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	<title>A Montrealer Abroad</title>
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	<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com</link>
	<description>The tales of a Montrealer at home and on the road</description>
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		<title>The Best Poutine in Montreal: The Smackdown</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/best-poutine-in-montreal/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/best-poutine-in-montreal/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:00:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Canada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montreal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Explore Canada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[poutine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[province of Quebec]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=1010</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Finding the best poutine in Montreal is not unlike going after the Holy Grail &#8211; many have tried, but few succeeded. The results of such quests always vary, and very few agree on the final selection. For years and years, poutine has been the topic of many heated debates in family reunions, dinner with friends<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/best-poutine-in-montreal/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/best-poutine-in-montreal/">The Best Poutine in Montreal: The Smackdown</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Finding the best poutine in Montreal is not unlike going after the Holy Grail &#8211; many have tried, but few succeeded. The results of such quests always vary, and very few agree on the final selection. For years and years, poutine has been the topic of many heated debates in family reunions, dinner with friends and even guidebooks.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And as a big fan of poutine and long-time Montrealer, I figured I could throw in my two cents. What are my favorite poutine joints in Montreal, you ask?</p>
<p><iframe src="https://maps.google.fr/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=215553930771385551100.0004da6516302dc10f6fd&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=45.533469,-73.582821&amp;spn=0.030062,0.042915&amp;z=14&amp;output=embed" height="500" width="500" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a style="color: #0000ff; text-align: left;" href="https://maps.google.fr/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=215553930771385551100.0004da6516302dc10f6fd&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=45.533469,-73.582821&amp;spn=0.030062,0.042915&amp;z=14&amp;source=embed">Best poutine in Montreal</a> in a larger map</small></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">(Keep in mind that it is very hard to make <em>yucky</em> poutine, and whatever place you pick will more than likely make your taste buds very happy, regardless of whether it&#8217;s on this list or not. These are just my personal favourites.)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2-IMG_5146.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2574" alt="The Best Poutine in Montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2-IMG_5146-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<h2>The Best Poutine in Montreal: The Classic Experience</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you are only in town for a short while and want to experience poutine in the most efficient way, head to <a href="http://labanquise.com/en/">La Banquise</a>. This restaurant is open 24/7 (although much of its clientele visits between 1AM and 5AM, because as far as hangover remedies go, poutine tops &#8216;em all) and offers a pretty good selection for poutine neophytes and locals alike, as well as the fast-food staples of North America: hot dogs, burgers, corn-dogs, and onion rings. Definitely the go-to place for first-timers!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1-IMG_1551.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2575" alt="The Best Poutine in Montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1-IMG_1551-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<h2>The Best Poutine in Montreal: The Make-Your-Own</h2>
<p>If you are feeling adventurous with your poutine and want to spice it up a little, the first place that comes to mind is <a href="http://poutineville.com/en/">Poutineville</a>. Here, instead of ordering something off the menu, you are pretty much handed a checklist of the kitchen&#8217;s every ingredients, and told to pick whatever pleases you. Oh, dear heavens. You can add anything from blue cheese to grilled zucchini to Italian sausage, or, if you want to have the illusion of a healthy meal, a side salad or a veggie sandwich.</p>
<p>My favorite mix? Crushed potatoes with regular poutine sauce, topped with bacon, hot dog sausages and extra grated cheese. YUM.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1-IMG_6175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2573" alt="The Best Poutine in Montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1-IMG_6175-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<h2>The Best Poutine in Montreal: The One With a Twist</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you want to be in for a treat, go no further than <a href="http://www.restaurantaupieddecochon.ca/index_e.html">Au Pied de Cochon</a>. One of Montreal&#8217;s finest, most decadent and most popular restaurants offers a heaven-sent poutine topped with nothing else than foie gras. It&#8217;s definitely a case of &#8220;don&#8217;t count the calories&#8221; &#8211; not that you should ever count the calories of a poutine &#8211; that will leave you sated and very happy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Reservation strongly advised.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2-IMG_2083.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2576" alt="The Best Poutine in Montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2-IMG_2083-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<h2>The Best Poutine in Montreal: The Local One</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And if you are moving to Montreal or spending a few weeks on the Plateau Mont-Royal, you must pay a visit to <a href="http://www.maammbolduc.com/fr/accueil">Ma&#8217;am Bolduc </a>(french only). Located in a graded building on the eastern, less glamour but more authentic side of the neighborhood, the restaurant has been in business for over 45 years and offers pretty much <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/cuisine-of-quebec/">every staple of the Québécois cuisin</a>e, including the delicious poutine. Very few tourists know about this place, and the locals are more than willing to share their best kept secret in the name of gluttony.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Bon appétit!</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><em>Where is your favorite poutine in Montreal? Have you tried any of the places listed above?</em></h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/best-poutine-in-montreal/">The Best Poutine in Montreal: The Smackdown</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Only Reason Why You Should Visit Casablanca &#8211; Hassan II Mosque</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-only-reason-why-you-should-visit-casablanca-hassan-ii-mosque/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-only-reason-why-you-should-visit-casablanca-hassan-ii-mosque/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:00:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Morocco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Casablanca]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2550</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>There are some places in the world that you know are going to be all wrong the minute you get off the plane. For me, that was Casablanca. Casablanca left me largely unimpressed and even quite wary &#8211; nothing went my way from the plane ride to the hotel check-in, and everything in between. My<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-only-reason-why-you-should-visit-casablanca-hassan-ii-mosque/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-only-reason-why-you-should-visit-casablanca-hassan-ii-mosque/">The Only Reason Why You Should Visit Casablanca &#8211; Hassan II Mosque</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/01-IMG_4661-2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2552" alt="The Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/01-IMG_4661-2-610x270.jpg" width="610" height="270" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">There are some places in the world that you know are going to be all wrong the minute you get off the plane.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">For me, that was Casablanca.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Casablanca left me largely unimpressed and even quite wary &#8211; nothing went my way from the plane ride to the hotel check-in, and everything in between. My travel friends and I even had to eat at the forbidden Golden Arch because it&#8217;s the only place we didn&#8217;t feel judged or intensely observed. All I know is that I felt threatened, unsafe, unsure of what the attractions were and quite disappointed by the ugly commercial buildings scattered around the city.