Summer is usually the time many residents of Airdrie plan to get away, whether that means international or cross-Canada travel. Unfortunately, the spread of COVID-19 has put many people's travel plans on hold. For our staff, trips to Texas, California and India had to be cancelled. We're sure many of our readers had a similar experience.
Even at home, the summer has and will continue to look unusual. Already this year, events like the Airdrie Children's Festival and the Canada Day parade have been cancelled. While public facilities like Genesis Place Recreation Facility and the Nose Creek Valley Museum are gradually reopening, it may seem like there is a dearth of options for summer fun this year.
Despite the new reality forced upon us by the pandemic, summer does not have to be boring. Alberta is a beautiful place to live and explore. In recent weeks, our staff has spent time visiting Banff and Waterton Lakes, taking in stunning views, eating at local restaurants and enjoying activities like canoeing and hiking.
Accompanying this week's newspaper, our readers will find the Explore Summer tourism guide. Compiled by reporters at our newspaper and our sister publications, the guide highlights attractions in Airdrie, Rocky View County, Banff, Canmore, Cochrane and Okotoks. This guide features recommendations for day trips from people who live and work in those communities.
We encourage our readers to spend some time exploring their own backyards this summer. Whether you venture to a neighbouring community for the day or spend an afternoon getting acquainted with parts of Airdrie you haven't visited before, we're sure you, your family and your friends will find ways to make lasting memories this summer.
Of course, it's imperative to remember to take safety precautions wherever you choose to visit this summer. While the risk of COVID-19 is relatively low, wearing masks, physical distancing and frequent handwashing remain advisable practices, not only for your safety, but for the safety of those in the communities you visit.
