By Brianne Zwambag
Calgary
Canada
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Resting in the shadow of the rugged, untamed Canadian Rocky Mountains, Calgary is a unique urban oasis that offers all of the amenities and attractions you’d expect from a world-class tourist destination while giving a special nod to the western heritage that still walks the city streets.

EscapeWizard.com invites you to book your next getaway to the heart of the new west for a truly inviting experience. Easily accessed through the Calgary International Airport (YYC), you can book your flight today with EscapeWizard.com and choose from all of your favourite airlines while getting the best rate possible (www.escapewizard.com/flight.php). EscapeWizard.com is also your best destination for Calgary, Alberta hotel bookings with easy access to hotel availability and rates across the city in one convenient booking location (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl). We recommend the Holiday Inn Express as our top selection for affordable pricing and fine service.

Your arrival in Calgary will mark a grand entrance into a city of contrasts. A city where you can shop for high-end fashion in the morning, test out an Olympic bobsleigh track in the afternoon and take in a daring experimental theatre performance in the evening.

For the arts and culture connoisseurs, EscapeWizard.com invites you to start your trip at Olympic Plaza; Calgary’s art and culture gateway. Olympic Plaza is an urban park located just off of Calgary’s famous Stephen Avenue and Calgary’s light-rail transit line. With cafes, buskers and varying schedules of entertainment, the plaza is bursting with an energy that EscapeWizard.com believes is worth a visit for anyone visiting the city. Overlooking the plaza is Calgary’s EPCOR CENTRE for the Performing Arts, which houses seven arts organizations ranging from experimental theatre company, One Yellow Rabbit, to the celebrated Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Continue down Stephen Avenue and you will find Calgary’s art and culture scene at its best; galleries, museums, fashion boutiques and some of Calgary’s best and most creative cuisine can all be found within these seven blocks.

For those seeking an adventure, Calgary is a playground. Within the city, visit Canada Olympic Park for a day of speed, adrenaline and fun. Canada Olympic Park was the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Today, you can take a zip line ride down the largest ski-tower or take a ride down the bobsleigh track that was used by the athletes in the Calgary games. If you’d like to explore the beautiful Rocky Mountains, EscapeWizard.com can help you find transportation from Calgary to popular destinations such as Banff and Canmore through one of many reputable tour companies. Once in the mountains, you can choose from hundreds of activities ranging from hiking to white-water rafting. Or, if you just want to enjoy the scenery, try a soak in Banff’s famous hot springs.

For the shoppers out there, EscapeWizard.com would like to guide you to Calgary’s best shopping districts. Kensington, located just across the river from downtown Calgary and easily accessed by the walking visitor, is ideal for a day of treats and fashion. Boasting some of the best consignment stores, boutique fashion shops and salon spa’s in the city, pampering is definitely the theme of Kensington. Many great food stops exist here, from La Pulcinella’s authentic Neapolitan pizza to Crave’s succulent cupcakes, you won’t go hungry here. For the vintage shopper, walk the historic streets of Inglewood for antique shops, tea houses and diners and funky art shops. EscapeWizard.com recommends you come with extra space in your suitcase so you can shop without worry!

While you’re caught up in Calgary’s amazing culture and recreation pockets, don’t forget to take some time for some of EscapeWizard.com’s favourite Calgary attractions. Not to be missed is the 190m Calgary Tower. Opening in 1968, this was one of the first towers of its kind to exist and offers panoramic views of the beautiful Calgary landscape and offers visitors the chance to walk across the observation deck’s glass floor! Check out Fort Calgary or Heritage Park to learn more about Calgary’s rich history or enjoy kid-friendly attractions such as the Calgary Zoo or always fascinating Calgary Science Centre.

If you’re lucky enough to book your EscapeWizard.com vacation to Calgary during the Calgary Stampede (beginning the second Friday of July and running for 10 days every year), you will be able to experience Calgary’s western heritage at its finest during your trip. Kick it off with Calgary’s best parade, then pace yourself. During these ten days, you can enjoy pancakes and sausage on almost any street corner every morning and romance cowboys or cowgirls as Calgary’s nightlife swings in to full gear. Explore the horse barns, take in the rodeo, learn the rules of the chuck wagon races or enjoy the midway rides. This show takes days to truly experience and is called Greatest Outdoor Show in the World for a good reason.

EscapeWizard.com encourages you to book your next vacation to this urban cow town and experience all that it has to offer! So follow the link above and start planning your dream vacation today!
Hotels in Calgary
By Summer Brons
Hyatt Regency Calgary
700 Centre Street SE, Calgary, AB
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Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Calgary, the Hyatt Regency offers up a charming blend of history and luxury. Sitting just 20 minutes from Calgary International Airport, the hotel is nearby popular shopping attractions like Stephen Avenue Walk, Banker's Hall, and Olympic Plaza. The city also features museums, gardens, performances, and an array of outdoor activities.    

