Tag Archive for: Travel

T Riman

10 things to do in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area

10 things to do in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area

Do you want to explore the natural side of Quebec province? If yes, visit the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area and do these ten things. Read Here!

Things to do in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area

Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area is one of the most picturesque regions in Quebec, boasting beautiful landscapes, mountains, and water bodies. The region is famous for its water activities, such as swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

However, it also has several campgrounds, biking, and hiking trails. You will also enjoy the lush green national parks and participate in relishable activities in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area. Here are the ten best things to do here. Read on!

1. Beaches

Saguenay Lac-St-Jean is the most popular place for tourists during the summer season. It offers fantastic beaches around the lake, allowing people to relax and soothe in the pleasant atmosphere. Most of the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area places have municipal beaches, allowing locals and tourists to chill and relax.

2.    Biking

Biking is one of the best things in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area during the pleasant spring and summer months. It offers a biking circuit, also known as the Blueberry Route, allowing people to circle the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean. It is 256 kilometers long track that passes through 15 municipalities and goes from the estuary to the lake.

3. Museums

Val Jalbert is a historic village in Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area, boasting several museums dispersed around it. These museums allow locals and tourists to know the history of this place and explore artifacts, paintings, and artwork of the yesteryears. You can also explore more than 12 historic places that adjoin the museum circuit.

4. Val Jalbert

Val Jalbert is one of the ghost towns in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area. It attracts photographers and documentary makers from all over the world to discover the abandoned buildings and let their viewers know about the history of this ghost town. In summer, we recommend visiting this place to make the most out of your trip to Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area.

5. Ouiatchouan waterfall

Nothing is more beautiful than the Ouiatchouan waterfall in the heart of the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area. It offers a beautiful campground for adventure enthusiasts, and you can also hit the beautiful hiking trails to see the picturesque beauty of the surrounding areas. You can complete the route in less than 30 minutes.

6. Hiking

If you want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and spend some time in nature, we recommend hiking the Sentier Ouiatchouan, one of the most beautiful trails in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area.

Not only does this trail allow you to relish the scenic beauty, but you can also explore the flora and fauna of the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area. The trail is challenging for beginners, so make sure you bring all the necessary equipment to stay comfortable.

7. National Parks

Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area is home to some of the most beautiful national parks. There are four national parks in this region, and each offers unique landscapes, wildlife species, and outdoor activities.

For instance, you can visit the Pointe-Taillon National Park, famous for its sandy beaches and scenic cycling paths. You can also explore the natural beauty of Saguenay fjord national park, famous for its picturesque landscapes and impressive hiking trails.

8. Eat Blueberries

There is no other place in the Quebec Province except Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area to taste the most delicious blueberries. If you want to eat sweet, delicious, and fresh blueberries, we recommend visiting the place in mid-July.

9. Specialty Food and Beers

Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area is famous for its fine dining and state-of-the-art breweries, allowing people to have the most memorable culinary experiences. If you want to try the region’s delicious food or specialty beers, make sure you visit Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area and explore the breweries and wineries.

10. Enjoy the Sunset

Sunset in Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area is the most magical and romantic thing to do for couples. We recommend visiting the Roberval Marina and Alma Marina to watch the most beautiful sunset. You will love the blended orange and yellow colors from the top of the mountain in the Fjord-du-Saguenay national park.

Final Words

There are many places to explore and things to do in the Quebec region. However, nothing will give you more memorable experiences than the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean Area, a place full of picturesque landscapes, hiking and biking trails, beautiful municipality beaches, flora and fauna, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
/by
T Riman

Top 5 shopping malls in Quebec City

Although Quebec has many shopping malls and markets, we recommend these five places to have pleasant experiences. Read Here!

Top 5 shopping malls in Quebec City

Quebec is one of the most visited cities in Canada, thanks to its French culture and European influence. It is the best destination for shopping, boasting numerous malls and allowing people to have pleasant experiences.

There are massive shopping malls with hundreds of shops, stores, and services. You can find high-end, average, and low-end stores in Quebec City markets. So, whether you have a lot of money or looking for affordable products, this city offers something to everyone.

Most shopping centers in Quebec City have a diversity of items available. So, you can find your favorite things without any problems. Today’s article will highlight this beautiful city’s top five shopping malls. Read on!

1.    Les Galeries Charlesbourg

Although Les Galeries Charlesbourg is relatively a small shopping mall, it has numerous shops and stores, allowing visitors to find their favorite products at the most affordable prices. Several stores, shops, and restaurants in this mall, including the best ice cream shops.

If you want to fit products into your itinerary, visiting this mall is the best option. At the same time, you can explore the surrounding areas and attractions with beautiful views to soothe your mind.