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And also, within minutes of my first exploratory walk around the hotel, a bird pooped on me.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I think that was a warning sign. <em>Go away you evil blond creature!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Thank heavens, Casablanca was just a quick halt on my Moroccan Adventure and it wasn&#8217;t long before our guide took us <a href="http://amontrealerabroad.com/category/morocco/">to the north of the country</a>. But not before he took us through a guided visit of the city&#8217;s only landmark (Rick&#8217;s Café doesn&#8217;t count, as it was solely built to fool ignorant tourists), the grandiose Hassan II Mosque.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/12-IMG_4651.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2563" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/12-IMG_4651-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Hassan II Mosque &#8211; A Bit of History</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It all started in the mid-1980s when the King of Morocco, Hassan II, acknowledged the important lack of architectural and historical landmarks in Casablanca. The city had covered herself in apartment buildings, offices and headquarters, but had very little cultural life, or anything to offer to a rapidly growing tourism flow.</p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>I wish Casablanca to be endowed with a large, fine building of which it can be proud until the end of time &#8230; I want to build this mosque on the water, because God&#8217;s throne is on the water. Therefore, the faithful who go there to pray, to praise the creator on firm soil, can contemplate God&#8217;s sky and ocean</em>.&#8221; &#8211; King Hassan II</p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Hassan II Mosque was indeed built on a promontory over the Atlantic Ocean, the sea bed being visible from the glass floor in the great hall. The construction, however, wasn&#8217;t free of controversy:  much of the $750 millions needed to built the Mosque was financed directly from Moroccans themselves. Every single family was obligated to pay a set minimum amount, in exchange of a certificate of donation.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Mosque, at completion its 1993, became Morocco&#8217;s largest, and the 7th largest in the whole world. Its minaret, at 210 meters high, is the highest in the world. The entire Mosque&#8217;s complex covers over 22 acres of land: the main hall can welcome around 25,000 worshipers, while over 80,000 people can gather on the outside grounds. Interestingly enough, only the stained glass and chandeliers were imported from Italy. All the other materials, like cedar, marble and granite, were brought from different regions of the country.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>I may hate Casablanca with all my heart, but I will gladly go back again if only to step into this spectacular building.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The guided tour was fascinating, and very informative for Islamic neophytes. The traditions related to prayers and the Islamic culture were very well explained, and set the tone for the rest of my time in Morocco.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Hassan II Mosque &#8211; In Photos</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/13-IMG_4654.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2564" alt="The Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/13-IMG_4654-610x391.jpg" width="610" height="391" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/03-IMG_4609.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2554" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/03-IMG_4609-610x834.jpg" width="610" height="834" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1-2012-11-16-Maroc.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-2551" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1-2012-11-16-Maroc-610x381.jpg" width="615" height="386" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/02-IMG_4608.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2553" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/02-IMG_4608-610x846.jpg" width="610" height="846" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/07-IMG_4620.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2558" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/07-IMG_4620-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/08-IMG_4627.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2559" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/08-IMG_4627-610x417.jpg" width="610" height="417" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/05-IMG_4618.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2556" alt="Hassan II Mosque" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/05-IMG_4618-610x441.jpg" width="610" height="441" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/11-IMG_4648.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2562" alt="11-IMG_4648" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/11-IMG_4648-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/09-IMG_4640.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2560" alt="09-IMG_4640" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/09-IMG_4640-610x813.jpg" width="610" height="813" /></a></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Hassan II Mosque &#8211; Good to Know</h2>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li>Guided tours are possible from Saturday to Thursday, at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00 or 14:00, or daily at 14:30 in the summer.</li>
<li>Guided tours cost 120 dirhams (around $12).</li>
<li>Visitors need to respect a strict dress code: no shoes, covered knees and shoulders.</li>
</ul>
<h3><em>Have you visited the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca? Was it also the highlight of your trip there? Is it one of your favourite religious buildings around the world?</em></h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-only-reason-why-you-should-visit-casablanca-hassan-ii-mosque/">The Only Reason Why You Should Visit Casablanca &#8211; Hassan II Mosque</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I&#8217;m an AFAR Ambassador!</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/im-an-afar-ambassador/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/im-an-afar-ambassador/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:45:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AFAR Magazine]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2541</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>For freelancers like me, and, oddly enough, for a pretty big bunch of people, time is money. Big money. Therefore, these precious 24 hours we are given each day need to be invested wisely, and efficiently. Which means that I get very little &#8220;free&#8221; time where I can simply sit back and do whatever I<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/im-an-afar-ambassador/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/im-an-afar-ambassador/">I&#8217;m an AFAR Ambassador!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.afar.com/travelers/marie-eve-vallieres/"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2542" alt="Fullscreen capture 29032013 142822.bmp" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Fullscreen-capture-29032013-142822.bmp-610x337.jpg" width="610" height="337" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">For freelancers like me, and, oddly enough, for a pretty big bunch of people, time is money. Big money. Therefore, these precious 24 hours we are given each day need to be invested wisely, and efficiently. Which means that I get very little &#8220;free&#8221; time where I can simply sit back and do whatever I want.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">One thing I do take time for, however, is my daily read-through the newest additions to AFAR Magazine. There are very little things in life that make me happier than learning about a quirky café or a delicious restaurant that have been tested and approved by locals or travelers &#8211; and AFAR does just that.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">I&#8217;ve been adding <a href="http://www.afar.com/travelers/marie-eve-vallieres/highlights">my own highlights</a> and <a href="http://www.afar.com/travelers/marie-eve-vallieres/wanderlists">wanderlists</a> for a few months now, and guess what? I&#8217;ve been promoted to ambassador!</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">What does it mean?</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Simply put, it means that I will help spread the word about AFAR Magazine, my favorite place around the world, work within an amazing team of like-minded travelers, and curate quality content on their website. Pretty neat, right!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It is a true honor to work with a magazine that won the Lowell Thomas Award for the Best Travel Magazine from the Society of American Travel Writers two of the past three years, and that wants to promote conscious, authentic experiences around the world.