this article goes To be honest, one would have
to print, the Aileron will be fly- to crank it up pretty loud just to that ride — in a hurry — the rock- tomatic equipped coupe retails
ing straight back over the pond, match the roar of the V-8, which hard four-piston ventilated disc for $263,000 Cdn, the manual for
where it will be tested further is packed right behind the driver’s brakes could seemingly stop a $252,000)
— the results to be implemented seat. Future models will also fea- train. I found them a bit too hard According to company reps, the
in upcoming production models. ture an in-dash navigation system for my suburban tastes, but I was typical Spyder customer is worth
While elite carmakers such as and Bluetooth interface. told it would probably softened a about $10 million, owns a share in
Ferrari, Lamborghini and Mase- And finally, how does the Ai- bit in the coming models. an executive jet and has already
rati boast decades of sports car leron perform? Quite simply: If Spyker was trying to build a had the red Ferrari, the black
tradition, Spyker Cars is fairly superbly. car that could be equally comfort- Lamborghini and the silver Aston
new to the game, but the marque A quick jaunt down to Millar- able driving to your favourite res- Martin. That same customer, they
itself, is not. ville and back offered a glimpse taurant, or give anyone a run for say, is looking for something rare
Founded in 2000 by Victor R. of the Aileron’s “ready-to-rock” his money on a race track, then it and different.
Muller, its chief executive, Spyker personality. has achieved that. No question there: the new
Cars draws it name and inspira- The four-corner, aluminum It also has a trunk which can Spyker A8 Aileron screams “vive
tion from the famed Dutch car wishbone suspension with Eibach actually hold a few things, includ- le difference” at every angle. In-
and aircraft company founded by springs and Bilstein shocks kept ing groceries or a six-pack of Bud- side and out.
Jacobus and Hendrik-Jan Spijker us glued to the asphalt and in- weiser tallboys. And going by the looks and
in 1898. dave Makichuk, calgary Herald spired confidence with its precise And speaking of bringing home questions we received from
Known for its circular radiators, The aileron’s shift linkage is response on a variety of undulat- the bacon, you may be wonder- numerous onlookers, this small
that firm would go on to build fully exposed and adds to the ing, twisty roads. ing exactly who is the target Dutch car company could well be
successful touring cars and rac- interior’s unusual look. And when it came to stopping market for the Aileron. (The au- onto something.


I4 Saturday, October 15, 2011 Breaking news at calgaryherald.com

The Hotel Issue: France

Dave Makichuk, Calgary Herald
Restaurant Eden-Roc overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and at night you can see the twinkling lights of the French Riviera.

Walking in the
fond of the hotel, and was often
preceded by a truck carrying her
suitcases. Famed artist Picasso
always came simply dressed,
wearing shorts, a sweater, a cap

FOOTSTEPS
and espadrilles. He helped design
the restaurant menu, creating
wonderful drawings in a few short
seconds.
Japanese director Akira Ku-

of
STARS
rosawa, enjoyed strolling the
22-acres of manicured gardens
and shaded woodland around the
hotel, while famed Nobel Laure-
ate, playwright and critic Robert
Shaw found inspiration for some
of his writings here.
As previously mentioned, de
HOTEL DU CAP EDEN-ROC Niro and Depardieu did indeed
D’ANTIBES, FRANCE have a heated exchange, because
one hadn’t invited the other to his
Jim Makichuk, for the Calgary Herald birthday party, and Die-Hard ac-
Second-ﬂoor suite at the Hotel du Cap-Eden Roc D’Antibes. tor Willis did have a pool party for
DAVE MAKICHUK 100, but showed up with 400.
CALGARY HERALD More photos at Yet, the Hotel du Cap is not just
calgaryherald.com/ about movie stars and VIPs.

