JOURNAL
A LUXURIOUS STAY IN NATURE IN CHARLEVOIX
Do you know the beautiful Charlevoix region? Only a few hours from Montreal and Quebec City, this region will charm lovers of good times, good food and nature for sure! Our ambassador, Jessica (from Nomade Magazine) has escaped and makes you discover this exceptional region. When I have a few days off, I love driving my car and driving to a destination away from the city. I especially loved discovering the beautiful Charlevoix region where I was able to relax and fully enjoy the surrounding nature. I therefore share with you the unforgettable weekend I experienced there. I do strongly recommend that you add Charlevoix to your list when you want to escape for a few days. Stay in a castle I love choosing accommodation that will make my stay inspiring and I have to say that I have a crush on the distinguished atmosphere of Fairmont Hotels. That's why I found Manoir Richelieu to be the ideal place for this rejuvenating getaway. Staying at the Manoir Richelieu is an activity in itself since it is so pleasant to enjoy the magnificence of this place by sipping your favorite cocktail or a cup of tea to the sound of the piano in the lobby. The story behind the monument takes us back in time and makes us appreciate its refined and friendly atmosphere. It is difficult to get bored there since a spa is accessible on site as well as a magnificent golf course and a casino. After a delicious meal at the manor's Table et Terroir restaurant, I had the chance to enjoy a colourful show given by the one and only Gregory Charles at the Casino bar. It's worth taking a look at the music program to choose the perfect date and plan your getaway in the region. I always feel the need to be outside, I loved hiking on the "sentier des planètes", which offers different views of the Manoir and the St. Lawrence River. The walk is punctuated by interesting information about astronomy and also allows us to learn more about the region. This is the perfect activity to enjoy the outdoors and explore different aspects of the world surrounding us. Outdoors activities The region is full of exciting activities and I had the opportunity to experience some of them! I really enjoyed going to Pointe-au-Pic in La Malbaie where there is a pretty white bridge giving access to the dock. From here, you can see a majestic panorama of the bay and the surrounding mountains. After this walk, I enjoyed a meal in the festive atmosphere of the grill restaurant La Bohème. In addition to tasting comforting dishes near a fire on the terrace, I was able to taste various beers from microbreweries of the region. For outdoor enthusiasts, you will love the last activity I had the pleasure of experiencing before leaving the region. This is the incredible 11-kilometre hike that is the "Acropole des Draveurs" located in "Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie" National Park. The first two kilometres were very intense, but I could already enjoy extraordinary views of the immense rock faces surrounding the "Rivière-Malbaie". This alpine environment is absolutely incredible to discover and all the necessary efforts are worth it. Once at the top, I could only appreciate the wild beauty of this beautiful region of Quebec. Just a few hours from the largest cities, the Charlevoix region has everything it takes to offer a memorable weekend full of experiences, whether it be for a stay to disconnect, to explore new gastronomic flavours or to enjoy outdoor activities.
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5 FAVOURITE SPOTS IN PANAMA
Our ambassador Melanie visited this Central American country and shares her favourite spots. Panama, in my opinion, is an under rated country. I didn’t realize it’s beauty until I started planning the trip. I was blown away by the amazing beaches and islands, breathtaking landscapes, and modern cities. I quickly realized that we would only brush the surface even though we were traveling for a month. Here are my 5 favourite spots that I found in 2017. 1 - Panama City / Casco viejo If you’re traveling to Panama, you’ll most likely land in Panama City. A modern city, with a spectacular skyline. On our first day in Panama we decided to walk along the Cinta Costera Boardwalk, meaning coastal beltway, it offers incredible views of the city skyline. The boardwalk is 9km of manicured green spaces and coastline, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. As we walked towards old Panama City, we worked up an appetite and decided to have lunch at Mercado de Mariscos, a seafood market. It’s quite the experience. You can see fisherman unloading the days catch and making it into fresh ceviche right in front of your eyes. It’s worth the stop. The ceviche is out of this world! We also enjoyed a delicious whole fried fish, my husband’s favourite. Our trip to Panama City would not be complete without visiting The Panama Canal, an artificial waterway that connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The Miraflores locks visitor centre, has 3 observation decks where we viewed the crossing of boats through the canal. Quite a unique sight. It also has an exhibition hall where you can learn about the canals history and international importance.