What is your business called and what does it do?

Avalon Lavender Farm – we’re a lavender farm outside of Toronto.

What made you want to do this work?

We have this beautiful piece of land and wanted to share the serenity with our friends and neighbours.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

Even with our popularity, we’re always looking for ways to ensure our guests get a serene, relaxing experience. That means spacing out groups in time and space, adding more picnic spots, building a gazebo, and more.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

We get people from all over coming to see us, but our largest demographic is women between 25 and 55.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

We see ourselves as being in the experience business, with some amazing products for sale as well. Our biggest revenue generators are from people visiting the farm.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

We’re located just outside of Orangeville, an hour’s drive from the city.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

We often get asked about what sets our farm apart. We think our river walk, rescue horses, hens, bunnies, high-tea experience (with exceptional food from PIANO PIANO), yoga (with instructors from GoYoga), cut-your-own lavender, picnic spots and our unrushed and pet-friendly approach all help make Avalon a special place. We want our guests to have lots to see and do, not just a beautiful field: a fully serene and restful experience. But the real secret sauce is our staff, who always go above and beyond for visitors.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

Our guests are really incredible, and their enthusiasm for our farm always lifts us up. We often get told we have “the most beautiful farm” they’ve ever seen. As for the worst part? As staff, we are sometimes so busy making our guests feel serene that we don’t get to enjoy the tranquillity ourselves.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

We have the best-smelling farm work out there.

Where can we follow you?

@avalonlavender on Instagram.

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

The Mono Cliffs Inn and Pia’s on Broadway are both amazing local spots that our guests often visit for a meal when they are done with the farm.

The post Homegrown Business: Alexis Levine of Avalon Lavender Farm appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Getting to Halifax from downtown Toronto is easy with Porter Airlines. Billy Bishop City Airport has a comfortable lounge with plenty of workstations for ‘quiet vacationing’ while waiting for your departure. If you’re on a daytime Porter flight landing over Halifax, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of lush green terrain, forests, rivers, and lakes. 

Once you arrive, there’s so much to see and do, and you can explore it all at your own pace. Stroll along the Halifax Harbour, which has one of the most dynamic and longest urban boardwalks at 4 km. Take the ferry over to Dartmouth at sunset, or embark on a quest for the best ice cream in Halifax. The city’s event calendar is full of entertaining activities for all ages and budgets.

During your Nova Scotia stay, you might experience periods of intense summer heat — Halifax can be as humid as Toronto. Stay cool on extra hot days by keeping your plans simple. Let Atlantic coast breezes refresh you during a leisurely luncheon or late afternoon cocktails on the waterfront. Take in the stunning panoramic view of the harbour as pleasure cruisers, kayaks, skidoos, sailboats, and ferries pass by for your enjoyment.

But before you hit any of the patios, markets, tours, or events covered below, remember this one small Halifax tip: When Haligonians ask you where you come from, say that you “come from away.”

Savoring Summer in Halifax: Destination Patios, Rooftops & Restaurants 

I’m excited to share new food and drink recommendations that didn’t fit my Halifax winter guide. In the summer, the Halifax waterfront naturally becomes the most desirable destination. With easy access to the harbour and the lively boardwalk, waterside eating and drinking is a delightful experience.

Cable Wharf, Halifax Harbour 

This waterfront seafood kitchen gets top marks for the best Halifax patio dining experience. From the amazing harbour view and comfortable seating to the excellent service and unpretentious atmosphere, Cable Wharf is giving laid-back California vibes.  

Patio lunch highly recommended on the wharf! I couldn’t get enough of the sourdough bread from local bakery 24 Carrots, tiger shrimp, PEI blue shell mussels, and extra crispy fries. For dessert, skip the obvious choices like ice cream and cheesecake and go for the refreshing mango granita. On a hot, humid day, it’s the perfect treat. For a memorable Halifax summer setting, book lunch on this fabulous harbour-facing patio, and give yourself a few hours to indulge as the world sails by.

Halifax Bar Moxy Patio

The Moxy is a new addition to Halifax’s hotel scene and has quickly become a hit with travellers and locals alike, thanks to its fun atmosphere and convenient location in between downtown Halifax and the trendy North End. Pop by Bar Moxy to lounge on the stylish covered patio and try the new summer menu. Food highlights include the fluffy and fresh lobster roll, apple croissant grilled cheese, and seasonal fruit crepe with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. The patio is open from early morning until 11 pm, so you can order an iced macchiato or summer sangria pitcher at any time and relax in comfort.  

Best time for a Moxy experience? Anytime is a good time, but the Moxy Halifax is particularly ideal for relaxing with family or friends after exploring the Halifax Citadel. Located at the base of Citadel Hill, the Moxy has a patio and lounge area that’s perfect for both adults and kids to unwind and recharge after a day of sightseeing.

Daryâ, Halifax Harbour

From the moment you arrive at Daryâ, its elegant Eastern Mediterranean allure is obvious. Perfectly placed off the Halifax boardwalk, this wharf restaurant offers a sophisticated retreat from the hot pavement of downtown. It’s a lovely place for a rest after sightseeing, where you can chill with icy cocktails and a yummy slice of pistachio olive oil cake. The tranquil and romantic atmosphere is rooted in Persian aesthetics, setting it apart from typical seafood spots.  

Go for the atmosphere and incredible view. While Daryâ’s décor and view is beautiful, the restaurant seems to be undergoing some changes currently. For now, it’s best enjoyed for refreshing drinks and shareable snacks on the patio rather than a full three-course meal. Regrettably, the food didn’t quite measure up compared to other restaurants I visited.

LevelBar Rooftop Restaurant, Downtown 

The Prince George Hotel in downtown Halifax has a spacious rooftop patio that opens in the afternoon and stays open late. Be sure to catch the fantastic happy hour from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, so you can enjoy deals like sangria and mussels for just $8 each. This bar is a local favourite, with Haligonians often outnumbering tourists.

What makes LevelBar worth visiting? A great location near Scotiabank Centre, Light House Arts Centre, and the Halifax Convention Centre makes it an excellent pitstop for sporting events and concerts. The rooftop patio offers a good breeze, a wide view of the sky, comfy cushioned love seats, patio umbrellas, and gas-burning fire tables for late-night ambiance. The drinks menu features a variety of cocktails, including the refreshing Rangpur Sour. The friendly servers also have terrific tips on what to see and do in Halifax.

Sip Bar + Fare, Dartmouth 

Newly opened in January 2024, Sip Bar has a hidden rooftop patio that offers a private and intimate experience. The two-level establishment includes an open-fire kitchen and dining room on the main floor, while the upstairs area has a relaxing lounge and bar. Sip is a peaceful retreat from the more touristy side of downtown Halifax. 

Why this Dartmouth bar restaurant? Sip Bar + Fare stands out for its absolute dedication to quality and service. The cocktail menu is as intriguing as a pulp fiction novel, featuring summer-perfect creations like the Johnnie Coco and Out Of Office Reply. Sip Bar offers an impressive range of non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring everyone feels included. For food, their shareable plates and single servings are a hit, with top picks including charred carrots and scallop crudo. Dessert lovers shouldn’t miss the olive oil cake with fresh summer fruit flavours. Whether you’re after a late-night snack or a sweet indulgence, Sip Bar + Fare delivers a memorable al fresco experience in Dartmouth.