2.    Les Galeries Chagnon

Les Galeries Chagnon is one of the best shopping malls in Quebec City. Although it is not a big shopping mall, it is home to numerous stores, shops, and services. Most shops offer a wide range of items, including clothes, home décor, makeup, jewelry, toys, and recreational products, at low prices.

Restaurants and cafes in Les Galeries Chagnon are state-of-the-art, offering diverse menus with hundreds of food items, from non-vegetarian and vegetarian to vegan dishes. We recommend visiting one of the family-friendly restaurants after buying your favorite products.

3.    Promenades Beauport

Promenades Beauport is famous for its various stores, shops, and services, providing people with enjoyable experiences. Everyone who comes to Promenades Beauport buys something because the shops and stores offer discounts, mainly tourists.

You can shop for various items, including fashionable clothes, lifestyle items, jewelry, accessories, toys, and home décor. In addition, you will feel mesmerized by exploring Promenades Beauport’s services. For instance, you can visit salons, spas, and beauty centers depending on your needs.

4.    Place Sainte-Foy

Place Sainte-Foy is another best shopping mall in Quebec City. Unlike other markets or malls, Place Sainte-Foy is a high-end shopping mall, meaning the items or products available in its shops and stores are relatively expensive.

The shopping mall is a modern building with beautiful shops, stores, restaurants, and cafes. There are more than 135 stores and shops in this shopping mall. Besides, Place Sainte-Foy has a total of 600,000 square feet of retail space.

Moreover, you will find five anchor tenants on the single floor. Although shops and stores in this mall have changed over the last few years, you can still find some of the oldest shops to buy traditional items, such as clothes and jewelry.

Some of the best brands in Place Sainte-Foy are Apple Store, H&M, Gap, etc. You can access Place Sainte-Foy from the street across from Laval University. It is a few miles southwest of Quebec’s Old Town.

5.    Les Galeries de la Capitale

Les Galeries de la Capitale is a massive shopping mall in Quebec City with hundreds of stores and shops. It also has numerous restaurants, cafes, and play areas for children. The mall has 280 stores, including seven anchor stores. The total retail space of Les Galeries de la Capitale is 1.5 million square feet.

The best thing about Les Galeries de la Capitale is its indoor amusement park, making it a perfect destination for children. There are about 18 attractions for kids and adults to enjoy. We recommend enjoying the famous Ferris Wheel.

Final Words

Although Quebec City is famous for its French Architecture, breathtaking natural views, surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests, it is home to the best shopping malls in North America.

Visiting these shopping centers with your family or friends will create a pleasant and memorable experience. You can spend quality time, purchase your favorite items at affordable prices, and eat delicious food. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
/by
T Riman

What is Montreal Famous For?

What is Montreal Famous For?

What is Montreal famous for, and why should you visit this French-inspired city in Canada? Here is everything you need to know. Read Here!

What is Montreal Famous For?

Montreal, Canada’s second-most populous city, has an old-world charm that encompasses history and modern culture. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, boasting French-Canadian culture, architecture, tourist attractions, ski resorts, and a vibrant lifestyle. Here are a few reasons why you should visit Montreal or, in other words, what it is famous for? Read on!

Old Montreal

Old Montreal is one of the areas to see in Montreal that will catch you the most since it is the city’s most traditional and historical part. It borders the Saint Lawrence River in the southeastern part of the Canadian town. It is ideal for walking through it and discovering cobblestone streets on foot since the area is relatively small.

You cannot miss the points of interest that you cannot miss in Old Montreal are the Place d’Armes, the Port, or the Rue Saint Paul. You have to make time on your trip to enjoy its restaurants and the atmosphere of this old neighborhood.

Parc Jean-Drapeau

Formed by the two islands of the Saint Lawrence River, Sainte Helene was the site of the 1967 international exhibition, and thanks to which people can still enjoy the water and nature museum called Biosphere.

In addition, you can also take long walks, have fun in its amusement park and swim on the manmade beach. Notre Dame, the name given to the second island, is the other part of the park where you find a Formula-1 circuit and the Montreal Casino.

Museum of Fine Arts

The most visited museum in Montreal is the Museum of Fine Arts, located downtown. As in most venues of this type, it has free and fixed exhibitions in addition to paid ones. In addition to the paintings by great artists, you can marvel at the impressive architecture of its building.

Clock Tower

The Clock Tower was built to commemorate Canadian sailors who perished during World War I. To have a complete experience, we advise you to visit this tower by walking towards the Jacques Cartier bridge. At certain times of the year, it is possible to climb to the top of the building, but if that is not possible when you visit Montreal, do not worry because walking around is a worthwhile experience.

Jacques Cartier Bridge

One of the icons of Montreal is the Jacques Cartier Bridge, a beautiful steel bridge that crosses to the island of Saint Helena. It opened in 1930 under a different name but was changed to honor the explorer who discovered Canada. You will love its lighting system. You have to see it when you go to Montreal because you will love its cool colors and effects. Don’t miss it at night.