(Entry to Miraflores locks $15 US) Our last few nights in Panama City were spent in Casco Viejo, the charming old quarter of the city, and our favourite neighbourhood. The architecture is stunning! Old colonial style houses, beautiful abandoned brick buildings and narrow streets gives this neighbourhood its unique look. Here you’ll find an abundance of trendy restaurants and rooftop bars, and the nightlife is on point! After a hot day exploring the tight streets we enjoyed a refreshing treat at Granclement, an absolute must if you’re an ice cream fanatic like me. 2 - San Blas Islands Our next stop, took us to the Caribbean cost of Panama. The San Blas Islands. They are breathtaking paradise-like islands that are mostly uninhabited. There’s approximately 365 islands. One for every day of the year! The larger islands are home to indigenous people called Kuna’s. The Kuna’s control most of the tourism on the island, and we got to spend 2 days living with the locals. They also brought us to different islands where we got to soak up the sun. Since it’s very remote, the amenities are mostly rustic, but the experience is worth it. 3 - Pearl Islands / Contadora We're back on the Pacific coast, but not yet done visiting islands. From Panama City we took a one hour ferry ride to Contadora island, a popular tourist destination for the Pearl Islands. It’s not a very big island either, only 1.39 square Km. Fun fact! Pearl Islands actually hosted the TV show Survivor. We’re huge fans! The greatest thing about this island, when we visited in 2017, is that it wasn’t very touristy. We sometimes had a whole beach to ourselves. Our favourite beach had to be Playa Larga, a large sandy beach with clear blue water. Make sure to go at high tide, or else it gets pretty rocky. It also has an abandoned ferry boat which is pretty cool for pictures. If you enjoy a slower pace and relaxation, this is the place for you. As much as I love relaxing, I can’t sit still for very long. We then booked a island hoping tour with Coral Dreams. We visited 3 different islands, probably our top experience during our trip to Panama! I had never seen water so blue and clear. We got to snorkel and even swim on the same beach as the Survivor contestants. The best food we had in Panama was also on Contadora island. The restaurant is named Casa Tortuga. They serve delicious Italian cuisine, with the option of dinning outside in a beautiful courtyard. 4 - Boquete After spending so much time on the coast it was time to go inland. After a 12h bus ride we found ourselves in Boquete. Boquete is home to numerous coffee plantations and the Baru volcano national park. Because of its rich soil and perfect climate, it’s the main vegetable producer in the country. In the mountains you’ll find lush jungles. At these elevations it’s no longer called the rain forest but the cloud forest. It’s a great place for adventure seekers, and since we love a challenging hike, we decided to climb the Baru volcano. It’s the tallest mountain in Panama, about 3475 m (11,402 ft). Its an active volcano but it's last eruption was about 400-500 years ago. In order to witness the sunrise, and not hike in the day’s heat, we hiked overnight. We got picked up at our accommodations at about 10:30pm. At a slow and steady pace it took 5h to reach the summit. Once up there, we were lucky enough to see both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, which is relatively rare. The view from the top was spectacular! To witness the sunrise from the top of the world, literally above the clouds, was breathtaking. We both agree that the hike up was easier than the hike back down. It took another 5h to decent, and it was painful. But we felt very accomplished once we finally got to the bottom. If you’re looking for an adventure we definitely recommend this one. I love hiking so much, that the next day we hiked the Lost Waterfall trail. A relatively short and easy hike, with a slight incline but very rewarding. Not only is the surrounding beautiful since we were walking in the lush cloud forest, but we also got to see 3 beautiful waterfalls. After the morning hike we spent a wonderful afternoon swimming at a mini-canyon called, Cangilones Mini-Canyon. We felt like kids again when jumping from the edge of the canyon into the water. It was a fun and refreshing afternoon. 