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.afar.com/travelers/marie-eve-vallieres/">Check out my profile</a>, and if you like the concept, make sure you sign up and upload your own favorite eateries, cafés, parks and other fun sights from your travels. Happy browsing!</h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/im-an-afar-ambassador/">I&#8217;m an AFAR Ambassador!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Springtime in Boston</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-boston-spring/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-boston-spring/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:40:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Boston]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What to do]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2519</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Boston is one of the most appreciated getaways from Montreal, with reason &#8211; just under a 6 hour drive (a very short time in North American standards), it&#8217;s easily accessible on a weekend. Plus, with the important Irish and Italian communities that settled in Boston long ago, Montrealers feel right at home! And while New<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-boston-spring/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-boston-spring/">Springtime in Boston</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/01-IMG_0873.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2528" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/01-IMG_0873.CR2_-610x323.jpg" width="610" height="323" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Boston is one of the <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/5-easy-day-trips-from-montreal/">most appreciated getaways from Montreal</a>, with reason &#8211; just under a 6 hour drive (a very short time in North American standards), it&#8217;s easily accessible on a weekend. Plus, with the important Irish and Italian communities that settled in Boston long ago, Montrealers feel right at home!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And while New England is mostly popular during the fall &#8211; hello technicolor panoramas &#8211; my favorite time of the year <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/tag/boston/">to visit Boston</a> is in the spring. Something about the cherry blossoms I absolutely cannot resist, their overpowering smell and the gorgeous sight they offer for just a few weeks every year.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Boston Common is the perfect place to fully appreciate them. Obviously!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/02-IMG_0886.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2529" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/02-IMG_0886.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/03-IMG_0892.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2530" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/03-IMG_0892.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Welcome to the oldest city park in the United States! Dating all the way back to 1634, the Commons consists of over 50 acres of green pastures. And that is not a random choice of word &#8211; indeed, the Commons were one of the busiest cow pastures in the city, up until the mid-1800s.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It was also used as a place for public hangings &#8211; witch hunt, anyone? &#8211; a camp for the British Army in the American Revolutionary War, and saw the likes of Pope John Paul II, Martin Luther King Jr and Judy Garland. The Commons were always intrinsically linked to central Boston&#8217;s identity, and after spending so many hours there, I definitely understand why.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/10-IMG_1105.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2527" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/10-IMG_1105.CR2_-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/04-IMG_0897.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2521" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/04-IMG_0897.CR2_-610x828.jpg" width="610" height="828" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And then, of course, there is Cambridge, and Harvard University.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Another staple of Boston, yes, but simply to good to overlook. Touristy places are always popular for a reason, right? Harvard isn&#8217;t any different. I don&#8217;t know about you, but even though my college years are way behind me, I can&#8217;t help but fantasize on what my life would be as a Harvard undergrad. Would I be as amazed by the ancient buildings, by the lifestyle?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Probably not. I&#8217;d spend all my time in my dorm trying to figure out a way to pay for my college education without having to sell my organs on the black market. But shhhh.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/05-IMG_0937.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2522" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/05-IMG_0937.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/06-IMG_0939.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2523" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/06-IMG_0939.CR2_-610x334.jpg" width="610" height="334" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/08-IMG_1033.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2525" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/08-IMG_1033.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/07-IMG_0986.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2524" alt="photos of boston spring" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/07-IMG_0986.CR2_-610x679.jpg" width="610" height="679" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Sure, the whole of Massachusetts is a good idea in the spring. But to me, a city lover, there is always going to be something special about watching nature unfold in the hustle of downtown, in spite of everything that would be considered a turn-off by many.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><em>Have you ever been to Boston in the spring? If not, what is your favourite time of the year to visit?</em></h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-boston-spring/">Springtime in Boston</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Instagram Postcards from Paris</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-paris-photos-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-paris-photos-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:00:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Instagram]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2460</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Paris is always a good idea, Audrey Hepburn once said. And even in the cold freezing Paris winter, I can hardly beg to differ. I&#8217;ll take Paris rain or shine, in the autumn or the summer, with or without the Parisians (but mostly without, please). In fact, I&#8217;ll gladly take Paris just the way it is,<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-paris-photos-2/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-paris-photos-2/">Instagram Postcards from Paris</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Paris is always a good idea, Audrey Hepburn once said.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And even in the <del>cold</del> freezing Paris winter, I can hardly beg to differ. I&#8217;ll take Paris rain or shine, in the autumn or the summer, with or without the Parisians (but mostly without, please).</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In fact, I&#8217;ll gladly take Paris just the way it is, anytime.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This is probably the most photos I have ever published in a single post, because I&#8217;m horrible at decision-making and of course I couldn&#8217;t pick out my favorites. I love ALL of them. Paris is just too pretty for its own good. Not that this is a problem &#8211; I don&#8217;t think there is such a thing as a complaint form for an overdose of <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/tag/paris/">Paris photos</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">That would be silly.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I would apologize in advance for the Paris-induced dreams you will have tonight, but the truth is, I&#8217;m really not that sorry at all. Paris doesn&#8217;t ever need an excuse!</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Paris Instagram &#8211; The Street Art</h2>
<div id="attachment_2481" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/02-IMG_6572.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2481" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/02-IMG_6572-610x614.jpg" width="610" height="614" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A cheeky sign in Montparnasse</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2474" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/09-IMG_6753.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2474" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/09-IMG_6753-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Angry birds in Beaubourg?</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2473" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/10-IMG_6755.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2473" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/10-IMG_6755-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Only in Paris &#8211; a historical pâtisserie covered in colorful street art.</p></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It still amazes me that a city like Paris would be covered in street art.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I expect it in Berlin and London, two places that have a more modern twist, that are more edgy and artsy. But in classical, romantic Paris? Color me surprised. And you know what &#8211; it blends in perfectly nonetheless, and only adds more appeal to the  architectural harmony that is so characteristic of the city.</p>