Halifax Rain Day: Top-Rated Indoor Dining Options

Halifax does have heat waves, but being a coastal city, you’re bound to encounter some rainy and foggy days too. When it’s not patio weather, head indoors to indulge your appetite. 

Pazzo Ristorante & Enoteca, Downtown

Since opening in February 2024, Pazzo has quickly earned the reputation as one of Halifax’s best Italian restaurants. Among all the meals I enjoyed in Halifax this summer, Pazzo Ristorante stood out with what can only be described as a mouthwatering feast. The vibe at Pazzo is bodacious — exuberant, personable, and effortlessly cool. I recommend savoring every moment of this dining experience, as the meticulous attention to detail, from the sommelier’s wine and food pairings to the attentive service ensuring your comfort, will leave you praising Pazzo long after you leave Halifax. 

Experience the passion of Italy in the heart of Halifax! From the moment you’re served the fresh-baked focaccia, accompanied by a clever arrangement of green olive tapenade, white truffle lemon butter, and sundried tomato and bone marrow pesto — mirroring the colours of the Italian flag — you’re in for something special. The prosciutto, aged to perfection, offers a unique tasting experience with each bite. For a main course, the caramelle butternut squash-stuffed pasta, adorned with toasted hazelnut, fried sage, and lemon white wine butter, is heavenly. All of this barely left room for Pazzo’s tiramisu, which is irresistibly fluffy and creamy sweet.

Eliot & Vine, North End  

The North End of Halifax is home to a dynamic food and drink scene, and Eliot & Vine made a great first impression during my summer visit. This casual eatery offers not only lovely service and high-quality, fresh ingredients but also a daily happy hour with enticing specials. Enjoy $6 beer and wine, half-price grand margaritas, a buck-a-shuck oyster deal, along with à la carte and prix fixe options on the menu. 

Looking for that casual North End vibe? My dinner party enjoyed the European-inspired menu, which has something for every appetite. Whether you want something light or a bit more hearty, Eliot & Vine has it covered. Recommendations include the cacio e pepe, handmade egg yolk spaghetti with pepper and parmesan — simple and perfect; and the panko-breaded haddock with asparagus and tarragon remoulade, which is so savory. For dessert they do an excellent crème brûlée.

Lou Pécou Pizzeria, North End

This artisanal pizzeria was discovered thanks to a friend’s recommendation. I had chevre chaud salad with local greens, bacon, toasted almonds, semi-dried tomatoes, and the most divine French goat cheese from Alexis de Portneuf, accompanied by a side of chewy schiacciata flatbread. My dinner companion enjoyed their sandwich made of fresh baked focaccia, toasted mozzarella, house-made pork belly, semi-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and magnificent mayo.  

Pop into Lou’s for pizza and more! Although it’s primarily a pizzeria, my friend and I chose salad and sandwiches with no regrets. In a heartbeat, I’d come back for a pizza meal based on everything experienced. This is a quality restaurant, reflected in the great service and exceptional tastes and flavours.

Both of these North End restaurants are located along the edge of the Halifax Commons, a big outdoor park for biking and roller skating in the summer, and ice skating in the winter. As recommended in my off-season Halifax travel guide, it’s always a smart idea to make reservations and check opening hours, as many places in Halifax are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and sometimes Tuesdays. 

What’s New In The Halifax Bar Scene? 

HFX has a lot of bars and lots of thirsty visitors in the summer! Here’s the tea on new bars in Halifax. 

Bar Sofia, Queen’s Marque 

This Latin American bar and restaurant is giving ‘Rainbow Mountain’ realness with its vibrantly tiled patio and surreal pop art. Bar Sofia’s young, sexy vibe radiates inside and out, igniting an appetite for fun and celebration. The energetic atmosphere and abundance of outdoor seating makes it the perfect waterfront cocktail bar for patio parties with live DJs, melos and tacos, pisco sours, slushie cocktails + more. Bonus: Every other Tuesday night, Bar Sofia hosts epic cocktail mix-off competitions. For $25 per heat, enjoy two unique cocktails crafted by local Halifax bartenders and mixologists, then cast your vote to decide who is the mixology master! Follow @barsofia.hfx for Fait Avec Booze cocktail competition blasts. 

On my winter visit to Halifax, I heard rumours about a new LGBTQ2S+ bar opening, and word is that there is not just one, but two new rainbow spaces open in Halifax. I can confirm that Rumours Cabaret is now open, as I popped by for happy hour in July. Rumours opened just in time for Halifax Pride 2024 and describes itself as a rainbow oasis where love knows no bounds and the spotlight shines all night. Located near the waterfront, Rumours Cabaret is a welcome addition to the queer Halifax bar scene, which has been experiencing a long dry spell. I did hear that the other 2SLGBTQ+ bar ‘Stardust’ is planning to open end of summer, but not able to confirm at time of publishing. 

Another recent addition to Halifax’s bar scene is Magnolia, a spot mentioned while chatting with the barkeep at Compass Distillers. Word is that this is where industry folk go to drink and hang out downtown. Magnolia doesn’t take reservations, so if you’re set on having a drink and bar snack there, go early. The space is intimate, making it perfect for smaller groups. Was told that the Magnolia Cuban sandwich, with roasted spiced pork, sliced ham, yellow mustard, Swiss cheese, and pickles, is a winner.

After late-night bar-hopping in Halifax, the best way to bounce back is with a rejuvenating brunch, and you can’t do better than Almonak!

Best Brunch: Almonak, North End 

If you’re recovering from a Halifax rager, Almonak’s flight of three mimosas will give you the will to live again. Made with fresh-pressed juice and Planter’s Ridge Elevation Frizzante, the most surprising mimosa is the lemon charcoal — apparently the best hangover cure of the trio. Almonak is the perfect family-run neighbourhood brunch spot, cooking with local ingredients and baking from scratch. It even has an adorable café at the entrance for a caffeine fix on the go, plus a cute little corner patio.

Want to experience the best brunch in Halifax? For a savory start to your day, try the classic benny with bacon, served with tasty potatoes and fresh greens — the hollandaise is bang-on, the house-made biscuit is light, and eggs perfectly poached. With six benny options, there’s something for everyone. Another savory favourite is the big breakfast sandwich with avocado. If you’re craving sweetness, the banana bread French toast with raspberry jam is irresistable, though the newly added waffles with lemon curd also tempt. Almonak’s generous food portions make sharing a great way to sample as many of their delicious brunch options as possible.

Summer Treats! Where to Get Best Ice Cream in Halifax

To find Halifax’s most popular ice cream shops, I asked locals: Dee Dee’s Ice Cream and Dairy Bar came up frequently. I also included some other noteworthy spots for sweet treats below.

Dee Dee’s is a beloved North End local business to stop by after shopping along Agricola Street. And over at the Stillwell beer garden, Dairy Bar is a summer take-out window for soft serve ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, popsicles, freezies, and cold brew nitro coffee. 

Just down the street from Dairy Bar, off Spring Garden Road, you’ll find Leonidas Coco Dip & Chocolates, known for its quality Belgian chocolate. Treat yourself to a chocolate-dipped soft serve with various flavours, or indulge in milkshakes, crepes, or chocolate fondue.

