Monthly Archives: March 2012

The Weekly Worldview: The lone kite in the sky

Posted on March 30, 2012 by Ellen| Leave a comment
Families fly their kites at Hampton Beach in New Hampshire

Families fly their kites at Hampton Beach in New Hampshire

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Posted in New Hampshire, Weekly Worldview

Facing my fears on a cliff edge

Posted on March 29, 2012 by Ellen| 6 Comments

Guest post from Colleen Setchell of Write Around the World

“I don’t think I can do it!”

My voice sounded shaky, even to me. The rope pulling me was just so heavy.
“No, come on Colleen!” I said to myself, “You ARE going to do this!”

I stepped forward. The 35kg rope pulling me frightened me so much, I
could feel my heart in my mouth and it was about to get worse. I
placed my second foot on the red marker.

“3 - 2 - 1 - GO!!!”

I leapt off that cliff with all my strength, assuming a vague
parachute jump-style position. I was immediately shocked at the speed
with which I was falling. I was informed later that it was 120km an
hour - I am glad I didn’t know that beforehand. I screamed. I shut my eyes and then realized that I was tipping forward and falling down the cliff head first. My brain kicked in and my body instantly started flailing to stop myself from falling. I
stopped screaming - I was way too scared now.

Just when I thought I couldn’t take it anymore, the bungee rope caught
me and threw me out in a massive arc across a beautiful valley. Sheer
cliffs surrounded me and below, a river ran over glistening black
rocks. It’s hard to believe that the free fall lasted for just 2.3
seconds. Do you have any idea how much can go through your mind in 2.3
seconds?

I heard a whistle and looked up. Joe, my jump master, was waving to
me to make sure I hadn’t died of a heart attack on the way down. I
waved back and screamed “Woohoooo!” with what little strength I had
left. My whole body was shaking but I felt completely elated. Ah, the
joys of adrenalin. Pity it didn’t ever feel that good when I was
stressed at work.

I felt a tug and realized I was being winched back up. I looked up at
the cliffs and could just make out a few people on the top who had
watched my few seconds of madness. I looked down at the river, the
black rocks, the bubbling water and last of all, I looked back at the
magnificent Lehr Falls waterfall. It was stunningly beautiful.

I had just voluntarily jumped off a 165m high waterfall, plummeted
100m and paid R380 for the privilege. I was at Oribi Gorge Nature
Reserve situated in the Oribi Gorge which sits on the forest-cloaked
ravine of the Mzimkulwana river just west of Port Shepstone in Natal,
South Africa. The gorge is roughly 27 km long, 4 km wide at its
widest point and 400 m deep in places.

I was now almost at the top. I looked up at the waterfall and was
amazed at the view I had. The light was behind the top of the falls
and all I could see was a curtain of crystal white drops cascading
against a black background. It looked absolutely beautiful, I
couldn’t take my eyes off it. But my spiritual moment was interrupted
when a quick change in wind direction caused the waterfall to, well
… fall on me, resulting in a day of soggy jeans.

I have done a lot of amazing things in my life; I’ve abseiled down
mountains; I’ve dived with sharks, I’ve white water rafted; I’ve done
helicopter flights over Victoria falls and the Grand Canyon but bungee
jumping I have ALWAYS avoided. Why? Because I have always been too
scared. But I don’t like being scared of anything. I believe that if
you are scared of something, it holds you prisoner. You have to learn
as much as you can about it because knowledge cures fear. Then you
get out there and conquer it and that’s what I’d just done.

I had convinced a friend of mine to come with me. We left Durban early
and did the 1.5 hour journey to Oribi. We paid our R10 toll and turned
inland at Port Shepstone, following the brown tourist signs to Oribi
Gorge. The roads leading to the hotel and reserve were a bit on the
rough side but we arrived in one piece.

Once in the reserve, we found the ‘adventure sport’ spot, parked and
headed down to the launch site. It really is a great location - the
waterfall has a small ledge about 15 metres down complete with a paint
splodge to mark the spot where you jump from.

Four friendly guys run the setup and continuously rotate tasks.
Photographer, videographer, winch man, demo jumper and jump master are
the tasks which need covering and Joe, Fanyana, Mvuyisi and Richard
all do it with a smile. As well as completing thorough training for
the jump itself, they are also all trained in emergencies and
operation maintenance.

We watch as staff member, Joe (short for Jongile), does a demo jump
for those who are not quite convinced if this crazy act is for them or
not. He somersaults as he jumps and I wonder to myself how many times
this guy has jumped. Turns out, they’ve all jumped more times than
they can remember.