<div id="attachment_2472" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/11-IMG_6733.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2472" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/11-IMG_6733-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Gigantic street art at the Stravinsky Fountain</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2465" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/18-IMG_6761.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2465" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/18-IMG_6761-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Romantic Mur des Je t&#8217;aime in at Place des Abbesses</p></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Paris Instagram &#8211; The Architecture</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Few cities in the world can boast having such a rich and classical architectural heritage like Paris. Most of the landmarks are immediately recognizable, be it the ornate facade of the Louvre or the wrought-iron balconies of the 16e arrondissement, and the original doorways scattered all over the city.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">An amalgam of textures, styles, colors and sizes, but that somehow all blend together to perfection.</p>
<div id="attachment_2470" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/13-IMG_6720.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2470" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/13-IMG_6720-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Gorgeous, gorgeous Louvre.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2467" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/16-IMG_6713.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2467" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/16-IMG_6713-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the two beautiful clocks of Musée d&#8217;Orsay, a heritage from the building&#8217;s past life as a busy train station.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2468" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/15-IMG_6763.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2468" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/15-IMG_6763-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sainte-Chapelle</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2479" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/04-IMG_6638.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2479" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/04-IMG_6638-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Quaint streets of Saint-Germain</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2480" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/03-IMG_6744.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2480" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/03-IMG_6744-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Door porn in Saint-Germain</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2482" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/01-IMG_6634.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2482" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/01-IMG_6634-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Does it get more iconic than this?</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2471" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/12-IMG_6736.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2471" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/12-IMG_6736-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The seemingly never-ending arcades of Rue du Rivoli</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2463" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/20-IMG_6730.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2463" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/20-IMG_6730-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The beautiful stained glass dome of Galeries Lafayette</p></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Paris Instagram &#8211; The Atmosphere</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And, last but certainly not least, a few atmospheric photos of Paris. I tried to capture the city&#8217;s essence, allure, that would showcase its best features and possibly convert a few neophytes.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Between the hustle of the long boulevards to the calm abodes of the riverbanks, Paris wears many hats &#8211; all of which are, however, completely irresistible.</p>
<div id="attachment_2475" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/08-IMG_6735.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2475" alt="paris instagram" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/08-IMG_6735-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Charming bistro in Montorgueil &#8220;Funny place to meet&#8221;.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2476" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/07-IMG_6734.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2476" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/07-IMG_6734-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Tulip blooms season!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2477" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/06-IMG_6573.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2477" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/06-IMG_6573-610x597.jpg" width="610" height="597" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Late night walk in Le Marais</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2478" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/05-IMG_6562.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2478" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/05-IMG_6562-610x599.jpg" width="610" height="599" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Epic sunset seen from Ile Saint-Louis</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2469" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/14-IMG_6716.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2469" title="instagram paris" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/14-IMG_6716-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Romantic La Cité métro</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2464" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/19-IMG_6740.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2464" alt="instagram paris" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/19-IMG_6740-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Striking and romantic Montmartre.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2466" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/17-IMG_6714.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2466" alt="paris instagram" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/17-IMG_6714-610x610.jpg" width="610" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The beautiful fountain at Place de la Concorde. Can you spot the Iron Lady?</p></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It took me no less than 5 visits to the Ville-Lumière to fully appreciate it. The first few times, I couldn&#8217;t bring myself to like it. Too dirty. Too noisy. Too many Parisians.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">While the Parisians are still there, and they&#8217;re still just as difficult to deal with, I came around. I&#8217;ve been turned. I love, love, LOVE Paris &#8211; and I&#8217;m afraid there&#8217;s no going back. The only thing ahead of me is a tough learning curve to help control my urge to book a plane ticket, and just go.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Subscribe to <a href="http://instagram.com/mevallieres/">my Instagram feed</a> and be the first one to see my photos &#8211; I swear, it will be worth your while.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><em>Have you been to Paris in the winter? Do you like Paris at any time of the year, or would you rather go in the warmer months?