Nicola Valley British Columbia Canada including the City of Merritt, Lower Nicola, Quilchena and the surrounding First Nation lands.

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Merritt Accommodation – Best Western Plus

Merritt Accommodation

Highly Recommended Places to Stay in the Nicola Valley

Merritt BC Canada Hotel Accommodation

When it comes to places to stay in Canada, including any Merritt Accommodation,  cleanliness is the most important part when booking a room. The Best Western Plus, a 5 star Hotel in Merritt BC, Canada has passed with flying colours.

First Impressions of Merritt Accommodations

When you pull up to the modern classy designed building you know you have made the right booking. The glass doors open into the hotel lobby, you see a cozy seating area with a fireplace, a stocked hot beverage bar, and fresh baked goodies. Everything is so shiny and clean. It is like a downtown New York hotel right here in Merritt BC, Canada.

Merritt Accommodations Convenience Store

Convenience store has a bit of everything.

The check in clerk is super friendly and makes you feel so welcome. She checks you in, answers all the questions you have about the area, and points you in the direction of the little onsite store.  This is an added convenience, and if you are like me, you have forgotten at least one item at home. 

My Best Western Room

You open the door to your room and “oh my gosh”, it is even better than you imagined.  THOSE BEDS LOOKED LIKE BIG FLUFFY PILLOWS!  Anoop, the Merritt accommodation manager and his family actually spent years researching sleep systems to get perfection.

merritt accommodations bedroom

The beds looked like giant pillows.

Details Make A Difference

Everything is perfect, right down to the final detail of a nice little separate sink outside the bathroom. I don’t know about you but filling my coffee pot from the bathroom tap has always made me a bit uneasy. 

Merritt Accommodations Best Western Amenities

 When I am away from home I want better than home. I want to feel like I am away from my daily duties, all the normal stress and I want to feel like I am being catered to.  Spending hours in the pool, dipping once in a while into the hot tub, and then going back to the room to watch great TV channels and chill was perfect. There is also a fully furnished exercise room complete with many machines to keep your exercise routine in place while you are away.

Pool Hot Tub

Time to relax in the pool and hot tub.

Business Centre

It was exciting to see a nice size private business area complete with laptops right on the first floor. I could sneak away and do a few minutes catch up on business, ( don’t tell anyone). Down the hall from the breakfast area and table seating are some beautiful conference rooms complete with audio visual equipment.

merritt accommodation conference room

Conference Business Room Best Western Merritt BC

Hotel Breakfast is Served at the Best Western

Fresh Fruit, cereal with real milk, hot sausages, bacon and eggs, toast and bagels.  AND MORE all waiting for you to get a super start to your day of adventure and playing in the Nicola Valley. One of the special touches that I took notice of was the real plates and silverware. So much nicer than plastic and paper. Top class!

hotel breakfast bar

A full hot breakfast to start your day.

” Full hot breakfast was the perfect way to start my day, the crisp ocean coloured hot tub was the perfect way to end my day”

Location of this Best Western Merritt Accommodation

Everything about the location of the Best Western Hotel in Merritt BC, Canada is perfect. The Merritt hotel is located right across the street from Boston Pizza , Denny’s Restaurant , Burger King, gas bar and a convenience store.

One must also take some time to explore our Merritt Downtown. So much to see. Park on Quilchena Avenue and explore our stores on foot. This way one can enjoy the 75+ hand prints of country music stars on the self guided walking tour we call the Walk Of Stars, as well as, download one of our Merritt Mural QR Codes and access videos, photos and stories of your favorite country music star. 

Family Owned and Operated Merritt Hotel

Anoop Sekhon and his wife are the General Managers of the Best Western Plus Hotel in Merritt. Anoop was proud to tell me his family has been in the hospitality industry for most of his life, he actually started making beds when he was a young man.  His family also owns another hotel, the Ramada which is just down the road. From working in the trenches he has learned how to operate and manage a very successful business. Anoop understands the importance of quality staff and professional service in the hospitality industry. 

Saying Good Bye To My Merritt Hotel Accommodation

5 point ratings on Expedia and Trip Advisor are well earned. Also a participating hotel accommodation on ehCanadaTravel.com. The hotel accommodation staff, cleaning crew, maintenance crew and management of the Best Western Hotel in Merritt BC, Canada should be commended on making visitors to Merritt feel warm and welcome. The Best Western Hotel in Merritt BC, Canada is right off the Coquihalla Highway for easy access and also offers TESLA SUPERCHARGE STATIONS for electric vehicles.

Best Western Merritt Hotel Accommodation

Where you STAY in Merritt is just as important as where you PLAY in Merritt.

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Community Marketing Blogging – The Merritt 18

Community Marketing and Blogging 

The “Merritt 18” are a positive voice for the Nicola Valley

“To sit back and watch the Merritt program empower locals to play a bigger role in representing their community positively online while interacting with others in the community… is very powerful.”

These past few days we have embarked on another round of training with some new Merrittonians about positive marketing and blogging for the Experience Nicola Valley Blog based out of Merritt, BC Canada. Thank you to Gurpreet and his staff at the Ramada Inn in Merritt for being so accommodating and just all-a-round great people to deal with. 