We pay, sign the relevant indemnity forms and head back down to get
kitted up. Joe will be our jump master for the day. You wear one harness like a nappy and another over your shoulders which is then attached to your nappy-harness. Before climbing down, I have a brief moment of panic when I realize
that I can’t take my camera down with me.

“Give it to me,” volunteers Fanyana, “I am an expert.” He gets some good shots for which I am very grateful. My friend chooses to have her jump videoed and made into a DVD. For only R100, this is an absolute bargain. Richard, the videographer today, starts recording the second she starts getting kitted up and Mvuyisi, who is on winch duty today prepares for our jumps.

We climb down a wrought iron semi-enclosed ladder to the ledge and
immediately Joe gets my friend to clip onto safety lines. I am
relieved when I see how thick they are (the lines, not my friend!)
I am instructed to wait at the bottom of the ladder to wait my turn.
I am not sure if watching others jump before me made the experience
better or worse.

After a while, I realize it’s my turn. It’s time to do some
conquering. I am connected to the safety rope and I make my way to the
ledge and to the red splodge. My friend has waited on the ledge for
me. She smiles and tells me how much I will love my jump.
I turn back and make sure Fanyana is ready with my camera. I can
hardly believe I am going to do this so I need hard proof.

Joe sits me down and shouts over the noise of the falls.

“I’m going to connect the bungee rope and disconnect you from the safety, ok?” “Go for it, I’m ready.” I answered eagerly.

“You need to lean back because the rope is very heavy and will pull you.”
Lean back? Okay, I can do that. Let’s just do this…

Let me remind you that up until this point, I was excited. I was
looking forward to jumping and experiencing the world’s highest gorge
swing but the second I felt the weight of that bungee rope, my whole
being cried, “What are you doing? This is not natural! Can’t you feel it trying to
pull you over the edge?”

Joe goes on to explain that as soon as both feet are on the red
marker, he will start the countdown. He laughs when I ask if he can
start counting from 10 and not 3. The pulling feeling was extremely unnerving. I was leaning back so hard and Joe was hanging onto a clip at the back of my harness so that I didn’t disappear over the edge before I was ready for my jump. I slowly edged forward but instinctively grabbed my friend’s foot. In
hindsight, I am not quite sure exactly what her foot was going to do
to save me. The instinct to survive is a powerful thing.

I was now half standing on the red splodge and with a final deep
breath, I placed my second foot on the mark and knew what was coming.
The rest they say is history…

You can share in the madness of the experience by jumping tandem but
you need to call and book this in advance because of the difference in
ropes and harnesses. Fanyana told me they had a wedding there and the
bride and groom decided to jump off together. I can think of many
better ways to celebrate my wedding.

Saying that, it was an unbelievable experience. Asking my friend what
she would tell others about the jump, I got answers such as, “Do it,
do it!!!” and “Just jump!”

I am not sure if I still feel elated simply because, as the movie Lion
King says, “I have laughed in the face of danger” or if the bungee
swing was indeed as exhilarating as I thought. I think in this case,
it might just be both.

Colleen is a writer, photographer and enthusiastic explorer who has jumped off cliffs in South Africa, dived with sharks in Egypt, been lost in the spice markets in Istanbul and eaten unpronounceable things in Gambia. She calls England home but is happiest when she’s living out of a suitcase and uncertain where she’ll end up next. Colleen writes about her travels on her blog and currently freelances for various magazines and websites. Her travel photos can be seen on www.flickr.com/photos/wobblything/sets

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Posted in Guest blogger, South Africa

7 super shots from around the world

Posted on March 27, 2012 by Ellen| 30 Comments

Sunset at Niagara Falls, New York/Canada

Sunset at Niagara Falls, New York/Canada

If you had to sum up your most amazing travel experiences in just seven photos, could you do it?

We’re talking narrowing down years — decades! — of travel into just seven shots? For the avid traveler, this is nearly an impossible task. You have thousands of photos, each carrying with it priceless memories. How could you possibly choose?

But when we were presented with the opportunity from Erik of On my feet or in my mind to complete the Seven Super Shots series initiated by Hostelbookers, we just couldn’t say no. This series asks you to identify seven of your favorite shots from your travels. It was a tough challenge, but we’ve given it our best shot.

1.) A photo that takes our breath away

Korcula, Croatia. We rose early to catch the ferry from Croatia’s Korcula Island to head to Hvar and were met with this spectacular sunrise, one of the highlights of our 2010 honeymoon.

