About: Daniela Cubelic
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http://www.silkroadtea.com
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Daniela grew up in Victoria but spent time travelling the world before returning home to start Silk Road in 1992.
Silk Road is located in Victoria’s Chinatown. Silk Road is renowned for premium quality organic tea and an all natural line of incredible skin and bodycare products, all made in Victoria. Silk Road also has an award winning in-store spa and houses North America’s first Tea Tasting Bar – where you can explore tea history, culture and the exotic world of tea flavours.
Daniela is a Tea Master who received her training with Chinese and Taiwanese Tea Masters and Herbalists. She is also an expert on the history and culture of tea, and has a passion for exploring innovative ways to enjoy tea and was named one of Western Canada’s Top 40 Foodies under 40. “Look out, Red Rose.. Cubelic has helped change the way the West sees tea.” - Western Living Magazine, October 2008. From making gourmet tea popsicles, to dazzling tea cocktails, and cooking with tea, something delicious and tea-related is always brewing when Daniela’s around! Daniela is also an avid foodie and stylish fashionista who loves discovering new culinary finds, as well as fabulous shopping experiences. As a native Victorian, she has an encyclopedic knowledge of the city and the island, as well as how much it has changed for the better in recent years.
She is also very involved in the local community, and is currently Chair of the Victoria Dragonboat Festival Society, a world-class Dragonboat Festival which takes place every August, in Victoria’s gorgeous Inner Harbour.
Posts by Daniela Cubelic:
By Daniela Cubelic
TASTE is a 4 day culinary festival from July 15-18 that I have been eagerly awaiting all year!
 Photo credit: Caroline West We have many amazing culinary events in Victoria, but I would put this one right at the pinnacle as this city’s premier food and wine festival, because it gives you an incredible diversity of experiences and flavours, and showcases the best of local cuisine from top Vancouver Island chefs, farmers, cheesemakers, BC vintners and regional food producers. In fact, TASTE is beyond a festival – it’s really a culinary adventure that educates, inspires and delights anyone who loves good food and drink.
Taste is worth the trip to Victoria alone, and even if you have been here many times before, you’ll be impressed with the incredible food and drinks that are being grown, produced and created here. Our mild Mediterranean climate allows us to grow an abundance of food locally and our coastal location gives us access to unparalleled fresh seafood. But what also makes an equally big impact is our culinary community – we are a city filled with talented chefs and discerning and passionate foodies, and it is the unique combination of all of these factors which helps explain why we have ended up turning into such a gastronomic paradise.
 Photo credit: Rebecca Kirstein The deliciousness begins on Thursday, July 15th with The Main Event at Crystal Garden. You’ll get to taste over 100 wines, along with an abundance of local cuisine. More culinary and wine events take place around Victoria throughout the weekend from “Swine and the Vine”, “Sips & Seafood“, to “Wine Tasting with the International Culinary School” to “Chocoholics Anonymous”! For tickets and information visit www.VictoriaTaste.com
By Daniela Cubelic
Forty years ago, the French anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss coined the term “the raw and the cooked ” to describe the dichotomy between what is found in nature (raw), as opposed to that which is a product of human culture (cooked). Lévi-Strauss felt that this duality exists in all societies to varying degrees, and that human beings have a need to find a balance between the raw and the cooked.
In my estimation Victoria has evolved into an ideal combination of the two, but until recently, it’s been better known for the raw than the cooked. Victoria has often been referred to as a sleepy and laid back place, but that is no longer a fully accurate description. Nowadays, it also offers the kind of vibrant cultural experiences that are typically associated with large urban centers. If you’re surprised by this revelation, you’re not alone – even locals have been slow to notice the city’s transformation into a dynamic cultural center.
It is true that there are lots of opportunities to unwind in Victoria – our fresh sea air, breathtaking scenery, and relaxed pace are the perfect antidote to the stress-filled hustle and bustle of the modern world. But Victoria also offers a great mix of cultural and arts activities as well, and there is a much hipper vibe than you might expect, particularly if you know where to look.
There is an increasingly wonderful independent arts, music and theater scene here. In fact, a significant part of what I enjoy about living in today’s Victoria is that it offers the juxtaposition of sophisticated big city experiences and amenities, with virtually immediate access to nature. Whenever I’m feeling overly “cooked”, I head to the ocean or to one of our many gorgeous parks, lakes or trails to rejuvenate, and whenever I’m craving big city experiences, I attend an art show, see a play, or go to a musical performance.
Speaking of which, if you’re planning a visit to Victoria and thinking about taking in some live music, check out Atomique Productions. They bring excellent performers to Victoria, and you frequently get to see up and coming artists who are often on the verge of major success in an intimate setting, at a very affordable price. Atomique is like having a cool friend with great musical taste.
 Photo credit: Robert Etcheverry For music of an entirely different sort, take in the Victoria Symphony. They offer a wide range of high caliber performances from experimental music to pops, along with very traditional classical music. Pacific Opera is also well worth attending. The music, the costumes, the sets and the entire experience makes for an unforgettable night out.