</em></h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-paris-photos-2/">Instagram Postcards from Paris</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Confessions of a Bad, Bad Montrealer</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/confessions-of-a-montrealer/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/confessions-of-a-montrealer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Being Canadian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montreal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Explore Canada]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2151</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>When someone claims to be an expert on a city, and pretty much rants on and on about how it&#8217;s the greatest place on Earth, you sort of expect that they have seen and done everything there is to do in that place. As it turns out, I am that annoying person. I always give<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/confessions-of-a-montrealer/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/confessions-of-a-montrealer/">Confessions of a Bad, Bad Montrealer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/6-IMG_9326.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2132" alt="2012 in Montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/6-IMG_9326.CR2_-610x375.jpg" width="610" height="375" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">When someone claims to be an expert on a city, and pretty much rants on and on about how it&#8217;s the greatest place on Earth, you sort of expect that they have seen and done everything there is to do in that place.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As it turns out, I am that annoying person.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I always give pieces of advice about Montreal, to tourists and friends, even when it is not even remotely solicited. But my conscience has reached a point where I can no longer hide under that so-called expert hat.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The truth is, I&#8217;m a very bad Montrealer. If I must confess&#8230;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/1-IMG_1488.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1459" alt="things to do in montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/1-IMG_1488.jpg" width="610" height="458" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I&#8217;ve never visited Basilique Notre-Dame.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I barely ever venture out of <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/montreals-plateau-mont-royal-best-places-approved-by-locals/">Plateau Mont-Royal</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I really, really don&#8217;t fancy the smoked meat at Schwart&#8217;z.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I&#8217;m a big fan of the <em>idea</em> of <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/guide-to-montreal-festivals/">festivals in Montreal</a>, not so much of the massive crowds in the streets and the métro.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I hate going to the Mont-Royal observatory because it&#8217;s such a long walk to get there (never underestimate how lazy I can be).</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I secretly hate boulevard St-Laurent. Too gritty.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I don&#8217;t feel classy enough to hang out with the <em>intelligentsia </em>in Outremont.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Nor am I hipster enough to be at ease in the Mile End (wool hats and large glass frames look really don&#8217;t complement my face).</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I don&#8217;t like what <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-chinatown-montreal/">Chinatown</a> smells like.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify;">I&#8217;ve never been to Oratoire St-Joseph.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/montreals-space-for-life-in-the-olympic-center/">Olympic Stadium</a> may be an architectural wonder, but I think it&#8217;s just weird-looking and out of place. Also, 50 years after its completion, my taxes are still paying for it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I always go to <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/bring-your-own-wine-restaurants-montreal/">the same restaurants</a> even though I know very well there are hundreds of other amazing options to try out.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I really, really don&#8217;t care for hockey (and I&#8217;m pretty sure it&#8217;s a deadly sin in Canada).</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I barely ever go to farmer&#8217;s markets in Jean-Talon or Atwater. Again &#8211; too lazy.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/3-IMG_9282.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2138" alt="2012 in Montreal" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/3-IMG_9282.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I think the problem is because I take my city for granted. I feel into a rut, a boring routine that I never bother to fight. Why would I &#8211; the city is always going to be there, and I have all the time in the world, right?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But if I learned one thing from traveling so much, it&#8217;s to enjoy every moment, every street corner, every sight. The world we live in is an unpredictable place, and who knows if my city won&#8217;t get hit by a giant asteroid? What if Bruce Willis isn&#8217;t there to save us? Who knows I won&#8217;t get abducted by aliens? Who knows Montreal won&#8217;t get submerged by a typhoid - it is an island, after all!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">That&#8217;ll teach me to not go to Montreal&#8217;s prettiest religious buildings and pray!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">All jokes aside &#8211; I need to get out there.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Be the Montrealer I want to be, and not feel like a fraud whenever I put my Montreal expert hat on. So watch out, my dearest city: I&#8217;m coming for you. Not an inch of you will be spared, not a piece of street art will go unnoticed and not a single calorie will be counted.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Be ready!</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/confessions-of-a-montrealer/">Confessions of a Bad, Bad Montrealer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>5 things to do in Fes, Morocco</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/5-things-to-do-in-fes-morocco/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/5-things-to-do-in-fes-morocco/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2013 12:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Morocco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Al-Attarine Madrasa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Borj Sud]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Call To Prayer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leather Tanneries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Palais Jamaï]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pottery Factories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Royal Palace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What to do]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=1937</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>A lot of people had warned me against Fes, despite it being one of the city I was looking forward to the most in Morocco. Sure, once I was there, a handful of people tried to grab my bag, and not once was I comfortable withdrawing money at the ATM by myself. I definitely understood<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/5-things-to-do-in-fes-morocco/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/5-things-to-do-in-fes-morocco/">5 things to do in Fes, Morocco</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_2441" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/03-IMG_4959.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2441" alt="5 things to do in Fes, Morocco" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/03-IMG_4959-610x377.jpg" width="610" height="377" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Overlooking Fes from Borj Sud observatory</p></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A lot of people had warned me against Fes, despite it being one of the city I was looking forward to the most in <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/category/morocco/">Morocco</a>. Sure, once I was there, a handful of people tried to grab my bag, and not once was I comfortable withdrawing money at the ATM by myself. I definitely understood the point of these warnings.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But the thing is, I hated Casablanca so, so much, that anything after that was just pure bliss. And in all honesty, I kind of enjoyed Fes, despite the absolute chaos and the overwhelming presence of men around me. <strong>I would learn much later on in my trip that this is just how Morocco is &#8211; dominated by men, and restless.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But do not fret! There are a number of things to do in Fes that don&#8217;t involve holding on for dear life. Let&#8217;s see&#8230;</p>