2.) A shot that makes us laugh or smile

Madrid, Spain. Madrid’s Plaza Mayor is full of street performers at any time of day. Our favorite was the “Fat Spidey,” a man dressed as spiderman whose physique did not fit the usual part. Whenever he stepped away from his post, he would leave a wooden version of himself to stake his territory.

3.) A shot that makes us dream

Lima, Peru. Hang-gliders blissfully sail over the Atlantic ocean in Lima’s Miraflores district.

4.) A shot that makes us think

Jinja, Uganda. On our way to whitewater raft along the Nile River, we passed a day laborer taking a rest from his work in the fields. He appeared tired and contemplative.

5.) A shot that makes my mouth water

Burlington, Vermont. Delicious ganache-filled chocolates, in no short supply at Lake Champlain Chocolates, are just one of the many succulent treats you can enjoy while visiting Vermont.

6.) A shot that tells a story

Madrid, Spain. Last summer in Madrid, the Plaza Puerta del Sol was full of peaceful protesters dwelling in a tent city protesting the lack of economic opportunity for young people, resulting in widespread unemployment. This man had painted four canvases expressing different peace and social justice messages. The artwork was incredible.

7.) A shot that we’re most proud of (our National Geographic shot)

Entebbe, Uganda. Crowned Cranes, Uganda’s national bird, graze along the shores of Lake Victoria as fisherman work hard for their daily catch in the background.

And there you have it — seven of our favorite images from around the world!

If you had to pick the best photos from your travels, which would you pick and why? Feel free to share a shot or two from your travels on our Facebook page!

Up next:
Jess from Used York City
Ryan from Just Chuckin’ It
Vicki from Redheadedtravels
Courtney from Haunt Jaunts

Tag — you’re it!

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Posted in Croatia, New York City, Peru, Photo Essay, Spain, Uganda

The Weekly Worldview: Sinful indulgence in Vermont

Posted on March 23, 2012 by Justin| 7 Comments
Enjoying a little "Chocolate Therapy" after our Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour in Vermont.

Enjoying a little "Chocolate Therapy" flavlored ice cream in a chocolate-dipped waffle cone following our Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour in Vermont. This left me so comatose, Ellen had to drive us home!

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Posted in New England, Vermont, Weekly Worldview

The Perfect 3-Day Weekend: Montreal

Posted on March 22, 2012 by Justin| 19 Comments

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vieux Motreal (Old Montreal)

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vieux Motreal (Old Montreal)

We knew it would be fun, a great long-weekend getaway, but we hadn’t expected Montreal to be so … well, enchanting.

Don’t get me wrong. We certainly encountered the unexpected and downright quirky in Montreal, including but not limited to Darth Vader, Predator, and some very creative and expressive street art. But overall, this city impressed us more each day with its fascinating history, diverse culture, stunning cathedrals, and spectacular food.

In just three days, you, too, can experience some of the best that Montreal has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your limited time in the city:

Day One
9:00 - 10:00 am Grab some breakfast at one of the bistros in Vieux Montreal.
You’ll pay a little more, but it’s good to get the experience of eating in the Old Town at least once if you feel you can afford it.

10:00 - 11:00 am Visit the Notre Dame Basilica
Notre Dame Basilica is Montreal’s most magnificent basilica and is not to be missed. Originally built in the 17th century it combines characteristics of both the Neo-Classical and Neo-Gothic styles. This stunningly beautiful church has enough seating for 3000 in the nave and two tiers of balconies on either side. When you visit, make sure to check out the elaborate wooden pulpit on the left side of the church. In its base stand spectacular statues of the prophets Ezekiel and Jeremiah.

11:00 - 12:30 Head to Chinatown for lunch



Chinatown is easily recognized by the two giant Asian style arches that bookmark this 18 block district. Originally formed by the Chinese immigrants who came in large numbers after 1880, it has been a distinctive part of the city for over a century. As one would expect, many of the restaurants serve distinctly and varied Asian cuisines including Szechuan and Cantonese food and has only benefitted from the expanding Asian influence that has come South East Asian countries in the past couple of decades.

1:00- 3:00 Visit the Chateau Ramezay
Originally built by Claude de Ramezay, Montreal’s 11th governor, this French style Chateau has witnessed almost every stage of Motreal’s history. Through the years it has been home to a number of Ramizey’s successors and even used as an office for the West India Company. Restored to its original splendor, this museum provides a valuable opportunity to learn about Montreal’s history and heritage. Important documents, uniforms, and furniture are displayed along with the city’s first automobile.

3:00 Montreal’s City Hall
Admire the beauty of Montreal’s City Hall located across the street from Chateau Ramezay at the end of Vieux Montreal.

