TikTok trends have a way of making us rethink everyday things, and this one is no exception. Undoubtedly, the drawing on a table tablescape craze has taken over our social feeds, inspiring us all to turn our dining tables into works of art. This trend is a perfectly sustainable one that will help create a magical, custom tablescape for your next gathering without hurting the planet. In this DIY tutorial, we’ll show you how to create your own personalized tablescape that’s perfect for your next hosting gig, elevating the dining experience to a whole new level.

@thehomenet

Get creative with your table setting ✏️🎨 This DIY tablescape is perfect for personalizing your meal! @Hey Maca | DIY | Home Decor #tablescape #diy #placemats #holiday

♬ Christmas Lights – Kyrylo Zaplotynskyi

Materials Required:

• A roll of kraft paper
• White acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes (variety of sizes)
• Zigzag scissors
• Velvet lace (for the napkins)
• Napkins
• Candles in a matching colour palette
• Decorative seasonal elements

Step 1: Prep the Table

Start by rolling out the kraft paper across your table, ensuring it fully covers the surface. This will be your blank canvas.

Pro Tip: You can secure it with tape underneath to keep it flat and wrinkle-free.

Step 2: Design and Paint

Lightly sketch where your plates, coasters and names will go. Then, use a pencil to mark the areas with all of the details you’d like. This will create a balanced layout on your table.

Now, using your white acrylic paint, you can freehand draw scalloped plates, your guests’ names, coasters and any extra beautiful detail you’d like to see directly onto the kraft paper. Don’t be shy with adding fun shapes, too. For example, borders, stars and much more — just let your creativity shine for this step!

Step 3: Craft Napkin Bows

To complete this DIY, fold your paper napkins in three equal parts and then tie them with velvet lace to create elegant bows. Then, cut the edges with zigzag scissors and place them at each seating spot on top of your plates for a beautiful and elegant look.

Congratulations! You’ve just transformed an ordinary dining table into a stunning work of art, personalized to each guest and your home decor.

This DIY tablescape isn’t just decor — it’s definitely a conversation starter and creates an unforgettable experience for your friends and family.

Happy crafting, friends!

Is life getting the best of you lately? If so, don’t fret. Depending on what province or territory you’re in, rest and relaxation are just a few clicks away thanks to this comprehensive list of the best spas in the country. And we’re not talking any spa either. These spas are each breathtaking in their own right due to what sets them apart from other spas in Canada. Whether its nature in its purest form or world-class city views, these spas each offer something special. So sit back and relax. These spectacular spas will have you back to your old fabulous self in no time.

BC: The Healing Grounds Spa

Set along the water’s edge where the rainforest meets the river and ocean, The Healing Grounds Spa at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is a secluded sanctuary like no other. Guests who are lucky enough to visit will embark on their own personal journey as they bathe in the beauty of their surroundings and enjoy restorative treatments for the body and soul. This serene spa features cedar hot tubs, a breathtaking outdoor lounge and a waterfront massage tent that allows guests to breathe in fresh mountain air during their treatment. Plus, for those seeking some adventure to support their healing journey, there are miles of waterfront and forest running trails throughout the pristine grounds just waiting to be explored.

Ontario: The St. Regis Spa Toronto

Perched high above the city on the 31st floor of The St. Regis Toronto hotel is Canada’s highest luxury spa. Guests of The Spa are greeted by spectacular views of downtown Toronto as they indulge at this urban oasis. Winning Forbes’ five-star spa rating two years in a row (2023, 2024), the recently renovated space offers a variety of trendsetting treatments. From a Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Massage to an Advanced Oxygen Facial, there’s no shortage of rejuvenating treatments to choose from. In addition to their signature treatments, The Spa is also home to a breathtaking infinity lap pool with sweeping views of the city. Plus, there’s a newly launched wellness food and drinks’ menu that’s not to be missed. Guests can order the customizable Bento Box and enjoy it in The Spa’s tranquil lounge space.