For a whimsical waterfront treat, check out the newly opened Fog Company, near the Peace By Chocolate boutique. The soft serve ice cream creations, enveloped in a cloud of cotton candy, are definitely instaworthy but can be a bit unwieldy. While the cotton candy ice cream cones are a fun novelty, Fog’s classic ice cream flavours, especially the mint chocolate, are superb. Plus, their fresh-baked doughnuts are extra special.

While ice cream cones don’t make the best souvenirs, chocolate bars certainly do! Peace By Chocolate offers a remarkable selection of chocolate treats that caters to various tastes and personal interests. Plus, a small percentage of each sale is donated to help local, national, and international causes. For instance, the Hero Bar benefits the Nursing Homes of Nova Scotia Association, while the Trans Canada Trail Bar contributes to Canadian trail maintenance. Peace By Chocolate’s souvenir bars are not only delicious but also a thoughtful holiday gift that gives back.

Halifax Farmers’ Markets: Brewery vs. Seaport  

Which is the best Halifax farmers’ market? I explored both the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market and the Halifax Brewery Market to see what they each have to offer. The result? Both are awesome! If you’re obsessed with markets, baked goods, local produce, makers and crafters, then you’ll love Halifax market days! 

The Halifax Brewery Market, located on Lower Water Street, opens every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm year-round. A local favourite, it offers a boutique ‘hipster’ market experience, with a strong focus on food. It’s best to arrive early, as by 10:30 am the market starts to get crowded and many popular food vendors might be sold out by this time. 

What sets Brewery Market apart? They offer free market tours like: Your First Time at a Farmers’ Market, How to Shop on a Budget, and Zero-Waste Shopping Tour. Simply email the market through their website to register. How cool is that! The cooperative also has something called Market Money, for those folks who forget to bring cash; just head to the Brewery Market information booth to get some. 

Other highlights include its location in Brewery Square, a historic Halifax building over 200 years old, and the fact it’s a member-run cooperative and vendors must register. Food lovers will be thrilled by the variety of curated offerings — from kimchi and kombucha to fresh fish, oysters, and pasture-raised chicken, pork, turkey, and eggs. Get your morning coffee from CTC Coffee, whose vendor actually sails to Colombia to bring back coffee beans! Absolutely love this market — the vendors are all so interesting and have amazing stories to share, another reason to go early before it gets too busy to stop and chat. 

The Seaport Farmers’ Market is open year-round on Saturdays and Sundays until 2 pm, located along the waterfront at Pavilion 23 — you can’t miss the big sign! Just like the Brewery Farmers’ Market, there are food vendors, but not as many it seems. There may be more of an emphasis here on crafts and souvenir items like jewellery, fridge magnets, candles, soaps, and t-shirts, which is fine because a lot of it in this pavilion is made by hand. You can still find fruit, veggies, and baked goods, but perhaps not as much variety as at the Brewery Market. Maybe save this market for a Sunday, and make sure you go to Brewery on that all-important Saturday morning market day! 

Both markets are good rain or shine, offering convenient opportunities for eating, souvenir shopping, and the most rewarding experience of all, storytelling with local vendors.

Halifax’s Summer Music Scene Slaps!  

From country and Celtic, to EDM and hip-hop, Halifax has an international reputation for banging music events. The scene explodes in the summer with an abundance of live shows, concerts, and music festivals. For those who like it loud, the rave and punk music scene is alive and kicking in Halifax. Here’s a look at everything I saw in just a few weeks. 

2037 Gottingen Street is a legendary Halifax music venue that houses the Seahorse Tavern, The Local, and the Marquee Ballroom all under one big roof. Here, you can find everything from East Coast fiddle music to hardcore. While researching this summer guide, I was amazed to discover that DOA, Upon A Burning Body, and the Circle Jerks all had Halifax gigs at 2037 Gottingen. The venue also hosts drag shows and, of course, brat dance parties! Special shout-out to local hardcore band Big Ricky’s Illegal Fireworks — you guys are awesome, best of luck.

Find out about punk events on the Facebook group, Halifax Punk Shows. If you’re in Halifax in July, look for Havoc Fest at the Commons Skatepark, and a new event, Havoc at the Hub. Combined, both events showcase as many as 20 live bands over a weekend of all-ages, free shows. The Hub, a new indoor skate park out in Burnside, Dartmouth, is open to skaters of all levels year-round and plans to host more all-ages live music shows alongside jam nights and skateboarding lessons.

When it comes to underground trance, trap, house, and techno in Halifax, Rhythm & Color was mentioned in the winter travel guide, but upon my return this summer, it seems there are more raves and dance music festivals than I can keep track of. One of the most anticipated rave events of the summer, and loved by locals, is Exploria’s annual July rave.

Vibrancy Festival is another Halifax electronic experience that is getting bigger each summer. This annual two-day party spans four locations, including the Citadel grounds for the first time. The best part of Vibrancy Festival for me was dancing on the grass in Ferry Terminal Park over in Dartmouth as the sun set to the beats of UK DJ Conducta, then taking the ferry back to downtown Halifax and being surprised by a DJ spinning tunes below deck. People were dancing on the ferry, making the trip incredibly memorable. I’m grateful I got to experience Vibrancy 2024!

Other notable electronic music fixers in Halifax are LightHouse, L’esprit, Big Speaker Freakout, Nocturnal HFX, QUOI, and Critical Mass. I did my best to confirm names, and probably this list is longer, if any are missing or kaput say so in the comments. Festival shopping tip: If you’re in Halifax for a music fest, be sure to visit Thief & Bandit downtown for psychedelic and funky non-binary lewks. Their sustainably made, hand-printed, and in-house sewn clothing will make your festival fit stand out.

The TD Halifax Jazz Festival is a great reason to plan a getaway to Halifax for a week of live music at the largest summer festival in Atlantic Canada. If you think this festival is all about jazz, you’ll be happy to hear that over time it has branched out to include a diverse range of musical styles. For this summer’s 38th edition, Killer Mike was the main stage opener! Every year, the lineup of the Halifax Jazz Festival sounds different as the event continues to innovate and expand its musical reach. This week-long event also offers several free concerts at community stages like Ferry Terminal Park, Halifax Central Library, and Hydrostone Park. The main stage is right on the waterfront, outside under the stars — the best place to party on a hot summer night in Halifax. 

Special mention: I have to give a shout-out to the annual EVERYSEEKER experimental music and art festival. I didn’t make it to Halifax in time, but this event looks exceptional, especially when it comes to raw new talent that pushes the boundaries of music industry norms with weird and subversive sonic landscapes and beats. If you dig experimental, ambient music, death metal, electronic music, jazz, hip-hop, or underground sub-genres like scifi-turntablism, then take a look at @everyseeker on IG. 

Halifax Summer Events: Talent & Diversity In Abundance!

Halifax’s event calendar is packed with an abundance of choice and talent from across Canada and all over the world. With a diverse range of summer events — many of which are free and more budget-friendly compared to Toronto — there’s something to please everyone. Here’s several popular annual summer events worth checking out when you visit Halifax in the summer.

• Halifax Pride
• Dartmouth Festival Series 
• Africville Summer Reunion
• BuskerFest 
• Farmers’ Market Week
• Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
• Rock the Harbour Classic Rock Festival
• Annual Halifax Seaport Beerfest & Fizzfest
• Halifax Improv Fest 
• Halifax Mural Festival 
• Halifax Fashion Week 
• New for 2024! SHINDIG Music Festival

Hey, this isn’t an exhaustive list. See the tips below to discover even more summer events in Halifax.