Content marketing training,  and engaging with like-minded people (aka blogging) is a top 3 favorite part of my job. Number one favorite – for you newbies to my blogging – is a no brainer, it has to be outdoor adventures. Number 2 would have to be research road trips in the Maple Leaf RV with my co founding brother Colin. 

But when it comes to communication, relationships and teamwork there is no better joy for me than sharing my passion and enthusiasm for small and rural communities in Canada. Being a small town boy, there is an affection that runs deep. In so many ways content marketing is good therapy for the bloggers, the community, the traveller and for us.  

Community Blogging and Marketing

Community blogging presentation in Merritt, BC, Canada

So if my elementary math teacher was right… 14, 15, 16, 17…  that makes it 18 bloggers. The “Merritt 18”. That has a cool ring to it! I think it deserves a hashtag for this post – #merritt18 . What do you think?

So you can imagine my excitement of having another opportunity to do some meeting and greeting with more real people. It was another opportunity for “moi” to connect  with 7 more quality individuals who live, work and play in Nicola Valley.  Here they are! Please give them a round of applause. I am clapping right now. Eh.. come on clap. 

Community Marketing and Blogging

(Back Row L-R)) Tony Luck, Greg Girard (Middle Row L-R) Melvina White, Wanda Luck, Michelle Bacon, Ali McDougall, Traci Marie Nixon (Front) Tania Stewart

Thank you Merritt and the Nicola Valley

We are already seeing the positive results online from the stories and experiences shared by the current Experience Nicola Valley bloggers. A great group representing many parts of the Nicola Valley ranging all over the map from a youth blogger in Grade 10 , Jordyn Lee, she so rocks… to one of our most popular bloggers, the very funny and classy senior Diane Lavoie.  So thank you to the community of Merritt and throughout the Nicola Valley for your support of our story tellers. 

The real gratitude comes in the chatter on the streets of Merritt, in the coffee houses and on social media. There is a feel-good buzz reverberating in this community. I am hearing it, I hope the locals are too. Slowly we are making a difference one word at a time. I feel like a proud parent!

We are now training another group of bloggers. Seven to be exact. I am sure there are 2 or 3 super star bloggers in this group too. As one blogger put it when talking about the team…

“Have your say everyday”
                                                                                Melvina White

Nicola Valley Skills To Succeed

Who better to talk up their community than the people who live, work and play in the community. It is the people who live in Merritt BC Canada who know the community the best. Not some suit and tie behind a desk in some far away land. Locals have the passion. It is an opportunity for all our new friends involved to become a positive role model in the Nicola Valley.  Something every community in Canada can never get enough of.  I do believe the “Merritt 18” will do their part.

Nicola Valley marketing

Presentation blogging in Merritt BC

Community Marketing Highlights of the Nicola Valley

So encouragement, teamwork and positive attitude were the key words of our 3 day retreat. As part of the process I wanted to know what this group of Merritonians thought of the Nicola Valley.  I asked our current new and eager “blogites”, “What makes Merritt BC Canada so special?” The catch was to blurt out one-word descriptions as fast as you can to fill a list of 10. Here is what the group came up with. 

  1. Music
  2. Lifestyle
  3. People
  4. Affordability
  5. Fishing
  6. Downtown
  7. Hiking
  8. Mountain Biking
  9. Photography
  10. Star Gazing

The Power of the Community

This is a big deal! The results so far in just 6 months clearly shows that this community marketing program can be a big part of the solution for many a rural and small communities in Canada. The success of some of the bloggers leaves us very little doubt that the community marketing program can accomplish great things with the right people, right tools and the right attitudes.

It is the first community marketing program of its kind in Canada. Congratulations to Merritt is in order. To sit back and watch the Merritt program empower locals to play a bigger role in representing their community positively online while interacting with others in the community… is very powerful.

Community Storytellers 

In a few short days the community marketing “blogites” will have a voice echoing throughout the “blogosphere”. Soon, real soon, the fun begins as the new bloggers will be unleashed on the Nicola Valley to explore, experience and tell positive stories. With so many boots-on-the-ground there are going to be some very impressive stories to tell.  So keep on checking them out at www.ExperienceNicolaValley.com or follow us on social media (links below).

Our content marketing family is growing and I am so proud of this group of people, putting their differences aside, and coming together for the common good of Merritt and the Nicola Valley. So… out of curiosity I had to ask this new group of bloggers, “Why they want to tell stories and share experiences via blogging?”  

“To share my stories, experiences about this amazing community!”
                                                                                            Michelle Bacon

Do you have a Nicola Valley story to share?

Everyone has a feel-good Nicola Valley story to share? Do you? Contact your favorite blogger today and make the arrangements for them to stop by. They love to chat, I do know that. 

Look up individual bloggers on the www.ExperienceNicolaValley.com blogsite. New bloggers will be added in next few days. 

You can find them online too on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram .

Tag them anytime on social media @experiencenicolavalley

Join the conversation and add a hashtag to your posts #experiencenicolavalley

Life is good in Merritt BC Canada!  