5 - Province of Bocas Del Toro The province of Bocas del Toro is comprised of 9 main islands. It’s located in the Caribbean Sea at the border of Costa Rica. The Capital City, Bocas town, is located on Colon Island. It’s a popular tourist destination where you'll find accommodations, restaurants, bars and discotheques. Since there’s so many islands, the main form of transportation in Bocas, is by water taxi. During our 11 day stay, we visited three Islands; Colon, Bastimentos, and Zapatillas. During our stay on Colon, we splurged and stayed in a beautiful over the water bungalow that we rented off of Airbnb. We had a beautiful reef around our villa, where we could snorkel and kayak to explore the marine life. We saw many varieties of fish, star fish and a sting ray. At night the water would light up from bioluminescence, as we walked across the dock. During our stay we also did a day tour to Star fish beach & Bird Island. From there, we admired the beautiful small island and watched a variety of birds circling the island from the boat. We then spent the rest of the day at star fish beach soaking up the sun. It is a beautiful sandy beach and if you search hard enough you might see a star fish. It has a great tiki bar with delicious tropical drinks and there are also small shacks with Caribbean food available. Bastimentos Island had to be our favourite spot in Bocas. Red frog beach is the most popular beach in Bocas del Toro. Beautiful white sand with the lush rainforest located at its extremity. Activities like surfing, beach volley ball, and zip lining are available. It also has a great beach front restaurant/hostel called Palmar Hostel. It has eco-friendly accommodations with great vibes and daily scheduled activities. Plus the food is amazing. Through Palmar we scheduled a day tour to Zapitilla Islands. They’re breathtaking secluded islands that are part of Bastimentos National Marine Park. We spent the day exploring the lush island, lounging on the white sandy beach and swimming in the clear aqua water. USEFUL INFO Currency: $US Language: Spanish/English Best time to visit: During dry season, between December and March Where to stay: Many different option depending on budget: Hotel, hostel, Airbnb In my suitcase: DEL Short
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5 KEYS TO WOMEN SOLO TRAVEL
Have you always dreamed of going on a solo trip? Our ambassador Késia, shares five tips to reassure and reconcile you (or your family and friends) to the idea of solo travelling! Our blue planet, is beautiful. So beautiful that most people on this earth dream of leaving on a whim to travel a few hundred kilometers, for a trip to another continent, or simply for a moment of immersion in another country. For women, going overseas on a solo adventure can sometimes be synonymous with anxiety. For their loved ones, it also means that it is more dangerous than for a man. True or false? In some countries, it is true that the risks of travelling alone as a woman are higher than for a man. However, does this mean that we must abandon our dreams and our desire for adventure? I think we need to put this into perspective and that no matter what kind of person we are, solo travel is possible. All you need to do is to be aware of a few principles and apply some basic rules, the ones I call the five keys to the solo journey ... 1 – ADOPT A SAFE BEHAVIOUR Being logic and being cautious are two ways to adopt a safe behaviour. For example, if you go out to a nightclub at one o'clock in the morning and come back alone walking down small dark alleys (in a neighborhood you don't know), this decision will increase security risks. A safe behaviour could be to get into the habit of asking the staff at your accommodation about neighbourhoods or areas to avoid in the city. It could also be to focus on group activities (businesses known to offer services in the field of tourism), rather than going alone with people who improvises themselves as a local guide. I think we must remember that most people are not malicious, but that some people are for several reasons (e.g. economic poverty, social poverty, conflicts and political issues, etc.). It could also be not to be too much of a tourist. For example, it is clear that if you walk around a poor neighbourhood with your two thousand dollar camera around your neck, a tourist card in your hand and you wear expensive clothes, you will probably attract attention. So, when you adopt a safe behaviour, you limit the risk of being a potential victim. 2 – TRUST YOURSELF Fear is an interesting concept. On the one hand, it can stimulate us to push our limits and on the other hand, it can literally paralyze us. If we listen too much to our fears, they end up controlling our rational side and keeping us inactive. If we do not listen to them, it can put us at risk and cause us to neglect to maintain a certain level of vigilance. Fear can therefore prevent us from booking a trip, that's well known. How can we not let ourselves be paralyzed by this fear, which can become too easily established? Trust yourself! Obviously, It not everything always goes as planned when travelling. Let's just say that our ability to adapt is very often welcome. I think that recalling a situation where we were actually able to manage what was happening can be mentally positive. Fear pushes us to create our own limits. Just because you don't speak the language of the country doesn't mean you can't manage to order in a restaurant. And just because you seem lost in a specific place doesn't mean you won't be able to ask someone for directions. Once again, trust yourself! 