Both, of course, are irritating – one to black bears and grizzlies, the other to fellow diners, airport travellers, friends and family – but only one, the bear spray, has even the remotest chance of being used in these parts, and even that is extremely unlikely.

For the only service you’ll get in Yoho National Park is at a restaurant – after that, forget it.

“But I just wanna get the baseball scores,” says a nearly frantic American at the reception desk for Cathedral Mountain Lodge, a sumptuous log-cabin retreat that sits rather breathtakingly along the shores of the tumbling Kicking Horse River.

Sorry, he is advised, but all there is for farther than the eye can see in this ring of towering mountains is a single land line, and it takes longer than a double-header just to connect.

Eventually, the few locals say, you get used to it. Keith Wake lives in nearby Field – which claims to be one of the only “towns” (pop. 132) in Canada’s vast national parks system– and is a typical 19-year-old each winter when he heads off to Golden to play junior hockey for the Rockets. He lives by his cellphone, e-mail and the Internet. But summers he comes home to handle rentals for Emerald Lake Sports and Gifts and goes “un-plugged” right until training camp.

“You’re so used to it that whenever you head out you check,” he laughs, tapping his pockets and belt for an imaginary cellphone. “But then, after a little while, you don’t even think about it.

“You even get to like it.”

He is hardly the first to offer such urban blaspheme. “Every so often,” American naturalist John Murphy has written, “a disappearance is in order. A vanishing. A checking out. An indeterminate period of unavailability.” And Yoho National Park – smaller than eastern neighbour Banff, but wilder and higher – is unavailability personified.

“What wilderness should be doing,” thought the late great Canadian canoeist Bill Mason, “is speaking to our soul and teaching us about being quiet.”

All fine and well, Bill, but the contrary advice out here in this particular wilderness is to make noise. Sing, clap your hands, carry a stick that you can periodically strike against a passing tree or rock – a sort of Morse code of the bush that tells bears that idiots are passing through and best not to be seen with them.

In one long hike and climb up to a sub-alpine meadow – beauty beyond words, with paintbrush and western anemone turning the landscape to a Wizard of Oz field of colour – we encountered a nurse from Seattle who, after starting out alone, had wisely thought better of it and turned back to find other hikers she might join. Her strategy for dealing with bears: She carried her iPad held out in front, with Louis Armstrong jazz on full blast.

They recommend you travel in noisy groups of four or more in the early days between late spring melt and early summer as the grizzlies move from lower ground to higher and, for the most part, out of thought. In nearly a week of hiking low ground, middle ground and high ground, we saw only three black bears – and all three from our vehicle while driving to get to the trails. On the actual trails, nothing. And this, without a note from Louis Armstrong.

In their rather-eccentric-but-charming book Don’t Waste Your Time in the Canadian Rockies (“The Opinionated Hiking Guide”), Kathy and Craig Copeland claim that Yoho boasts “the heaviest concentration of high-impact scenery” to be found in the western mountain ranges.

Yoho has 38 peaks over 3,000 metres in height, dramatically justifying its name, which is Cree for “awe.” The rest of the world, it sometimes appears, is more impressed by this awe than are those with the strongest claim on Yoho. “You’re the first Canadians I’ve had this year,” says one guide. He lists Germans, Dutch, Belgian, Spanish, Australian, New Zealand, South African and American… but no Canadians until this late June day.

PHOENIX, Jul 15, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) –
Viad Corp


/quotes/zigman/350875/quotes/nls/vvi VVI
+2.73%



will hold a teleconference with investors and
analysts for a review of 2011 Second Quarter results on Friday, July 29,
2011, at 9 a.m. (Eastern time). The earnings press release will be
issued on that date and posted on Viad’s Web site at
www.viad.com
prior to the call.

To join the live teleconference dial toll-free (800) 779-3189 passcode
“Viad” or access the webcast through Viad’s Web site. A replay will be
available for a limited time at (866) 469-7798 (a passcode is not
required) or visit the Web site and link to a replay of the webcast.

Viad is an SP SmallCap 600 company. Viad operates through its Marketing
Events Group, comprised of Global Experience Specialists, Inc. and
affiliates, and its Travel Recreation Group, comprised of Brewster
Travel Canada and Glacier Park, Inc. For more information, visit the
company’s Web site at
www.viad.com .

SOURCE: Viad Corp

        Viad Corp
        (Investor Relations)
        Melinda Keels, 602/207-1019
        mkeels@viad.com

Copyright Business Wire 2011

/quotes/zigman/350875/quotes/nls/vvi

Add VVI to portfolio

VVI

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — If the earth was flat, this large Canadian island off the east coast of North America would be on the eastern edge of the world.

