It's time to escape the winter blues. Don't worry, there is no need to break the bank. Instead, take the time to revisit an old favourite, Halifax. The city offers an unlimited number of sights and trendy restaurants for even the most discriminate of traveler's.

Think you've been there so many times that there is nothing new to do? Here are few tips on having a trip you'll never forget.

Begin by checking in at the Marriott Harbourfront and be sure to ask for a room with a view. The hotel is conveniently located on the harbour walk, a skip away from the ferry terminal. As a member of Marriott resorts, it is replete with an indoor pool, whirlpool and gym, all within an enclosed sunny solarium. Their restaurant, North 44, has the best view in the city. They offer a buffet breakfast, where you can watch the sunrise and enjoy fluffy chocolate chip pancakes. It's like going to an all-inclusive, without ever leaving the Maritimes.

If you need to relax, take a break at Sprit Spa. The décor is modern chic. You can sip a glass of their refreshing signature cucumber water, while lounging in their cozy caramel sofas, as you wait for your treatment. They offer romantic couples massage, as well as his and hers' packages. Men can have a deep tissue sports massage, while women can revel in a pedicure on one of their lazy-boy chairs. The spa offers little extras like steam showers and flannel bathrobes, all free to use before and after your treatment. Their product line includes Eminence from Hungary which is all organic and smells of spring.

After being pampered, head to the Nova Scotia National Gallery for some culture. Their current exhibit Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe, has garnered so much interest that it has been extended till March 24th. The exhibit is a compendium of 186 objects that tracks her rise from orphan to stardom. The following exhibit is also sure to be a hit as it is solely dedicated to hockey. It is appropriately entitled Arena: The Art of Hockey and it runs from April 5th to June 8th this year.

After walking around a museum for a couple of hours, most people have worked up an appetite. Make reservations ahead of time for dinner at Chives Canadian Bistro, one of the best restaurants in Halifax. Located right on Barrington, it offers local food and wine from two local chefs, Craig and Darren, who studied at The Culinary Institute in PEI. As they use only local produce, their menu changes with the seasons. Their only year-round staple is their famous biscuit. If this is a romantic night out, ask for the candlelit table inside the bank vault that doubles as a cellar.

If you're not exhausted, head to Neptune Theatre and catch a play. As the province's largest theatre company, they have staged major productions including Chicago and Cats. If going to a play puts you to sleep, head to Club Caliente, Halifax's new Salsa Club, and burn off a few calories. After all, if you can't go to Cuba, a weekend in Halifax may be the next best thing.

If You Go

Where to Stay: Marriott Halifax Harbourfront is located on 1919 Upper Water Street. It is a non-smoking hotel. For reservations call 1-800-943-6760. AAA Diamonds: 4

Where to Eat: Chives Canadian Bistro, open 7 days a week from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm, 1537 Barrington Street, phone for reservations at 1-902-420-9626.

What to Do

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia: 1723 Hollis Street. Open daily 9:00 am to 5:00pm.
Spirit Spa: 5150 Salter Street, 1-902-431-8100, www.spiritspa.ca
Neptune Theatre: Box office 1-902-429-7070, www.neptunetheatre.com
Club Caliente: 5680 Spring Garden Road. Open 6:00pm to 2:00 am Thursday to Saturday

Important Dates ' Events:
March 16, 2008: 2nd Annual Mad Hatter's Tea Party, Harbourside Market Cafe
March 28-30, 2008: Nova Scotia Spring Ideal Home Show, Exhibition Park
April 17, 2008: Stars on Ice, Halifax Metro Centre

For more information check out: www.halifaxinfo.com