3 – BECOME AWARE OF CULTURAL DIFFERENCES It is important to understand that women's social realities, rights and roles can be very different depending on: nationality, culture, religion, patriarchal or matriarchal system, etc. It is therefore possible that on the way, we may end up meeting people who do not understand the meaning of this quest for freedom that a woman can feel when travelling alone, that it may even seem inconceivable! Don't panic. Purpose is not to prove anything here. Obviously, I think that as a woman, it is important not to forget yourself, but it must also be understood that depending on where we are in the world, it would not be appropriate to push cultural and/or religious boundaries too far. For example, entering a sacred temple without covering your shoulders or knees and ignoring the rules can be disrespectful to the community. Respecting and understanding cultural and religious differences maintains a climate of peace. 4 – TO RETHINK SOCIAL MEDIA AND OUR CONTACTS THAT ARE IN PANIC MODE I met women who could not imagine travelling alone because they told me that there was too much danger elsewhere in the world. That it was not safe. When we watch the news or scroll down our social media feeds, it can convince us not to leave. It is easy to fall into generalization. I think we have to be careful with some of the available information. To give just one example, it seems true that it is dangerous to venture into certain parts of Mexico. On the other hand, it is completely false to say that we are exposed to high risks across the country. Take the time to do your research before travelling to a country (crime rates, security risks, political authorities and political crises, etc.). Then, do as I do ... Reassure your loved ones and try not to panic. 5 – EMBRACE THE IDEA OF ENJOYING LIFE Based on my personal experience, I would be lying to say that I had no fear before I dive into the unknown. When it is our first solo trip, we tend to have a little less self-confidence because we have very few points of reference. I want to tell you: "Go ahead, don't hesitate and go for it girl"! Life is so short and the world is so big. Life is also so unpredictable and who knows what can happen to us overnight? For me, this decision was one of the best of my life. I met people with a golden heart, I saw landscapes that left me speechless, I personally grew and I understood a little more about who I am. I tried new experiences and faced my fears. I felt proud, I shed tears, I tasted euphoria, adrenaline, compassion, empathy, strength. I understood that feeling at a dead end was sometimes the beginning of renewal. I understood that to be happy, that's what I was missing: taking the step towards new adventures, towards new horizons. The journey is all about that ... So, what are you waiting for? I hope that my five keys can help you to live your own adventures and one day, who knows, to conquer some intimidating countries. If you want to know more about me, get more travel tips, read suggestions for places to visit or things to do in a specific destination, don't hesitate to check my travel blog (kesiavoyageboheme.com). You can also follow me on my social networks if you feel like it. Have a good trip!
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A WEEK WITHOUT WIFI: A TOTAL DISCONNECTION IN SUMATRA
Our ambassador Pamela, the traveller behind Voyager sa vie is used to travelling in Asia. Sometimes when travelling to reconnect, you need to disconnect first! Barely 10 years ago, during my first trip to Asia, I had to go to the Internet café in the cities that I visited, in order to get in touch with my friends and family and above all, to reassure my mother... Except for these small stops of more or less thirty minutes in front of a computer once or twice a week, the rest of the time was entirely devoted to the present moment. Yet not so far from us, I miss this time very much when I travel. Today, it's a different story. Technology has developed infinitely and allows us to find ourselves in the far reaches of China while being in constant contact with our home lives. As a travel blogger, I must stay connected at least a minimum. However, there is no way I would get a SIM card when I arrive in a new country. At least I let chance put wifi on my way. WESTERN SUMATRA: 5 DAYS ON A DESERTED BEACH WITHOUT INTERNET ACCESS Last May, I landed in Padang, a chaotic city on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, in order to discover this part of the archipelago for more than 3 weeks. Barely an hour after landing, I was already on board a makeshift boat that would allow me to reach the Rimba Ecolodge. It was in a small, extremely simple wooden cabin that I spent the next few days. There are no roads to the ecolodge. It is the jungle that is directly behind the hotel's 5 bungalows. Needless to say, you feel quickly in LOST… After only a few hours at Rimba, I already felt like I was slowly relaxing, reconnecting with myself and with the present moment. The constant need to be stimulated or distracted had vanished, I was, quite simply. Why would you want to distract yourself from heaven anyway? The 9 dogs that shared the beach with us became my best friends in an instant and the ants, devoting themselves to a long-term work, quietly offered me the best