Community Marketing and Blogging

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Home Restaurant Best Places to Eat in Merritt

Home Restaurant: Places to Eat in Merritt, BC

home restaurant merritt, bc, canada places to eat

The Entrance to the Merritt Home Restaurant

Home Cooked Meals and Small Town Charm

“Just like Mom makes” favourites

There are plenty of places to eat in Merritt, but a long time family favourite is the Home Restaurant, serving up home style food since 1952.

When it comes to tantalizing you with what’s on offer, the Home Restaurant starts out right. When you come in and take your place at the front, waiting to be seated, the first thing you see is the display cooler full of cheesecakes and pies – piled high with light-as-air meringue and fluffy clouds of whipped cream. It puts me in the mood to follow the old adage, “Life is short, eat dessert first!” Of course, that’s not really acceptable, so instead my friends and I are shown to a nice, comfortable booth and handed a menu of delicious, home style “Just like Mom makes” favourites.

history home restaurant places to eat merritt bc canada

Home Restaurant Booth Seats with a Merritt Historical Photo on the Wall

There’s a good variety on the menu; soup du jour, sandwiches, hamburgers, pasta, salads and their well known classics in both full servings and senior portions. And, if you’re like me with a bit of a smaller appetite, you can order off the seniors menu regardless of your age.

My friends settled on the 2×4 burger. Two, four ounce patties piled high with melted cheese, tomato, lettuce and bacon. Garnished with a sliced dill pickle.

2x4 burger and fries at the home restaurant merritt bc canada

Laura Getting Ready to Dive Into the 2×4 Burger

My meatloaf comes baked to perfection. Smothered with gravy and served with a salad and seasonal veggies.

meatloaf home restaurant merritt bc canada places to eat

Meatloaf, a Home Restaurant Classic

Cozy Ambiance with Historic Flair

Being a history buff, one of my favourite things about the Home Restaurant is the way they’ve made this location uniquely Merritt. I love the numerous historical photos of local people, places and events on the walls. All of the restaurants (Maple Ridge, Hope, Merritt, Salmon Arm and Sorrento) are family owned and operated, and they have put a lot of effort into showing that their various locations have roots in their communities.

merritt history sports teams places to eat merritt bc canada home restaurant

Merritt’s Sports Teams through the Years, on Display at Home Restaurant

Great Service

I got a chance to chat with Jenny, the Home Restaurant’s manager. She was born and raised in Merritt, and has worked at the Home Restaurant for 17 years. She believes the key to their success is their genuine home cooking, and the great service.

“We try to provide friendly service and make sure that people are feeling refreshed and refueled when they leave here.”

Eating here can also be a good deed! The Home Restaurant supports the Canucks Autism Network (CAN), with bracelets available at the door with all proceeds to CAN and a newly added CAN sundae on the kids menu. $1 from every CAN sundae is donated to the charity. So far, Home Restaurants have raised $101,384!

If you’re looking for a place to eat in Merritt, Canada – the Home Restaurant is a top quality choice. Great food, great service, and a lot of heart. As Jenny says, “It’s a family affair.”

 

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First Nation Traditional Foods and Lodging in the Nicola Valley

 First Nation Traditional Foods in Merritt BC

Nicola Valley British Columbia Canada First Nation Traditional Foods & Lodging

“We harvest berries in the traditional Nicola Valley areas, as well as, fish and hunt using the old ways and new ways.”

What type of First Nation traditional foods and lodging in the Nicola Valley have helped my people endure the hot summers and cold winters? My people, through many generations, have experienced the changing seasons of the Nicola Valley for generations. The extremes of our Nicola Valley weather systems have taught us many survival skills and have played a large part in growing our appreciation of our lands. How did the First Nation people survive is a journey I would like to share with you? 

My Ancestors Were Nomadic During The Spring, Summer, And Fall Seasons

My ancestors used to live throughout the Nicola Valley territory traveling in groups. Living a nomadic life on the move provided my people the food necessary to last through the long cold winter months. Families would gather together in our seasonal villages and enjoy cooking over the open  fire, and celebrating our traditions.

First Nation Traditional Foods and Lodging

Saskatoon berries I picked

We lived on berries …

First Nation traditional foods in Merritt and throughout the Nicola Valley consisted of berries like Saskatoon berries, huckleberries, choke cherries and soap berries.

And We Hunted And Fished…

My ancestors’ diet wasn’t limited to just berries. No… we also fished and hunted wild game. During the fall seasons, my First Nation people would fish the mighty Fraser River. My people of our village would catch enough fish to survive the long winters. During the entire year, dependent on the weather, village hunters pursued wild game while hunting with bows.

 How Did My People Preserve Their Traditional Foods In Merritt BC?

traditional foods and lodging

Tule mat lodging

    In the early days of my people we often preserved our traditional foods by drying it on specially made mats of tule reeds. Tule reeds were gathered during the winter months on the shores of nearby lakes. Properly prepared these reeds were used for drying and preserving many of our First Nation foods. My people would also make larger mats from the tule reeds to double as floors in their makeshift lean-to’s during the warmer months.