Yukon: Northern Lights Resort & Spa

For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and escape to true wilderness, the Yukon’s Northern Lights Resort & Spa is a great option. This family-run retreat is located 20 minutes from Whitehorse and is the perfect place to get away from it all. Guests of this remote spa can indulge in a wellness massage, a Finnish or infrared sauna and the calming relaxation room, all within the secluded comforts of nature. Then, to top it all off and make this a truly unique experience, spa-goers can book one of the luxurious Aurora Glass Chalets to take in the spectacular Aurora Borealis at night. There’s not many places you can recharge while also taking in the magic of The Northern Lights so even if it’s a plane ride away, don’t let this spa pass you by.

Alberta: Fairmont Spa Banff Springs

When it comes to the most spectacular spas in the country, most Canadians are familiar with the Fairmont Spa in Banff. Known for its majestic views of the Rockies, this century-old sanctuary features waterfalls, indoor and outdoor mineral pools, a eucalyptus-scented sauna and even a full salon. Guests of this award-winning spa will unwind and detox via an expansive offering of reinvigorating treatments. The crisp mountain air will also help, too!

Nova Scotia: Nature Folk

Located on the Dartmouth waterfront, the recently renovated Nature Folk is a female-founded space that aims to get spa-goers to slow down and reconnect with their intuition. The belief at Nature Folk is that there’s no silver bullet in “wellness,” but rather a synergy of factors that support our mental and physical health. Because of this philosophy, the wellness centre is one of the few in Canada to offer a thermal circuit, private infrared sauna rooms, body work specialists and a movement studio all under one roof. Designed with ancient bathing facilities and traditional Nordic spas in mind, Nature Folk instantly offers refuge to its guests via its use of natural stone, white oak and soft linens.

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New Brunswick: La Belle Cabane

La Belle Cabane is the only spa of its kind in Canada — it operates as a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned healing sanctuary on 40 pristine acres in Kingston, NB. Its owners, Tasha Robitaille and Cory Belcourt, are proud Métis Citizens from The Métis Nation of Ontario and incorporate their culture throughout the spa via its design, aesthetic and experiences offered. While LBC offers off-grid accommodations and events to its guests, those who visit will be most drawn to their popular outdoor forest thermal experience. It consists of an infrared therapy salt room and two private spa pods that include dry saunas, steam saunas, cedar plunges, heated river stone beds and hot tubs. The main goal at LBC is to help people find freedom in the forest through authentic healing spaces. We couldn’t agree more — there’s no better way to recharge and reset than to immerse yourself in nature.

PEI: Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort

Perched on the banks of St. Peter’s Bay is Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort, an 18-acre slice of paradise that boasts incredible waterfront views. Prince Edward Island’s first Nordic spa, Mysa allows guests to relieve stress and invigorate their senses via an 85-person thermal bath, a eucalyptus steam bath, Finnish and Barrel saunas, a tranquil mezzanine designed for meditation and a restaurant led by an award-winning chef.

We’re not the only ones who think Mysa is exceptional. According to Spas of America, a website that details the top wellness experiences, this PEI sanctuary is one of the best in North America. The serene space ranked 30th on a list of their top 100 spas in North America. No surprise there.

Manitoba: Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature

Located a few minutes from downtown Winnipeg, Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature is a healing centre on a mission to help you discover thermotherapy and its many benefits. This 2,000-year-old ritual alternates between heat, cold and rest to eliminate toxins, stimulate blood circulation and support your heart. Spa-goers can do just that thanks to a wide array of wellness amenities including saunas, outdoor baths and numerous rest areas. Plus, there’s also a unique self-exfoliation room where guests can restore radiance to their skin at any time. All of this can be done within the spa’s natural, peaceful environment.

Quebec: BALNEA Spa + Thermal Reserve

Nestled on the banks of a mountain and overlooking a majestic lake, BALNEA offers guests a unique place to satisfy their needs for rest and rejuvenation. The largest spa in Quebec, BALNEA combines award-winning modern design with a sustainable philosophy that respects its environment. In addition to a number of signature restorative treatments, BALNEA offers guests a thermal experience for regaining their vitality. There’s also the spa’s restaurant LUMAMI, which offers a unique culinary experience to guests. And if that wasn’t enough, BALNEA also boasts a network of mountain trails, lake-side yoga and a magnificent cave. All of these things were designed to give spa-goers the renewal and tranquility they set out for.