The Discover Halifax tourism office is an excellent resource for details about festivals, concerts, theatre, comedy, night markets, and all of the city’s wonderful seasonal events and must-see destinations. Be sure to visit discoverhalifaxns.com before you arrive in Halifax and browse their event calendar. 

For additional announcements on music events, street festivals, drag shows, vintage markets, art openings, and more local happenings, check out Halifax Events on Facebook and thecoast.ca.

Wild West Comes East

If you missed the Calgary Stampede and still want to flex your Cowboy Carter fits, then get your butt to Halifax for the first Nova Scotia Stampede from September 26 to 29, 2024. There’s gonna be rodeo events like barrel racing, bull riding, saddle bronc, and bareback riding, along with live country music shows over four days. Get ready to unleash your wild side, East Coast style!

Discover Halifax City Parks This Summer 

Halifax Public Gardens 

This is by far one of the most mentioned parks in Halifax. Accessible from several directions, the main entrance is marked by a huge ornate iron gate built in Scotland in 1890. Adored by locals and tourists, the Public Gardens is the finest surviving example of a Victorian garden in North America. It features beautiful huge trees, mini bridges, an ornamental fountain, Roman goddess statues, plus a duck pond with model ship replicas, including the Queen Mary I and a 3D-printed RMS Titanic. Travel tip: The park hosts a free summer concert series from June to mid-September. 

Other city parks include Point Pleasant Park with almost 40 km of winding trails; Dartmouth Common, which has over 30 cherry trees — visit in mid-May for Instagram-worthy cherry blossom season photos; and Sir Sandford Fleming Park, a little further away but has scenic harbour views, a paved seawall walkway, and a forested trail.

Best Things To Do On Rainy Day In Halifax

For those inevitable summer days when coastal rain and fog blanket the city, here are fun and relaxing Halifax rain-day activities.

Mix fun with a few pints of Nova Scotia craft beer at Propeller Arcade on Gottingen Street. On rainy Tuesday and Sunday evenings from 6 pm, enjoy unlimited FREE PLAY pinball and video games for just $10! Propeller’s arcade has a wicked number of games, from Mortal Kombat, Star Wars, Judge Dredd to Baby Pacman, Simpsons, and Stranger Things. With a ton of games and 12 taps of Propeller beer, you’ll be entertained and happy for hours. The venue also hosts karaoke, retro movie nights, live music, and has a beer garden for non-rainy days. For the latest events, check out @propellerarcade on IG.

Let Halifax entertain you! Also on Gottingen Street is the Bus Stop Theatre Co-op, a multi-use black-box space that hosts over 100 different groups and shows annually. Bus Stop showcases a diverse range of East Coast talent, including drag and burlesque shows, improv and stand-up comedy nights, live music, dance, acting classes, short film nights, gatherings, and more. This creative and cultural cooperative is a launchpad for emerging talent and an incubator space for artists of all genres. Shows that have been workshopped, premiered, or performed at the Bus Stop Theatre have gone on to tour nationally and internationally. While there, I was fortunate to see the show, LADDER 梯子 — a mask art performance infused with traditional Japanese Butoh dance theatre. What a remarkable and rare dance form to see performed outside of Japan. I recommend looking at Bus Stop’s event calendar on their website to see what interests you. 

The newly reopened Art Gallery of Nova Scotia offers an ideal rainy day retreat in downtown Halifax. You can’t come to Nova Scotia without seeing the actual little house that Canadian folk artist and national treasure Maud Lewis lived in. Besides the must-see Maud Lewis Gallery, there are other exhibitions, including the yearly Nova Scotia Art Bank Purchases Exhibition, which features diverse artworks by Nova Scotian artists in painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture, beading, and even rug hooking for instance. The gallery is super accommodating, as once you enter, you can leave and come back throughout the day. Travel tip: Admission on Thursdays throughout the summer is free all day.

A final damp day suggestion is having a spa day at Nature Folk Wellness Collective in Dartmouth. The Toronto Guardian Off-Season Halifax Getaway Guide previously covered several rejuvenating spa experiences for winter trips, including Nature Folk’s holistic Nordic thermal circuit. This time, I had the opportunity to try the one-hour Sunlighten full-spectrum infrared sauna and a therapeutic Head in the Clouds facial. Loved the private infrared sauna treatment room that included a shower stall, as well as the built-in tablet and speakers to listen to a Spotify playlist or favourite podcast while in the sauna box. The cloud facial focused on fascia tissue and lymphatic circulation using a gua sha stone and manual massage. Nature Folk now offers acupuncture and fire cupping, plus the spa has an inclusive locker room. It’s easy to make appointments online, and a Nature Folk spa day is a fabulous reason to ferry over to Dartmouth for the day. 

Halifax weather is highly changeable in the summer, so be sure to dress in layers, pack a hat, and bring an umbrella on your walks around the city.

Memorable Halifax Tours! 

Halifax has plenty to do year-round, but if you need a break from self-guided exploration, book a tour and let someone else guide you for an afternoon. Here are two tours worth trying in Halifax.

Compass Distillers

If you’re obsessed with the art of distilling, a guided tour of Compass Distillers offers a fascinating grain-to-glass experience. This award-winning Halifax distillery features a Vendome hybrid still, the best in North America. The tour takes you through the entire production process, from fermentation to distillation. After the tour, relax at the on-site bar with a flight of four Compass Distillers spirits. Your Compass bartender will give you notes on each alcohol you taste, as well as how they individually can create the ultimate summer cocktail. 

Book a distillery tour or cocktail class on the Compass Distillers website. Once you’re finished at Compass, you’ll be in Halifax’s North End with plenty of dining and more drinking options in the neighbourhood. I’m a huge fan of the North End, it’s less touristy and feels like Toronto’s West End in a lot of good ways.  

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

The Halifax Citadel star-shaped fort and grounds are open year-round, but summer is the best time to visit, especially on Canada Day for the traditional 21-gun salute. If you can’t be in Halifax on July 1st, don’t worry — the 3rd Brigade of the Royal Artillery fires a cannon daily at 12 pm. If you’re walking around downtown Halifax at noon, you’ll hear the loud boom! I recommend booking a guided tour for an immersive experience. Here’s a few options: Citadel Ghost Tour, Soldier for a Day, or Ready, Aim, Fire! I signed up for the chance to fire an authentic Snider-Enfield rifle and wear the coat of a Highlander soldier. It was a blast! 

To be honest, I was skeptical about having fun at this historic site, but I had a great time and ended up staying over two hours. A day at the Citadel offers old-fashioned wholesome fun, with young men in kilts teaching you about cannon fire and how to hold a rifle correctly, and rooms filled with fascinating war memorabilia watched over by guards debating the merits of Tim Hortons coffee. I loved every moment on that hill.  

Fly To Halifax

Porter Airlines’ flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on the Toronto Islands make a travel day much easier if you live downtown or can easily take a GO Train to Union Station. A free shuttle bus runs every 15 minutes from outside the Fairmont Royal York Hotel (opposite Union Station) to and from Billy Bishop Airport. Without traffic, the shuttle takes about 10 minutes to reach its destination. Traffic tip: If there’s heavy traffic, such as on a Saturday night in downtown Toronto, and you don’t have much luggage, take the Harbourfront streetcar. This will be much faster than the shuttle if it’s rush hour, and it connects with the Toronto subway and GO Train services.

