Daily Star Sunday

YES YUKON Easily sled: Canada’s snow-coated paradise is irresistib­le – just don’t forget the thermals

- By NIGEL THOMPSON by

frozen grins throughout an exhilarati­ng, scenic ride.

The wilderness isn’t all about the views – there is wildlife to look out for, as well.

Sadly we were too late in the year for moose and caribou and the bears had already gone into hibernatio­n.

But the eagle-eyed can still spot a beaver-gnawed tree by a dam in the river, deer wandering slowly along a snowy field or maybe even a porcupine scuttling by the side of the road.

Then there are the eagles themselves. We saw dozens of the huge birds, soaring effortless­ly over rivers or sitting majestical­ly in the trees.

Maybe they can hear the call of the wild. I know I certainly did.

WOULD you like to be the godparent of a new cruise ship and smash the bubbly on the bow at its naming?

For the first time, travel giant TUI is looking for two readers to do the honours for river vessels TUI Isla and TUI Maya in Amsterdam on March 23 to 25. Not only can you take a guest, you’ll also get a clothes allowance so you can glam up for the showcase event – and you will also be able to go on a luxury voyage later this year to try out the ship and report back with your godparent recommenda­tions.

To apply for this unique, privileged role – over-18s only – head to the link at the end of this column, read the job descriptio­n

EDINBURGH has always been a great option for a city mini-break, and now it can add a Travelodge Plus to its enviable offerings of history, good times and culture.

The Scottish capital has got something for every type of tourist, from its imposing castle overlookin­g the city to the

Murrayfiel­d Stadium and Edinburgh Zoo.

The all-new

Travelodge Plus is a nine-minute train ride from the city centre to

South Gyle station.

You’ll find it just outside the city and just a few minutes’ cab ride to the airport, making it a perfect venue for travellers.

Travelodge Plus has been designed with larger bedrooms and bigger beds, and a more modern design scheme.

But what really caught my eye was the huge bathroom, with a shower and bath tub too – a rare treat in a budget hotel.

Even the kettle and coffee sachets are top notch, and after a good night’s sleep I enjoyed a lovely cappuccino from the coffee machine...along with a cheeky KitKat.

Hearty breakfasts include everyone’s favourite, the full English – or rather the full Scottish here – with vegetarian options. The continenta­l buffet is extensive, offering everything from tasty pastries to yoghurt.

My Super Room had a TV, lots of sockets including USB ports for all my tech, wi-fi and a desk.

I also had an iron and board. The ground floor has a cool, colourful bar plus a restaurant to get a night in the city off to a great start.

 ?? CHARLES WADE-PALMER ?? WARMING: The Sky High Wilderness Ranch
PULLING POWER: Dog sledding in the Yukon and, below, a Viking
CHARLES WADE-PALMER WARMING: The Sky High Wilderness Ranch PULLING POWER: Dog sledding in the Yukon and, below, a Viking
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