This Canadian province’s official name was Newfoundland until 2001, when its name was changed to Newfoundland and Labrador. To put things into perspective, Newfoundland (throughout the story I’ll simply refer to it as Newfoundland) is a little smaller than California, slightly bigger than Japan and twice the size of the United Kingdom. The island covers 111,390 square kilometres and has enough coastline to stretch back and fourth across Canada four times over, with no shortage of breathing room.

I began my trip to this rugged land with a five-hour flight to St. John’s (two stops, one at Ottawa the other Halifax) on a swell little airline, Porter Airlines ( www.flyporter.com) from Toronto Island Airport. The return airfare, including all taxes was just under $400.

After arriving in St. John’s I rented a car and over a seven-day stay I would travel 4,000 kilometres and visit the Western, Central, and Eastern districts of the island. Along the way I found several stories to tell.

My first stop was at Memorial University (e-mail: conferences@mun.com) where I had reserved a room. If you don’t mind communal living, a vacant resident’s room with no air-conditioning costs about $50 for two including all taxes.

The Western region

The weather wasn’t all that great on the eastern part of the island, so I opted to start out early the next morning along the Trans Canada Highway to the western part of Newfoundland where it was warmer.

It took seven hours to drive the long, winding highway that rhythmically rose and fell beside and atop spectacular mountains and gushing streams before I arrived at Gros Morne National Park. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the place (those magazine ads and television spots are right on. Inside the park I drove through many small picturesque hamlets like Sally’s Cove where if you blink you won’t know you’ve been there. The weather was perfect and there was still enough light to visit Western Brook Pond inside the park. A one-hour walk along a wooden boardwalk was a wonderful way to end the day.

On my return walk, I was able to purge my mind, body and soul of the stress of today’s living. The sight of Gros Morne Mountain (it’s like a fiord) at the end of the boardwalk and Western Brook Pond made it worthwhile.

I spent the evening at Bayside Cottages ( www.baysidegrosmorne.com or 800-458-2749) in Rocky Harbour. The cottages are set on a cliff with a majestic view of Rocky Harbour and the Atlantic ocean. The evening was quiet and the sunset spectacular.

Corner Brook

About two hours away is one of Newfoundland’s largest cities, Corner Brook. One stop to make is the Newfoundland Emporium at 11 Broadway. Not only is the store colourful, but the owner, Dave LeDrew, is even more colourful. When I asked the 76-year-old if he has lived in Corner Brook all his life he replied, “Not yet, I’m still alive”.

Here’s what floored me. When I told him I was looking for interesting things to see and write about he suggested Burgeo, a two-and-a-half-hour drive down a lonely road to the edge of the Atlantic. I asked him to suggest a place to stay and he replied, “My place, just ask the next door neighbour Elizabeth for the key to my cottage. No charge”. Now understand, I didn’t know him and he didn’t know me. Hospitality is the hallmark of the Newfoundlander. I took him up on his offer.

The ride down Highway 480 to the south coast of the island is flat and lonely (it looks mostly like a moonscape) but what’s at the end of the road made it worthwhile. Burgeo is a photographer’s delight. It’s rural Newfoundland at its best. There are tiny colourful homes set on the rugged edge of the Atlantic. Few tourists visit this small village of 2,000 but there is one motel (Gillett’s Motel) and a few B B’s. This was home at one time to Canadian writer and naturalist Farley Mowat. You won’t find Burgeo listed in many guide books. Don’t miss out on this experience. Thanks Dave.

Next week, a few of the things I’ll tell you about is a winery in rocky Twillingate, Central Newfoundland and in St. John’s, Eastern Newfoundland I’ll walk Water Street, the oldest street in North America.

For More Information Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism at www.newfoundlandlabrador.com.

George Bailey can be contacted by e-mail at wonderful. life@sympatico.ca

“Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States will co-ordinate to prevent Iranian human-rights offenders or individuals connected with the nuclear program from entering our countries,” Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird said in a statement Friday.

British Foreign Secretary William Hague said more than 50 senior regime officials believed to be guilty of human rights violations will be targeted, as will nuclear scientists, engineers and those procuring weapons components.

“We are also taking action against more Iranians who have committed serious human-rights abuses, including government ministers, members of the judiciary, prison officials and others associated with the Iranian government’s brutal crackdown on its people since the disputed elections of 2009,” Hague said.

