How To Celebrate World Chocolate Day with Coast Hotels
Not many days can be described as "delicious," but July 7th is a notable exception. It's World Chocolate Day, or more commonly referred to as International Chocolate Day, a day that exists solely to celebrate all things chocolate each year. A celebration of sweet chocolatey treats and confections? Now that's something we can all get behind!
Do you prefer milk, dark, or white chocolate or perhaps you like yours with fillings or in baked goods. Maybe you like chocolate in ice cream form, as part of a s'more, or in a cocktail. However you do chocolate, these Coast Hotels properties put you within easy striking distance of some incredible chocolatey finds. If chocolate travel isn't already a "thing," it may be soon!
Vancouver, BC
Like Portland, Vancouver is a hub for four-season outdoor recreation. With sweeping mountain ranges and the ocean, there's no outdoor pursuit you can't enjoy in Vancouver. The picturesque city is also extremely walkable, home to numerous parks, and public art installations. In addition, Vancouver has a reputation for being a foodie's paradise. Chocolate, in particular, is widely considered "a very important food group." Here, every day is considered Chocolate Day!
Can't-miss chocolate shops in Vancouver:
Traditional chocolate shops
- BETA5 Chocolates
- Chocolatas
- Mink Chocolates (don't miss the chocolate fondue and s'mores!)
- Thierry - repeatedly wins "best of" awards for Vancouver desserts
Chocolate ice cream
- Mister Artisan Ice Cream (frozen liquid nitrogen ice cream!)
- Perverted - ice cream with a fun and cheeky twist
- Earnest Ice Cream
- Rain or Shine (ice cream tacos are a must!)
Where to stay in Vancouver
From the comfort of the contemporary, pet-friendly rooms at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel by APA, you'll be in the heart of everything. Enjoy city views, being within walking distance of countless restaurants (including several chocolatiers!), bars, attractions, and the harbour, plus an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness centre onsite.
Nanaimo, BC
Located on British Columbia's beautiful Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is arguably one of the world's best destinations for chocolate travel. Not only does the coastal city offer beaches, mountains, mild weather all year-round, and a relaxed pace of life, but Nanaimo also has its very own dessert: the Nanaimo Bar.
The decadent dessert features a crumb base and layers of custard and chocolate ganache, and is so popular that just about every restaurant and café in town has its own version. In fact, you can follow the Nanaimo Bar Trail around town, a self-guided foodie tour featuring all sorts of variations of the eponymously named treats. From traditional Nanaimo Bars to deep-fried versions and cupcake, coffee, and even cocktail iterations, you'll find more than enough chocolate options on the trail.
Where to stay in Nanaimo
Directly on Nanaimo's quaint, picturesque waterfront, the Coast Bastion Hotel offers comfortable and relaxing accommodations downtown. The pet-friendly hotel gives you easy access to everything you could possibly want, including several stops on the Nanaimo Bar Trail. The on-site restaurant, Minnoz, re-opens for dinner service starting July 9.
Edmonton, AB
The lively culture in Alberta's capital city largely centers around the arts, sports (baseball, football, and ice hockey, in particular, are huge in Edmonton), outdoor recreation, and — surprise! — food. Edmonton is also affectionately known as the "Festival City of Canada" and there's a major focus on all things local. This is a wonderful city to visit for any reason at all, but especially for World Chocolate Day!
Can't-miss chocolate shops in Edmonton:
- Lindt & Sprungli
- Sweet Lollapalooza - named one of the Top 10 Chocolatiers in North America
- Choccorant Bakery
- Natural Kitchen Delights
Where to stay in Edmonton
Whether you're visiting for Chocolate Day or something else entirely, staying in downtown Edmonton is always a great idea. The pet-friendly Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA is within easy walking distance of the city's hottest destinations, and a seven-minutes drive or 15-minute walk to the Edmonton River Valley, Canada’s largest urban park.
For families looking for a family splash-down while in Edmonton, Coast Nisku Inn and Conference Centre has you covered with an indoor pool, water slide and spray park. Enjoy approachable dishes at the on-site Montana’s BBQ and Bar.
Canmore, AB
Canmore is best known for its incredible scenery, active outdoor lifestyle, and proximity to both Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park. The city certainly doesn't need another "thing," but it has a great culinary scene, to boot. From coffee shops and craft breweries to a wide range of vegan and other specialty restaurants and of course, chocolate shops and bakeries, Canmore has a bit of everything for everyone.
Can't-miss chocolate shops in Canmore:
Where to stay in Canmore
Just over an hour from Calgary International Airport, it's hard to beat the central (and scenic!) location of the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre. The hotel also features an indoor pool and hot tub, newly-renovated fitness centre with Peloton bikes, and an onsite restaurant, Table Food + Drink. For dessert, check out one of the chocolate shops we recommended above. A couple of them are just around the corner from the hotel — Le Chocolatier and Cacao 70 Canmore!