How Did The Nlaka’pamux People Carry All This Food?

traditional foods and lodging

Cedar Root basket

As gathers and hunters we required transportation of our goods. Before the introduction of horses to our culture by the Spaniards, my people would use dogs to transport our goods. Because we lacked horses at that time my people would walk to and from,  here and there with their dogs. The dogs would be saddled with food packed in ceder root baskets.

Where Did My People Live Back Then?

traditional foods and lodging

Traditional lodges made out of cedar bark at Tuckkwiowhum interpretive village in Boston Bar

My First Nation ancestors used all sorts of materials from the land and waters. Because of our nomadic nature we were often in need of a portable shelter.  In the summer months we used temporary shelters because of the ease of transportation moving from location to location. These portable lean-to’s were created out of fir boughs and tule mats. If the location required a longer stay my people would build these lean-to’s with cedar bark. 

What About The Winter? 

First Nation pit houses

Interior model of a traditional Sheeiskin

Those summer temporary shelters wouldn’t hold up to the long winters of the Nicola Valley. During the winter season our shelters would take on new materials to create a new kind of shelter more durable to the winter conditions.  This new shelter covered in earth is called a pit-house. In our first Nation tongue Nlaka’pamuxcin it is called a “Sheeiskin”. 

Lots of thought and planning went into these structures. They would spend weeks looking for a proper location, then, when they found an acceptable spot, the community would work together and help build a pit house.

The sheeiskins were typically conical in shape with a hole in the center, which would let the campfire smoke escape through the hole.  The First Nation men would enter down a ladder through the same center hole. while the women would enter through a side entrance. Each First Nation pit house could usually hold up to 3-4 families.  There are locations in the Nicola Valley where you can still see the pit houses left behind from old sheeiskins, like at Monck Provincial Park.

Traditional Ways Are Still Around

Our First Nation traditional foods and lodging made it possible for my ancestors to survive the four seasons of the Nicola Valley. 

traditional foods and lodging

Chokecherries I picked

Today we still harvest berries in the traditional areas and fish and hunt using the old ways – as well as the new. Our respect for our elders has never wavered.  Elders are given first servings of any food we have gathered, and they are the keepers of our history often sharing their stories of our traditional and cultural ways.

A questions I have for you:

What is the traditional name of the First Peoples in my own area?   

Please feel free to contact me with your answers. I always love learning about new cultures. 

Or, if you also are Nlaka’pamux, share your stories with me!

See you later!  

(In many First Nation’s languages there is no word for “Good-bye”, as that word may be interpreted as I will never see that person again.)

 

 

 

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Hotels in Merritt BC Comfort Inn

Hotels in Merritt BC -Comfort Inn & Suites

I was looking at Hotels in Merritt BC for myself and a friend and I decided on the  New Comfort Inn & Suites. It is new, right off the Coquahalla Highway in Merritt, and it permitted pets. That meant I could bring my new puppy with me. I have never taken a pet with me to a hotel so this was something new for me. 

Many Reasons to stay including a jacuzzi pool

 

 

Hotels in Merritt BC Comfort Inn

Comfort Inn & Suits Merritt BC

There are always reasons why you choose the hotels we do and now you may want to choose the Comfort Inn when looking for Hotels in Merritt BC. Of course there may be other things that are important for you, but for me, these were top.

  • Pet Friendly
  • 100% Smoke Free
  • Free HOT and FRESH Breakfast
  • Free WiFi

The HOTEL

This Comfort Inn is designed for it’s location. Which is very cool! ALL the guest rooms look out over the spectacular Nicola Valley. So you don’t have to ask for a view room, every one has a view!  Including the huge windows in the Pool and Spa room.

Not only is the hotel designed for this geographic location, it is also decorated with unique Nicola Valley Decor, like the local scenic photographs found through out the lobby, meeting rooms and guest rooms. Being a photographer myself, I thought that was pretty special! Nice touch Comfort Inn!

The Service was great! There was a hockey team from Prince george staying here while I was there and talking with some other “HOCKEY MOMS” They mentioned how good everyone was there to their group! Lot’s of good and hot food for breakfast too for those hungry kids!! 

Scroll down to check out some picture!

 

Amenities and Services at Comfort Inn In Merritt BC

Being a brand new Hotel, you know you are getting the newest and best of amenities available in a Hotel. Comfort Inn has what you need! Oh I guess  the pool and hot tub should have been on my “top” list because I used it several times and loved it!       

                          .                                                                                           

SERVICES for you, a family, or a business.