W asn’t that Robert de travel I found it to be one of the only
Niro and Gerard Depar- The details hotels that openly, and proudly
dieu having a heated ar- touts the uniqueness of its staff.
gument by the steps of the Hotel hotel concierge, and other hotel ■ Best amenity: The Whether it was barman Anthony
du Cap? Yes, it was them. staff at the front desk. They seem 32-centimetre rain-shower Ciacia, sommelier Xavier Dinet,
And I could have swore that was truly glad to know we had a safe head in the “experience cabana manager Giovanni Rizzi or
Madonna, in dark glasses, wearing drive, and are happy to meet us. shower.” chief concierge Gilles Bertolino,
a long, silky red dress, followed by We were whisked to our room ■ One quibble: I didn’t all of whom we had the pleasure
a train of luggage, heading for the on the second floor. Or should I get to meet Angelina Jolie. of meeting, we were greeted in
cabanas . . . and can you believe say, palace? Beyond the door is Jim Makichuk, for the Calgary Herald ■ Starting price: 490 a manner which befit the luxury
the gall of Bruce Willis? Show- nothing short of jaw-dropping. The heated horizon pool is set euro a night. and simplicity of a home away
ing up with 400 guests for a pool Gasping in silence, we tour the into the rocks at the edge of the ■ Who would like it here: from home.
party at the Eden Roc? What was two giant high-ceilinged rooms Cote d’Azur. High- rollers and couples
he thinking? It ended at 7 a.m., with only one thought: “Some- wanting to celebrate a Dinner at the
with someone playing the saxo- body, pinch me, for I have walked stars for the film festival, “Have special occasion.
■ More information: Restaurant Eden-Roc
phone by the horizon pool. into a masterpiece.” you met Brad and Angelina?”
C’est la vie . . . just another day It might have been the original “Why of course,” he answers, www.hotel-du-cap-eden- A tour of the grounds, which
in the life of the Hotel Du Cap- artwork adorning the sound- as if it were an every-day occur- roc.com ( The Hotel du Cap included the tennis courts, well-
Eden-Roc D’Antibes. proof walls, the perfectly placed rence. “They are very nice . . . they is closed from mid-Octo- ness centre, exclusive villas and
antique Louis XV furniture, the will shake hands with anyone.” ber to April, every year.) cabanas courtesy affable commu-
Walking into a stunning Venetian chandeliers or nications director Valerie Muller,
masterpiece the elegant draperies, that were A retreat for writers guests guided the direction of was followed by mid-afternoon
so impressive. Or, perhaps it was the reno . . . keep in mind, some Manhattans on the spectacular
“Turn right, 300 metres,” the the two marble bathrooms with We are seated in the Hotel du guests have been coming back ev- terrace of the Grill Eden-Roc.
distinctive GPS voice intoned as “experience showers” (featuring a Cap’s famous Bellini bar, with ery year, for 40 or 50 years.” Later that evening, we dined at
we turned our steel-grey BMW 32-cm shower head that simulates hotel manager Philippe Perd, sip- I ask him about Cannes, and the the famed Restaurant Eden-Roc,
rental car off the Cote d’Azur and a soft rain) and a stunning glass- ping what else, Bellinis. stars which descend every May. as the lights of the French riviera
onto Boulevard John F. Kennedy, encased mini-bar, complete with The peach juice with Cham- During that time, the hotel is glimmered in the distance.
towards Cap D’Antibes, (pro- natural water bottled at the hotel. pagne goes down well as we are nearly 80 to 90 per cent film in- With entrees starting at around
nounced, DON-TEEB). Each room had its own flat- briefed on the hotel’s massive 45 dustry people. 40 to 50 euro, we chose carefully,
A few kilometres down a nar- screen TV and the best hotel million euro, 27-week renova- “The stars come here to be low- opting for the Violet Asparagus
row, tree-lined road lay the prom- Wi-Fi signal strength I have yet to tion, which transformed it from a key, calm, with good service,” he with Parmesan Sabayon and Aru-
ise of an unparalleled hotel experi- encounter. That bit of technology decaying structure, to a gleaming says, “not accessible and away gula Oil as an opener, and, Sea
ence — the legendary Hotel du didn’t seem out of place, nor did oasis of 67 bedrooms, villas and from the paparazzi, and we try to Bass Baked in Egg White and Sea
Cap-Eden-Roc — a Napoleon III the remote wand for instant valet cabanas. make it extra special for them.” Salt. It did not disappoint.
sanctuary to the stars, royalty, au- and room service. Originally built in 1870 as a villa Madonna, he tells us, likes the With the soft musical accompa-
thors, the rich and famous — and Large French doors opened to for writers to recuperate or redis- solitude of the hotel’s cabanas, niment of the hotel pianist in the
now, lowly travel writers from our 50-foot panoramic balcony. cover their muse by Figaro mag- which are perched along the background, at least five waiters
Calgary. Beyond lay the shimmering, nate Auguste de Villemessant and shore, and, offer a basic roof, hovered over us, looking after
Our arrival was understated, but crystal blue waters of the Cote purchased by the Oetker family a dollhouse door, sun, sky and each aspect of our dinner and
oh so elegant. Mark met us at the d’Azur, dotted with sailboats in the 1960s, the hotel is now part mostly silence. drinks, which ended appropri-
front steps, with a smile: “Wel- competing at the Cannes yacht of the prestigious Masterpiece ately with a well-chosen Cognac.
come to the Hotel Du Cap, I will challenge. Did I mention the chain, which includes equally Movie stars and VIPs No wonder the stars like com-
take your keys and deliver your champagne, chocolates and fresh grand sister hotels in Venice, ing here!
luggage to your room.” cut flowers and fruit? Baden Baden and Paris. Meeting members of the hotel
Ah, service — a nice change Mark arrives with our luggage, “We wanted to keep the heri- staff, is not unlike meeting the DAVE MAKICHUK’S STAY AT THE HOTEL
from the ultra-touristy establish- and I press him with the big ques- tage, keep the soul of the Hotel stars themselves. They have seen DU CAP-EDEN-ROC D’ANTIBES WAS
ments of Nice. tion. Being so close to Cannes, the du Cap, like it has been for many it all, and then some. SPONSORED BY THE OETKER COLLECTION
We meet Gilles Bertolino, the place must always be filled with years,” Perd says. “In a way, the Actress Elizabeth Taylor was OF MASTERPIECE HOTELS.