<h1 style="text-align: justify;">Things To Do in Fes</h1>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Pottery Factories</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/04-IMG_4967.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2442 aligncenter" title="things to do in fes" alt="things to do in fes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/04-IMG_4967-610x461.jpg" width="610" height="461" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/05-IMG_4999.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2443 aligncenter" title="things to do in fes" alt="5 things to do in Fes, Morocco" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/05-IMG_4999-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Fes is often regarded as the pottery capital of Morocco, with reason &#8211; there are several factories scattered around the medina, each with its own specialty. Some sell fountains, others tilework, others only have pottery, and others, I suspect the touristy ones, have a little bit of everything.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Regardless, watching the artisans live at work is undoubtedly engrossing, when knowing that this knowledge has been passed from generation to generation for centuries. <strong>No two designs are ever the same because the artisans don&#8217;t work with templates &#8211; each piece is completely unique.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Naturally, Morocco being what it is, you can also buy pretty much anything that is remotely related to pottery in the gigantic stores on site. But don&#8217;t hesitate to haggle hard! The prices in the factories are a gazillion times more expensive than in the medina, so make sure you get the price you had in mind before you commit to buy anything.</p>
<h2>Call To Prayer at Palais Jamaï</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/10-IMG_5165.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2438" title="things to do in fes" alt="things to do in Fes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/10-IMG_5165-610x466.jpg" width="610" height="466" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/09-IMG_5160.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2437" title="things to do in fes" alt="things to do in Fes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/09-IMG_5160-610x398.jpg" width="610" height="398" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This is one of the most spiritual things I have ever done &#8211; and trust me when I say that I am NOT a spiritual or religious person.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Islam fascinates me in more ways than one, and the <em>adhan</em> &#8211; call to prayer &#8211; is perhaps what I admire the most about this religion. The sheer dedication, the non-negotiable &#8220;time-out&#8221; from real life, everyday at sunset, when the melody softly hums from seemingly everywhere around you until a loud <em>Allahu Akbar</em> blares from the nearest minaret.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The best place to fully enjoy this magical moment? The Palais Sofitel Jamaï, on the northern edge of the medina.</strong> The terrace overlooks the entire area of Fes El-Bali, and from there you can hear the tonitruous call to prayer coming in from every direction. Even though you can&#8217;t actually see the people below due to the very high building density, you can very well imagine the frantic anthill below, with people on their way to their mosque. Absolutely magical, and captivating.</p>
<h2>Al-Attarine Madrasa</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/07-IMG_5091.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2435" title="things to do in fes" alt="things to do in fes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/07-IMG_5091-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Whatever you do in Fes, do not even think of skipping this attraction!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Al-Attarine Madrasa is in the very heart of the medina, right next to the famous al-Karaouine University. The Madrasa was founded all the way back in 1323 by Sultan Uthman II Abu Said and served as a scientific school. While our guide only led us to the main courtyard, the entire building is composed of 30 rooms, all more decadently styled than the other. <strong>This is a pure jewel in terms of Islamic architecture, and the courtyard alone had my undivided attention for a solid hour. </strong>And I&#8217;m not exaggerating when I say I could&#8217;ve stayed a lot longer.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Also good to know? It only costs 10 dirhams to visit.</p>
<h2>The 7 Gates Of The Royal Palace</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/02-IMG_4935.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2440" title="things to do in fes" alt="things to do in fes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/02-IMG_4935-610x422.jpg" width="610" height="422" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Before you engulf yourself in the maze and chaos of the medina, make sure to stop by Fes&#8217; opulent Royal Palace.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">While the Palace isn&#8217;t open to visitors (it still serves as official residence to the King of Morocco whenever he visits Fes), you can still enjoy the architectural masterpieces that are the front gates &#8211; all 7 of them. Take some time to marvel at the dozen different textures, colors, materials and patterns that adorn this huge structure.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Just be careful not to take any photos of the guards &#8211; unless you want to be chastitised in Arab, of course.</p>
<h2>Leather Tanneries</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/08-IMG_5116.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2436" alt="things to do in fes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/08-IMG_5116-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If there is one tip I can give for this attraction, it would be this: do not, under any circumstances, refuse the mint bouquet that&#8217;s given to you when entering the leather shop. The smell gets only gets stronger as you make your way through the bazar of bags, wallets and belts, and get closer to the true spectacle of the area &#8211; the tanneries.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">That&#8217;s when you&#8217;ll be thankful for the heaven-sent mint. <strong>Because the main ingredients of the dyes, outside chemicals and natural pigments, is essentially bird crap and cow pee.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But do not let the overpowering smell get to you and keep you from enjoying this unique and peculiar sight: the Fes tanneries are amongst the oldest ones in the world still in function. It is truly puzzling to watch the workers jump swiftly from one vat to another without a care in the world.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the industrialized world we live in, it&#8217;s quite a blast from the past to see that this specific artistry hasn&#8217;t changed a bit in the past 600 years.</p>
<h3><em>What are your favorite things to do in Fes? Shop, explore, learn, eat, all of them?</em></h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/5-things-to-do-in-fes-morocco/">5 things to do in Fes, Morocco</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>This Is My Canada</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/this-is-my-canada/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/this-is-my-canada/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:00:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Being Canadian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Explore Canada]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2352</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;ve been asked to participate in a new travel roulette called &#8220;This is My Canada&#8221;, initiated by Pamela over at Spunky Girl Monologue. This is my entry. It goes without saying that I am a proud Montrealer and Québécoise &#8211; I did start a blog on this sole subject after all. I never miss out<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/this-is-my-canada/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/this-is-my-canada/">This Is My Canada</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">I&#8217;ve been asked to participate in a new travel roulette called &#8220;This is My Canada&#8221;, initiated by Pamela over at <a href="http://www.spunkygirlmonologues.com/how-to-participate-in-this-is-my-canada/">Spunky Girl Monologue</a>. This is my entry.</p>
<div id="attachment_2203" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/17-IMG_6256.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-2203" alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/17-IMG_6256-610x588.jpg" width="610" height="588" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Because it doesn&#8217;t get better than Canadian winter fashion. ;-)</p></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It goes without saying that I am a proud Montrealer and Québécoise &#8211; I did start a blog on this sole subject after all. I never miss out on an occasion to enthusiastically mention that I&#8217;m Canadian and that <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/category/montreal">Montreal</a> is the best city in the whole wide world, bar none.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But if I&#8217;m honest,  the fact remains that I have seen very little of my own country.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/category/canada">Two provinces</a>. That&#8217;s it.  Including one that&#8217;s been visiting solely for the purpose of school trips, back in the days where the portable yellow Sony cassette player was THE hip thing to own. I&#8217;ve never even gone further east than Quebec City, and further west than Toronto.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I know. I know. I suck as a Canadian.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I could rely on the excuse that Canada is a big country, that&#8217;s both expensive and complicated to visit. It wouldn&#8217;t be untrue. But the truth is that at age 19, I chose <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/tag/europe">Europe</a> over Canada &#8211; 6 years later, I&#8217;ve had my share of medieval cathedrals and cobblestone alleys, and I find myself longing for the wide open spaces and the familiarity of my home country.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I&#8217;m confident that I will accomplish my dream grand tour of Canada one day &#8211; after all, I&#8217;ve got a good 50 years ahead of me, and Canada isn&#8217;t going anywhere. <strong>But for now, this is my Canada. My Quebec. My Montreal. My home.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">***</p>