show there was. Without the possibility to scroll social media feed down, every 2 minutes, our senses awaken, we listen better, we taste more intensely and we observe with more softness. THE HARAU VALLEE IN SUMATRA: DISCONNECTION CONTINUES It was on a local bus, certainly older than me, that I arrived in the Harau Valley, the second destination of this trip in Sumatra. The sun was about to set behind the orange cliffs that line the valley. Walking towards my homestay, the tranquility of the place quickly charmed me and the lime green of the rice fields immediately convinced me, as I had done well to choose to stay there! As soon as I arrive, I learn once again that the hostel does not have wifi. So it will be 4 more days completely disconnected. For me, the Harau Valley means rest and rimes with stress free. Riding my scooter, I discovered the region while being fully aware of everything around me and always with the feeling of being more and more Zen. Western Sumatra, is clearly my own paradise. In fact, I even stopped an annoying habit when I disconnected, I no longer bite my nails… Pam * You can follow my Asian trips on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest as well as on my website, Voyager sa vie. I will soon return to China to discover more and get lost in its remote villages.
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3 THINGS TO SEE IN TOKYO
Our ambassador Marie-Michèle visited Tokyo, the capital of Japan. She presents 3 places not to be missed! On our way back from our recent trip to Vietnam, we had the chance to stop over in Tokyo for a little more than 24 hours. Tokyo is not a city that can be visited in one day. To grasp the complexity, it would take weeks, or even months. As we had only 24 hours in front of us, we decided to make the most of it! Here are our 3 must-do. SENSŌ-JI: OLDEST TEMPLE OF TOKYO Our first stop was Senso-ji, a Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa district. The oldest temple in the Japanese capital, it is also the most popular site visited by tourists. Story says that in 628, two brothers, Hamanari and Takenari Hinokuma, found a statue of the Goddess Kannon in their fishing nets. After this discovery, the two brothers converted to Buddhism and created a temple in honor of the Goddess. However, the temple that you have before your eyes is not the original one. Destroyed by bombing during the Second World War, Sensō-ji had to be rebuilt after the war. KANDA-MYŌJIN: MANGA TEMPLE Indubitably, the temples were popular during our 24 hours stay in Tokyo. After the Senso-ji Temple, we headed to the Kanda-myōjin Temple in the Chiyoda district, one of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods. Less impressive than the previous one, the Kanda-myōjin temple is much quieter. Because of its proximity to Akihabara Electric Town, which is known as the manga district, it is popular towards geeks. The Ita-Eman, these small wooden tablets on which a wish is written, are real works of manga art! The temple also became the place par excellence to implore the protection of electronic equipment of all kinds. You are worried about losing your iPhone or have problems with your computer? Maybe you should visit the Kanda-myōjin temple then! SHIBUYA: LARGEST CARREFOUR IN THE WORLD We could not leave Tokyo without going to Shibuya, to cross its famous junction. In many ways, this junction embodies the frenziness of Tokyo. While we are hundreds to feverishly wait for the light to turn red, we cannot help but be hypnotized by the bright screens that surround us. Then, the moment arrives. And that's when the magic takes place. In a great chaos, thousands of people (because yes, thousands of people cross the crossroads with each change of light) go in all directions. Making your way through the crowds is a unique experience to enjoy at least once if you visit Tokyo. There is something particularly intoxicating in being carried away by the movement of the crowd. And to tell you the truth, we redid the experience 2 more times! USEFUL INFO Currency: Yen Language: Japanese Best time to visit: In spring, to enjoy the cherry trees blossom Where to stay: The accommodations are incredibly expensive in Tokyo. Airbnb will be your best friend! In my suitcase: The OTH Pants
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5 FAVOURITE SPOTS IN NICARAGUA
Our ambassador, Cat from D Bus Life, shares her 5 favourite sports when visiting Nicaragua. APOSENTILLO Just after crossing the border between Honduras and Nicaragua, we passed by one of the largest centers of Nicaragua, the city of Chinandega. At the crossroads in Chinendega, we decided to take the road to the Pacific Ocean for Aposentillo and we were not disappointed. This part of Nicaragua is little known and even we had not planned to stop there, but as we met a couple of Spanish who had bought a property there, we decided to make the detour to visit them. Aposentillo is located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean and is known for its exquisite waves. There is a wave for beginners and one called "The Boom", which draws pro surfers from around