Porter Airlines has the best complimentary in-flight snacks: Hardbite Kettle Cooked Chips from BC, Three Farmers Roasted Fava Beans from Saskatchewan, naturSource almonds from Quebec, and scrumptious Cookie It Up Milk Chocolate Shortbread from Ontario. Plus, a selection of Canadian wine and beer that are served in a glass, not a plastic cup. Love that! 

Before you jet out of Halifax Stanfield International Airport, make sure to visit Liquid Assets in the departure area. This retailer offers a variety of exclusive Nova Scotia spirits, beer, cider, and wine that you may not find anywhere else. If there’s an LCBO strike happening in Toronto, it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on spirits before heading back to The 6ix! 

Travel tip: Halifax airport has a therapy dog service to provide comfort to travellers before or after flights. 

Where To Stay In Halifax 

Halifax has lots of hotels, you can read about the best of them in the Toronto Guardian Off-Season Halifax City Guide, available on our website under the Travel tab.

Halifax Puts Fresh Fun Back Into Summer Vacay 

I’m thrilled to have discovered Halifax’s year-round allure and to share my fresh take on one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities. It’s a wonderful destination for a summer trip and an ideal transit hub for further adventures, with Halifax airport offering nearly 25 international destinations and the harbour hosting over 200 cruise ships each summer.

Once you’ve had a Halifax summer, it will be hard to top. This East Coast city is one of the friendliest, safest, and most walkable places you’ll ever visit. Here’s to you being inspired to discover what’s so special about a Halifax summer.

The post Summer Travel To Halifax: A Fresh Take On This Hot City! appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Situated approximately 3 hours drive from both Toronto and Montreal, Kingston is a central and vibrant city with lots to offer. More than a pit stop, we found there was much more to do to make this destination a perfect multi-night stay getaway. Attractions are on, and off, the water and suitable for all ages. There are more than 40 museums, national historic sites, art galleries, archives, and one UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kingston is known to be a historic town as well as a university town. It was even once considered to be Canada’s capital back in 1841 until our reigning monarchy felt it was just a little too close for comfort to the US borders.  History does remain steeped in the city’s limestone walls and the ever popular Queen’s University has the core of the city flourishing with young and vibrant businesses catering to a wide range of tastes. But Kingston’s appeal for visitors near and far is a fine balance between small town charm and big city wants.

The city boasts two film festivals and a vibrant downtown shopping scene. Home to Ontario’s oldest public market and Canada’s hippest live music scene, Kingston is a walkable city with many hidden gems and alleyways. Love vintage and antique markets? No surprise there are many treasures to be found. With dozens of museums, historic sites, unique shopping finds, and dining experiences there is something old and new around every corner.

A Modern Stay with Historic Charm at The Smith Hotel:

I can remember the B&B that we stayed in years ago. It was the typical floral decor as one would expect back then. It felt more like Auntie May’s home and while there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, there are definitely more options that will appeal to a variety of vacationers today.

This time, for a fun girl’s getaway weekend it was THE SMITH HOTEL (221 Queen Street) in Kingston that became a welcoming sanctuary I couldn’t wait to return to after a few hours of exploring. This hotel left me in utter awe at the design and architecture of the space built within a historic 1864 limestone church. Read about its charming history here.

I am one who deeply considers the hotel as very much part of a vacation experience. The hotel is more than a place to rest and to clean up. It’s a retreat and escape from my everyday. Dubbed a “hotel alternative” The Smith Hotel is a more refined stay but without the fussiness of a full on hotel. There is no reception desk or anyone to greet you. Not necessary in my books in such a quaint town. All the interactions are done online. Codes and keys are provided with easy to follow instructions on where to pick up and drop off securely on site.

The Smith Hotel offers a blend of modern aesthetics while maintaining the charm of a historic town. The 19th century gothic architecture gives the hotel much character and truly sets the scene for any traveller to Kingston. The hotel itself became the next level of intrigue and curiosity for travellers like me. Even my friend, who’s more accustomed to vacation condo properties proclaimed this was the most beautiful and well thought out floor plan of any other stay she’s ever experienced, anywhere.

There are five different styles of units within The Smith Hotel each of which offer something unique. Our Two Bedroom Premium Terrace Loft with floor to ceiling glass walls was equipped with a kitchenette (with everything you need), living room space complete with an AudioTechnica turntable and a well-curated vinyl to enjoy during our stay.  The dining area could comfortably seat four people and a quaint outdoor terrace for peace and tranquillity. There was also a generous work/study desk space located on the second floor next to my chosen bedroom. The cosy couches and the luxurious beds beckon guests to linger a little bit longer.

What we also appreciated during this stay was the location, within safe walking distance to the city’s many discoveries, attractions, shops, restaurants and other points of interest. By the way, parking is included in your stay at The Smith Hotel.

The hotel is worth a look not just for casual travellers but also work retreats. Upon exploration we learned about The Sanctuary co-working space has meeting rooms and an event space within the property.

So, what can you do in Kingston within 48 hours or more? 

WHERE TO EAT:

On this trip, we learned that the city of Kingston claims the bragging rights to having the most number of restaurants per capita. This was a surprise for us coming from Toronto but indeed there were no shortage or variety of places to eat. There is a diverse mix of fine and casual dining, bars, pubs, microbrewies and cafes to explore — even ramen and bubble tea! You’ll also want to check out Ontario’s oldest continuously run Farmers Market in North America right here!

Kingston Food Tour: is a great guided tour to explore the highlights of Kingston’s food scene. Led by local foodies this walking tour offers the back stories of some of the city’s most beloved restaurants and food purveyors. On this tour we visited…

Olivea (39 Brock Street): a family-owned Italian trattoria that claims a prime location overlooking the busy Market Square. They are well loved for their fresh pasta, very impressive wine list,  charcuterie and antipasti both sourced locally and from Italy. The owners Stev George and Deanna Harrington are also known for taking a group of their staff each year to Italy so they can share experiences in the food and culture.

The Kingston Brewery Company (34 Clarence Street): known as the oldest brewpub in Ontario this is a craft beer lover’s paradise. With 28 taps of Ontario beer and cider and a hearty menu to boot, no one leaves here unsatisfied. The building itself which was once the town’s telegraph office dates back to the 1800s and you’ll want to spend time here looking at all the history in this time capsule as well as the patio space.

Dianne’s (195 Ontario Street): is a nod to the East Coast with hearty chowders and fish dishes. It also brings Mexican influence to its menu of surf and tacos. Here we also discovered an extensive Tequila list that is worth learning and exploring.

BlackDog Tavern (69 Brock Street): with over 20 years of history, this location features a casual and approachable menu in a cosy and relaxed dining room. A lot of classic dishes with modern touches but also many gluten-free options. In fact, their fryers, batters, and coatings are all gluten-free! A curated craft beer selection is also a draw.