Saskatchewan: Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking for a spa in the heart of the prairies, look no further. Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa in the charming city of Moose Jaw is your best bet. The spa is best known for their world-renowned geothermal mineral pools but they do offer a variety of other restorative treatments, too. These include massage, facials, reflexology and a mix of unique body treatments like their Thermal Mud Wrap, which detoxifies the body using mud infused with thermal waters from Bormio, Italy. Is it just us or does mud imported from Italy suddenly sound luxurious?

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Ontario: Wander The Spa

Though it’s not technically open just yet (guests will need to wait until January 2025), fans of Wander The Resort in Prince Edward County are eager to step foot in the province’s first-ever lakefront Nordic spa. Years in the making, this 10,000-square-foot thermotherapy circuit boasts a number of healing amenities, like their 32-seat sauna, a steam room, hot or warm soak pools, a cold plunge area, a dip pool and even two waterfalls. There’s also private access to 200-feet of waterfront for those who want to experience a natural cold plunge courtesy of Mother Nature. With the resort receiving international acclaim as one of the top travel destinations in the country, it’s no wonder people are anxiously awaiting this spa’s grand opening in the new year!

Is there anything better than a fall getaway in Ontario? There are hikes through forests with changing leaves. Farmer’s markets with handmade condiments and soup ingredients, or wineries and breweries if you want something a little harder. And beautiful road trips, with or without a pumpkin spice latte in hand.

Unfortunately, going on these adventures can add up. That’s why we’ve sourced some of the best Ontario fall getaways that are also budget-friendly. Whether you’re headed out for a romantic weekend or an escape with friends, here are five trips that won’t break the bank.

Take in Lake Erie at the Elgin County Lakeshore

Many people flock to Ports Burwell, Dover, Stanley and Glasgow in the summer to swim in Lake Erie’s gigantic waves, but the ports make for beautiful fall escapes as well. There are plenty of budget-friendly motels and hotels to stay at, and even more to do in the surrounding towns. There are boutique wineries, delicious restaurants, tons of shopping and art, and plenty of nature to check out. Hike some bluffs, check out migrating raptors and monarch butterflies, walk some of the dunes, or rent a kayak and see the pretty fall colours from the water.

It’s the ideal location for a romantic getaway or a relaxing weekend with friends. Or, if you’ve got kids, there are plenty of parks, museums, railway exhibits, and authentic rides on an L & P.S. railcar over at Port Stanley Terminal Rail.

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Camping and Wine Tasting at Sandbanks

Fall camping is one of the most beautiful experiences, and it’s completely affordable if you invest in the equipment. Sure, you’ll want to bring extra blankets and batch-cook some soups and chili to bring along, but the views are worth it.

That’s particularly true at Sandbanks Provincial Park, where electric sites cost roughly $50 a night. The best part is there’s plenty to do within and outside the park to make your weekend memorable. Hike the trails, dunes or beaches and take in the sparkling water. Or, head into Prince Edward County for a day of wine tours, breweries and shopping. Picton and Wellington are also great places to explore, with their share of hidden wineries and antique shops that are always worth checking out.

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A Romantic Retreat in Muskoka

Why book a hotel room when you and your sweetie can cuddle up in a lakeside log cabin instead? Huntsville’s Cedar Grove Lodge offers 19 log cabins along 1,600 feet of natural shoreline, and each rental comes with a wood-burning stone fireplace. A two-night stay is less than $400 per person, including a full buffet breakfast and afternoon snack. A stay also includes free use of the resort’s water toys, like kayaks and paddleboards, and onsite games like disc golf, ping pong, shuffleboard, and pool.

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Scenic Caves at Blue Mountain

Skiing at Blue Mountain in Collingwood is a popular winter activity, but there’s still plenty to do in the fall — with fewer tourists. There’s zip-lining, hiking and mountain biking, or you could head golfing or relax in the spa. The price per activity varies, but there’s always something to do. There are also many things to do offsite, including a hike through the Scenic Caves Nature Adventures (and across the 420-foot suspension bridge) or a relaxing day at Scandinave Spa. Take advantage of off-season pricing at the mountain, or there are tons of lodges, rentals and hotels nearby.