            

  • Sun deck   
  • Garden
  • Pool and Spa
  • Heated pool
  • Pool with stunning  views
  •  Activities
  • Indoor pool (year-round)
  • Hot tub/Jacuzzi
  • Fitness center
  • Private Parking
  • Shared lounge and TV area
  • Vending machine (snacks)
  • Vending machine (drinks)
  • Baggage storage
  • Dry cleaning
  • Laundry
  • Business center
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Meeting/Banquet facilities
  • WiFi in all areas
  • Air conditioning
  • Elevator
  • Facilities for disabled guests

Popular  things to do and places of interest include some of my favorite as a local, are the following:

Nicola Valley Museum

Country Music Hall of Fame

Country Music Walk Of Stars

Merritt Speedway

Merritt Centenials Junior A Hockey

 ManyCity Parks including a water park

 The Historic Downtown shopping district

Rockin River Music Fest

Bass Coast Electronic Music and Arts Fest

Contact THE COMFORT INN In Merritt 

Call them 24 hours a day: 250-315-0237 Visit their WEBSITE where you can book online in addition you may want to LIKE them on FACEBOOK to keep up to date and watch for specials or connect online to reserve your stay! They make it easy!

 

 

 

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Places To Eat In Merritt, B.C.

Places To Eat In Merritt, B.C.

While It is one of the most highly rated Places To Eat In Merritt, B.C., Boston Pizza serves much more than a great pizza!

What’s for dinner?

Of course, we locals know all about Boston Pizza, but if you are a visitor looking for “Places To Eat In Merritt, B.C.”, try eating here. Their offerings include a variety of food to suit any taste. Their pastas are delicious and I have sampled many of them! My personal favorite, and go-to meal, is the seven cheese ravioli. Not only is it downright delicious, I always have enough left over to make up a good part of my lunch the next day!

Boston Pizza’s Sports Bar

Places to eat in Merritt BC

Boston Pizza Sports Bar

If you are new to Boston Pizza their lively sports bar will surprise you- in a good way. The décor just shouts “Fun!” and “Come in!” This sports bar can be included on a list of “places to eat in Merritt, B.C.” on its own merits. Even though we came for lunch in the main restaurant, I had to stick my nose into the sports bar to sneak a peek! Loved the glitz! And for the sports lovers there were lots of big screen TVs everywhere!

Not only can you get the latest drinks here, their list of appies is both varied and tasty. Snack on these with a group of friends and taste theirs too, of course, or put together a few favourites to create a unique meal all your own. Or order from the entire regular dinner menu. No one goes hungry at this sports bar- or thirsty either!

Lunching at Boston Pizza

From the moment my friend and I walked into Boston Pizza we enjoyed ourselves. Actually, we started enjoying ourselves before we entered because there is plenty of parking and all of it is close to the restaurant! No scrambling around in the rain or snow for us!

Christine Bardy greeted us with a smile. Christine started working at Boston Pizza as a server in 2012 and gradually worked her way up to the general manager position she has today. When I asked her what made her restaurant unique, she replied,

“The family environment, the length of service of the staff and the fact that we all feel like family. The staff here just enjoys helping people.”

She likes living in the Nicola Valley too. “I tried living in the big city but Merritt is home. This is where I feel safe”, she says. “Visitors should know that whenever you stop in Merritt, people rally round and help when help is needed- without bring asked.”

Merritt is that kind of place.

Christine showed us to a sunny window table. As we walked though the restaurant, I saw a couple of cozy nooks, great spots for diners wanting a bit of privacy.

The menu offered us pages of succulent goodies, There were appetizers galore and plenty of pastas to choose from as well as steaks, salads and seafood. Oh, yumm! How to choose?

My Meal

Places to eat in Merritt BC

The Most Valuable Burger!

Finally, I chose “The Most Valuable Burger” and it was a treat! I eat rarely eat burgers when I am looking for “Places to Eat In Merritt, B.C.”, but that day I wanted one badly! And was it good- tender, juicy and full of the extras that make a good burger special. It came with a gorgeous tossed salad and choice of dressing. The salad was bright, pretty to look at and very colourful. It looked like a regular size but surprise! When I disturbed it by stirring in the dressing, the salad nearly filled my plate!

My Friend’s Meal

Places to eat in Merritt BC

Mediterranean Vegetable Penne

My friend was equally pleased with her lunch. She chose the Mediterranean vegetable penne, a delicious looking, colourful pasta dish complimented with a slice of garlic toast. Her meal was, she pronounced, “very good and enough for two meals!” Boston Pizza scored another winner.

We Dare A Dessert

It’s hard to believe that we actually ordered dessert after those two meals! But I have to admit, we did. As a sop to moderation, we shared a piece of chocolate explosion cheesecake. It was both fresh and delicious and a taste explosion in our mouths.

Places to eat in Merritt BC

Chocolate Explosion Cheese Cake

Whether you want a good dessert and coffee in a pleasant environment, or a full meal, stop and taste test Boston Pizza’s offerings. They will hook you!

Those in a hurry will be happy to know that you can order for pick up or delivery. Not just pizza, but the whole menu! Call:https://bostonpizza.com/en/locations/merritt.html

 

Boston Pizza Merritt

3939 Crawford Ave. Merritt BC

250-378-4222

Hours: Monday – Sunday 11am – 12am

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Growing up in Merritt, BC

Growing up in Merritt

Why I love growing up in Merritt

 

“…I never had any friends later on like the ones I did when I was twelve..”Richard Dreyfuss spoke these words in the final scene of my favorite movie “Stand by Me” . For me this quote reflects my growing up in Merritt with my friends. While we may have never searched for a dead body, we did have some memorable adventures. Whether it be getting my two friends and I lost on a mountain and picking ticks out of our hair on the way down, or floating down the Nicola River in dollar store rafts, my group of friends and I did it all.  

