JOURNAL
PORTUGAL FROM END TO END
Portugal is a destination with many possibilities: beaches, breathtaking scenery, nature walks, water sports, vineyards and much more. It's also our inspiration for the VOYAGE 2018 collection! Driving from the North to the South can be done in less than 8 hours. Our Production and Sourcing Coordinator, Marie-Christine, did just that last September. Her top 5, below. 1. PORTO This historic city is known for its orange-coloured roofs and, of course, for its port. After a stroll in the old district of Ribeira, cross the bridge and head to the wine cellars of Porto. You can visit many world-renowned cellars, including CALEM and FERREIRA. 2. LISBON The largest city in Portugal, Lisbon, has many different and attractive neighbourhoods to discover, the most popular ones being Alfama and Bairro Alto. From here you can take the train to visit castles and monuments like Sintra, Evora and Belém. I also recommend Tram 28 to see the main attractions of Lisbon. 3. DOURO VALLEY The majestic Douro Valley is a two-hour drive from the city of Porto. It is one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world! There are plenty of vineyards to visit, but my personal favourite was without a doubt Quinta do Popa. 4. THE ALGARVE It is in this region that you can admire the infamous cliffs of the Algarve and relax on stunning beaches. In Lagos, exploring Ponta da Piedade is a must! 5. GERÊS You must absolutely visit the Peneda Gerês National Park, in Northern Portugal. Make sure to reach the top for a splendid view! You can browse this park by car (1 day) or plan a hike. " Portugal: our inspiration for the Voyage 2018 collection! " PRACTICAL INFORMATION - Currency: Euro- Language: Portuguese. English and French are spoken in more touristy places.- Best time to go: From June to the end of September. To make the most of the beaches, go before September 1st.- Suggested accommodation: Excellent value at the BO - Almada 346 in Porto.- Restaurant suggestion: You must absolutely taste the natas from Pastéis de Belem, a typical portuguese pastry.- In my suitcase: BEL skirt
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5 TIPS TO MAKE TRAVELLING EASY
Plan your next trip wisely with these savvy travel hacks! PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP A big part of your budget goes into your plane ticket. Most of the time, having flexible dates is the best way to benefit from the lowest prices. Picking your destination according to promotions can also lead to significant savings. Several websites such as Yulair and YUL Deals can help you find the best prices for flights leaving from Montreal. However, if you have a specific destination and schedule in mind, a mobile application like Hopper is worthwhile. It’s free, and will recommend the best moment to book your flight for a given destination and time. We’ve also heard that plane ticket prices can vary based on demand, and previous searches can affect the price you are seeing. Try emptying your cache before booking. It might help! PACKING Packing can be a real challenge and there are many theories on how to maximize space (i.e. the rolling vs. folding debate). One thing remains useful in all circumstances: packing cubes. They can help you organize your suitcase and save space. You will also gain in speed and efficiency in the process, promise! In terms of clothing, don’t overdo it. Go for versatile pieces, that are easy to dress up or down. IN TRANSIT Bringing a book is essential to any trip, but to change things up a bit, we recommend downloading podcasts in advance. It’s an excellent way to kill time in airports, bus and train stations, or on the plane. Once they’re on your phone, you won’t need an Internet connection to listen to them! They can also replace music when driving over long distances. To find inspiration, check out the “Featured” section of your Podcast application, and if you’re a fan of detective and investigation stories, try Serial! WHICH WAY IS IT? « Downloading maps in advance from Google Maps is a useful trick. » Google Maps’ plans have become a valuable resource to navigate any city, especially when away from home. Since data can be very expensive outside your own country, and Wi-Fi isn’t always available, downloading maps in advance from Google Maps is a useful trick. You will be able to find your way anywhere, without paying for data! For more details on how to do it, click here. Certain phone companies also offer interesting international plans, which allow you to use your phone just like you would at home, for $5 or $10 /day. Make sure to check what your provider offers! AT THE HOTEL Always bring earplugs! If what was supposed to be a quiet hotel is louder than expected, you will be relieved to have them to cancel the noise. Pack them in your cabin luggage so they are easily accessible if needed on the plane, train or bus!Bon voyage!