The Frontenac Club’s “Bank Gastropub” (225 King Street East): a former bank, and men’s members only establishment, makes this a must-visit spot and not just for the rich history! You don’t need to be a member to dine here. While you can book a tour and explore the refurbished (now hotel) building, step into its original bank vaults and relax on the patio, the new menu here is delightfully local. From its hand-crafted cocktails to its vibrant dishes, there is some serious love for local and seasonal sourcing.

MIO Gelato (178 Ontario Street): this cherished and locally-owned shop has been a huge draw since 2010. The traditional and authentic Italian style gelato offers fresh artisanal treats in popular flavours like Stracciatella, coffee, and pistachio, as well as unique flavours including Thai Milk Tea. Lineups are frequent but worth it.

MORE EATERIES TO DISCOVER…

Northside Espresso + Cafe (281 Princess Street): upon arrival, we landed on this beautiful boho vibe cafe that served exceptional dishes and incredible hand crafted hot beverages. It takes menu changes often according to the seasons and what’s available fresh and locally. Even their coffee beans are from lovingly sourced fair trade roasters. Here we brunched with our eyes as well as filling our bellies with goodness.

Chez Piggy (68 Princess Street): if you ask anyone for a dining recommendation you will no doubt be directed to this landmark restaurant. Formerly an abandoned stable, this is a family-run and locally loved spot where everyone tries to get in at least one visit. The menu will definitely have something for everyone and we had fun chatting with the staff about this very interesting location.  Oh, if walls could talk (they actually just might!).

The Everly (171 Wellington Street): this modern and stylish space within a mid-century building offers exciting dishes and cocktails made with local and seasonal ingredients. No surprise that this spot is much raved about by Torontonians.

Miss Bāo + Cocktail Bar (286 Princess Street): felt more like a cool hotspot in Toronto that took us by surprise. They offer reasonable yet innovative cocktails and Asian tapas style dishes and small bites. They are also known for their zero-waste concept using sustainable practices including the use of every part of an ingredient – from pickling to broths including the use of peels and trims. Beer and wine are sourced from small producers locally.

Juniper Cafe (118-370 King St West): at the waterfront, we ducked into this cute and casual cafe on a rainy afternoon. Ideal for tasty artisanal soups, sandwiches and salads you can eat in or take away for a picnic on a sunny day, of course.  Save room for their baked goods as well.

THINGS TO DO IN KINGSTON:

S.S. Keewatin: this new attraction just opened this past May and is a jewel that sits in the harbour at the Great Lakes Museum. One of the world’s last remaining Edwardian-era passenger steamship liners has a permanent home here in Kingston. The historic luxury ship was famous for its passenger experiences that was built in 1907 the same era as the Titanic. Luckily, this ship had no disasters during its run. S.S. Keewatin retired in the 1960s. The ship has been meticulously restored and incorporates heirloom pieces and artefacts donated by families and collectors.  It may just be the closest we get to getting a feel for the Gilded Age. Oh, what it must have been like to travel on such a steamship! The guided tours explore the various classes of accommodations as well as offer insight into the life of those who worked on such a grand ship. There are two guided experiences — one of the passengers, and the other the engine room that takes visitors to the belly of the ship. This is a permanent attraction and one of the last remaining ships of the era and an extraordinary look at this travel life in the early 1900s. Suitable for all ages, however, there are steps and step-overs to manoeuvre around. Learn more here.

Bellevue House National Historic Site: if you had visited this landmark 1840s house that was also the home of Sir John A. Macdonald in the past, you’ll want to revisit it now. After an extensive restoration the popular site didn’t just get an aesthetic refresh, the reimagined Bellevue House has updated the National Historic Site to include many voices. No doubt the first Prime Minister of Canada had much influence on our country’s history. Today, this important attraction offers various perspectives and will inspire conversations about Canada’s complex story and history. A guided tour is highly recommended and there are several options depending on the audience and the time allocated. The house has been restored to offer visitors an immersive experience. We were inspired by the conversations about women and equality, the Indigenous voices as well as the Chinese head tax history. The stories shared here are also about personal as well as national identity. Also worth noting is the Indigenous artwork throughout. We learned there was, and is, consultation within both the Indigenous and Chinese communities in bringing these stories to the forefront. While acknowledging the past we can help move the country forward with more thought and understanding. Suitable for all ages — there’s a kid’s scavenger hunt and hands on activities to engage everyone.  Learn more here.

Kingston Haunted Walk: Can you even visit Kingston and not be moved by its history? Whether you believe, or not, there are plenty of ghost stories and sightings that have been well documented. While you can explore on your own, it’s more fun when you’re accompanied by a compelling storyteller all dressed the part and guiding you through the dark alleys and neighbourhoods by foot all over  town. Stories from gravediggers to public hangings and lost love encounters are just a few we learned on this thrilling outing. Book ahead as they are super popular!

Penitentiary Museum (admission is by donation): we were told that this is a must-stop since the “Kingston Pen” across the road from this museum holds many stories. Lucky for us, we had a private tour with a former prison warden who was full of incredible stories and open to all our questions of what it was like to work there. The Museum was full of uncomfortable artifacts from fascinating escape and defensive tools creatively made by inmates to torture and restraining items historically found across Canada in Federal prisons. What I found eye opening was how inmates found art and music. There are rooms within the museum dedicated to their talents. This museum is located within Cedarhedge, which once housed the wardens of the Kingston Penitentiary. It has been open to the public since 1964.

Kingston Trolley Tours: is a great way to see many attractions quickly. Because tickets are valid for 24 hours, it means you can re-do the entire tour with opportunities to revisit by “hopping on and off”. The guided open air trolley takes a route with many points of interest and always fun facts are shared by the driver/guide. We love seeing the city this way as it covers a lot in the most efficient way.

CULTURAL TOURS: (FREE STUFF)

Kingston is not just a foodie and university town! The history here is also culturally rich! You can take these self-guided “Creative Kingston Walking Tours” at your leisure and maybe discover something you might not have known before. Bring your walking shoes and your earphones.

Literary Walk: Kingston has inspired several Canadian authors. Explore bookstores and libraries along the route that are true hidden treasures. Interesting Fact: poet and novelist Jason Heroux believed in the power of public art – poetry installations, in particular. While he was poet laureate of Kingston from 2019 to 2022, he made it a priority to put poems in places where people could see and read them on their everyday travels.

Music Walk: The much loved Canadian band, The Tragically Hip, has roots in Kingston. Interesting Fact: In 1984, “The Hip” original members played their first gig at the Kingston Artists Association on Queen Street as well as the final concert with Gord Downie at Kingston’s Leon Centre. The city has become a mecca for fans of this beloved group.

Film Location Tour: learn about the city’s film history with three different walking tours. Learn about the vibrant film and television production scene. Also, discover notable filmmakers of Kingston. Interesting Fact: you’ll want to learn how Kingston was connected to the GhostBusters film.

Heritage Hour: these sessions are offered about every three months and feature guest speakers who discuss Kingston’s past and living heritage. There’s an upcoming one on June 27 (Kingston City Hall, Memorial Hall) that focuses on Indigenous Slavery in the Galley Fleet of Louis XIV: A Global Haudenosaunee History.