Baird’s statement mentions some notable recent human rights abuses by the Iranian regime. These include the jailing of Baha’i religious leaders, and the arrest of opposition leader and former presidential candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi.

Baird also said “Prime Minister Stephen Harper has taken a personal interest in the case of Sakineh Ashtiani,” the woman who has become world famous following her condemnation to death by stoning for adultery — an incident that also drew public condemnation from Harper’s wife, Laureen.

“Simply put, Iran’s complete disregard for human rights is unacceptable,” Baird said. “The message to the Iranian leadership is clear: Iran will not take its place as a full and respected member of the international community until its government meets its international and domestic obligations.”

Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, under section 35 (1), contains provisions for the inadmissibility of individuals responsible for human or international rights violations.

Officials at the Iranian Embassy in Ottawa declined Friday to comment on the travel restrictions.

With files from Reuters

CTV.ca News Staff

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge touched down in Yellowknife late Monday after a big day in Canada’s smallest province, which gave them a mix of history, culture and adventure under overcast skies in Prince Edward Island.

A couple of hundred spectators greeted Prince William and Kate at Yellowknife Airport, which was plagued by rain for much of the day.

The couple will enjoy more hands-on activities during their visit to the north, including taking part in a game of street hockey with local youths. They will also attend a session of Youth Parliament before travelling by float plane to Blachford Lake, where they will meet with local students and elders.

On Wednesday morning, William and Kate will head off on a day-long private retreat.

Their arrival in Yellowknife capped off a busy day in P.E.I., where the day’s events included a dragon boat race, traditional dance performances and a sampling of some of the region’s delicacies.

But the day’s most thrilling moment came earlier, when William’s request to pilot a military helicopter was granted and he got to try out a made-in-Canada water landing manoeuvre.

William, who co-pilots a British Sea King as part of the British military’s Search and Rescue Force, donned a flight suit and stepped into the co-pilot’s chair of a CH124 Sea King helicopter for a demonstration of “waterbirding.” It’s a made-in-Canada training manoeuvre designed to simulate an emergency landing over water following an engine failure.

William helped pilot the dual-engine chopper to about 40 feet above the surface of the water, land on the water in a slightly nose-up position, and taxi for a number of minutes along the surface of the water. He then helped fire up the chopper’s engines and take to the skies, and then do it all again. And again.

Considering the number of times William and the crew repeated the manoeuvre, it would seem the prince enjoyed getting the hang of it. Kate, meanwhile, watched from the shore dressed in a navy trench and red scarf, and chatted with military officials.

William’s official spokesperson said the duke will bring what he learned back to his unit in the U.K.

“When (William) took the decision to come to Canada, one of the things he actually asked to do was to do this, and it’s a technique he’ll be able to use in his job,” said press secretary Miguel Head.

It was an exciting, hands-on moment for the prince that followed a more traditional royal-visit morning of carriage rides and historical visits. The couple began the morning visiting Province House, the birthplace of Confederation.

As she’s done a number of times on this official visit, Kate chose to wear a U.K. label for the events. She went with a long-sleeved cream, cable knit dress with navy blue trim designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen. It was Burton, of course, who famously designed Kate’s showstopping wedding dress. The Prince wore a navy suit and rose-coloured tie.

Williams praises ‘beautiful island’

After taking a tour of the site known for hosting the Charlottetown Conference some 146 years ago, they posed for photos with actors dressed as the Fathers of Confederation.

P.E.I. Premier Robert Ghiz took to a podium to offer an official welcome — finishing off by throwing in some marital advice for Prince William. Ghiz, whose wife’s name is also Kate, reminded the prince to remember that “the Kates are always right.” Duchess Kate laughed, while William offered a shy smile.

William then stepped forward to thank the province’s leadership for “their generous welcome.”

“It is quite the moment for Catherine and me to be standing here in Atlantic Canada, in front of Province House, where Canadian Confederation was forged,” he said. “…We have both so looked forward to this day and discovering more about your beautiful island.”

Before leaving the site, the couple took part in a walk-about in the mist, greeting some of the thousands of Islanders and tourists who had gathered outside to cheer and wave Canadian flags.

Canada AM’s Jeff Hutcheson reported there appeared to be only one protester in the crowd: a man carrying a small sign that read: “You are not my prince.” But Hutcheson said a woman stepped in front of him and opened a large, black umbrella.

After the walk-about, the couple retraced the steps of the Fathers of Confederation by proceeding down Great George St. in an open-air landau with an RCMP mounted escort, to the city’s waterfront.

