julienne

Cafe on the beach…best burger I have ever had. I wish for the life of me I could remember the name of the place.

Bit pricy, but will have anything you’re looking for. Of the punk, funk, underground, hardcore persuation.

Born and raised in a province called Alberta, which I can best sum up as the Texas of Canada. Calgary is in Southern Alberta, a river valley just a stones throw from the Rockie Mountains. Though Calgary is a mainly conservative town, this being the major reason I moved after high school, it does hold some of the best indie film houses I have ever been too, and I do miss them. The Up Town, the Globe, the Plaza, and many others.

I recommend visiting 9th ave, for the wonderful antique shops, Fair’s Fair used books, and Recordland. Plus it’s right by the Zoo, which is not only an Island, but has just finsished up some amazingly cool renovations and additions. Also, 17th ave and Stephen ave for the hipsters willing to drop a tonne of money. 17th ave interescts 4th street, which has some of the best eats in town. Such as Hanna Sushi, and the Rose and Crown pub. 4th street is also home to Sloth records, and I’ve Read That used books. And in keeping with the “Stay downtown, never go to the ’burbs” theme, there’s always Devonian Gardens atop the Bankers Hall buisness town, just off Stephen Ave. Take the train and venture across the river to enter the ‘village’ of Kensington. Good coffee shops, great food, rare book and toy stores, and new/used record shops.

Hit up Calgary in the summer for the Stampede and Exhibition. There’s rides, candy floss, corn dogs, rodeos, free concerts from big name bands, and cultural exhibitions of local Native art and history. Plus there’s fire works every night of the Stampede which are best seen from atop Scotcmen’s Hill.

Summer time maybe the best time to hit the hiking trails in the Rockies, and kananaski, but if you’re a skier, or snowboarder, late fall, and winter us prime time for you.

Calgary, it’s a gem, just don’t stay too long.

(photo taken by me, julienne scheidt. 4th st. meets 17th ave)