Secret season in Jasper: 3 days of ice walking, ice skating and other winter adventures

The first view of the Rocky Mountains as you drive the road from Calgary is almost overwhelming.

The late-winter ice has fortified these formidable peaks to the point that I should surely feel daunted. Yet, the effect is somehow opposite; I find myself drawn to them. I imagine being propelled along marvellous icefields, dragged willingly past awesome glaciers and pitched cheerfully down frozen canyons. I’m filled with the urge to ascend further into this jagged range of glaciated limestone and shale and breathe in the exhilaratingly icy air.
Luckily, there’s a town where I can do all of that and more. Perched 1,000 metres above sea level, deep in the beating heart of the Rockies, is Jasper, Alta. And while many flock to these mountains’ crests and spires in January and February for snow-filled fun, March is Jasper’s secret season, offering a calmer yet equally invigorating alpine experience.

Italy’s Umbria Region is a timeless land richly endowed with history and art. Visitors to Umbria can explore the archaeological heritage of past civilizations, from the ancient Umbri and Celts to the Etruscans and Romans, and many a Renaissance palazzo rests on foundation blocks laid by workmen two millennia ago. But make no mistake: Umbria is not a stale museum. Contemporary art and monumental outdoor installations speak to a passionate relationship between 20th and 21st century artists and this verdant region of forests and vineyards, lakes and waterfalls. Here are seven places to discover the natural and cultural heritage of Italy’s green heart.

From South African penguins and Canadian bears to Australian wombats and Bolivian pumas, Robin Esrock introduces inspiring wildlife sanctuaries where volunteers make all the difference
By Robin Esrock

Getting up close and personal with a wild animal can be a thrilling and, sometimes, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine bathing an elephant in northern Thailand, using buckets to splash mud over the giant mammal’s rough skin. Or what about feeding indigenous Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos? For wildlife lovers worldwide, these experiences can be highly sought after. And with more than 1,500 animal sanctuaries around the world, it can be challenging to choose which organization to volunteer with. But there’s a catch: not all animal sanctuaries are ethical.

Riding on the back of an elephant, playing with a monkey on a chain and photo-ops with big cats are all big red flags. Many sanctuaries will say all the right things to entice animal-loving tourists to participate in these encounters, but in truth, many of these “sanctuaries” exploit animals for monetary gain. But don’t worry; many reputable animal rescue organizations allow you to experience a destination while giving something back safely and ethically.