Perfect place to toast history of Paris hotel rooms. At the Am-
RADISSON BLU
AMBASSADOR HOTEL bassador, rooms are actually spa-
PARIS, FRANCE The details cious with first-rate comforts in-
cluding free high-speed Internet,
■ Best amenity: Spacious LCD flat-screen TVs and heated
rooms, considering it is towel bars.
MONICA ZUROWSKI Paris. In addition to the historic Bar
CALGARY HERALD ■ Who would like it here: Lindbergh, the hotel is home to
Travellers who want to a fine dining room (Le 16 Hauss-

I n 1927, Charles Lindbergh went be close to the heart of mann), a first-rate breakfast buf-
to the Hotel Ambassador in Paris attractions and are fet and a top floor lounge, with
Paris to celebrate his historic also looking for a slightly a view that extends to the Eiffel
trans-Atlantic solo flight. upscale hotel experience, Tower.
It seems almost surreal that with plush, modern com- The full name of the property —
some 84 years later, I’m sitting in fort. Radisson Blu Ambassador Hotel,
the same hotel lobby, toasting my ■ One quibble: It took too Paris Opera — reflects the fact that

TRAVEL CALGARY HERALD Saturday, March 31, 2007 F5

DESTINATION

Variety the spice of life in Buenos Aires
DAVE MAKICHUK If You Go
CALGARY HERALD
■ Transportation: Getting around