the world. The village is typically Nicaraguan with its dirt road and small tiendas (shops) at its edge. There are some surf camps and a hostel run by a Frenchman called the Badaboum in honor of the famous wave of the area. The beach is beautiful, the waves uncrowded and the atmosphere extremely relaxing. When we were there, the avocado and mango season was in full swing. The ripe fruit fell heavily from the trees and we could stock ourselves every day. LAGUNA APOYO In my opinion Laguna Apoyo is one of the most zen places I have ever visited. The lagoon itself is in the crater of a volcano that has not been active for several years. Its water is clear, fresh and soothing. There is something special about this place and anyone who went there would be able to confirm it. A sort of soothing and revitalizing wave of energy that marks the visitors who pass by. Laguna Apoyo offers a break from the overwhelming heat that can plunge over Nicaragua and the fresh water is enjoyable after spending a few days or even weeks near the coast of the Pacific Ocean and its salty water. I recommend spending a few days here and while you are at it, to stop at the Masaya volcano. It is one of the active volcanoes of Nicaragua and it is possible to go to the crater, without leaving the comfort of your car (or taxi). Once at the crater we can see the lava bubbling at the bottom and the gases escape. An incredible experience, even more impressive at nightfall. GRANADA If you are traveling to Nicaragua, you have to make a stop in Granada. It is a colonial city with its magnificent Spanish historic buildings and cathedrals. We stop for history, architecture, culinary experience, a visit to the small islas (islands), and maybe even for a fun-guaranteed evening in the bars of Calle la Calzada. The hotels are beautiful with indoor gardens and breathtaking architecture. It is worth visiting some and possibly sipping a cocktail to soak up all the local atmosphere. A visit to Granada will also conquer the hearts of gourmets, because it offers the best cuisine of the country. Take this opportunity to enjoy local specialties or international dishes with a Nicaraguan flavour. I also recommend a stop at the Garden Café for its great atmosphere and delicious coffee. Then, a visit to the Choco Museo for gourmet who are curious to learn more about the manufacture of chocolate. Finally, open your eyes widely when visiting La Merced (catholic church) to admire one of the oldest churches in the city and take a tour of the Parque Central de Granada in front of the famous yellow cathedral, emblem of the country. ISLA OMETEPE Ometepe Island is located on Lake Nicaragua, the largest freshwater lake in Nicaragua. There are two volcanoes at the ends of the island, the Concepción volcano (1,700 meters above sea level) and the Maderas volcano (1,400 meters above sea level). Ometepe is known for its twin volcanoes as well as for the richness of its soil favourable to agriculture. Several eco-hotels grow their own fruits and vegetables and most of the food found on the island is organic because fertilizers are almost non-available and very expensive. It is possible to volunteer on various fincas (farms) such as El Zopilote and many offer perma-culture workshops as well as self-study, meditation and wellness. If this is not your thing, we recommend visiting the San Ramon waterfall as well as the Ojo de Agua natural pools fed by fresh water to refresh you. On the island there are several species of wild animals such as howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, coral snakes and several species of birds. We were brave and we went up the Concepción volcano, but we warn you that it is reserved for experienced hikers. We are talking about a 5 hours, 1,700 meters ascent since the departure is made at sea level. All in an overwhelming heat and humidity. Think about it and consider perhaps doing the Maderas instead which is apparently easier. POPOYO Our favourite stop was definitely Popoyo. It is a small seaside town located in the municipality of Tola, which was initially a fishing village and a place famous for its salt fields. Now, Popoyo attracts surfers and travelers from around the world appealed by its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere and constant waves. Popoyo is located in southern Nicaragua but north of the famous city of San Juan del Sur. It can be reached via the town of Rivas and it strikes a dirt road for about twenty kilometers, but the road is worth it. If you want an active and healthy lifestyle, look no further. You will also probably have the chance to meet people looking for the same state of mind. We spent more than a week at the Café con Leche, the hotel of a friend from Quebec where we felt at home as soon as we set foot. Marc Bonds has one of the most beautiful gardens on which I had the chance to look with a view of the Pacific Ocean. The waves just in front of the cafe are constant and the sunsets are breathtaking. Regardless of your plans and your travel itinerary to Nicaragua, you must visit Popoyo and have a good coffee with Marc and the family of Café con Leche.