At Confederation Landing, they watched a musical theatre performance of “The Talking Stick,” which tells First Nations’ stories from across the country.

Early Monday afternoon, the couple competed in a dragon boat race in Dalvay-by-the-Sea, crewing separate boats for a match on the windy ocean waters off P.E.I.

Though William won the match, both he and the Duchess emerged from the water soaked by paddle spray.

After the race, the couple was treated to a traditional smudging ceremony, traditional Mi’kmaq drumming and an Acadian dance performance.

They then hit the beach to watch a bit of volleyball and then meet with local chefs to sample P.E.I.’s cuisine.

William and Kate sampled some of the province’s most famous exports, including beef with sweet onion marmalade, lobster and potato chowder, and strawberry shortcake.

The couple then boarded another Sea King for the quick ride to Summerside, where they were greeted by search and rescue pilots, as well as survivors of rescue missions. While in Summerside, the couple watched a search-and-rescue demonstration and shook hands with well-wishers who were waiting for them at the pier.

Notably absent from the itinerary was a visit to Green Gables House, the tourist destination that inspired the setting for L.M. Montgomery’s beloved tale, “Anne of Green Gables.”

For weeks, rumours had swirled that a visit to the site seemed likely to play a part in the royal visit, since it’s been said that Kate loves the classic tale of the red-haired orphan.

Instead, William and Kate did meet with Tess Benger, who plays the title role in “Anne of Green Gables — The Musical.” Benger, wearing her Anne costume, complete with red braids, presented Kate with a copy of the book. According to Benger, the duchess told her she would read the book again.

“She said that she totally wished that she could see the show, but that they don’t have time and to break a leg on the show,” Benger said.

“They’re really lovely, really wonderful people … it was really exciting.”

On Thursday, William and Kate head to Calgary, the final stop on their nine-day tour, where they will officially launch the Calgary Stampede parade.

With reports from The Canadian Press

Comments are now closed for this story

Darlene

I CAN NOT WAIT!!!!
I know I will not be able to see the Royals in real life but just knowing they are in Calgary is very exciting.
Ok Calgary lets give these Royals a show they will NEVER forget.
Lets be pround, NO DEMONSTRATIONS ABOUT ANYTHING.
This is just as exciting for them as it is for us.
Lets make them feel at home.

WELCOME TO CALGARY PRINCE WILLIAM AND KATE, IT’S GREAT TO SEE YOU, HAVE A GREAT TIME.
God bless you both

WHO CARES?!

These people are effectively nobodys on the world stage. I object strenuously to our government spending our money showing them around. When/if Billy becomes king, THEN he’ll deserve some attention. Until then, he’s just a celebrity — like any other celebrity — and not deserving of the “royal treatment.”

Heather

@Dean from Toon Town, in response to your question. It’s merely a carrying over of history that the news reports what the Duchess is wearing. Historically, the fashions of the time have been heavily influenced by what the royal family and court wear. You’ll notice this with regards to Queen Victoria, who started the white dress and veil trend for brides, Anne Boleyn, who introduced over-long sleeves and Marie Antionette with her frivolous hair styles and elaborate fabrics. The Duchess has already shown a lot of influence in the fashion world as many of her more affordable style choices have completely sold out within hours of her wearing them. It’s only natural that something she influences so heavily will sneak into the news.

J.C.

@Some Respect Please – I think Prince William showed great respect toward the military wanting to learn more about the rescue operations. It shows to me that he thinks highly of our armed forces and their learned maneuvers or operations, especially being a trained pilot himself in the RAF and working in rescue. I think it is great that he shows such a keen interest. The RAF and the Canadian forces have shared with each other as far back as I can remember even during the two world wars. I know my Dad trained over there as well as here before entering the field of battle in WWII.

AlMac

Should have been more time allocated for their Royal Highnesses to interact with the “general public” vice being locked up almost all day in Government run functions… But awesome to see this awesome young Royal couple on our Island and enjoying themselves…

Melanie

Perhaps they didn’t go to Green Gables because it doesn’t interest William, it’s mostly a book for girls. Or perhaps they didn’t go because the press has been going on and on and on about it for weeks. This is royalty, they do what THEY want. He chose to learn a new and possibly vital manoeuvre, which is more important than Green Gables.

