Artistic Traditions
Last year, Jasper artist and Mountain Gallery at The Fairmont owner Wendy Wacko explored the same hauntingly beautiful Haida village remains that captivated West Coast painter Emily Carr 100 years earlier. Accompanied by a Haida guide and travelling by float plane, Wacko painted among the remnants of a 10,000 year old culture. Her admiration for the art and mythology of the Queen Charlotte Islands is evident in her new works, some of which are displayed in her own galleries, courtesy Edmonton's Scott Gallery. By Jack Newton

Canadian Icon
A sculpture at Our Native Land by Cape Dorset carver Sheojuk Carrier combines familiar icons of Canada's north-a bear and inukshuk (Inuit for "imitation of a person").

Canadian Whisky
Aged in oak, Canadian whisky (rye) is smoother and lighter than Scotch or Bourbon-malted rye gives a fuller flavour. "A splash of water releases the aroma," suggests DJ Bowen of Jasper Liquor Store & Wine Cellar. He recommends Forty Creek Barrel Select, a blend of rye, barley and Indian corn. Doug McPhee of Avalanche Spirits notes that Sortilège Quebec maple whisky is a unique souvenir of Canada. By Nora O'Malley

Wood Works
Collectors of rustic furniture enjoy Counter Clockwise Emporium, where Canadian designed cabinets, tables, blanket boxes and benches by Imperfectly Primitive are displayed. Pieces are made of pine and offered in a dozen heritage colours including 'distressed' and antique stains. The red hutch and shelving unit pictured sells for $1,395. Worldwide shipping is available. By Nora O'Malley