<h3>My Canada in winter is just awesome. Period.</h3>
<div id="attachment_2188" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-montreal-snow/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2188 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/02-IMG_6094-610x591.jpg" width="610" height="591" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Welcome to Canada, eh!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2192" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/instagram-montreal-snow/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2192 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/06-IMG_6159-610x595.jpg" width="610" height="595" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Caution &#8211; Snowmobile Crossing. Only in Canada.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2033" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/15-things-to-do-in-montreal/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2033  " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/4-Chalet-29-12-11-292-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Christmas tree in Quebec</p></div>
<h3>My Canadian province of Quebec is home to some of the oldest history in North America.</h3>
<div id="attachment_2140" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/an-itinerary-through-old-montreal/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2140 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/5-IMG_9313.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Marché Bonsecours</p></div>
<h3>My province has some not-so-good-looking-but-actually-incredibly-tasty national dishes.</h3>
<div id="attachment_1947" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/cuisine-of-quebec/"><img class=" wp-image-1947" alt="This is my canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_1551.jpg" width="610" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Poutine, of course.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2360" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/15-reasons-to-love-canada/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2360 " alt="This is my canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_6147-610x587.jpg" width="610" height="587" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Timmy Time.</p></div>
<h3>My Montreal IS, without the shadow of a doubt, the coolest place in the world.</h3>
<div id="attachment_1652" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/street-art-in-montreal/"><img class="size-full wp-image-1652 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/6-IMG_9328.CR2_.jpg" width="610" height="382" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Montreal street art</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2199" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/montreals-plateau-mont-royal-best-places-approved-by-locals/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2199 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/13-IMG_6216-610x607.jpg" width="610" height="607" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">What better way to enjoy a snowstorm than to spend an hour sipping on a delicious vanilla latte in a hip Montreal café?</p></div>
<h3>My Canada is tolerant, open-minded, welcoming and loving towards minorities.</h3>
<div id="attachment_2137" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/postcards-from-gay-village-montreal/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2137 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/2-IMG_1546-610x467.jpg" width="610" height="467" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Gay village in Montreal</p></div>
<h3>My Canada has awesome scenery, outdoor activities and wildlife.</h3>
<div id="attachment_1352" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/photos-of-niagara-falls/"><img class="size-full wp-image-1352 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/4842272249_e8323c1185_z.jpg" width="640" height="426" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Niagara Falls © Anne Gauthier</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2083" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/1-things-to-do-in-the-province-of-quebec/"><img class="size-large wp-image-2083 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/4252586241_cdac5587ef_z-610x381.jpg" width="610" height="381" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Omega Park © Denis-Carl Robidoux</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1607" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 620px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/being-a-good-canadian-snowshoeing-in-quebec/"><img class="size-full wp-image-1607 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/2-IMG_0291.jpg" width="610" height="458" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Snowshoeing</p></div>
<h3>My Canada has some of the most beautiful villages in North America, and unique architecture.</h3>
<div id="attachment_1560" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 468px"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/an-afternoon-in-the-laurentides/"><img class="size-full wp-image-1560 " alt="This Is My Canada" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/1-IMG_1757.jpg" width="458" height="610" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The church in Saint-Sauveur</p></div>
<p>***</p>
<p>Every time I travel, I try to remember how lucky I am to be Canadian. For there are few countries in the world that can boast to be as kind and friendly as we are, and that can compete with our completely awesome landscapes and traditions.</p>
<p><strong>This is my Canada. And I love it.</strong></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/this-is-my-canada/">This Is My Canada</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>A Trip in Paradise</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/caribbean-cruises/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/caribbean-cruises/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Feb 2013 21:38:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Caribbean]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2389</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Visiting the Caribbean is high up on a lot of bucket lists, and with good reason – the beautiful islands of the Caribbean boast sunny beaches, incredible volcanoes, beautiful plant life and unique wildlife. A trip to the Caribbean probably conjures up an image of lying out in the sun for days on end, but there is<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/caribbean-cruises/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/caribbean-cruises/">A Trip in Paradise</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Beach-Desktop-Wallpapers-3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2393" title="Caribbean cruises" alt="Caribbean cruises" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Beach-Desktop-Wallpapers-3-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Visiting the Caribbean is high up on a lot of bucket lists, and with good reason – the beautiful islands of the Caribbean boast sunny beaches, incredible volcanoes, beautiful plant life and unique wildlife.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A trip to the Caribbean probably conjures up an image of lying out in the sun for days on end, but there is also plenty there for active types who would like to take in all the sites and culture that the islands have to offer. Sounds pretty good, right?</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Caribbean Cruises - The Barbados</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The area is made up of dozens of islands that all have their own distinct personalities. If you’re dreaming of that classic Caribbean experience with clear blue water, white sand beaches and a drink in your hand, then Barbados may be the perfect stop for you. It’s the birthplace of rum &#8211; hello cocktail bar &#8211; and <a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.foodwinerum.com%2F&amp;sa=D&amp;sntz=1&amp;usg=AFQjCNEX1zmOwtZnTrvnmD0LEQ2l3SZrgQ">takes serious pride</a> in this particular aspect of its history.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Not that I mind. At all.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Ksamil-beach-Albania-001.