Y
ou know you’re in Buenos Aires Buenos Aires is easy and cheap. A cab
when . . . you crawl back to your ride to just about anywhere will run you
hotel room around 5 a.m., after an $5 to $10 Cdn., but buckle up for the
evening of unforgettable tango, superb ride of your life. At times you may feel
wine and the best steak you’ve ever had as though you’ve entered a car rally.
in your life — only to hear someone BA’s dependable Subte, or subway sys-
stagger up to his room after you. tem, is even cheaper, efficient and gen-
Such is the seduction, the magic and erally safe.
the attraction of this amazing Argen- ■ Where to Stay: The Che Lulu Guest
tine city — a seemingly endless sea of House in Palermo Soho offers a won-
cafes, restaurants and shopping, art derful mix of hotel and hostel, at a great
galleries and sporting events, and an value and all within walking distance of
exchange rate of about three pesos to some of the city’s finest restaurants,
every Canadian dollar. bars and shopping. Rooms range from
A place where the weather is fine, Renowned Argentine street about $20 to $50 Cdn.(www.luluguest-
the people are friendly, and tourist musician Manuel entertains daily house.com, or 011/4772-0289).
bargains abound as this nation recov- at Plaza Dorrego in San Telmo. ■ Airlines: Continental Airlines offers
ers from a currency meltdown. For regular and efficient service via Hous-
those daring enough to savour what ton, with a no-hassle connection.
Buenos Aires has to offer, what follows
is my top 10 things to do: The highlight of the evening was
up-and-coming soprano Maria del Ro-
The tango cio Giordano — who, in a glittering
It takes two to tango. That saying blue gown, stunned the packed audi-
cannot really be appreciated until you ence with memorable and moving op-
see this incredibly sensuous moving eratic pieces from Carmen. (Informa-
feast for the eyes in San Telmo, the tion, Tel. 011/4809-5649.)
birthplace of passionate dance.
Tango is everywhere in Buenos Aires.
Eva Peron
I chose quaint Bar Sur in historical San The Museo Eva Peron is another
Telmo for an evening’s entertainment. must-see. Seldom has a political figure
Famous for its surprisingly small, but been so controversial, so talked about,
authentic bar room ambience, and its so fought over, even to this day. Re-
starry clientele — such as Antonio Ban- gardless of how one feels about Evita’s
deras — about $55 will get you a drinks, political heritage, which has undoubt-
dinner and a front-row seat to some of edly polarized large segments of Ar-
the most best tango in the city. gentine society, one can’t help be mes-
Bar Sur also boasts renowned tango merized by her legend.
singer Ruben Guerra, whose Vegas- Located in upscale Botanico, the
like audience rapport and energized Photos, Dave Makichuk, Calgary Herald European-style cafes are found just three-storey mansion features various
performances will give you an appre- Tourists are drawn to Recoleta cemetery, where Eva Peron rests. about anywhere in Buenos Aires. memorabilia, photos and video
ciation for this musical art form. (Bar footage, which documents her rise
Sur, Estados Unidos 299, Tel. 011/4362- Soccer various political protests, in the heart of the expansive Recoleta Cemetery. from magazine model to President
6086, reservations recommended.) The Argentines play soccer like of San Telmo there is a wonderful is- No visit to Buenos Aires would be Juan Peron’s first lady. Evita’s sudden
AC/DC’s Angus Young plays guitar — land of solitude called Plaza Dorrego. complete without exploring the pas- death in 1952 from cancer shocked the
Parrilla seriously and with style. In pouring Buenos Aires is famed for its plazas sageways and approximately 4,800 stat- nation. What happened to her mum-
What can one say about Argentine rain at River Plate’s Monumental Sta- and cafe culture, and Plaza Dorrego is uesque vaults, which house the rich and mified body from that point on is in-
beef except that it’s superb. And for visi- dium, I savoured the game, the music, a fine example. Cobblestone streets, famous, as well as a healthy population triguing and bizarre — a story that,
tors to Buenos Aires, it is incredibly the flares, the smoke bombs, the infec- antique shops, patio restaurants with of cemetery cats. Politicians, military once witnessed, never quite leaves