For excellent live theater (which is also often incredibly affordable), check out Intrepid Theatre. This company puts on the Fringe Festival in Victoria, along with a terrific selection of other productions throughout the year, and it’s always a good idea to see what they are up to when you are in town.
Atomic Vaudeville is a local favourite for their cabaret style theater. Their productions are innovative, edgy, and fun, and tickets are very affordable as well.
The Belfry Theatre offers highly acclaimed and polished productions. Try to be sure to get a ticket in advance, as their shows can sell out quickly.
The Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre was established in 2008 but has quickly risen to prominence and received much critical acclaim.
If Dance Victoria happens to have a show on while you are in town, don’t hesitate to get tickets – you will be glad that you did. They offer an exciting mix of contemporary and classic dance productions that invariably take my breath away.
The suggestions that I have made are just a small sampling of the increasingly dynamic presence of arts and culture in Victoria. Whenever possible, I recommend trying to book tickets in advance of your trip, so that you don’t miss out on some amazing experiences. And when you arrive, be prepared to meet the new Victoria – a perfect balance of cooked and raw!
By Daniela Cubelic
 Canada Day is a very splashy affair in downtown Victoria, and it’s worth the trip here just to experience it.
The grand finale is a dramatic fireworks show in the magnificent Inner Harbour at 10:20 pm, but there is so much more to do prior to that. The fun begins early in the day with free walking tours covering a wide range of interesting topics and places. There are also impressive historic buildings which are normally not open to the public (but that you will get to enjoy on Canada Day). From noon to 2 pm, you can join a Living Canadian Flag, which will contain a record breaking 2010 people this year. Evening entertainment and musical performances start at 5:30 pm on the lawns of the Parliament Buildings. There are so many things to see and do, that it’s hard to fully describe, so follow these links for details – for walking tours, Open the Doors to History (entry to historic buildings) and a wide selection of daytime activities visit downtownvictoria for information about evening performances, fireworks (and much much more!) visit victoriacanadaday.
One of my favourite things to do on Canada Day is to go out for dinner somewhere with a view. Taking in the festivities with friends over a great meal, with an amazing view, is my way to celebrate the day. If you’re like me, then I suggest booking a table at Aura, (the fabulous restaurant at the Inn at Laurel Point) as soon as possible! The vistas overlooking the Inner Harbour are amazing, and the food and cocktails will be spectacular too.
Spending July 1st in Victoria is guaranteed to be a fun and memorable day. You’ll meet and mingle with locals, and start to feel a little Canadian no matter where you hail from.
By Daniela Cubelic
 The Victoria Harbour Ferries are a fleet of charming mini ferries that travel throughout Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbour. You can choose to take short trips to specific destinations, spend several hours hopping on and off at various stops, or stay on board for guided tours.
I’m a fan of hopping on and off, because there are many great places to stop for a drink, some delicious snacks, or to take in an incredible lunch or dinner, and you can also enjoy some superb shopping along the way.
My first trip aboard a Victoria Harbour Ferry came about because my niece who lived out of town was visiting, and I thought it would be fun to take her on a trip along the harbour. But on that first ride, I was instantly bewitched by the beautiful views, the ocean air, and the various stops that you could visit along the way, so now I find excuses to enjoy a trip aboard a ferry, whether I have guests in town or not!
Some of my favourite stops include:
-Spinnaker’s Gastro-Brewpub, which is Canada’s oldest brewpub, and remains renowned today for terrific beer and excellent food featuring local ingredients. They have excellent views of the Inner Harbour and the Olympic Mountains as well.
-Reeson Landing, which is steps away from the Lojo District, and a gateway to fabulous boutique shopping.
-Rice Mill Landing, which is one block from Victoria’s Historic Chinatown and happens to be my absolutely FAVOURITE part of the city. Victoria’s Chinatown is Canada’s Oldest, and it’s a vibrant and colourful area. Enjoy excellent Dim Sum or dinner at Don Mee Restaurant.
-Point Ellice House, which has a beautiful garden that contains some very unique heirloom flowers, trees and vegetables. Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea there, and visit the intriguing historic museum.
-The chic and trendy Glo-Europub, which has one of Victoria’s most beautiful waterside outdoor patios, and some great food and delicious cocktails as well.
-Dockside Green which is a new residential development renowned for leading edge sustainable design and principles. Check out Fol Epi Bakery for artisanal breads and pastries which make foodie Victorians swoon. Serious coffee lovers will adore Caffe Fantastico.
-Fisherman’s Wharf is a fun stop for Fish & Chips.
-Aura, which is an award winning restaurant and lounge with stunning vistas of the Inner Harbour, and the food and cocktails are equal to the view! It’s located within the Inn at Laurel Point. There’s also a gorgeous outdoor patio, and it is the perfect destination for drinks or a romantic dinner for two.
