Tammy Mandelbaum, Assistant Account Specialist
Bucket List:
□ Go sailing
□ Learn how to surf
□ Hold a snake (never mind)
□ Write a novel
□ Volunteer with animals
☑ Heli yoga on a mountain top
□ Ride a dirt bike
□ Hot air balloon ride
Brookline Public Relations partnered with Ford of Canada and Robin Esrock, renowned travel writer and TV host, for his Great Canadian Bucket List speaking tour. As part of Brookline’s extensive public relations services, we invited media and key influencers to join Ford and Robin who would help them check an item off of their bucket list. But don’t be alarmed, we didn’t ask our guests to dive into the deep blue sea and swim with great white sharks or eat monkey brains like a scene out of Indiana Jones. Instead, we took them on a helicopter ride to participate in a guided yoga session at the top of a mountain in Kananaskis Country!
The day began with participants driving out to the Rocky Mountains in the new 2016 Ford Explorer. It had all the latest technologies and the drive was made much more enjoyable with the massaging seats feature. Who needs a day at the spa when you can have it all while you drive or ride along in a Ford Explorer?! The Explorer also featured the Foot-Activated Hands-Free Power Liftgate which automatically opens the trunk by simply kicking your foot under the bumper. I was completely blown away by such a thoughtful and innovative technology, proving that Ford really thinks of everything!
We found ourselves riding through a few Alberta dirt backroads, but it was nothing that the unstoppable Ford Explorer couldn’t handle!
Once we arrived at our destination, we were greeted by the friendly crew from Rockies Heli Canada. Robin proceeded to give an informative and inspiring presentation about his many experiences traveling around Canada and the world. Even with all the incredible things he has seen and done, Robin emphasized that the places you visit are only as good as the people you meet along the journey. Essentially, it is the interactions with people that truly shape your experiences and ultimately become cherished and unforgettable memories.
Robin Esrock telling stories of his many adventures across Canada
Rockies Heli Canada shuttled the participants to the top of a mountain on a thrilling helicopter ride. Once I planted my feet on firm ground on the mountain peak and inhaled the fresh air, I was enveloped by an overwhelming feeling of tranquility. Being completely surrounded by panoramic views of the Rockies and vast Alberta foothills is a sight I won’t soon forget. A yoga session soon followed where we had the opportunity to showcase our best downward facing dog. Trust me, it’s a lot tougher than it looks!
Does anyone else picture Arnold Schwarzenegger yelling “Get to the choppa!”
Preparing to do yoga while enjoying the breathtaking views
Perfect location to be one with nature!
This experience demonstrated the wonders that spending time on a secluded mountain can do for the mind and soul. To reiterate some of Robin’s teachings, bucket lists are meant to be unique as each individual has their own interests and aspirations. There is a wide misconception that bucket list items are supposed to be extreme, but that is definitely not the case. In essence, it is an activity or experience that should excite you, and even challenge you. It is when you try different things and are open to new possibilities that you learn more about the world around you, but more importantly, about yourself as well.
*Cue The Hobbit theme song*
I’d like to thank Ford of Canada, Robin Esrock and Rockies Heli Canada for such a memorable experience and the opportunity to ✓off an item from my bucket list!
Now tell me, what’s on YOUR bucket list?
-Tammy Mandelbaum is an Assistant Account Specialist at Brookline Public Relations. Her expertise lies in media relations, event management, and content creation.