It seems like we haven’t sat down together in a long time. Like many of you I have been busy enjoying life and the travel opportunities that have presented themselves to me over the last few months. I am often jet setting from one destination to the next in break neck speed that I forget to stop and really appreciate the moment. In life I find things can get like that pretty easily if you don’t remind yourself that it’s more about the journey than the destination. Thankfully, recently I was able to find that literal and proverbial middle ground with Julio & Rebecca in Kingston.
You’ll remember that Julio and I were last in Kingston to celebrate Pride – and ever since I often think back on how beautiful the city truly is and has become since my first visit years ago. Located perfectly in between Montreal and Toronto, I have come to love that it’s a great destination for a romantic weekend full of wine and delicious food, and at the same time can be a few days away with your BFF.
Here’s a few tips for you if you’re looking for some things to do with that special someone in your life. Book a room at Frontenac Club – we stayed in the Frontenac suite (above) and loved it. From the spectacular bath tub to the fireplace in the room. Not to mention The Bank restaurant located on the main floor has a spectacular wine list and room service every morning was divine.
Kingston is just a quick drive away from the county, one of the best wine growing regions in Canada, and County Sips is a fabulous experience that can help you explore it and experience some of the most unique and incredible wineries and local businesses.
The food scene in Kingston is one of my personal favourite reasons to visit – a diverse mix of fine and casual dining, bars and pubs, microbreweries and cafes. The vibrant downtown features a collection of authentic boutiques, galleries and performance venues including Canada’s oldest continuously run farmers market in North America.
Looking to support local and visit some small businesses? Here’s a list of some that I had the chance to check out that I highly recommend!
Antique Emporium – Location: 77 Princess Street, Kingston, Ontario
Minotaur – Location: 78 Princess Street, Kingston, Ontario
Montreal Street Collective – Location: 39 Montreal Street, Kingston, Ontario
Something Else Records – Location: 207A Wellington Street, Kingston, Ontario
Cooke’s Fine Foods and Coffee – Location: 61 Brock Street, Kingston, Ontario
Martello Alley – Location: 203 B Wellington Street, Kingston, Ontario
Alphabet Mafia (LGBTQ+ shop) – Location: 340 Princess Street, Kingston, Ontario
Did I forget to mention that Kingston is Rainbow Registered? A national accreditation for LGBT+ friendly businesses and organizations. When you see a Rainbow Registered symbol, you know the business or organization meets a stringent set of standards to ensure LGBT+ customers feel safe, welcomed, and accepted.
If you’re more into the idea of a few days of much needed laughter and rest with your friends, I encourage you to explore the local experiences such as Kingston Food Tours which we all LOVED. If you’re lucky enough to get Jessica as your guide I promise you’re in for a fabulous time! There’s also the beautiful 1000 Island Cruise which takes you along the scenic waterway for a few hours alongside a delicious meal and ambiance.
While I try to sort out how to embed REELS into my blog posts, you can click the following links to watch how differently Rebecca, Julio and I loved our time in Kingston!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CkGZolGg4xr/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CkJJKwBpi5j/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CkKHeeks0dg/7
For those of you inspired by our adventures, or just needing to rediscover Kingston all over again after a few years of being away, I highly recommend you check out the www.southeasternontario.ca and www.visitkingston.ca websites. Of course you can join in on the social media conversation by following @southeast.ontario and @visitkingstonca on Instagram. Follow and use the #VisitKingston hashtag when you need inspiration and when you share your moments in this incredible city you have to experience for yourself to believe it!
This post is not intended to be seen by persons under the legal alcohol drinking age or in countries with restrictions on advertising on alcoholic beverages. Please remember to enjoy responsibly and never drink and drive.
Come along with Julio & I if you aren’t following us yet at @dothedaniel & @fashionights on all social media platforms. And of course make sure to follow @missrebeccaj too!
Photos: Daniel Reyes Cocka and all participating brands and partners
Don’t forget to be kind & laugh a little more this year
*Please note that this may be a sponsored post and promotional consideration may have been offered by participating brands – our disclosure can be found at all times by clicking here.