 

Being raised in Merritt, My playground was the outdoors. Everything was in walking distance, and even if it wasn’t, we would still walk 2.5 hours in the scorching 40-degree weather to find a new cliff to descend into the river.  Summers were spent playing on the river, or trying our best to leave early to get the ‘perfect’ spot under the shady tree at Monck Park beach. Dirt biking up to the lookout point up Promotory , and geocaching in Lower Nicola.  

Hunting season in the Nicola Valley

As the leaves changed colours, so did our interests. I had completed my hunting core that past April. All I wanted for my birthday was to do an overnight hunting trip with my dad. On one brisk September’s day my father and I set out for our overnighter. We set up our camp under an old fir tree, 15 minutes outside of Merritt.

After we finished setting up, with a few hours of daylight left, we started down the rough terrain below us.  Although we never shot anything, we did come across a small group of mule deer heading towards the timber. About 15 minutes after we had spotted a beautiful large black bear. We sat and watched the bear in admiration for quite some time. When we got back to camp, I sat underneath the fir tree with a breathtaking view of the Nicola Valley. I relaxed as my father prepared supper. The trip is one I will never forget. 

Wintertime in Merritt

When snow starts falling in the Nicola Valley and winter approaches, Doug’s once green lawn turns into an ice rink. If you don’t have skates to wear, he supplies them without charge.  Sledding and snowshoeing in the Nicola valley are a thing my family and I have always enjoyed and now it is our family tradition,

it’s not a successful sledding trip if you’re not leaving without a black eye (at least in my family anyway!) .

Kane valley in Merritt

The lights when I come into Merritt always put a smile on my face; the streetlights are always so beautifully decorated that you just can’t help feeling that Christmas spirit. Of course, my most favorite thing about living in Merritt at Christmas time is the parade. It’s usually me, my mother and brother’s tradition to go every year to the Christmas Parade. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. No matter how old I get, I will still get that feeling of pure joy when I see the ‘Frosty the Snowman’ Norgaard truck float, and even at the end when Santa appears.  

  

I really couldn’t wish for a better place to grow up in. I know that when I get older and leave for school, a part of me will always be here in Merritt. There are so many memories and adventures built here and I’m so proud and grateful to be able to explore The Nicola Valley and call it my hometown. The mountains and lakes have so much to offer that I hope that in the future more  kids grow up and have a similar childhood to mine growing up in a small town.  

  

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Merritt Canada accommodations

Merritt Canada accommodations

If you would like a quiet, squeaky-clean, remodelled suite with full kitchen facilities at a reasonable price, then you are looking for “Merritt Canada accommodations” at the Knights Inn!

At The Knights InnMerritt Canada Accommodations

Last week a friend visited from out of town and I had no room at my place to put her up. I hunted for Merritt Canada accommodations and we decided to stay at the Knights Inn. Not only was it a good deal, it was fun visit too! The kitchen had a full-size stove, fridge and sink, plenty of space and was stocked with dishes and cutlery as well as pots and pans. The cupboards contained ample crockery, salt and pepper and, steak lovers take note, even a container of steak spice!

A Fun Evening

We sat at the table in our suite, drank tea, ate cookies and played a game involving cards and little sticks that I have never seen before. We had a lot of fun and plenty of laughs. I lost the game due to the distraction of my friend’s chocolate chip cookies! At least, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it1

Comfy Beds

We slept well that night, in fact, we both slept in! My friend, who claims she is very fussy about her bed and doesn’t sleep well in strange places, overslept by an hour. My bed was just as comfortable because I didn’t even hear the alarm!

A suite deal

“Merritt Canada accommodations” are easy to find in our small city but where does a family find something affordable? At the Knights Inn, that’s where! Not only will you save money on the accommodations, you can also save money by cooking your own meals in the well-equipped kitchen! This is a big plus for families! Now, take the bundle that you saved and spend it on lots of fun things. We have lots of things to do in Merritt and the Nicola Valley. Check out my blogs on the Aquatic Centre, walks in Merritt and parks in Merritt, ADD LINKS to name a few. You will enjoy these and so will your kids!

 Knights Inn- accommodations for both the traveller and the visitor

If you are a weary traveller just passing through and need a room for the night, stop here! Have a hot shower and get a good night’s sleep in a comfy bed. The next morning, hustle the few blocks to town for a hearty breakfast then be on your way again, refreshed and happy.

A Longer Stay

Are you visiting Merritt for several days? The Knights Inn will suit your needs too. Take a suite with a well- equipped, spotless kitchen if you enjoy cooking your own meals, or even just some of them. Or perhaps you want to surprise a friend with a special dinner. Maybe you prefer a room without a kitchen because you want a vacation from cooking! Whatever you want, it’s waiting for you at the Knights Inn!