While the entertainment options around the city are nearly endless, on-site activities at the Hyatt Regency are also plentiful. Enjoy an afternoon of pampering at the hotel's own Stillwater Spa, get in a good workout at the 24-hour fitness center, take a dip in the indoor pool or hot tub, or relax on the 18th floor sundeck. If there's work to be done, take advantage of the 24-hour business center, wireless Internet access, even host a business event in the 33,000 available square feet of meeting space.     

When hunger strikes, visitors can enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants in Calgary, or enjoy delicious food right at the Hyatt. Thomsons Restaurant was named one of the top 10 places to dine in Calgary and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Cozy up to the fireplace and grab a drink at the Sandstone Lounge, which is equally inviting for a light lunch or a few rounds of cocktails. Additionally, 24-hour room service is available as an alternate option.     

Guest rooms at the Hyatt Regency are as comfortable as any traveler would hope for. Plush Hyatt Grand Beds, large work desks, iHome stereo with ©iPod docking station, 37" flat screen television, and well-equipped bathroom ensure an enjoyable night in. All rooms enjoy tasteful, modern decor and Hyatt Gold Passport members will earn points for their stay.    

Whether visiting Calgary for vacation or on business, the Hyatt Regency is sure to please. A fantastic location and upscale amenities will make each guest feel right at home in the "Gateway to the Rockies.” Book with EscapeWizard.com today, just click on this link (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
Hotels in Calgary
By Summer Brons
Holiday Inn Express
12025 Lake Fraser Drive, Calgary, AB
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Located 30 Kilometers from the Calgary International Airport, the Holiday Inn Express is a great choice for both business and leisure travelers alike. Just .05 Kilometers from the C-Train at Canyon Meadows Station makes for quick transport all around the city, and the hotel's generous amenities ensure all guests are comfortable.     

The Holiday Inn Express is close by Heritage Park, SouthCentre Mall, Chinatown, the Calgary Zoo, and many other local attractions. Major businesses are in the area as well, and include Chrysler, Earth Tech, and Flour Daniel among others. The hotel recognizes the need to accommodate travelers of all reasons, and the guest services prove it. Available meeting space, a 24-hour business center, wireless Internet access, 24-hour fitness center, and indoor pool offer productivity and entertainment solutions alike.       

Start the day with a complimentary hot breakfast bar at the Holiday Inn Express, or enjoy room service from 11:00 AM until 10:00 PM. Nearby restaurants and bars are plentiful in Calgary and visitors are sure to find something to satisfy any appetite.      

At the end of the day, guests can relax in the comfort of their private rooms, each equipped with all the necessities. Triple-sheeted beds, cable television, workspace, hairdryer, coffee maker, microwave and mini refrigerator are all featured in each room. Executive club level rooms also add a wet bar and fireplace. For those desiring additional space, suites are available with separation between the living area and beds, and feature enhanced bathroom amenities and a breakfast nook. Guests who are Priority Club Rewards members will earn points for their stay at the hotel.    

The Holiday Inn Express is a great choice for any Calgary traveler. With a convenient location and host of amenities, both business guests and vacationers will welcomed and comfortable. Just follow this link to book with EscapeWizard.com (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).
Hotels in Calgary
By Rose Overbey
Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire
255 Barclay Parade SW, Calgary, AB
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If you’re planning a trip to Calgary, Alberta, there is no better place to stay than the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire. Located in the heart of downtown, guests will enjoy the convenience of being near the best attractions Calgary has to offer – from Eau Claire Market to Princes Island. Of course guests won’t have to leave their rooms to enjoy picturesque views of the city, Prince’s Island, or Bow River. All rooms offer floor to ceiling windows to help guests truly feel a part of the city.

The Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel offers plenty of dining choices for those looking to stay within the walls of the hotel, but still want a first class experience. Barclay's Restaurant is a sophisticated place to grab a drink, or have a delicious meal. Those looking for a more casual theme would enjoy stopping into Fionn MacCool's for a quick brew.

If relaxation is your goal, the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel is the place to meet it. Enjoy an appointment at the in-house “Pearl, the Salon” or if you prefer, the hotel can arrange for you to receive your service in your room. There is also an on site fitness center for guests to continue their work out routines, even while away from home. The center features cardio equipment, areas to shower, and complimentary towels.

If you need to fit business into your trip, you’ll find plenty of amenities to help you get down to work. In your room there is a large, workable desk. Should you need to meet with others, the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel offers plenty of flexible meeting space. If you need to give a huge presentation, you have the space. Or if you prefer an intimate setting to discuss big ideas, the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel can arrange that as well.

The Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel is a perfect place for a special event considering it’s wonderful location and beautiful décor. Be sure to talk to a staff member about planning a wedding or other special milestone at the hotel.

Staying at the four-diamond ranked, Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel is a wonderful choice for someone looking for a comfortable place to call home while visiting Calgary. You’ll enjoy the complimentary newspaper brought to your door each morning. You’ll also enjoy the variety of movies offered in the room, and the comfortable bed. EscapeWizard.com highly recommends booking your hotel room at the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Hotel. You can do so by following this link (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).