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ISLAND HOPPING IN THE PHILIPPINES
Do you often dream of being alone on a desert island? With more than 7000 exotic islands, the Philippines is THE place to make that dream a reality! Quick overview, by Laurie, FIG ambassador. Constituting the 3rd largest archipelago in the world, the Philippines have a wide variety of landscapes and activities to offer. Rice terraces, lagoons, volcanoes, beaches and megacities, there is something for everyone! The best way to travel between islands is by boat or plane, so it is recommended to do a bit of research in advance and plan an itinerary that is not too busy. For example, visiting three main islands is probably enough for a one-month stay (ie the visa duration for most nationalities). No matter which region you visit, English is spoken fluently by locals and you’ll find accommodations that are suitable for all budgets! LUZON " Rice terraces, lagoons, volcanoes, beaches and megacities, there is something for everyone! " Home to the capital, Manila, this island is a good entry point to the country. If you’re feeling adventurous, just take the night bus that connects Manila to Banaue to find yourself in the middle of beautiful rice terraces. Lovers of the sea will opt instead for Donsol, where they can swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat. SIQUIJOR Offering a mix of tranquility and adrenaline, this small island can easily be discovered by motorcycle. Do not miss the turquoise waters of Cambugahay Falls and take the plunge at Salagdoong Beach! SIARGAO Not only my favorite spot in the Philippines, but worldwide, Siargao will charm you with its natural pools, lagoons with emerald waters, surf spots for all levels and laid-back, surfer lifestyle. A great place to disconnect! INFO PRATIQUE - Currency: Philippine Peso- Main languages: Filipino (Tagalog), English- Best time to go: February to May (dry season and fewer tourists)- In my suitcase: The WON tank top- Lodging suggestion: Tori's Backpackers on Siquijor Island- Restaurant recommendation: Baha Bar on Siquijor Island, located right on the beach, with a huge terrace and live shows!
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AMSTERDAM BOUND!
Often called the Venice of the North, Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With its canals, its bicycles and its unique architecture, this city has something to please everyone. Marie-Michèle Doucet, FIG ambassador and founder of the travel blog “Entre 2 Escales”, had the chance to visit this wondrous city last summer. Below, 5 reasons to discover Amsterdam. BIKING Biking in Amsterdam is a must! With more than 767 kilometers of bike lanes, the city seems to have been designed for cyclists. Rent a bicycle and explore the streets on your own, or choose from one of several companies that offer guided tours of the city. THE JORDAAN NEIGHBOURHOOD The highlight of my stay in Amsterdam was without hesitation my stroll in the Jordaan district. Located in the west part of the city, it is home to the Anne Frank House and adorable little shops and cafes. Did you know that the name Jordaan comes from the French word "jardin" and was brought by Protestant refugees who settled in the neighbourhood in the 17th century? GOURMET DISCOVERIES When you think of Amsterdam, you don’t necessarily think about its gastronomy. Yet the Dutch capital hides many culinary treasures. First there is the infamous apple pie from Winkel 43 in the Jordaan district. Perhaps the best I have tasted so far. There are also several good restaurants to note: Buffet van Odette *photo on left* (Prinsengracht 598), Kees (Weesperzijde 44) and Foodhallen (Bellamyplein 51), an indoor food market/resto. THE RIJKSMUSEUM In Amsterdam, the weather changes constantly, so a visit to the museum is the perfect option to escape the occasional shower. The Rijksmuseum, nicknamed the Louvre of Amsterdam, is by far the most popular with tourists. Located on the Museumplein, it offers 80 galleries and more than 8000 works of art, including an extensive collection of Dutch paintings (from Rembrandt, Van Gogh and the likes). THE HORTUS BOTANICUS If you need a little break away from tourists, I recommend a stop at Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam Botanical Garden. I completely fell in love with this place which is home to more than 4000 types of trees and plants. One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, it was founded in 1638. Here, you’ll find a greenhouse of palm trees, that dates from 1912 and a huge heated section with 3 different tropical climates. PRACTICAL INFO - Currency: Euro- Language: Dutch (a lot of people also speak English)- In my suitcase: The PIX top!- Best time to go: In the spring, to see the tulips- Lodging suggestion: The Student Hotel Amsterdam City. READ THE ADVENTURES OF MARIE-MICHÈLE ON HER BLOG, ENTRE 2 ESCALES >>
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HIGHLIGHTS FROM HOKKAIDO
