Ever scrolled through your feed and thought, "Where is this place and how do I get there right now?" If Kelowna’s charm has ever stopped you mid-scroll, you might already be following Yolanda Rodriguez. As a born-and-raised local and the creator behind @discovering_kelowna, she’s putting a fresh, vibrant spotlight on the Okanagan Valley and making sure her generation is included in the picture.

Yolanda isn’t just showing off Kelowna’s natural beauty, she’s filling a much-needed gap. “I started creating content because I kept seeing outdated posts and realized there wasn’t much out there that spoke to people like me,” she shares. Her content brings together her love for being social, her knack for planning memorable moments, and a deep pride in the city she calls home.

When she’s not creating, Yolanda’s out living the Okanagan lifestyle to the fullest. You’ll find her checking out local hikes, events, and restaurants, or hosting cozy get-togethers with friends and family at home. “I love being involved in the community and trying what’s new,” she says. “The Okanagan is meant to be explored with others.”

And that sense of togetherness shines through in all her content. From group-friendly activities to food spots perfect for catching up over a glass of wine, Yolanda’s perspective is all about making Kelowna experiences feel inclusive, current, and exciting.

So what makes Kelowna such a special place to live? For Yolanda, it’s the best of both worlds. “People travel from everywhere to vacation here, and I’m lucky enough to live it every day,” she says. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure or an indoor escape, there’s always something happening.

If you're planning your first trip to Kelowna, here are Yolanda’s top three must-do's:

• Get Outside: “Visit the Kangaroo Creek Farm and check out Soma Craft Cidery—it’s a great combo of nature and good vibes.”

• Sip Local: “Grate Cheesery is such a cool place to try wine and cheese pairings using local products.”

• Dine in Style: “My absolute favourite spot is Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery—amazing food, even better views.”

And her pro tip for making the most of your stay? “Plan ahead!” There’s always something exciting going on in Kelowna, from pop-up markets to local festivals, and the earlier you know, the better your experience will be.

Want to see more of Yolanda’s adventures? Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @discovering_kelowna and let’s #exploreKelowna together!