ABOUT ME
Your Local Guide to Exploring Canada
Hi, I’m Sowkat Hayat. I am a Toronto-based traveller, professional creator, and published author. Since relocating from Bangladesh to Toronto, I have spent over twenty years exploring the vast landscapes of Canada. While Ontario is my home, my journey has taken me across the country—including a 14-month residency living and working in Saskatoon. My perspective is further enriched by an extensive background in international travel, having lived and worked in Japan and South Korea, and explored destinations like Thailand and Dubai. This global experience defines my curiosity for the “Great White North” and my passion for documenting its beauty through storytelling and design.
Why I Created Wander Maple
I built Wander Maple to provide the level of detail that only a 20-year resident can offer. Having lived in Ontario for two decades and spent significant time immersed in the life of the Prairies and Western Canada, I’ve discovered the “hidden” spots that visitors—and even locals—often miss. My mission is to combine this deep local knowledge with a global travel perspective and original photography to help you plan trips that are both authentic and visually stunning.
My Professional Background & Expertise
To provide the highest quality travel resources, I draw upon a diverse professional background in design, storytelling, and technology:
Published Author: I am a published children’s author, most notably of My First ABC Book (available on Amazon). This background in publishing ensures that every guide on this site is rigorously researched and written with clarity.
Web Designer & Site Builder: With a career spanning nearly 20 years, I am the founder of Sowkat Hayat Web Design, where I personally build and design websites for local businesses. This professional expertise is why Wander Maple is built for a seamless, user-first experience.
Professional & Authentic Visuals (S. Hayat Photography): I am an experienced Photographer and Video Editor. The vast majority of the images you see across this site are authentic visuals captured personally during my travels. You will frequently see my watermark, S. Hayat Photography, which serves as my personal guarantee that the content is original and based on real-world visits. While I use a very few high-quality stock photos to complete my guides or provide specific context, I strive to show you the real Canada through my own lens.
Visual Content Creator: Beyond the blog, I utilize my skills as a video editor and graphic designer to bring Canadian destinations to life. My goal is to ensure every traveler gets a true “vibe” of the location before they even arrive.
What You’ll Find on Wander Maple
Tested Itineraries: Routes I have personally driven and verified across Ontario, the Prairies, and Western Canada.
Photography & Design Tips: Leveraging my background in visual arts to help you capture Canada’s iconic landmarks.
Local Logistics: The “Web Designer’s eye” for detail—providing exact coordinates, best visit times, and local hacks to save you time.
Let’s explore the beauty of Canada together—through a lens of experience and a heart for adventure.
Professional Portfolio & Verified Projet
===============
For more information regarding my work outside of travel, you may visit my verified professional profiles below:
-
Literary Work: View my published titles, including My First ABC Book, on my official Amazon Author page.
-
Web & Graphic Design: Explore my commercial design projects and local business website builds at Sowkat Hayat Web Design.