The island of Hokkaido, in Northern Japan, is an outdoor-lover’s dream. Many Japanese and international visitors flock here to savor the region’s alpine landscapes and soak in its serene, geothermal springs. Our ambassador, Lara Dalinsky, had a chance to visit this idyllic island. Her favourite spots, below! SAPPORO Sapporo, Hokkaido’s capital, makes a good gateway for exploring more of the island’s northerly sites. It’s easy to spend a leisurely day sightseeing the city’s TV Tower, Clock Tower, municipal parks, and markets. The city is busy with fun events all year long, from the Sapporo Snow Festival to the Odori Beer Garden in summer. OTARU AND NIKKA WHISKY Otaru is a harbor city on Hokkaido’s western shore that’s a one-hour drive from Sapporo. The city is known for it’s charming canal district that is lined with warehouses that have been converted into restaurants, bars, and shops. Connoisseurs of fine spirits should visit Nikka Whisky’s Yoichi Distillery just half-an-hour away. Admission is free and English speakers can take a self-guided tour of the facility, sample whisky, and pick up souvenirs at the gift shop. NISEKO It’s a two-hour, winding drive from the airport to Niseko (or up to a four-hour drive in the winter). This district is most famous for its mythical, dry powder snow and ski resorts. Though sleepier in the summer, it’s a convenient base for discovering the area’s parks, lakes, and onsens hot spring facilities. LAKE TOYA During warmer months, a full day can be dedicated to lazily driving the perimeter of Lake Toya, Hokkaido’s water-filled caldera. Stop at any points of interest – scenic overlooks, hot springs, and parks – that capture your fancy. Stroll the Toyako Sculpture Park for waterfront views among large-scale pieces of art. After seeing the lake up close, get an aerial perspective from atop Mount Usu on the side of an active crater. FURANO AND BIEI Furano is two-hours northeast of Sapporo. The area is a quieter ski alternative to Niseko during the winter. In the summer, the landscape transforms into patchworks of colorful flowers like poppies, lilies, and sunflowers. But the most popular attraction are its fragrant hillsides covered with lavender. Nearby Biei is famous for its mystical Aoiike Blue Pond, an eerie aquamarine body of water that engulfs dead birch trees. PRACTICAL INFO: - Currency: Yen- Language: Japanese- Best time to go: Winter and Mid-summer- Lodging suggestion: Kimamaya Hotel- Other: People drive on the left-side of the road
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DISCOVERING SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka may not be on your travel radar yet, but this little island nation south of India is definitely becoming a popular warm weather destination. Here’s what our ambassador, Jessica Norah, has to say about this beautiful place. By ambassador/guest blogger Jessica Norah, Independent Travel Cats Formerly known as Ceylon, this island of Sri Lanka offers a host of attractions and experiences that will excite just about any traveler. The country is particularly known for its national parks, wildlife (chances to see elephants, leopards, rare birds etc.), whale watching opportunities, temples, beaches, and ancient Buddhist ruins. Most international flights land in Colombo, the country’s capital, but where you head after this should be based on your interests and the weather. Some of the highlights beyond the capital include Sigiriya (ancient fortress complex), Minneriya National Park (best known for its elephants), Yala National Park (best known for its leopards), Golden Temple of Danbulla, towns of Kandy and Galle, Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, (Sri Lanka’s holiest shrine) Tea Country area (tea plantations, waterfalls, Adam’s Peak hike), Mirissa for whale watching, and southern beaches. « The country is particularly known for its national parks and amazing wildlife... the chance to see elephants, leopards and rare birds. » Our 2 week highlights of Sri Lanka itinerary covers the main highlights of the country. You can use it to build your own itinerary depending on your time and interests. We’ve loved our time traveling in Sri Lanka with its varied landscapes and attractions, and can’t wait to visit again soon! PRACTICAL INFO: · Currency: Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) · Language: Multiple languages, main languages are Sinhalese and Tamil. A large number of those in the tourism industry and in the larger cities speak at least some English. · Voltage: Standard voltage is 220 V · Best time to go: Speaking in very general terms about the weather, the best time to visit the west coast, south coast, and hill country is from December through March and the best time to visit the east coast is from April to September. · Lodging suggestion: Sri Lanka has a variety of lodging options from hostels and guesthouses to beach resorts and luxury hotels. We have stayed in a number of Jetwing Hotels and Cinnamon Hotels properties around the island which offer good value and are located in many of the popular tourist destination. For luxury seekers, we highly recommend also checking out the Resplendent Ceylon properties, particularly our favorite Ceylon Tea Trails. · Recommended FIG Clothing: Pack for warm and humid weather. Many of items in the FIG SAFARI and OCEAN collections are ideal for Sri Lanka. You’ll want to pack mostly lightweight easy wear clothing, with some layers and sweaters for evenings and early mornings as well as some good raingear. Women will also want to bring along wraps, scarfs, and/or sarong to cover-up shoulders and legs so you can visit religious sites. · Other: Note that certain items can be difficult or expensive to buy in Sri Lanka so best to pack anything you know you’ll need. Jessica Norah is a cat-loving American travel blogger currently based in Edinburgh Scotland with her British husband Laurence. The traveling couple run two travel blogs together, Independent Travel Cats and Finding the Universe.