Mount Royal

Mount Royal is a hill located in the city’s center. The government has converted the mountain into a large urban park that delights children and adults. At its top stands one of the largest basilicas in Canada. The perfect day to visit Mount Royal is Sunday, especially if that day is sunny. You can enjoy a great atmosphere of people who go to lunch or eat outdoors, without any concern.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory

Saint Joseph’s Oratory is the largest church in Canada. We recommend seeing it when you visit Montreal. It is a sanctuary dedicated to Saint Joseph and can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Its impressive dome of almost 100 meters high will mesmerize you. The surrounding area is picturesque to soothe your mind and calm your heart. Visiting this place in Montreal will create memories.

La Ronde

La Ronde is a Montreal amusement park ideal for spending a summer day. You find it very close to the city center, without a doubt something to see in Montreal, there are many types of attractions to enjoy with your family. Bear in mind that entry to La Ronde is not free. So, you must buy a ticket or use a special pass to make the most out of your trip to La Ronde.

Final Words

Hundreds of thousands of people visit Montreal every week to relish a mix of traditional and modern architecture, heart-soothing parks, delectable food at different cafes and restaurants, amusement parks, etc. Visiting Montreal is a dream for many tourists. When you visit Montreal, don’t forget to enjoy these places. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
/by
T Riman

10 Tips for Your First Visit to Montreal

10 Tips for Your First Visit to Montreal

Montreal is a beautiful city in Quebec Province of Canada. Consider these ten tips to make the most out of your trip. Read Here!

Tips for Your First Visit to Montreal

In the province of Quebec, Montreal is one of the most attractive cities in Canada. You will find a lot to do, see, try, and enjoy. If it is your first time traveling, consider these ten tips to visit Montreal and enjoy your experience to the fullest. Read on!

1. Apply for ETA

The first of this list of tips to visit Montreal is probably the most important: apply for your ETA (electronic travel authorization). Although Montreal no longer asks for a visa from most countries, you have to do this process before traveling. To do so, you have to enter the official site.

2. Invest in Passeport MTL

If you want to stay in the city for several days, it’s a good idea to buy the Passeport MTL, which gives you access to 28 of the city’s most important attractions for 48 at the most affordable price. In addition, you can leverage the unlimited use of public transport.

3. Consider Taxes

In Canada, the prices of merchandise and food are not necessarily included in the label or menu and are added until you pay. In total, they add almost an additional 15% of the market price. Take it into account and avoid surprises.

4. Leave 10% to 15% Tip

In Montreal, the tip is not included in the restaurant bill. The usual percentage ranges from 10% to 15%. If you go in a large group, a tip of 15% to 18% is usually automatically added to your bill. If you go to a buffet, it is recommended to leave 2 CAD (if the waiter brings the drinks) or 1 CAD if it is self-service.

5. Choose the Traveling Season

Another of the best tips for traveling to Montreal is to choose the season of your trip well. Although the city is ideal for visiting all year round, it offers radically different experiences depending on the season.

Spring sees cool to warm weather when the city’s beautiful gardens and parks turn green. On the other hand, summer offers temperatures around 21 degrees Celsius, endless festivals, and high prices.

Fall has mild weather and spectacularly colored foliage. During winter, the temperature drops to -10 degrees Celsius, and it can snow a lot, but you can experience nature differently. The best season to visit Montreal is from March to May, and from September to November, the city has the best weather and the least crowds.

6. Prepare for the Winters

If you are not afraid of the cold, traveling to Montreal in winter is a great idea, as there are tons of activities to enjoy, from snow sports to festivals. However, traveling in the snow has its complications.

Remember, this doesn’t just mean a thick jacket, but garments created to protect you from sub-zero temperatures, the most normal during January and February. What you need to pack is warm clothing, long-sleeved shirts, a sweater or sweatshirts, and a snow jacket, as well as a scarf, gloves, and an umbrella.

7. Enjoy Free Events

Although Montreal is an expensive city, it has the enormous advantage that it offers a large number of free events and open-air festivals throughout the year. For example, you can see the fireworks of the International Fireworks Competition from the Old Port or the Jacques Cartier bridge

Don’t forget to enjoy free shows at festivals like the International Jazz Festival or Just For Laughs , explore city parks, stroll along the Lachine Canal, and more. Montreal offers something to everyone. So, it is wise to leverage the free events.

8. Take Advantage of Happy Hour

If you see a 5-to-7 sign outside a restaurant, it means the happy hour. It means discounts on alcoholic beverages and food and full menus in Montreal. Using it wisely, you can save a lot of money and make the most out of your trip.

9. Take the 747 Bus

Unlike other destinations, getting to and from the airport doesn’t have to be expensive. Just take the 747 bus; it connects the airport to downtown Montreal in 40 minutes. That way, you can save a lot of money and enjoy a cozy ride.