Big changes at the Knights InnMerritt Canada AccommodationsMerritt Canada Accommodations

Owner Max Jiao, manager Kevin Ellefson and all his staff worked hard to make the Knights Inn, as Kevin puts it ” your home away from home”. Everything is very clean but in addition, Kevin tells me, “The employees take pride in their work”. It shows in the cleanliness of the accommodations they provide and in the improved reputation and attention the Knights Inn is receiving! This is all part of what makes the Knights Inn unique.

Remodelling the Knights Inn

A big part of these changes started with the remodelling. Some suites and rooms were rebuilt and redecorated while others were totally gutted and redone! It all looks very fresh and new. In addition to all this, there is a large green space in front of the suites for patrons to enjoy in good weather. Good job! When you are looking for “Merritt Canada accommodations” check out the Knights Inn!

 

Merritt Canada Accommodations at the Knights Inn

Every Knight Just Right.

2702 Nicola Avenue, P.O.Box1100

Merritt, B.C., V1K 1B8

Coquihalla Hwy Exit 286

 

Knightsinn2702@gmail.com

 

www.knightsinnmerritt.ca

 

ph: 250-378-9244

 

 

 

 

The following are winter rates:

Queen- one bed- one person- $65.00

One bedroom- two beds- two people- $80.00

Two bedrooms- two beds- two people- $95.00

 

In Conclusion

If you or anyone you know is looking for “Merritt Canada accommodations”, you can certainly find what you need in Merritt at the Knights Inn. Give it a try!

 

Your senior blogger,

Diane 

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Kane Valley Skiing in Merritt, BC Canada

Wilderness Trails in Merritt, BC Canada

XC Skiing in the Nicola Valley BC Canada

“Kane Valley is a winter paradise of pine and aspen, so any trail you choose will transition through these magical woodlands.”

Skiing in the Kane Valley is something no one should miss! Even the coldest days here are appealing to the outdoor adventurer. When the snow flies, ideal skiing conditions can be found almost anywhere in Canada. The forests and terrain surrounding Merritt are no exception. The Nicola Nordic Ski Club is based in Merritt, BC. and maintains the Kane Valley Ski Trails. The Kane Valley lies twenty minutes south of Merritt. It’s an hour west of Peachland and an hour north of Princeton. A Nordic experience at Kane Valley is an ideal day trip. You can enjoy the area for days, because 50km of fantastic classic skiing on wilderness groomed trails provide ample diversity

Things to do in Merritt BC Canada

Radiant in the sunshine

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Winter Paradise

Kane Valley is a winter paradise of pine and aspen, so any trail you choose will transition through these magical woodlands. The creeks, lakes, and snow meadows you pass add to the beauty. Also, mule deer, moose, elk and brown bears are not unheard of in the area, but the most stunning wildlife diversity here are the birds. There are Peregrine Falcons, Golden Eagles, and Great Horned Owls to name just a few. The Nicola Naturalist Society, along with the Kamloops Naturalists, is responsible for monitoring the Douglas Lake Plateau IBA (Important Bird Area). There’s nothing quite like a Kane Valley wilderness ski trail to take you away from the grind of the big city.

Just Around the Corner!

things to do in Merritt BC Canada

After a heavy snowfall

Merritt is only 270 km from downtown Vancouver, 127 km from Kelowna, and only 87 km from Kamloops. So it’s a natural choice for a true wilderness experience. Why not plan a trip that includes more than one cross country ski experience? You can, because Merritt fits right in with a stop at Stake Lake, just outside of Kamloops, the China Ridge trails in Princeton, or Highland Valley in Logan Lake.

Apres Ski

Cross-country skiing works up an appetite, so I always appreciate a thermos of hot chocolate, coffee or tea waiting for me in the car, but there are lots options to dine in Merritt. There are many coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants to satisfy your cravings. Visit Merritt’s restaurants and pubs, but don’t forget to check out the local bicycle and cross-country ski shop, Breathe Bikes, because while you’re eating lunch they can wax your skis!

Merritt, BC Canada is Mild!

Worried about the cold? Don’t be, because the bone-chilling temperatures of a Canadian winter are an guilty (un?)-pleasure in Merritt, since they don’t exist! Merritt, BC is one of the mildest regions of Canada, as temperatures hover between zero and fifteen degrees below celcius, for the majority of the winter months. You can count on dressing light. It always pays to bring along an extra layer, but when skiing in Kane Valley, you will typically find that you’ve worn one too many! I wear three layers on my torso, beginning with a long-sleeved thermal. The middle layer varies according to what “extreme” temperature we are enjoying. If it’s at the colder end, the second layer is a long-sleeved fleece. If it’s at the warmer end, the middle layer is a breathe-able short-sleeved t-shirt. The outer layer is a breathe-able shell. 

Things to do in Merritt BC Canada

Where’s Bugs?

Beauty and Joy

Nordic skiing provides a connection to mother nature. As a youth, I skied Little Red River Park trails in Prince Albert, and many other Saskatchewan trails, but now I am lucky enough to enjoy the quiet beauty of the wilderness experience of Kane Valley. In every place I’ve skied, I can recall moments of stillness that ground the soul, accompanied by the welcome chill of a light winter wind. I remember the rhythmic sound of a friend or family member’s skis gliding over the falling snow, as I gazed through the sheltering boughs of hundreds of years of forest growth. If that were not enough, it is a near perfect form of exercise and a great family activity!