Alan

FYI..waterbirding is an emergency technique used to land a helicopter on water something it normally does not do. It was explained the yellow tape was there to stop it from taking on water. Also Prince Edward Island was named for Queen Victoria’s father Prince Edward. What a tour. I am seeing the Canada I used to know. Canadians flocking to see our special guests and showing them superb Canadian hospitality. Perhaps it’s enough for us to start visiting our own country again. Ottawa, Quebec and the Maritimes, all wonderful tourist locations. Places that I have seen and am inspired to want to see again.And we still have another four days.

William O’Regan, Valcartier

Queen Elizabeth recently visited Cork City, Ireland. She visited the English Market, a historical indoor market. ( google it ) . I now hear that the business has increased 200%. Tourists are flocking. All you nay sayers about wasting tax payers money, give it a rest. The revenue from tourism to Quebec, PEI, Ottawa, Calgary will more than offset the expenditure. And I am not promonarch. I am an ex -pat Irishman AND a taxpayer ( I probably pay more than the whiners.)

Nick

Paul… Yes it costs money for all of this now but it is paying for itself in 3 folds because it is advertisement for all the locations they are going with the world watching so i dont think it can get any better. also suprised they let him fly the helicopter, not because it was a waste of money or stupid but it was the sea king, could’ve fallen outta the sky with the age those things are.

Sid PE

What a royal waste of my day. I spent 5 hours waiting and didn’t even get more than a glimpse of the couple from so far away I couldn’t pick them out from the rest of the people with them. Will and Kate, you made some very disappointed little girls today.

Some respect Please

It seems that in addition to their regular duties, some of our air force, army and navy personnel and their families are gathered to watch the media and defend this orchestrated propaganda. Stop being shallow minded. Canada does not need a king.

Cheers for Kare and William from Ontario

I think what happened today is fantastic. We are a nation for which we can stand proud. Does it really matter whether one believes in the Monarchy to make this event a moment to relish. Kate and William are two fine young people, who are doingt their best to celebrate our country’s gifts and stand apart from the formalities that often separate us from royalty. Their signs of affection for each other, their youth, their spirit are treasures they are sharing with all of us – somethig we need to embrace. I have learned more about what makes us uniquely Canadian by the fine reporting that has and continues to take place. As Canadians, we can stand tall in opening our arms and demonstrating our Canadian hospitality and warmth. As one of your respondents said, this is amazing marketing for our country and the values we hold – respect for others, from all walks of life.

Northern Princess

@ Paul … don’t worry about your tax dollars being spent on this tour as the revenue, wherever they go will far outweigh your ‘pain’. IMO, I’d rather MY tax dollars be used for this event than MY tax dollars being used for abusers of Welfare anytime.The ones complaining about Prince William going on a joy ride on our Sea King, get real. He is a bonified pilot of Sea King Helicopters in the UK and that is his day-job. At least he’s not a mouch on society as he works for a living. More than what some couch potatoes do in their daily lives in Canada. Besides, this training will be used I’m sure for training purposes in the UK which could SAVE lives there as well. He’s doing a lot more than some here in Canada I’m sure. So for all the nay-sayers, get a life!

Cassondra

I’m an American and have only been to Canada once for about 30 minutes. Since watching this I want to go back for a real visit. For those who don’t get it that’s called TOURISM and it helps the economy. For those that are complaining about him flying your helicopter. Just because it was viewed by everyone doesn’t mean it’s not a training exercise. One that could save lives, which Prince William has already done if you’ve read the news. And last but not least those of you who wonder why we want to know who the designers Kate is wearing. Considering everything she has worn so far has SOLD OUT of stores maybe I should refer you back to how that helps the economy. Money spent means money moving.

Bob in Chatham

Well Dan, I hope you have better luck being a King than I did in trying to get a seat on the Senate !

Sgt Mike Leal CD2. Airmen

Regarding YELLOW TAPE- The yellow tape, we in the Sea King community call water bird tape, is used to keep the water from getting in vents and other air inlets during water bird training. The AIR FORCE own ALL air assets in the Canadian military not the Army or the Navy. We support them with Air Force pilots and Aircraft.

Barb

For those who said that you cannot buy this kind of TRAVEL CANADA.. 100% correct…simply priceless as was it’s effect on tourism to date..Not what I would call a parasite, which gives nothing good back. Maybe it lost something in translation

Earthwatcher

If only people would get as fired up about, oh I don’t know let’s say child poverty or homelessness right here in Canada as they do about a Royal visit. Something might actually change for the better. People spout off about how we should drop the monarchy. Easier said than done, we would have to change our constitution to do that. You’ve heard of it, fundamental change in how our system of government would work???Get over it, I don’t suspect the cost of having them here will keep you all from having food on your plate or a roof over your head tonight.