3:30 - 5:00 Shop (or at least window shop!) at the Marche Bonsecours along the Old Port

This spectacular building was home to Canada’s Parliament in the early 1800s and was later used as a vegetable market. It is now home to several stories of fancy clothing and artisan shops, and is a great place to have a look around, even if you’re not in the mood to buy anything.

5:00 - 6:00 Stroll along the Vieux Port
The old port experienced the pinnacle of its glory days in the 19th century as one of the most important inland harbors in North America, but its importance declined throughout the 20th century. By the end of the 1980’s, however, it experienced a breath of new life as it was transformed into a recreational area. Now, whether it’s the cycling in the summer or skating on rinks in the winter, the old port’s 12.5 km of waterside walkways adds to the charm of this popular district of Montreal.

6:00 Enjoy dinner and shopping in Vieux (Old) Montreal

Day Two
9:00 Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of coffee and pastries at Juliet and Chocolat.
This sweet cafe has locations throughout the city, but we recommend stopping in the Latin Quarter on Rue Saint-Denis, where we stayed, or heading to St. Laurent Boulevard for your fill of coffee, pastries, and of course chocolate!

10:00 - 1:00 Pointe-a-Calliere Archeology Museum

See the original walls of a fortified "Village of Montreal"

See the original walls of a fortified "Village of Montreal"

This has to be one of the most interesting museums that we have ever been to, and if we go back to Montreal, it would be worth checking out a second time! Built on top of excavated building foundations and water systems from the 17thcentury, this setting makes the perfect setting for learning about Montreal’s fascinating history and the role it has played in Canada’s history as a whole.

Not to be missed is the 20 minute 3-D introductory movie of Montreal. One of the most unique experiences we have had, this movie takes advantage of a fantastic light display, movie screens in front of and to either sides of the audience, and even the centuries old foundations of the city below. Just don’t visit on Monday … they are closed, come to find out.

1:00 - 4:00 Head to the underground city for lunch and shopping
What began in 1966 as Montreal’s first subway lines has expanded into a flourishing underground city. With more than 200 restaurants, 1600 shops, hotels, concert halls, and film theaters this underground city can appear to go on endlessly.

4:00 - 6:00 Take a walk along the Golden Mile
From University Street, near the underground city, head to Rue Sherbrooke, along the slopes of Mont Royal, to take in a piece of Montreal’s more affluent past. During the late-1800s, some of Canada’s most successful traders and industrialists built their homes in this area. Many of the remaining buildings are now up-scale boutiques, bistros, or hotels.

6:30 Dinner at Schwartz’s Deli on St. Laurent Boulevard
Schwartz’s Hebrew Delicatessen is a Montreal landmark and is rumored to have the best smoked meat sandwich in the whole town. It was certainly delicious!

Day Three
10:00 - 12:00 Take a walk at Parc Mont Royal
Although we had quite the misadventure atop this park, we still believe Parc Mont-Royal is a must see for any visitor to the city. Parc Mont Royal is a symbol of pride to its people and the name sake of the famous city that sits in its shadow. Established as a park in 1867 and landscaped by Fredrick Law Olmsted, the man who also designed New York’s famous Central Park, this iconic place offers visitors beautiful views of the skyline and a great place for a leisurely hike.

1:30 - 4:00 Visit St. Joseph’s Oratory

St. Joseph's Oratory

St. Joseph's Oratory

Architecturally, this is one of the most impressive buildings we’ve ever seen with its massive copper dome, one of the largest in the world. This cathedral was built in honor of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. Each year, two million pilgrims climb the 300 steps to the entrance on their knees! We didn’t believe it until we saw them for ourselves, climbing the stairs on their knees in the snow! The site is famous for the miracles reported to have occurred here.

6:00 Find a pub and indulge in a classic French-Canadian tradition: Poutine!
What a weekend! Reward yourself with a relaxing meal. This delicious take on French fries (smothered in cheese, soaked in gravy!) is a must-eat before leaving Montreal.

Poutine along Rue Saint-Laurent

Poutine along Rue Saint-Laurent

Phew! That’s quite the weekend!

What else you need to know
There is so much more to do in Montreal that you cannot possibly fit it all into three days. You could probably spend three days just visiting museums alone in Montreal. Or, if the weather permits, relaxing with friends and family in the city’s many parks. We’ve offered you the highlights based on what we enjoyed, but we encourage you to explore some more on your own.

Don’t forget to plan your trip around one of the many festivals. Known as the city of festivals, Montreal hosts a different one each month of the year, including a world-renowned jazz festival in the summer.