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Tobermory

Summers in Tobermory fill up, but the fall is an equally popular — and affordable — time to go if you get a good deal on your stay. There are plenty of hostels, rentals and budget-friendly motels to consider, or you could go fall camping at Bruce Peninsula National Park. (Cyprus Lake has 10 yurts available, but they book up fast.) Once there, you can take advantage of the gorgeous fall trails, grab some local grub, visit Flower Pot Island, or check out the famous shipwrecks.

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Summer in Ontario is in full swing and with the heat, residents are set on making the most of the fleeting warm weather. According to online trends, searches are up in Ontario for family getaways, romantic getaways and weekend getaways in general. If you’re one of those people searching for a unique spot to venture to this summer, look no further. Here’s a look at some of our favourites.

1. The June Motel — Beaver Valley, Ontario

If Ontario’s Beaver Valley isn’t yet on your bucket list, it’s time to add it. In addition to trendy restaurants and endless outdoor adventures, this emerging travel spot is home to The June Motel’s third and latest transformation — the June Beaver Valley.

Inspired by its picturesque location along the Beaver River, the eight-room outpost’s design veers away from the brand’s signature pink aesthetic and instead leans in to its countryside vibe. Owners Sarah Sklash and April Brown teamed up with renowned designer Ashley Montgomery to give guests a unique experience that’s moody and mature, yet still features playful and feminine patterns throughout.

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What sets the property apart from others in the area is how perfect the set up is for small gatherings and celebrations, allowing guests to take over the entire motel for special events. It’s ideal for those who want their own washroom and don’t want to worry about cleaning. Plus, there’s endless activities to explore in the area, including skiing, hiking, canoeing and spa experiences.

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2. Somewhere Inn — Collingwood, Ontario

If you’re headed towards Georgian Bay this summer, be sure to check out downtown Collingwood’s newest boutique hotel. Boasting a wine bar, a patio surrounded by lush gardens and a sauna and cold plunge, this secluded sanctuary is the perfect place to disconnect from it all while still being close to the top amenities.

Plus, the century-home-turned-hotel is a haven for design aficionados thanks to its purposeful and intimate decor choices. Each dreamy room seamlessly blends old with new via unique vintage pieces and high-end finishes.

Another perk? This stylish retreat is dog friendly so guests are welcome to bring their pup along for the ride. The closest beach, Sunset Point Beach, is only a 16-minute walk from the hotel and is a paradise for not only dogs, but children and outdoor enthusiasts, too!

3. The Beach Motel and Restaurant — Southampton, Ontario

Situated in the quaint town of Southampton, steps from Ontario’s beautiful Lake Huron, lies a coastal-inspired boutique beach resort aptly named The Beach Motel. Here, you’ll find a thoughtfully-designed 17-suite getaway that’s modern while still retaining its original character.

The property’s breezy vibe transfers seamlessly to its rooms, which are both contemporary and relaxing at once. A nod to the coastal cool aesthetic is evident via details like shiplap-adorned walls, arched doorways, green and blue-speckled wallpaper and an array of custom white oak furniture.

There’s no shortage of things to do at The Beach Motel, thanks to its in-house SandBar restaurant, oversized rooftop patio, outdoor barrel sauna and a professional spa. The restaurant, which is helmed by renowned chef Carey McLellan, focuses on bringing guests unique dining experiences using local ingredients presented in a playful way. Chef Carey’s deep commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the menu. Be sure to try her infamous baked brie, which features a delicious seasonal compote and homemade flatbreads to scoop it all up.

4. The June Motel — Sauble Beach, Ontario

If taking a step back in time is what you’re after, a visit to The June Motel’s Sauble Beach location should be at the top of your list. Upon arriving in Sauble Beach, specifically The June Motel, you’ll be transported back to the 1970’s. The vibe is laid-back and the pace is slower here, allowing travellers to fully soak in their surroundings.

A short walk from the beach, The June Motel is the perfect hideaway in Sauble Beach, thanks to its inspiring decor, hospitable service and an abundance of amenities. Guests of the 24-room hideaway have access to their retro-inspired pool and indoor-outdoor eatery, Heydays (a local hotspot!). For those not familiar with Heydays, their offerings are so popular that they just launched their very own cookbook, featuring faves like their hot lobster rolls and charred broccoli Caesar salad.

