Emma Yardley

Canada

Travel Writer at Freelance

Award-winning travel writer. Last stop: UK. Next stop: #stayhome

Articles

Get Free Entry Into National Parks With the Canada Strong Pass

1 week ago | homenetwork.ca | Emma Yardley

The wilderness found in Canada’s national parks is world famous. And with the soon-to-launch Canada Strong Pass, Canadians and visitors alike will be able to explore much of our biodiverse backyard free of charge. Aimed at drumming up interest in domestic tourism, this federal government initiative offers free admission to all Parks Canada sites. On top of that, Parks Canada is also reducing camping fees by 25 per cent.
So You Want to Rent a Motorhome? Here’s What You Need to Know

2 weeks ago | homenetwork.ca | Emma Yardley

Summer is nearly here and so is road-tripping season. But this year, leave behind the cramped car and finicky tent. Instead, step into space, step into convenience, and, yep that’s right, step into a rental motorhome!Seriously, the idea of rolling into an oceanside RV campsite with dinner already pre-prepped, a private shower waiting, and beds already made sounds like Canadian camping heaven. The motorhome path really seems like the right one this year.
13 Must-See Botanical Gardens in Canada

3 weeks ago | homenetwork.ca | Melissa Girimonte |Emma Yardley |Caleb Waddell |Amber Dowling

Canadian botanical gardens are renowned for displaying diverse plant collections, especially native plants. They play a vital role in research, conservation and education. There are many botanical gardens in Canada that offer interactive exhibits, self-guided tours and classes for people of all ages. In addition, they provide an escape from the daily hustle, a chance to soak up nature even for a few hours. Ready to head outdoors?
Breakfast Nook and Corner Ideas You'll Love

3 weeks ago | homenetwork.ca | Emma Yardley

If you believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then adding an on-trend breakfast nook is a no-brainer. Having a sweet, designated space — however big or small — to savour that first sip of coffee sounds delightful. Add in the bonus of extra in-kitchen seating and overflow storage (via banquettes or lidded benches), and a breakfast nook is suddenly so much more than its name suggests.
The Best Low-Maintenance Plants for City Dwellers

1 month ago | homenetwork.ca | Amanda Roberts |sharon chan |Angela Serednicki |Emma Yardley

The warmer months are on the horizon, and it is the perfect time to bring some greenery into your space. Maybe you’re investing in your first plants, or perhaps you want to enjoy the vibrant energy plants add to a home without having to commit too much time to its care. These seven low-maintenance plants are perfect for city dwellers who want to add a fresh, modern vibe to their home or balcony.
Pack Like a Pro: How to Fit Everything Into a Carry-On

2 months ago | homenetwork.ca | Emma Yardley

Well-packed luggage can make the difference between a good trip and a bad one. Dramatic? A tad. But honestly, think about it: having everything you need for an upcoming adventure is so important. Imagine flying to New York on a business trip and bringing the wrong laptop cord for your presentation. Or heading to the Caribbean for a long-awaited scuba camp and forgetting the mask that fits just so.
These European Islands Are Gaining Popularity Among Canadians

2 months ago | homenetwork.ca | Lydia Hrycko |Amber Dowling |Emma Yardley |Caleb Waddell

Everyone knows Santorini for its beautiful, whitewashed houses, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters — making it the supermodel of European islands. But a date with a supermodel doesn’t come cheap, both in travel and hotel costs. Plus, you’ll have to battle through throngs of tourists to enjoy this sunny destination. Not to worry, as there are plenty of other choices for European isles that Canadians can add to their travel bucket list.
The Best Places in Canada to See Cherry Blossoms

2 months ago | homenetwork.ca | Emma Yardley

Cherry blossoms — with their big, puffy pink blooms and light, delicate vanilla-like scent — are in a class of their own. Visitors and locals flock, cameras in hand, to parks and neighbourhoods fortunate enough to have been planted with these photogenic trees decades ago. Vancouver, BC is home to one of the largest collections of “sakura” (ornamental cherry-blossom trees) outside of Japan. Come spring, its parks are awash in powdery pinks and sidewalks scattered with petals.
Goodbye Moldy Screen - Here's How to Give Your Windows a Proper Clean - Home Network

2 months ago | homenetwork.ca | Shorey Andrews |Lara Buchar |Amber Dowling |Emma Yardley

Cleaning the windows in your home is a necessary albeit annoying task, but the winter weather leaves behind dirt and grime that can block the spring sunshine from shining through your space. Worse, avoiding cleaning away the debris could cause it to blow into your home, collecting dust on floors, surfaces and furniture. While you can hire cleaning services to get the job done, sometimes it’s easier just to roll up your sleeves and clean those window screens yourself. Here’s how to get started.
Cheap Caribbean Islands That You Might Not Know About

2 months ago | homenetwork.ca | Lara Buchar |Amber Dowling |Emma Yardley |Shorey Andrews

Craving a tropical island vacation? While you’re already familiar with popular travel destinations like Cuba and Jamaica, broadening your search to other Caribbean islands can save you money and expose you to fun new cultures, too! Plus, there are direct flights to many destinations that are probably more affordable than you think. So read on for some of the best Caribbean vacation spots for Canadians.