cheap. Dinner at one of Buenos Aires tious drumming, singing and general refreshing Quilmes beer, pizza to die leaders, explorers, writers and priests. you. (Museo Eva Peron, Lafinur 2988,
famed parrilla (pronounced “pareesha”) mayhem — in short, the other-worldly for, top-rate people watching and — Anyone who’s anyone is buried here, Tel. 011/4807-9433.)
restaurants, might run $15 to $25 Cdn, experience of a South American soccer the piece de resistance — the excep- and often in grand style.
depending on the number of courses. match, and lived to tell about it. River tional guitar playing of renowned Ar- The cost to be buried in such digs:
El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Parilla essentially translates as, “on Plate 5, Lorenzo 0 — five superb goals, gentine street musician Manuel, about $10,000 Cdn. Of course, every Leave it to the Argentines to trans-
the grill,” and steaks that are cooked and, a Pele-style bicycle kick, to boot. whose renditions of popular songs visitor is inevitably drawn to one par- form a historic cinema into an elegant
this way are mouth-wateringly deli- For a soccer fan, it was pure heaven. will keep you in your chair for hours. ticular vault — that of Maria Eva bookstore. Even if you don’t care for
cious and always served with a garlic Unfortunately, Argentine soccer is After lunch, take a stroll on nearby Duarte de Peron, better known as books, you must see this innovative
chimichurri dipping sauce. in a bit of disarray. Fan violence and Avenue Defensa, where you will find Evita, the former first lady. For a small business, which carries books and mu-
At De La Terraza restaurant in gang activity have forced cancella- dozens of antique shops. donation, buy a map to the graves at sic floor to ceiling, operatic-like bal-
trendy Palermo Viejo, I savoured a tions. Should you decide to go to a the entrance because you will need it cony boxes for reading in private and
succulent appetizer of fresh chorizo league game at either River or La
Art galleries to find your way around. an onstage cafe. I loaded up on tango
sausages, followed by an expertly pre- Boca, there is only one way to do it. The stately Museo Nacional de Bel- CDs at $7 apiece. (Avenida Santa Fe
pared garden salad and a tender cut of Ask your hotel desk to arrange a soc- las Arts is located on busy Avenida Del
Concerts 1880, Tel. 011/4813-6052.)
“befe de lomo,” which excelled with cer tour — for approximately 150 pe- Libertador and presents a formidable BA’s famed Teatro Colon opera
each bite. sos ($60 Cdn), a reputable guide will collection of world-class artwork. house is, unfortunately, closed for ren-
Jardin Japanese Garden
If you find you’re dining alone at pick you up at your hotel, take you to Among the many masterpieces on ovations, but concert-goers have an al- The Japanese Garden, located in the
7 p.m., that’s because Los Portenos the stadium and deliver you to your display are priceless works by Degas, ternative. The University of Buenos trendy Palermo, is a great spot to kick
(Buenos Aireans) typically don’t dine seat. The guide will stay within close Van Gogh, Picasso, Goya, Monet, Aires offers spectacular concertos for back and relax. There is no better
until after nine. You might also find range throughout and return you to Renoir and, my favourite, Gaugin. the donation of a few mere pesos at place for an afternoon of reading,
yourself gravitating to another table — your hotel in one piece. (1473 Avenida Libertador, Tel. the stately faculty of law building on basking in the sun, or to just enjoy the
owner Sergio Rosenfeld invited me to 011/4803-0802.) campus. The building is an impressive beautiful gardens, arched bridges and
savour a spectacular Mendoza Malbec
Plaza Dorrego work of architecture on its own. I had feed schools of multi-coloured fish.
wine and to learn about Canada. (De While Plaza de Mayo is perhaps the
Recoleta Cemetery the good fortune to hear U of B stu- Entrance is three pesos, or about $1
La Terraza Parrilla and Vineria, 1824 most famous square in this city of Argentina’s grand and storied history dents perform orchestral works from Cdn. (Avenida Casares and Avenida
Gurruchaga, Tel. 011/4831-3119.) 2.7 million people, and often a site for is best viewed by taking a walking tour Puccini and Tchaikovsky. Adolfo Berro, Tel. 011/4804-4922.)