The design at the property sticks to its ’70s beach town ethos. Think: lots of mid-century modern furniture, neon signs, woven accents and apricot-hued paint. It’s a fresh playful take on the ’70s that’s perfect for romantic getaways and even road trips with the kids!

5. The Dorchester Hotel — Collingwood, Ontario

If you’re a history buff, a visit to The Dorchester Hotel in Collingwood’s downtown core is a must. The landmark heritage building was originally built in 1895 and was one of the town’s first-ever hotels. That all changed when its new owners, Chris and Tammy Millsap, purchased the building and restored it to its former glory. The couple have worked tirelessly to reimagine 172 Hurontario Street and it has paid off.

Today, the historic property embraces the aesthetic of the 1920s and is a glamourous throwback to the Art Deco era. Thoughtfully-curated guestrooms feature rich-coloured paint, black-and-white checkered floors, clawfoot tubs, moody drapes and brass accents throughout. Still, while the Dorchester transports guests back to the 1920s, there’s an endless amount of modern amenities that bring the hotel back into the 21st century. Think: high-quality linens, bespoke toiletries and plush mattresses you’ll have trouble parting with.

And if that weren’t enough, The Dorchester has just opened an on-site ’20s-themed bar and restaurant, meaning guests don’t need to step foot off the historic property to find their entertainment. That’s a win-win in our books!

For more tips and ideas related to travelling, check out our Travel section.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you might have heard that a few weeks ago the northern lights (AKA aurora borealis) were visible across most of Canada. While this might not seem surprising to you, the northern lights are typically found in hard to reach places. This comes off the heels of another cosmic anomaly: the total solar eclipse (hope your eyes don’t hurt). It’s sad to think that most people believe they won’t be able to see the aurora in their lifetime but we’re here to say otherwise. If you’re down for some adventure travel deep into calming nature, read on to see our guide for the best places and times to see the northern lights.

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What Are the Northern Lights?

The aurora is a natural light display that typically appears in the most northern regions of the globe: Canada, Norway, Iceland, etc. Without getting too scientific, basically it’s the result of solar wind interacting with the Earth’s magnetic “sphere.” The change in particles and precipitation eventually end up becoming a gorgeous light show of reds, greens and blues. In Cree and Ojibway culture, the aurora is viewed as a sign from their ancestors. The aurora is a reminder to celebrate life and understanding that we are all bound by creation.

Where Can I See the Northern Lights in Canada?

Canadians are very lucky in that we’re able to view the aurora from a ton of different areas in Canada. The most common assumption is that the aurora is only visible in the territories, however that is far from the truth. Places like Winnipeg, Cold Lake, Manitoulin Island and Jasper National Park have a higher likelihood of seeing the lights due to location and minimal light pollution. Unfortunately, coastal cities like Vancouver and St. John’s are less likely to see the aurora due to the high percentage of overcast conditions. As for Toronto, well — there’s a laundry list of reasons why seeing the aurora would not be possible… but we still have hope!

Places outside of the territories most likely to see the northern lights:

• Jasper, AB
• Cold Lake, AB
• Banff National Park, AB
• Torngat Mountains National Park, NFL
• Moosonee, ON
• Manitoulin Island, ON
• Churchill, MB
• Winnipeg, MB

Most notably, the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut provide optimal scenery to view the aurora — if you can handle the cold. Thankfully, there is an abundance of outdoor seasonal experiences you can enjoy hosted by local Indigenous peoples. Each experience offers a unique POV on the aurora whether you’re cozying up in teepees or trekking by dog sled. For the full list of Indigenous-hosted northern lights activities in 2024, visit Travel+Leisure.

When Is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights?

In terms of timing, seeing the aurora can vary. While it’s most common to want to see the lights in the winter, it’s actually possible to view them during all seasons of the year. For Ontarians and Albertans, the best time to see the aurora is during the fall when there is minimal cloud cover and cooler temperatures. For East Coasters, visiting Newfoundland and Labrador is ideal in the summer and is totally unique due to the natural landscape of that province. If you’re looking to visit the territories, each season has its own unique charm but of course, the winter would be the best time to capitalize on the incredible outdoor activities.