Anne Parkhurst

I want to commend the commentators for their job of William and Kate’s visit…they have kept us up to date ..plus making it very interesting while we are in ‘wait’ for the next advent and while they are shaking hands…thank you so much.Anne Parkhurst Burnaby B.C.

Anca Nedelcu

All the Beautifull Wishes to prince William and His Wife Catherine. Have a Great Summer! We Love you!Anca Maria and so on…

Army Guy

@some respect….lighten up….no disrespect taken….they were simply taking advantage of an already planned event….31 yr retired Army guy.

J in Cgy

@Some Respect Please – to use our helicopter in a manouever that is done ONLY in Canada is not propoganda. Prince William wanted to learn this so he could take this back to his Squadron in the UK. This not a waste of money, but an excellent training opportunity.

paul

What a waste of time and money !!!!!! MY TAX DOLLARS WELL SPENT !!!

Dean from Toon Town

Would someone please explain to me why we need to know what she’s wearing?? Seriously.. it means nothing. It’s not symbolic of anything, it’s not iconic, it doesn’t represent anything at all. What she’s wearing at any given moment is entirely meaningless.

Dan in Quebec

Where do I sign up to be King?

Throttle Jockey

“Some respect please said Stop the ridiculous propaganda. This is disrespectful for our proud army men and women to let a British tourist use our CANADIAN army helicopter for propaganda. It is extremely costly to fly these machines. Stop the propaganda.”What’s your major malfunction buddy? By the way, the CH-124 Sea King is an Air Force helo not an Army helo. The Prince can fly with me any day!

Sherry

Knew that instead of people saying – glad to see them enjoying our Canadian Hospitality and beautiful country there is still weenie-whining coming out – that’s the sad truth about some Canadians. The Duke and Duchess are wonderful visitors to our country, a nice breath of fresh air from this mundane sad at times world. Why can’t you just enjoy something once without weenie-whining? The world is bad enough – enjoy for pete’s sake! – Or anyone else’s sake!

Dixie from Alberta

For those that want to diss this tour and complain that they don’t like “their” tax dollars going to such an event….give your head a shake. You can’t buy the kind of “travel Canada” advertising this tour is supplying to the world who are here covering the tour. Especially those that protested in Quebec…do they even pay taxes??? They embarassed their own province on a world stage.

L

@ some respect please: How is it disrespectful to our citizens in the armed forces to let one of our allies who also works in the armed forces fly our helicopter? The British and Canadian forces often do joint military training, remember Prince Harry coming to Alberta for military training? Why shouldn’t Prince William participate in a military exercise, he is our ally and future King after all. Prince William is a member of the British Armed forces and flies helicoptors in search and rescue for a living, this is not just some citizen getting his kicks. I hope they continue to have a great tour and enjoy all of the wonderful things Canada has to offer.

CF member

to Some Respect Please:With regard to HRH Prince William flying a Cdn Sea King, he isn’t some “British tourist”. He’s a serving pilot in the Armed Forces of one of our closest allies (along with Americans, Aussies Kiwis). We’ve been trying each others kit equipment for decades. Have some respect.

Alexis in Victoria

Great to see William and Catherine enjoying some normal activities on their trip! I’m wondering though since Kate is such a trendsetter, when will she convince William to just shave his head! He’d look really hot with a more modern look and his increasing baldness wouldn’t be so obvious!

Nancy BC

To “some respect please” Are you kidding – I sure hope so, as Prince William is an RAF helicopter pilot. He may be touring Canada but make no mistake he has the qualifications to fly one of Her Majesty’s Canadian helicopters. Personally I think it’s an honour for our future King to be that keen to learn the waterbirding procedure.

Vince m

I saw on the weekend a group from Quebec calling the Royals “parasites”. Quebec receives about $9 billion / year in equalization payments from Canada – mostly from Alberta. Anyone see the irony?

Is that yellow tape I see?

Please don’t tell me that is yellow tape I see all over the helicopter to avoid water going tinto places it should not!

Scott (in AB Party Country)

What’s with all the yellow gun-tape on the Sea King? I’m familiar with the aircraft’s (maintenance) history but surely we could have found one without all the tape!

W

We are very fortunate that the Sea King performed without any malfunctions or mechanical difficulties.

M in YOW

To “Some Respect Please:Please show some respect on your part by educating yourself before making comments. The men and women involved are from the Air Force not the Army. Also, William is a operationally qualified on the same aircraft and exchanging techniques and procedures is a routine practice between militaries of different countries. I have no doubt the RAF will look at instituting a similar practice. Either way it provided William with valuable training that may someday save his life or the lives of others. In aviation, time spent training is never wasted.