1 ......PATAGONIA (AR1) ..................... $4039
2 ......AFRICAN SAFARI (KT4)................ $5262
3 ......EGYPT (EG3) .......................... $2862
4 ......PERU (PE1)............................ $2138
5 ......NORTHERN ITALY (IT7)................ $2695
6 ......JAPAN BY RAIL (JP1) ................. $4319
7 ......NORTHERN INDIA (IN1)................ $3229
8 ......VIETNAM CAMBODIA (VN2) ........ $3002
9 ......ECUADOR GALAPAGOS (EQ3) ..... $4568
10 .....ADRIATIC (AD1)........................ $3758

Prices are Land Only. Call for ﬂight prices.

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Breaking news at calgaryherald.com TRAVEL Saturday, April 10, 2010 F5

S O U T H E R N C A L I FO R N I A : O F F B E AT L . A .

From great chili
to Capt. Kirk
DAVE MAKICHUK campus and ask anyone where
CALGARY HERALD the bookstore is. It’s a short, brisk
walk to a main central building,

A sk average tourists what which houses a massive floor of
they did on their recent trip USC and UCLA-themed mer-
to Los Angeles, and they’ll chandise that has to be seen to be
usually tell you the same thing believed. Here you’ll find myriad
— a visit to a theme park like Dis- clothing and souvenirs, perfect for
neyland or Universal, the famous gifts, or treat yourself. Two floors
handprints of the stars at Grau- above, there’s also a food court Photos, courtesy Jim Makichuk,
man’s Chinese Theater, or perhaps with open-air dining areas. Badland Pictures
Venice Beach. Shop.uclastore.com Clockwise from top: Chili John’s
All great places to see, mind restaurant in Burbank is popular
you, but there’s so much more to Chili John’s Restaurant with locals; the famed Three
the City of Angels than these big Love authentic chili? Care to Stooges Steps; and the viewing
draws, especially if you’re a movie rub shoulders with locals and the terrace at Van Nuys airport’s
or television buff, enjoy great local occasional Disney animator? You 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant.
food or just want to soak up some won’t find a better bowl of chili
culture. For your next trip, con- or more friendly service in a cool
sider straying off the beaten path diner setting anywhere in SoCal
with an offbeat L.A. tour. than Chili John’s in Burbank.
In fact, LA Weekly has rated it
Philippe’s French Dip among its top restaurants to eat
Restaurant in before you die. Just be careful
A visit to L.A. would not be when you choose your level of For more photos and
complete without a stop at spiciness, and ask for an Arnold offbeat L.A. sugges-
Philippe’s. Not far from the edge Palmer to wash it down. tions, go to calgaryher-
of Chinatown, where the final 2018 West Burbank Boulevard ald.com/travel
scenes of Roman Polanski’s 1974 were filmed at this airport, which rocks.html and aguadulcevine-
film of the same name were shot, Three Stooges Steps throwing. offers historical tours. yards.com
the self-described home of the Fans of the Three Stooges will The94thsquadron.com and
French dip sandwich is a treat. thoroughly enjoy this trip back in 94th Aero Squadron lawa.org/welcomeVNY.aspx Chez Jays
Stepping into the confines of time. I speak, of course, of one of Restaurant Most tourists who walk the
this venerable establishment is the most hallowed, and remark- One of the best ways to spend a Vasquez Rocks Santa Monica Pier are probably
nothing short of a journey into a ably preserved, film locations relaxing afternoon is to head over What Trekkie would not want to not aware that just down the street
bygone era, where the price of cof- in Stoogedom: the famed Three to Van Nuys airport for a landing release his inner Kirk and explore at 1657 Ocean Avenue is a fabu-
fee remains at 9 cents, the coun- Stooges steps. Essentially, it’s at the 94th Aero Squadron Restau- the otherworldly Vasquez Rocks lous, 1960s-era bar called Chez
ter girls still dress in 1940s-style where one of the most famous rant. On arrival, the extravagant — site of one of the most famous Jays, one of the most famous living
uniforms and the clientele is a Stooges episodes was shot. World War One-themed aviation Star Trek episodes, “Arena,” where landmarks in Rat Pack history.
refreshing cross-section of Angeli- The episode (1941’s An Ache decor will prompt you to pull out Capt. Kirk (William Shatner) Yes, Frank Sinatra and the boys
nos. Think homeless people, cops, in Every Stake) where Curly at- your digital camera, but it’s best to battles and defeats the reptilian used to hang here, along with ac-
lawyers, movers and shakers. tempts to carry blocks of ice up a walk through the place and grab a Gorn creature. tresses and astronauts.
Bypass the breakfast menu and long flight of concrete stairs to an seat on the open-air terrace. The Vasquez Rocks Natural Area In fact, astronaut Alan Shepherd
go straight for your preference of impatient customer, only to find restaurant is located adjacent to Park is located about 50 kilome- took one of the peanuts from Jay
beef, ham, pork, lamb or turkey the ice melted down to a cube one of the busiest runways in the tres north of L.A., off Hwy. 14. Fiondella’s bar to the moon and
dip sandwich — all accompanied when he reaches the top. world where you can sit in the The strange, unearthly look- back. It’s also rumoured a certain
by Philippe’s special hot mustard. The location is hard to find. It shade enjoying lunch or dinner, an ing formations have been used Hollywood actress could be seen
Philippes.com sits at the end of a cul-de-sac in Irish coffee or cold beer, watch- numerous times in film, television in one of the booths, waiting for
Silverlake, between 2257 and 2258 ing aircraft — some belonging to and countless magazine ads, and a phone call, then leave to meet
UCLA Campus Bookstore Fair Oak View Terrace. A GPS will the stars — land and take off. Bil- chances are you will see a film none other than JFK for a secret
Care for a bit of cool shopping? prove handy here. But once there, lionaire recluse Howard Hughes truck there. Look carefully for the rendezvous. Jay passed away at 82
Head to Westwood and drive you can, as some Stooge fans have flew out of Van Nuys, and John off-ramp sign — it’s quite small not long ago, and a lot of history
straight into the main entrance done, bring along a set of ice tongs Travolta keeps some of his aircraft and easy to miss. Admission to the went with him, but the bar still
of the UCLA campus. At the end and Styrofoam ice blocks, and at- there. park is free. On the way back, stop serves up great steaks and beer.
of Westwood Boulevard is a visi- tempt the same poses as the com- By the way, some of the scenes at nearby Agua Dulce Winery for Chezjays.com
tor’s parking garage on your left edy trio. Neighbours are generally from Casablanca, starring Hum- a refreshing wine tasting.
with nominal rates. Step onto the OK with it all, but please, no pie phrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, Santaclaritaguide.com/vasquez- DMAKICHUK@THEHERALD.CANWEST.COM

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