This Sunday May 16, from 9:00am-1:00 pm the Victoria Harbour Ferries are hosting a fun “Harbour Holiday Fest” event. There will be free harbour ferry hops, and complimentary food samples and interesting activities will take place at the various ferry stops.
Even if you aren’t in town for this event, be sure to check out the Victoria Harbour Ferries on your trip to Victoria. They are equally enjoyable if you’re taking a family vacation, or if you’re on a romantic getaway. Check out their Harbour Holiday Pass www.harbourholiday.ca this summer which is good for two days of unlimited Harbour Hops and also offers discounts on many of the best harbour-side restaurants, pubs, spas and experiences. $30 per person or $60 for a family of four.
By Daniela Cubelic
 In my opinion, there’s nothing like a new pair of earrings to rejuvenate one’s spirits and one’s wardrobe at the same time. They can add sparkle or drama to an outfit, make you feel sassy, uber-trendy or sophisticated, or add a layer of fabulousness to an ensemble. Depending on the pair, earrings can also be a great way to try out an entirely new look without committing to something permanent, (unlike a new haircut or hair colour). They can also be an incredibly affordable little indulgence, and despite their relatively small size (and cost) earrings can make a big statement.
Every once in a while, I feel the irresistible pull to pick up a new pair of earrings, and that usually means a trip to Violette Veldor – a delightful jewellery store located on Government St., between View and Yates St. It’s only a 5 minute walk from work for me, so I can stop by on a lunch break and return to work with an added spring in my step, and delicious new earrings dangling from my ears.
Violette Veldor is a locally owned business, and the owner has a great eye for fashionable jewellery. There is also always an ever-changing selection, in a wide variety of price points and styles.
I recently stopped in and picked up a dazzling pair of gold earrings shaped to look like leaves. These earrings are larger, more glittery, and more gold than what I usually tend to lean towards, but for some reason as soon as I saw them, I was compelled to purchase them. Perhaps it was seeing all those gold medals at the Vancouver Olympics that made me crave something gold of my own, but whatever the reason, I’ve loved this new pair! They add a sophisticated element to all-black outfits, and look elegant with an ivory and gold scarf that I bought ages ago (a testament to how earrings really can rejuvenate your wardrobe and make you re-think and re-work some of your old clothes!). They also look equally good with jeans for a more casual look.
Perhaps best of all, this new pair was only about $30, making it very easy to take a fashion risk, which in this case turned out to be the right move.
In addition to Violette Veldor, if you’re looking for more places to get great jewellery, check out Bernstein and Gold, Rebel Rebel (neither of which specialize in jewellery but often have good finds) as well as Adore and Artina’s. Happy Shopping!
By Daniela Cubelic
 Enjoying matcha tea inside the styrofoam tearoom Great New Wave is an exhibit of contemporary art that recently opened at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and I have to admit to being completely swept away by it. It features six groundbreaking Japanese artists who explore the complex realities of the globalized world.In my opinion, contemporary art is too often underrated because it sometimes lacks the obvious visual appeal of traditional art. Not that there is anything wrong with the uplifting and transformative power of beauty – I love it as well! However, I’m drawn to contemporary art because it has the ability to speak to us about the life and times that we live in, in a profound and powerful way, and that’s exactly what this exhibit did for me. Although it’s been several days since I saw Great New Wave, I have gone back to it in my mind on many occasions and found new meaning that has emerged with further reflection, and I have also already felt the pull to return and see it again.
 Kaihatsu with styrofoam deer As a tea lover, it’s probably not going to come as a surprise that among my favourite pieces in this exhibit is a Japanese tearoom by artist Yoshiaki Kaihatsu. This tearoom is constructed out of styrofoam and perches on plastic milk crates, which is a stark contrast to the traditional natural materials (such as wood and rice paper screens) that a tearoom would normally be made of.
At the essence of the Japanese Tea Ceremony is a celebration of simplicity – you are meant to enjoy the simple pleasure of making a bowl of tea. Thus a traditional tearoom is a very basic design and has simple adornments, so that your mind can focus on the making of the tea. Kaihatsu’s re-imagined tearoom is made of reclaimed styrofoam, which reminds us of the overly consumerist culture we live in. But its simplicity also elegantly reminds of us a traditional tearoom, and a new and intriguing harmony emanates from the unique shapes and effect that the styrofoam creates.
Kaihatsu also made a styrofoam deer in response to the Gallery’s Shinto Shrine, creating another exquisite moment which juxtaposes ancient with new. The deer is outdoors in the Gallery’s Garden, which further emphasizes the contrast between nature and objects such as styrofoam which are synthetic/artificial.
I was also drawn to many other pieces, including Kohei Nawa’s PixCell pieces which are a commentary on the global economy, and Sayaka’s Akiyama’s embroidered maps, which are also a must-see. The exhibit runs until May 30, 2010. For more information, go to aggv.bc.ca.
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