 

Things to do in Merritt, BC Canada

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Indian Restaurants in Merritt, BC – Mughal Gardens

Indian Restaurants in Merritt, BC

chicken korma mughal gardens merritt BC

Mild Chicken Korma at Mughal Gardens in Merritt Desert Inn

Mughal Gardens Indian Food Restaurant in Merritt, Canada

The Merritt Desert Inn is now home to a brand new Indian Food Restaurant!

This is great news for me because over the last few years I’ve really developed a taste for South Asian cuisine. Up until recently, there was nowhere in town for me to try new dishes and old favourites, so I was excited to go in for a meal at the new Indian Restaurant in Merritt.

I had eaten at the previous restaurant in the building many times, and I noticed that the dining area had been given a facelift, with new paint and centerpieces – it was bright and clean and attractive. The Christmas tree in the lobby was a nice touch. I was seated quickly by a friendly waitress who passed me a menu and brought me a glass of water.

Dining Room at Mughal Gardens Indian Restaurant in Merritt BC, Canada

Newly Painted Dining Room at Mughal Gardens Indian Restaurant

The menu selection is on par with food in larger cities like Kamloops or Kelowna

I love having a variety of food to choose from, and Mughal Gardens has an extensive menu. There are all sorts of dishes listed: chicken, pork, seafood, lamb, goat, paneer, korma… There is so much to try you could go back over and over again and not have the same thing twice.

veggie samosas indian food mughal gardens merritt bc

Delicious Veggie Samosas a Mughal Gardens specialty

I decided to try a veggie samosa – which was the special for just 99 cents! Golden, crispy and not oily at all. One of my absolute favourites is the Paneer Pakora – paneer is a firm and mild cheese, in this case coated and fried. It comes with a chutney dipping sauce that is just the right combination of sweet and spicy.

paneer pakora at mughal gardens indian restaurant merritt bc canada

Paneer Pakora at Mughal Gardens, Merritt BC

The waitress was very helpful, which makes a big difference to me, I like staff to be friendly and approachable, especially when I’m not familiar with the menu or what makes up a particular dish. With her help, I decided on the chicken korma. I wasn’t quite brave enough to try the traditional goat dishes, thinking of my little herd at home in the barn, no doubt snoozing peacefully without visions of curry dancing in their heads.

When eating at an Indian Restaurant with spicy cuisine, it’s a good idea to have a drink handy, and what better than a traditional Mango Lassi? Which I originally thought was a dessert, ha! I love mango in all forms, so how could I not order one?

mango lassi mughal gardens merritt desert inn merritt bc canada

A delicious Mango Lassi at Mughal Gardens

The waitress told me they would make it any way I liked, spicy or mild

Now, once I ordered from an Indian Restaurant and – feeling brave – I specified my dish be “medium spicy”. Oh, how foolish I was. If you do not have a high tolerance for spicy foods, always order “mild”. Because I’m quite certain that Indian chefs have a different standard of “spicy” than any other! I joke to this day about how my waiter at that restaurant must have laughed all the way to the kitchen and back about little blonde me (she who cuts back the taco seasoning to cool it down) and my order of “medium” butter chicken!

menu at mughal gardens indian food restaurant merritt bc canada

Browsing the Menu at Mughal Gardens

Not wanting to make that mistake again (because I don’t want to cry onion cutting tears at the table) I asked if my chicken korma could be made mild. The waitress told me they would make it any way I liked! Perfect! Anything from “very mild” to “very spicy” in just about every dish, so everyone can dine happily.

The food is quickly prepared, hot and tasty

Although the restaurant itself was quiet on a Tuesday night, there’s a nice atmosphere. You can tell by the way the waitress jokes and laughs with the cooks and how they converse with the owner, that there’s a great rapport among everyone. And the enthusiasm for this new venture shows in the way the food is quickly prepared and comes to the table with the chef eager to know how you’ve enjoyed your dish. As for me, I enjoyed it immensely! Tasty and hot with hardly any wait is a win in my books. And I enjoy a night out and a meal without the radio blaring or three different TV screens broadcasting baseball, hockey and football.

Dine In, Take Out and Catering

Of all places to eat in Merritt, Mughal Gardens has some of the most flexibility. You can eat in the restaurant or the pub or order your meal to go. They also offer catering (including a buffet!) They will bring the food to you, or if you need a venue they have a banquet/dining hall capable of seating 100 people, and the pub seats up to 254.

Hours and Location

Mughal Gardens is located in the Merritt Desert Inn at 2350 Voght Street and is also easily accessible from Merritt Ave.

They are open everyday 11:00am – 9:30pm

On your next visit to Merritt, plan to include some authentic Indian cuisine!

 

owner of mughal gardens restaurant merritt desert inn

Feeling Festive with the new owner of Mughal Gardens Restaurant

 

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