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5 MUST DO IN GUATEMALA
Our ambassador Claudia La Roadtrippeuse shares the 5 places that have marked her the most during her trip to Guatemala. FLORES & TIKAL My adventure in Guatemala began in the north of the country, in the small town of Flores. Capital of the department of Petén, it is the starting point of many excursions to Tikal, the most important Mayan archaeological site of the country. Photo: Flores AirportClothing: Shorts WUU Its airport makes it easy to access. I reached the touristy, but absolutely charming Flores from Guatemala City. It almost forms an island in the huge Lake Petén Itza and it is possible to reach several points of interest by boat from its shore. Photo: Flores CityClothing: Shorts WUU I can finally relax ant take in the sun vitamin I needed in Flores colourful and dynamic streets. In April, I'm just in time to avoid heavy rains, as this season will begin very soon. It is close to 40° C; you have to be patient, but there are a lot of water activities available. There is nothing to complain about: beach, observatory and more. Photo: TikalClothing: GEO Tunic The main reason for my visit to Flores: the archaeological site of Tikal, from the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. Tikal is a site where you can admire monuments and temples built four century BC. Since 1955 it has become a national park and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Pretty impressive, isn’t it? Photo: TikalClothing: GEO Tunic THE NATURE OF SEMUC CHAMPEY Semuc Champey is so beautiful; it must absolutely be on your itinerary! The way to get there is winding and sometimes seems endless, but it is well worth it. I arrived in Lanquín, the host city of Semuc Champey, in the late afternoon, following a long day of bus transportation from Flores. Here, the scenery is miles away from Tikal. It will take another hour in a pick-up box, through the jungle, to reach our accommodation. Isolated in the hollow of a dense and lush forest is finally revealed the fabulous natural site of Semuc Champey. It is only the next morning that I will have the chance to discover it. I opt for a turnkey package that will allow me to visit not only the azure pools, but also to make a trip to caves, accompanied by a local guide. This is the best decision I will make on my trip. I had a blast and it was a memorable day! Photo: Semuc Champey MiradorClothing: WIL Tank THE CHARMING CITY OF ANTIGUA CITY Photo: Cerro de la Cruz & Arco de Santa CatalinaClothing: WUU Shorts (left) & NOV Top (right) No one visits Guatemala without making a stop in the historic city of Antigua. I quickly fell under the spell of this city of a thousand colors and typical small houses. Surrounded by volcanoes, I learned a lot about the 1773 tragedy, when an earthquake destroyed most of the buildings of the time. Today, we trace the history by visiting the various preserved ruins and transformed into tourist places. In Antigua, you have to fully experience the atmosphere of the parque centrale, climb to Cerro de la Cruz, taste the beers of the Antigua Brewery, stroll in the Mercado Central, pass under El Arco de Santa Catalina, not to mention the many museums, monuments and ruins. If you ever plan a trip to this location, I recommend at least two full days of sightseeing to get its pulse. ATITLAN LAKE AND ITS MAYAN VILLAGES Lake Atitlan is also part of my favourites. It is a regular stop on a travel itinerary in Guatemala. After being there, we understand why it is unthinkable not to go there. Photo: Market of the San Pedro Street At Atitlan Lake, I got entirely immersed in the culture of the country. Here, washing is done in the lake, rubbing it on rocks. We move on foot or tuk-tuk, we eat patín and in the morning, we go to the street market. It's the difference between Western lifestyle and that of a population of a country like Guatemala and it is exactly this aspect of the trip that fascinates me: discovering the unknown. Photo: Into San Pedro villageClothing: NOV Top My three days around Lake Atitlan lead me to see the impressive villages of San Pedro, San Juan and Santiago. On my second morning, I set out in the wee hours to climb Mount Indian Nose and admire the sunrise over the Mayan villages. This excursion is one of my most beautiful moments in Guatemala. Photo: At the top of Mount Indian Nose VOLCAN ACATENANGO Photo: On the way to the top of AcatenangoClothing: NOV Top How to end a trip to Guatemala? Go on an adventure to the Acatenango Volcano! Everyone with whom I spoke about this madness confirmed to me that the feat was difficult, but feasible. We do not realize the effort it takes until we are on the scene. At least, that's what I understand as I complete this hike that will take me to the top of the Acatenango volcano. The ultimate goal is of course to observe the active Fuego volcano and to admire the lava explosions that occur there. Photo: View of the Fuego volcano from our camp A simply magical experience that requires a fierce determination. A great accomplishment that fits well with the end of this wonderful journey in this Central American country.