Linda in Vancouver

Does anyone else wonder when these two stop to take a breath? All those events,all that travel, all those time zones,and all that glad handing.It has got to be exhausting.Talk about a whirl wind tour. I’ve never been to PEI,but this makes me want to go there.Pretty pricy for us on the west coast though.The TV coverage of this tour may be as close as I get to PEI if I don’t win a lottery or something like that. I do like this couple.They seem so much more down to earth and people friendly than I’m used to from the monarchy.Look at all the hands on things they are taking part in.And they actually look like they are enjoying it. This is great for our country.People whining about the cost surely must know you couldn’t buy better PR for what this tour is costing.This is exactly how Canada should want to be seen on the world stage.Fun.Friendly.Safe.And with lots of places to do fun things.People all over the world are going to see this and want to come here and have fun too. Keep up the good work my fellow Canadians who are part of this tour.You are doing us all proud.Let’s make sure this is a trip they will never forget.

Kevin

William was actually in the Captain’s seat; the right seat if flying helicopters

Mr John.

@Mike…You are correct my friend.We have very few of these nut cases left and most have serious mental and anger problems.Unfortunately,
the press,including the CTV network give them too much time.
Even a maritime commentator had to make a comment on the one lone protester..for what reason ???
And@S..no Prince William,The Duke of Cambridge has not been wearing the same cloths.Like many men he has been wearing dark colored suitS and plain white shirts.
Also to the ones who do not like the fashion comments….What is the matter with that? It is of great interest and it also promotes business in a industry wether it be high end or low end. Which all helps the economy.
Also…the comments that William should be the next King…”Get with it folks”…it is not that simple.You do not weaken the line of succession.Charles has the right to take the throne when it is his turn,wether it be a short or long reign.
By the way….lets please speak in proper terms…The names are William and Catherine.Not Wills, Will,or Kate.She is not Middleton either.
Prince Charles is also Prince of Wales and his wife is also the Princess of Wales but she chooses not to use it but goes by the Duchess of Cornwall.
All Royals hold several titles but usually use the ones that are the largest and or important.
Without the Royal family many,many charities would simply not survive.
This is living history in front of us.
It would be good for many to do a search on just what each one does do on a daily basis.
This is a wonderfull time for our country.!!!!

Mike in Pembroke

I pleased to see that the royal couple gets to do some fun things while they are here in Canada. I wish the very best!

Rufus

@ Mike I wouldn’t be surprised if William was the next king, come to think of it I wouldn’t be entirely surprised if Queen Elizabeth doesn’t outlast Prince Charles. Just look at her mother, she was five months short of her 102nd birthday when she died.

Some respect please

Stop the ridiculous propaganda. This is disrespectful for our proud army men and women to let a British tourist use our CANADIAN army helicopter for propaganda. It is extremely costly to fly these machines. Stop the propaganda.

M in YOW

Fully enjoying watching the royal couples adventures but CTV needs a new “aviation expert”. Just about everything he said on the TV news was wrong. The Sea King is from the Canadian Forces (not the Coast Guard), it is from the Air Force (not the Navy), it is based out of Shearwater, near Halifax (not Greenwood) and it primary mission is not Search and Rescue.What is requried to be an aviation expert…a frequent flyer card?

Robinca

Well. Noone should ever question his courage. LOL. Flying an ancient Canadian Sea King; Although I am sure that they double and triple checked all the mechanicals before letting him get in.

I am impressed with this young mans grasp of his duties as a royal. He seems to be far more focused on what good he can do for his subjects than how he can use his position for his own. He cuts more of the figure of his Grandmother (the best Monarch in the world) and dare I say his mother than he does his father.

Alyx Crawford

@KateWho… the tradition is that Royals do not have actual “surnames,” but take the name of their Royal Household. Prior to his marriage, William (and Harry, too) was known as William Wales — his father is the Prince of Wales. Following the wedding the Queen made him Duke of Cambridge, and Catherine (which she indicated is what she prefers to be called) is the Duchess of Cambridge. “Cambridge” is now technically their surname.

Randy

Hey…I swear Williams worn that same pilots outfit once before.

Sam C

@James… inquiring minds want to know! Besides which, she has been wearing fashions by Canadian designers, an excellent tribute on Kate’s part to Canada, and an acknowledgement that the monarchy is more in tune with the people, today.