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5 REASONS TO VISIT PROVIDENCE
Discover the capital of America's smallest state! Located 575 kilometers away from Montreal, Providence, Rhode Island, can be a fun short trip! The city, settled in the smallest of the 50 states in America, has plenty to offer. By plane or by car, it is a great destination for those who enjoy cool and laid-back vibes in a beautiful setting. Here are 5 good reasons why you should go! 1. THE FOOD Everywhere in the city, you will find great coffee, succulent pastries and well executed meals, within your price range. A simple yet delicious pizza or vegetarian bowl at The Grange or a high-end but unpretentious tasting menu at Birch - foodies will enjoy eating their way through Providence. « Walking the streets of Providence is a pleasure. Old buildings from the early 20th century catch your eye at almost every corner! » 2. THE ART Home to one of the top art schools in the United States - the Rhode Island School of Design - Providence is rich in art and culture. For anyone interested in design, the array of galleries, small exhibitions, and of course, the RISD Museum, will no doubt fulfill your thirst for beautiful things. 3. THE DAY TRIPS Need a change of scenery? Hop on the $2,50 bus to Newport, only one hour away. During high season, or in the calmer months of fall, the Cliff Walk, beaches and charming marina restaurants are all worth the trip. 4. THE ARCHITECTURE Walking the streets of Providence is a pleasure. Old buildings from the early 20th century with beautiful façades and detailing are sure to catch your eye at almost every corner. Brown University’s campus and the neighbourhood around it are also great architectural sights! 5. THE DEAN HOTEL Rarely will you find a hotel that is both affordable and beautifully decorated! This modern and elegant hotel was first a Mission House, then a strip club (!), before it was purchased and transformed into a hotel in 2012. All sorts of visitors stay at the Dean, parents visiting their kids studying at Brown, couples, friends in town for a weekend.... A great find!
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FAMILY TRIP IN THE ROCKIES
Discovering Western Canada! July 1st is the perfect time to highlight must-see Canadian destinations! Last summer, Andre, FIG’s general manager, took a family trip to Alberta. "Driving, camping and hiking the Rockies was a fun experience for my children and I, and showed us that we have amazing landscapes to explore here at home!" What did your itinerary look like? We flew from Montreal to Calgary where we rented a car. Our itinerary took us to different places between Banff and Jasper, before driving back to Calgary, after a week of nature and mountains. What were the highlights of your trip? Sulphur Mountain: we climbed along the Sulphur Skyline Trail, and really enjoyed it! The sun was out, we saw mountain goats, as well as amazing views and finished our day with a visit to the Miette Hot Spring. To top it off, a family of caribous were waiting for us at our campground! The Athabasca Glacier: The rapidity at which it is melting is shocking. I remember being there 20 years ago and the landscape was very different then, better preserved. What are your recommendations for family activities in the area? Mountain hiking and camping. And if you want to enjoy a night or two of comfort, I recommend the Panorama Resort. The waterslides were a hit with the kids! Your next Canadian adventure? Tough question! I would go to the other side of the country to the Magdalen Islands, to enjoy the sea and the beach!
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