If you’ve been reading this blog for any length of time, you might know that I’m no stranger to the Dine Out Vancouver festival. To be fair, though, I haven’t been indulging in those prix fixe menus nearly as much lately as I have in previous years. And so, let’s live vicariously through a couple of other food bloggers before moving on to the rest of this month’s speedlink, the first of 2020!

First off, we have Ceci from Purple Chives sharing her experience with the long table dinner series at Hawksworth as part of Dine Out Vancouver. I’ve had Hawksworth on my local restaurant bucket list for some time now. You might know that David Hawksworth was previously over at West Restaurant (which closed permanently last month). The Long Table Dinner Series is hosted in the Hawksworth private dining space, the York Room. You get a five course tasting menu, plus three local wines. I want to try the duck duo!

For an even more unique dining experience, Maggi Mei of VieAMaggi took in Dinner With a View. No, that’s not just a description; it’s the actual name of the event. Installation? Traveling restaurant? Whatever you want to call it, they’ve set up these unique lit domes at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver. And yes, you literally eat under these domes with a “blind tasting” in tables of six. Dinner With a View runs until February 16.

Looking for something a little humbler but possibly just as adventurous? Merry Kuchle of Merry About Town lists off several American foods you need to bring back to Canada the next time you visit. Is it weird how, after all these years, I don’t think I’ve ever tried Jimmy Dean Sausage? I’m not a fan of Cherry Coke, so I’ll pass on that too. For my part, we usually come back with some chocolate-covered espresso beans from Trader Joe’s and some extra hot Cheetos.

Care to take more than a quick day trip south of the border? I’ve actually been contemplating this trip for a while myself, especially since I see seat sales all the time. Matt Richard of Dashing Dad provides his ultimate family travel guide to Palm Springs. I know that many assume this area is only for retirees and snowbirds who love golf, plus wild young people attending Coachella, but it can be a lot of fun for families too. The Living Desert Zoo and Joshua Tree look great!

Or, maybe you’d rather tone things down a notch or two. That’s what Kristyl Clark of Valley Mom has been doing. In her own words, she’s changed from a socialite to embracing the simple life. Several years ago, you would’ve spotted her at many an event “always with a glass of something in hand.” These days, circumstances have changed and she looks less “outside myself for approval and happiness.” She’s more down to Earth, enjoying more cozy nights in. And that’s a-okay.

What about you? Are you the type to gallivant around town, doing all the things? Or would you prefer to curl up with a good book under a warm blanket?