10. Learn Some French phrases

Although practically all Montrealers speak English, the city’s primary language is French. Therefore, it never hurts to know a few phrases to communicate. The locals are usually warmer and go the extra mile to help you or show you around the city.

Final Words

Montreal is one of the most attractive cities in terms of everything in Canada. It has unique architectural buildings, French-influenced culture, and delectable food. If this is your first time traveling to Montreal, consider these top tips. Good Luck!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
/by
T Riman

What is Quebec City famous for?

What is Quebec City famous for?

Visiting Quebec City with your family or friends will create memories because this city will immerse you in its charms. Read Here!

What is Quebec City famous for?

Canada is one of the most widely visited countries in the western hemisphere, thanks to its diverse landscapes, picturesque mountains, lush green fields, gorgeous rivers, and vibrant cities like Quebec. Here is everything you need to know about Quebec City. Read on!

Unique Culture

Quebecers’ reputation as warm people is well established. Wherever you go, you will be greeted with a big smile. Here people are happy and proud of their francophone culture in North America. In Quebec City, countless activities and attractions bear witness to a living and authentic cultural wealth. The Unique and diverse culture of this city attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every month.

Natural Attractions

Just 20 minutes from Old Quebec, you can discover spectacular natural sites. Cross the catwalk over Montmorency Falls, which are 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls, or visit the heights of dizzying Sainte-Anne Canyon.

Moreover, if you prefer to explore the glacial valley, make sure you visit Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier. In addition, you can also visit the serene lakes or joyous rivers that are the pride of the region. At any age and in any season, a wide variety of outdoor activities await you.

Lively Atmosphere

Quebec City vibrates to the rhythm of the many fantastic events and exhibitions that animate it throughout the year. No matter the season or the month, there are a thousand and one things to do and see, free or affordable.

Festivals and events excite the inhabitants and tourists of Quebec City. The fireworks, musical shows, historical festivals or theatrical performances, and sporting events are mesmerizing people of all ages. With all this buzz, it is no wonder Quebec City ranks among the best destinations in North America.

Magical Winters

Quebec City reveals its most beautiful charms under the snow. The white carpet and light decorations magnify the magic and romance. During the Christmas and New Year holidays, Old Quebec is simply magical.

People of Quebec City enjoy a wide range of fun winter activities. Visit the only Ice Lodge in North America and experience snow in North America to create memories. All you must do is bundle up, and the joy of the snow is all yours.

Diverse Cuisines

Thanks to the overflowing passion of its new and established chefs, Quebec City’s gastronomic world comes alive day after day. These fine-dining artists skillfully reinvent classic dishes and develop new trends.

Thus, Quebec’s restaurants highlight the proximity and richness of the local cuisines with diverse menus and delectable foods. Quebec City is distinguished by the diversity of its culinary experiences, its unparalleled hospitality, and its French, British, American, and indigenous influences.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Quebec City, particularly the old Quebec, is the cradle of French America and the only fortified city in North America. Take a walk through its 400-year-old cobbled streets to appreciate its exceptional heritage, its European influence, and its festive, welcoming, and safe atmosphere.

Hundreds of thousands of people visit Quebec City to relish this UNESCO World Heritage site, explore the local culture, discover the historic buildings, and enjoy the clean-green environment. Everything in Quebec City is enjoyable and soothing for the locals and tourists.

Beautiful Museums

Two of the most important museums attract people all year round in Quebec City. The Museum of Civilization presents the evolution of the local society. The building is a mixture of ancient structures with modern design.

Inside you will find exhibits on Quebec’s First Nations, the province’s history, and various exhibitions covering the evolution of global civilization. The Musee National des Beaux-ArtsIt is the city’s museum of fine arts.

It has a collection of 38,000 works of art from the last four centuries. The museum shows a particular interest in Quebec artists and their work, including art dating from the French colonies that inhabited the area.

Picturesque National Parks

What outdoor activities do you enjoy the most? Do you like to ski, ride a bike, or walk? Or maybe you are more into fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding? Perhaps you prefer wildlife viewing or geocaching? The good thing about the National Park in Quebec is that it offers something for everyone.

In addition, dubbed “the best of the outdoors in Quebec City,” the park’s 258 square feet are home to all these activities and more. Pack up your tent and hit 62 miles of hiking trails, climbing mountain plateaus, traversing rivers, traversing valleys.

For example, the Jacques-Cartier National Park is the epitome of natural beauty and stunning views. Make sure you visit the place with your loved ones to complete your trip to Quebec City.

Final Words

Quebec City is one of Canada’s most vibrant, lively, and enjoyable cities. Every year, millions of tourists travel to Quebec to explore the city’s unique charms, festivals, events, food, and views. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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