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2395" title="Caribbean cruises" alt="Caribbean cruises" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Ksamil-beach-Albania-001-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barbados was part of the British Empire for over 300 years and has a cultural history influenced by the many different nations and people that have at times settled in the area. And also, pirates!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Aside from this point of historical and whimsical interest, one of the most exciting attractions on the island is the chance to see hawksbill and leatherback turtles in their natural environment; it’s a sight that visitors will treasure forever afterwards.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Caribbean Cruises - Antigua</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The nearby island of Antigua also has its own unique character; known for its sailing, snorkelling and a beautiful coral reef &#8211; and also  learning about the island’s history producing sugar cane, and its emancipation from slavery in the 19th Century and how it has recovered its own identity since. This sounds like the ideal mix of culture, history and fun, if you ask me.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.pocruises.com/cruise-deals/">Last minute deals</a> on Caribbean cruises could see you stopping off at both Barbados and Antigua, with the chance to enjoy the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea from the comfort of your ship and take trips ashore to enjoy the local culture, food and beaches.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/zebulun_beach_sunset_ron_almog_desktop_hd_wallpaper-normal.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2396" title="Caribbean cruises" alt="Caribbean cruises" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/zebulun_beach_sunset_ron_almog_desktop_hd_wallpaper-normal-610x457.jpg" width="610" height="457" /></a></p>
<h2>Caribbean Cruises - Grenada &amp; St Lucia</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Other popular Caribbean locations include Grenada and St Lucia.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Grenada is known as the Spice Island, and like most of the islands in this area it has a rich and mixed history that makes it a place of genuine interest, with museums and old military paraphernalia standing as memorials to the island’s often troubled past. Exciting wildlife that you might spot on your trip include snakes such as tree boas, rainforest frogs, geckos, mongooses and monkeys.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">On the other hand, St Lucia offers a diverse range of physical activities – beyond the obvious option of lounging on the beach you can hike in the dense rainforest, climb the impressive volcanoes and mountains, spot birds of paradise and enjoy the amazing plant life that stretches across the island. As you might imagine the scuba diving and snorkelling is incredible, and never fails to impress.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2397" title="Caribbean cruises" alt="Caribbean cruises" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Beach-Starfish-610x457.png" width="610" height="457" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">There are dozens more islands to visit in Caribbean &#8211; and it goes without saying that it would take quite a while to see and do everything. One thing is for sure: if you’re looking for a sun soaked trip to paradise with plenty of culture, activities and a welcoming environment thrown in, then the Caribbean is the place to go.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">All aboard!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>This post was brought to you by PO Cruises.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/caribbean-cruises/">A Trip in Paradise</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Quotes</title>
		<link>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-16-most-inspiring-travel-quotes/</link>
		<comments>http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-16-most-inspiring-travel-quotes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marie-Eve Vallieres</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[inspiration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quotes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/?p=2324</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>A lot of people choose to not travel. Some for financial reasons. Other for personal reasons. In all cases, they&#8217;re wrong. Because there isn&#8217;t anything in this world that will teach you and push you out of your comfort zone like travel does &#8211; even if you don&#8217;t go very far. Because everything you need<a class="rmore" href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-16-most-inspiring-travel-quotes/">&#160;&#160; Read More ...</a></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-16-most-inspiring-travel-quotes/">The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Quotes</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_0760.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2342" alt="inspiring travel quotes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_0760.CR2_-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A lot of people choose to not <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/where-ive-been/">travel</a>. Some for financial reasons. Other for personal reasons.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In all cases, they&#8217;re wrong.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Because there isn&#8217;t anything in this world that will teach you and push you out of your comfort zone like travel does &#8211; even if you don&#8217;t go very far. Because everything you need to know in life is out there, and not in the relaxing abode of your own home. If you are one of these people that are intrigued about travel but never dared to actually book a plane ticket&#8230; read on. AND GO!</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Quotes of All Times</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_8561.CR2_.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2346" alt="inspiring travel quotes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_8561.CR2_-610x393.jpg" width="610" height="393" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move</em>.”<br />
– Robert Louis Stevenson</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Travel, in the younger sort, is a part of education; in the elder, a part of experience</em>.”<br />
– Francis Bacon</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page</em>.”<br />
– Saint Augustine</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to</em>.”<br />
– JRR Tolkien</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes</em>.”<br />
– Marcel Proust</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2343" alt="inspiring travel quotes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_9218.CR2_-610x366.jpg" width="610" height="366" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Experience, travel – these are as education in themselves</em>.”<br />
– Euripides</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference</em>.”<br />
– Robert Frost</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for grante</em>d.”<br />
– Bill Bryson</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover</em>.”<br />
– Mark Twain</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2344" alt="inspiring travel quotes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-Paris-552-610x406.jpg" width="610" height="406" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Once you have traveled, the voyage never ends… The mind can never break off from the journey</em>.”<br />
– Pat Conroy</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>To travel is to live</em>.&#8221;<br />
- Hans Christian Andersen</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>Make voyages. Attempt them. There&#8217;s nothing else</em>.&#8221;<br />
- Tennessee Williams</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality. and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are</em>.&#8221;<br />
- Samuel Johnson</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>Paris is always a good idea</em>.&#8221;<br />
- Audrey Hepburn.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_1488.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2345" alt="inspiring travel quotes" src="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/1-IMG_1488-610x383.jpg" width="610" height="383" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“<em>No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home and rests his head on his old, familiar pillo</em>w.”<br />
– Lin Yutang</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;<em>A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step</em>.&#8221;<br />
- Lao Tzu</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><em>What are your favorite and most inspiring travel quotes? Do you often find yourself quoting some of them?</em></h3>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com/the-16-most-inspiring-travel-quotes/">The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Quotes</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.amontrealerabroad.com">A Montrealer Abroad</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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