Colleen in BC

Would appreciate some NEWS on Canada AM instead of continual Royal Tour coverage. Surely the world didn’t come to a stand-still!

Bob Sedin

I’m just glad that that aging helicopter was able to get off the ground.

fed up

He must have a death wish to operate a SeaKing helicopter.

JustinC. in VSL

I would have been afraid to put our future King into one of our decrepit “Sea King” helicopters… what if it had fallen apart while he was in the air and we’d been responsible for that!?!?!

I hope you enjoy the rest of your tour here Your Highness!

David in Langley

It’s unfortunate the media hasn’t followed Catherine’s post-wedding request that she be known, not as “Kate” but as Catherine.

Prof. Pye Chartt

Oh, sure; you’ll tell us who designed Kate’s dress but couldn’t be bothered to provide details on Will’s suit. (Such a sad societal commentary.) Some of us are desperate to know, CTV. …Not me, however, but some of us are.

s

Is it me, or has he been wearing the same clothes all weekend?

Juul Haalmeyer

So why couldn’t Will Kate’s schedule doesn’t allow for a performance of Anne Of Green Gables while they’re in P.E.I, if it is one of favourite books?

KarinN

I was curious if anyone knows what happens to all the wonderful flowers gifts given to the Duke Duchess….It would seem they could have a whole part of the plane back home just with those items. It’s wonderful to see them looking so comfortable and enjoying the time to meet many people during their “walkabouts”.

James

Why is it so important we know ‘who’ she’s wearing? Give us the hard facts only in the news please, not the mundane…Let Ben Mulroney handle that earth breaking news on the gossip shows (why do men host those shows anyway?).

mac

Awesome once again ! they are a lovely couple and ARE part of the Canadian mosiac Their genuine warmth and infectious interest in this country will bode well for the future ! A little bit of magic once again !

Trudy

What a breath of fresh air these 2 are! I would love to see Camilla and Charles participate in dragon boat races!!!!!! That is something Diana would have been game for, just like playing a game of table soccer, Wills obviously had fun at that too. These 2 are so refreshing and down to earth, I don’t care what anybody says. The amount of publicity that this brings to Canada is well worth the money spend on entertaining Wills and Kate.

Kate Who

If William refers to his wife as Catherine, why do others refer to her as Kate? If the world is on formal terms, then really, it’s Billy and Kate, isn’t it? I feel my life is richer now, knowing that Kate wore a cable knit dress. By the way didn’t she take Williams name in marriage or is she always Middleton?

mike

It was nice to see that there was not many seperatists left in Quebec. The crowds who came to see them were able to voice their positive voice for the Royal couple.I am not usually swade by the royals but I do hope that William will become the new King. Both William and Kate bring out a fresh look for the monarchy which is lacking.I hope I am around when they crown him King and he gets to represent All and I mean ALL of Canada. As a Canadian and sixth generation born here I would feel honoured to have William represent Canada as the King of My country.

The Duchess of Cambridge was flying high on the fashion front on Thursday, boarding a plane to Canada in unusually expensive duds – and RadarOnline.com has all the details, as well as the price breakdown of her designer look.

Princess Kate, who usually rocks cheap and chic duds, showed off her famous figure in an RM by Roland Mouret Manon sheath dress (a favorite of Hollywood stars such as Penelope Cruz and Naomi Watts), which originally retailed for a staggering $1,555.

Kate Middleton’s Style – See The Photos

Over the sexy dress, Kate rocked a totally chic SMYTHE one button blazer which set her back $595.

Prince William – Through The Years

Kate finished off the look with a Mulberry Polly Push lock bag, which cost a cool $1,400, and a pair of Manolo Blahnik Calogera heels (similar styles sell for around $600).

If you want to get Kate’s look, you will have to dig deep – the total cost of her traveling outfit is $4,150!

RELATED STORIES:

New Documentary Paints Princess Diana Death As ‘An Unlawful Killing’

Pippa Middleton Rocks A Red Dress While Shopping

Prince William Kate Wow At Wimbledon

• Jillian Michaels Offers 4th Of July Diet Tips!
• Jake Pavelka Steps Out With New Woman

#1  Chicago, North Michigan Avenue and River North Area

#2  New Orleans, French Quarter

#3  Montreal, Downtown/City Center

#4  Ottawa

#5  New York City, Midtown West

#15  New York City, Times Square/Theater District

#25  London, Westminster

#46  Los Angeles, Santa Monica/Marina Del Rey

#47  Vancouver, Airport Area

#48  London, Hammersmith