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MAGDALEN ISLANDS GETAWAY
Jennifer, our ambassador, decided to stay in her province area for a week-end getaway, more precisely in the Magdalen Islands. This blog will certainly convince you to visit this magnificent place! As I look out the window, seeing the blue water, magestic deep red cliffs and the all so colorful little houses, I'm instantly overwhelmed with excitement. The wheels touch down on the Magdalen Islands and I know I've chosen the perfect destination for my weekend getaway. It's raining so we decide to venture off to Havre Aubert Island to grab a bite. Some shopping was planned afterwards. Our first stop is at Cafe de la Grave where I order a delicious sea food pot pie. The ambiance is unique, welcoming with beautiful artwork from local artists hanging on the walls. The day is not complete without some shopping in the quaint little boutiques. I'm surprised and delighted with what I find here. One of the boutiques is owned by a local cartoonist, who sells comic books, jewelry, artwork, refined chocolates and many more diversified local products. I decide to splurge and buy myself a sea shell sand sculpture from l'Atelier Côtier. The next few days on the archipelago are mostly spent exploring, enjoying the beautiful scenery and meeting locals. No matter where you meet the Madelinots, you will be delighted by their warm welcome cute accent. There are so many activities and things to do on the islands that it is sometimes hard to choose from: relaxing on the beautiful beaches (my favourite being Sandy Hook beach), enjoying local dishes, doing arts and crafts circuit, visiting local farms and many different outdoor adventures, like stand up paddleboard, kitesurfing, cycling, hiking, horseback riding, boat excursions, marine wildlife watching and more. Sweater: JOGTank: EKOShorts: WUUPants: MAT My favourite part of the trip is by far a paddleboard excursion with Cindy Hook. The local owner, Cindy, is so energetic, upbeat, and she also shares her experiences. The direct access to a shallow lagoon makes it the ideal spot for beginners. I also highly recommend visiting her shop. One cannot visit the islands without stopping at the local microbrewery L'Abris de la Tempête. Their beer offers a strong brewing uniqueness as they make their beer using local resources. My personal favourite is the Terreferme, a delicious IPA. As my trip comes to an end, I take avantage of my last day to go to L'Étang-du-Nord, which is a must visit during your stay, as this is where you'll witness the most gorgeous sunsets overlooking the ocean. Be extremely careful since erosion is not always visible and can be very dangerous. Stand at least 3 meters (10 feet) from the edge of the cliff when you walk there. So grateful and privileged on this getaway, as the Magdelan Islands is the one place that time truly stops. I enjoy the present moment and go with the flow of things. It's uniqueness and serenity vibe is why I call this little island paradise. One doesn't need to travel far to get that true sense of adventure... as this beautiful archipelago is in my home province of Quebec. Whether you arrive by plane or boat, all means are good to access Les Iles. Both Air Canada Express and Pascan have daily flights. During high season, Air Canada Express even offers a direct flight from Montreal. Another option is via ferry but even these have to be booked in advance. I highly recommend booking your accommodation or mode of transportation as early as possible, as the island gets very busy with tourists. From July to September, things fill up very quickly.
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