SHOPPING:

Vintage: There are many quaint shops owned by locals worth exploring. Some favourites of course are vintage shops for apparel, decor, and collectibles. In a town with such a long history, there are many treasures to be found! You’ll want to keep an eye out for vintage shopping block parties as well. My friend scored a gorgeous ASOS dress for $5 that fit her perfectly. Some favourite vintage shops include the Montreal Street Collective (39 Montreal Street) for amazing apparel, jewellery, and accessories. Thrifty Girl (95 Clarence) has hand-picked vintage luxe pieces of apparel and accessories.  A must-visit is the Antique Emporium (77 Princess Street) for its incredible selection of vintage and new decor pieces for the home.

Keep Refillery (206 Princess Street): if you’re familiar with this sustainable shop in Toronto, this is the third location for this popular lifestyle shop. Here you can bring your own containers and fill to help minimize waste, excess packaging and plastic use in our tiny planet. The line includes high quality personal products from soaps, shampoos, lotions, and deodorants, as well as products for the home like cleaning solutions, dishwashing liquids, and reusable products.

Sterling Fine Silvery Jewellery (77A Princess Street): if you love fun, fresh and affordable everyday jewellery, you’ll want to stop into this treasure trove. They have everything from dainty rings and bracelets to lovely effortless styles in pendants and necklaces.

HOW TO GET THERE:

Kingston can be reached by car via Highway 401, by train with VIA Rail and by air at Kingston Airport.

WANT MORE?

Kingston’s heritage, history and architecture remain a big draw to the city. You can also spot artwork, plaques, and installations throughout as you wander throughout the city and we encourage you to wander if you have time. But it’s also exciting to explore the vibrant downtown and the collection of authentic boutiques, galleries, and performance venues that are equally as exciting!

Visit their site to see what’s happening each month: visitkingston.ca

The post 48 Hours: Where to eat, stay, and explore in Kingston appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What do we love about this city? EVERYTHING! It’s easy for us to get to from Toronto for a stress-free weekend getaway with friends, family and even for solo travel. Don’t be shy about immersing yourself into the French-Canadian culture and practice your French language skills either! We definitely did our best and locals were happy we tried! Here’s what to see, do, and eat on our most recent Girls’ Weekend Getaway!

PLANNING AHEAD:

48 hours is hardly enough to cover an entire city. My friend and I started with a wishlist of what we wanted to see and do. Two “must-sees” each day and then filled out the time around those. We also made sure to give ourselves some wandering time – often some of the best discoveries just happen when you least expect it!

WHERE TO STAY:

When visiting this big city we knew there were many places to explore. The location of where we stayed had to be within walking distance to most of the places on our must-see list. Not only would it be more efficient and better for the environment, but it also helped to minimize our spending on taxis, ride-share apps, and transit. Montréal is a very walkable city even during the colder months of the year. Did you know that most of the downtown area is connected via the Underground City Path?

We stayed at Le Sheraton Montreal (1201 Boulevard Rene-Levesque West) in the heart of downtown. Old Montréal and the Old Port were a leisurely 25-minute walk. Musée des Beaux-Arts Montréal was a quick 10 minute walk away.  Rue Sainte-Catharines, the well-known shopping street, was also nearby. The main VIA train station is also just about a block away.

Le Sheraton Montréal’s recent beautiful renovations were also very appealing! The hotel had undergone major renovations recently offering modern updates and fresh innovative spaces throughout. Now you can find open and airy public areas, and communal tables ideal for meeting up with friends. And if you need a bit of privacy to make a call or Zoom there are soundproof booths and work pods located in the lobby.

Our room was located on the 31st “club level” floor of the hotel offering an epic view of the city. Our floor was tranquil even though we saw many families and hockey fans throughout the hotel. Sheraton Hotel Club offers access to the spectacular Club Lounge on the 37th floor with a breathtaking view of the city. It also offered a fantastic warm and cold breakfast selection and a place to retreat and enjoy happy hour.

Added bonuses: look for hotels that offer you the chance to unwind after a busy day/night of exploring. At our hotel, we could retreat to the inviting hotel’s indoor pool oasis, hot tub and fitness studio complete with state of the art equipment. Studio Pressurat, Inc. is the spa located within the property should you want to book a treatment or two. And FYI, this hotel is also pet-friendly!

WHERE TO EAT:

Montréal definitely is a food lover’s heaven with endless restaurant options. On our most recent trip, we started with the breakfast-included Sheraton Club Lounge. We liked the casual drop-in style with lots of options both hot and cold. Eggs, protein, cereal, fresh fruit, baked goods, cold cuts, warm oats, juices and teas and coffees including Nespresso are all available to satisfy your morning cravings.  It’s where we also linger and plan out our day.  There were also all day snacks, happy hour and complimentary wi-fi.

Stanley restaurant located inside the hotel also proved to be a very popular spot and it’s not just for tourists but locals have also been drawn to this hotspot. It too had a complete renovation and now has reopened with sky high ceiling and modern window design. The restaurant’s airy design felt elevated yet comfortable. We had dinner here one night with a local friend who raved over the food and the fresh new space. Weekend Brunch is a must with modern twists to brunch favourites! Hello Duck Confit Cobb Salad and the prettiest French Toast! Highly recommend making reservations ahead of time — the brunch with DJ on site, in particular, is very popular. We really didn’t need to go anywhere else for a great meal and an amazing vibe! More about Stanley in an upcoming post!

On our walks, we discovered two quaint cafés with a lot of character. Tommy’s Cafe (order the Lucky Charms latté) and Le Petit Dip are charming places to rest in between our list of must-sees and gather our thoughts on how we wanted to continue the day. Both have several locations.

Another great restaurant to visit is Helena’s for Portuguese cuisine. They have a super tasting menu that offers the chef’s popular dishes. Dishes like cod fritters, grilled octopus, and bacalau are delicious. Before you leave, pick up a bottle of Helena’s Olive Oil that’s brought in right from their family farm in Portugal.

Of course, is it even a visit without picking up some Montréal style bagels at  St-Viateur Bagels? We visited the one in the Plateau area but the flagship is on rue St-Viateur Ouest. This famous, and oldest, bagel shop has been in business for over 65 years. My favourite is their signature sesame seed bagel. Have it fresh and warm out of their oven toasted with a shmear of butter. It’s heavenly!

For quick comfort food, Dobe and Andy’s Chinese BBQ in Montréal’s Chinatown is a great stop. This “old school” Cantonese style restaurant was recently taken over by the next generation of restauranteurs. Great for quick sit-down eats. Their BBQ items are very popular. I was happy to see them thriving and continuing to honour the traditions of the cuisine but also adding in a few modern dishes. Go at lunch time and then get your bubble tea fix at Chatime around the corner.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO:

Our hotel was well situated in the city’s centre or “Centre-ville”. We love visiting shops, restaurants, and art institutions. We also love exploring and discovering public art installations and

If you’re a fan of murals and street art, just look up! You’ll be quick to spot awe-inspiring artwork on many buildings throughout the city. One of the most iconic is the 10,000 square foot Leonard Cohen mural along Crescent Street. Led by artist Gene Pennon and American street portrait artist, El Mac, the “Tower of Songs” it took 240 cans of paint to replicate the image taken by his daughter, Lorca Cohen.

There are many public art installations in the city to discover as well. If you walk towards Place Ville-Marie near the train station you won’t miss “The Ring” a jaw-dropping sky high sculpture that is perfectly wedged between buildings and appears to be suspended in air. This newly erected permanent public art installation by Claude Cormier and his design firm CCxA in 2022 is meant to be a symbol of a shared connection between Montréalers and visitors to the city.

Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (Museum of Contemporary Art) is a great place to visit if you love contemporary art. Founded in 1964, it features local, Canadian and international artists within its permanent collections as well as special exhibitions. Unfortunately, it was temporarily closed the weekend we visited as they were in between exhibitions. Tip: if you plan to visit several museums it may be worthwhile to get a Montréal Museums Pass.

Another great place for contemporary art is PHI with exhibitions and experiences that span various media. Some are located indoors but visit the site to learn more about the public installations as well.

The Montréal Street Art Tour is an efficient way to also take in over 25 works of publicly accessible art in the city’s Plateau area. the 2.5 hour walking tour will also make a stop at Leonard Cohen’s former residence. Another one that has caught my interest is the Old Montréal Ghost Tour but I have yet to catch one. Unfortunately, it doesn’t run in the winter months unless you’d like to book a private tour.

Visit the Barbie Expo at Les Cours Mont-Royal. This is a real gem of a find whether you’re a Barbie fan or not. The permanent exhibition features over 500 Barbie dolls including the most iconic since its inception. It’s not only a time capsule but a fascinating look at some of the most collectable and globally released dolls. Many were donated by collectors and designers. And the exhibition is free!

Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) is a very popular destination especially if the weather isn’t in your favour. We planned this visit on a rainy day. Founded in 1860, this museum features works from around the world and from Queb3c. Over 47,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic artworks, photographs, multimedia installations and decorative art objects dating from antiquity to the present.

Scandinave Spa in Old Montréal is worth stopping into if you can find two or three hours to unwind and relax. The therapeutic waters both hot and cold in the tranquil space are pure bliss!

If you happen to visit the city and met with not so idyllic weather take that as an opportunity to also explore Montréal’s Underground City pedestrian network. Similar to Toronto’s PATH, you can take this meandering walkway to get to many places in the downtown core and discover shops and eateries along the way. Highly recommend downloading their app.

Of course, the historical area known as Old Montréal is a real draw. The city was recorded as being “found” in 1642 and you can really feel the soul of the city in this area. It breathes differently. Cobblestone walkways meander through the area leading to significant landmarks and fascinating discoveries. Yes, lots of cafes and boutiques but also the famous Notre Dame Basilica is here. You can do a tour of the Gothic revival church but currently, AURA, a modern day multimedia installation, is happening here as well. The public space in front of the Basilica is perfect for people watching as local musicians (buskers) play their instruments. We also enjoyed just entering some of the buildings to have a look around — many felt like a step back in time. Look for the Cité Mémoire signs in the area that offer interesting facts and stories via the free app “Montréal en Histories”. BTW there’s free Wifi (MTLWiFi)!

Also, check out what sporting or music events are happening at the nearby Bell Centre.

HOW TO PACK:

Montréal weather can be unpredictable. Within 48 hours we had mild spring temperatures, rain, and a bit of snow. Planning accordingly and checking local weather apps. Walking shoes like the much raved about Canadian brand Dr Liza‘s ballet style flats will keep up with you. Also, a nice pair of sneakers is definitely great for exploring. A crossbody handbag is also a good idea. Forget something or need an extra layer? You’re in one of the best cities in the world for shopping! Montréalers tend to be more fashionable so don’t be afraid to show more personality in what you wear while exploring.

Leisurewear for during the day works while exploring. A crisper outfit rather than flabby loose sweats will get you around no problem! Oraki, a women-run brand founded in Québec, has ideal fits for getting around and looking pulled together. Not only do the designs have clean lines but also functional with ideal pockets, cinched in hems to give more options if the weather turns. We also like the brand for using eco-friendly natural or recycled fabrics made from materials such as recycled nylon and polyester, dented corn, and wood pulps. The ECOMOVE Legging is one of the most popular. The line is PETA approved and vegan.

A fresh crisp denim will also get you around town from day to night. Reitman’s line of denim offers an array of styles from leggings, straight leg, bootcut, wide leg, and even mom-jeans that really are impressive in quality of denim, comfort and fit. They rival any high end designer brand. Our team loves that sizing ranges from regular, petite, and tall sizing. BTW, Reitman’s is a Canadian brand and was founded in 1926 by Herman and Sarah Reitman of Montreal and the family is still involved!

Bring a jacket and a sweater in the spring. And pack an umbrella. Or check to see if your hotel supplies them.

For such a short trip, it’s easy enough to pack just carry-on luggage…unless you plan to shop, of course. Then, save space!

FAVOURITE SHOPS:

Speaking of shopping, Old Montréal has more unique boutique shops that will offer local designers as well as international ones. If you’re a fan of SSENSE. They have an experiential bespoke location on rue Saint-Sulpice. Check their site for location and hours.

A real treasure was discovering the “super outlet” for high-end designer Sarah Pacini. The Italian/Finnish designer has a shop in Yorkville here in Toronto and is known for her detailed and high quality knits for both men and women. The garments here are from the most recent as well as past seasons. Located in the Old Montréal area.

Support local artisans at this beautiful shop in Old Montréal! L’Empriente will also often have artists in to chat with visitors. Find handmade jewellery, woodwork, pottery, clothing, housewares, toys and more. Perfect souvenirs for friends, family, and yourselves.

Rue Sainte-Catherine, known as the longest commercial street in Canada, was the place to shop when I was a teen but now, we have most of the same in Toronto. However, SIMONS is worth visiting. They tend to have more selection in Montréal than Toronto.

PONY is a fun place to discover a locally made item that encompasses positivity and fun. This shop is located on rue Saint-Hubert.

If you’re a vintage store lover, be sure to add EVA B. to your list. Located on Boulevard Saint-Laurent near the “Place des Spectacles”, this massive boutique can easily be missed. The exterior is completely filled with graffiti and looks like any other abandoned building. We were amazed at the incredible collection of vintage and retro items from clothing, handbags, jewellery, shoes, and all sorts of treasures. There’s also a cafe located inside.

For Formula 1 racing fans, there’s a dedicated shop in Old Montreal that sells officially licensed team apparel, caps, autographed memorabilia, posters and other collectables. During Grand Prix times it gets super busy. It goes by a few names – F1 Boutique Canada, FanaBox. Located at 28 Rue, Saint-Paul.

Don’t forget to bring home Québec Maple Syrup! We call it liquid gold around here!

HOW TO GET THERE:

There are many options. We’ve taken the train before from Union Station on Via Rail. The trip is about 5 hours each way but comfortable and takes you into the core of the city. The train station in Montreal is located just a couple of walkable blocks from the Sheraton Hotel. You can also fly Porter Airlines from Billy Bishop in Toronto and land at Montréal’s major airport then take Uber into the city. Driving to Montreal is pretty straightforward. Check the hotel for daily parking rates.

Finally, we found it handy to have Apple Maps to not only give us directions but also faster route options. That included estimated times it would take to walk to our destinations. The app paired with my Apple Watch was handy as we navigated through the streets. Instead of having to pull out my iPhone all the time in public, turns and notifications were delivered on my wrist via haptics and sound.  Having said that, we felt safe everywhere we went on this trip.

Thank you to Le Sheraton Montréal Hotel and Stanley Restaurant for hosting us during our stay!

The post How to make the most of 48 hours in Montréal appeared first on Toronto Guardian.