Christopher Mitchell

My favourite part of what I do isn’t what I get to experience, it’s the privilege I have to carefully listen to stories, and then share that with others. Today, I spent about an hour and half at Two Blokes Cider, where I met Matt, who quickly introduced himself as “Bloke # 1.” He told me about the efforts he had put into converting what was a dirt floor pole barn that his dad once put to use into a full-blown cidery. He told me about working on a cider farm in the UK, and wanting to bring that knowledge back (and spoiler alert, the cider is phenomenal.) They’re hosting events in the barn next door, they’ve got live music at the forefront of what they’re doing, they’re building out a food menu for the fall, they’ve got plans to convert an old Airstream into an Airbnb, and about a million other things. Matt and his partner (Bloke # 2) took a big leap of faith in opening this spot just this June, and I want to publicly applaud their efforts, and thank Matt for the hospitality (and for making some of the best cider I’ve tasted in Ontario). I will never tire of publicly applauding creative, daring, and deserving small businesses in this province.

Before I left for Mississauga, I decided the whole premise for the itinerary I would create would be centred on showcasing places that people might not know were located there, but most certainly are. To, in a way, challenge misguided stereotypes that I’ve heard in the past about Toronto’s neighbour. For one reason or another, a lot of people have decided what the city is without ever taking a moment to explore what it actually is. That’s ultimately why #ItPaysToStay in Mississauga for a little staycation. It’s amazing what happens when you arrive in a place ready to embrace its hidden gems, and to really let the city tell you its story. #MySaugaSummer #ad

It’s remarkably energizing to explore nearby places that you “know” with an open mind and a mindset focused on discovery. I’ve “been” to Mississauga countless times, but I haven’t ever been here with the intention to genuinely find something new or different. So, I’m staying the night, and doing a little staycation, and that’s what led me to Kariya Park. A serene Japanese garden I’d never set foot it before, but I’m awfully happy I have now. #MySaugaSummer #ItPaysToStay #ad

Last night, I was fortunate enough to be invited to the world premiere of “Currents,” the new sound and light experience at the Niagara Parks Power Station. This is a case where I’ll let the pictures do the talking, my friends.

What’s up everyone!? Happy Wednesday! I’m in Niagara Falls for the world premiere of “Currents,” a new light and sound experience that takes place in the heart of the Niagara Parks Power Station! Excited to share the adventure with you guys.

My favourite road is the open road.

The moment I knew I was heading to this region, this picture became an inevitability. I present to you - a Mitchell, in Mitchell!

Well, I’ve escaped the city again, and this time it’s to better explore Perth County! For those who don’t know, Perth County is located in Southwestern Ontario, a little west of Kitchener and a little northeast of London. One of its population centres, fittingly, is Mitchell, and that’s actually exactly where I’m crafting this post. Obviously I’m going to take some photos with the signage here based on my last name. Feels like I was always meant to come here, hah! Perth County is known for its farming and dairy, but it’s also becoming known for tourism. They’ve got some top-notch cycling (and we all know how much I like that), some really unique accommodation options (stay tuned to my stories later today for more info on that), some notable golf courses, good food aplenty, and picturesque rural landscapes everywhere you look. I’ve always been drawn to the energy of the city, but as of late, I’ve got to say that I understand why a slower pace of life that’s a little removed from it all is so darn desirable. I’ve already been busy since I’ve arrived (hence the photo in the sunflower field at McCully’s Hill Farm), but stoked to have three full days ahead of me!