And, last but not least, don’t forget they do speak French in Montreal! Although most people you meet will also speak excellent English, you may find that road signs are written predominantly in French. But don’t worry, just employ some common sense and look at the accompanying illustration — and remember: “Sortie” means exit. Happy travels!

Have you ever been to Montreal? What would you add to this itinerary?

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Posted in 3 Day Weekend, Canada, Montreal

10 things you might not know about Montreal

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Ellen| 13 Comments

Take the underground tour of Montreal's archeological museum and see centuries-old ruins of Montreal

It’s known the world over as both the “city of festivals” and the “city of a hundred steeples,” with enough character and culture to compete with any European city. But did you know that Montreal, located in the Canadian province of Quebec, has quite the rich history as well?

We’ll be the first to admit that before our trip to Montreal this winter, we knew next to nothing about the town except that it was, according to our friends, tons of fun and freezing cold. Turns out, both of those statements are correct. But what’s also important to note is its rich, and tumultuous, history. Gaining an understanding of the settlement and development of this now-thriving metropolis will greatly enhance any trip to Montreal.

Here are 10 things you might not know about Montreal:

1.) It was originally inhabited by the Iroqouis.

Check out models of what the Iroquois settlement in what is today Montreal looked like

Check out models of what the Iroquois settlement in what is today Montreal looked like

The Iroqouis inhabited the land along the St. Lawrence River, numbering around 10,000, until around 1600. Soon, French farmers began to settle along the river’s shores.The Iroquois were known for building long houses, which could hold up to 10 families. French explored Jacques Cartier visited the village in 1535.

2.) The original settlement was known as Ville-Marie.
French settlers, led by Paul de Chomodey de Maisonnevue, founded the first European settlement on the island now known as Montreal in 1642. The intent was to build a fort and establish a mission base from which to begin converting the native population to Christianity.

3.) Montreal was the gateway for French expansion in North America.
Capital of the fur-trading industry, it served as a gateway for westward expansion by the French. The most popular fur was the beaver pelt due to popular demand in Europe. During the 17 Century, nearly 20,000 beaver pelts a year were sent to France alone. Montreal’s location along the St. Lawrence River allowed not only the fur trade to expand down the Mississippi River, but also aided in the expansion and settlement of a New France.

4.) Montreal signed a peace treaty with the Native population in 1701.
This opened the door to French expansion, allowing them to settle a land ten times the size of France. Montreal served as the launching points for such expansion efforts.

5.) The U.S. city of Detroit was founded by soldiers and settlers from Montreal.
In 1701, Detroit was founded by Lamonthe de Cadillac (yes, ironic since it later became the Motor City). The French expansion into what is today the American Mid-West continued into Illinois all the way down to New Orleans, Louisiana.

6.) Montreal was once fortified.

Visitors get an up-close look at the remnants of the walls that once surrounded the settlement of Montreal. It was once a fortified city.

Visitors get an up-close look at the remnants of the walls that once surrounded the settlement of Montreal. It was once a fortified city.

The early French settlers to the area built a fort around the village. To see the remnants of these walls, as well as the city’s old sewer system, take the underground tour at Montreal’s Pointe-a-Calliere Archeological Museum.

7.) Montreal is actually an island.

Montreal was built along the St. Lawrence River (which gets a little icy in the winter!)

Montreal was built along the St. Lawrence River (which gets a little icy in the winter!)

The main city of Montreal occupies a 30-mile long island along the convergence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa rivers. The island is linked to the mainland by a tunnel and 15 bridges. Although this makes it sound quite expansive, most of the cities main attractions are within decent walking distance of one another, or are a short bus or train ride away.

8.) Montreal became Quebec’s railway, manufacturing, and financial hub during the Industrial Revolution.
As the fur trade declined, Montreal rose to prominence in other areas. Vast railroad lines and shipping lanes were established around and through Montreal, allowing for even greater economic expansion. The food, tobacco, and textile industries also greatly expanded during this time.

9.) Benjamin Franklin, an American statesman, was sent to Montreal during the American Revolution to persuade the Canadians to join the American cause against the British.
After a stay of just ten days, Franklin left convinced that it would be easier to buy Canada than to conquer it.

10.) Montreal hosted the 1976 Summer Olympic Games.
These games were perhaps most famous for witnessing Romanian gymnast, Nadia Comaneci, score the perfect 10-heard-round-the-world and capture the gold in the All-Around. Today, the Olympic Park is quite a popular tourist attraction, and features a biodome that has re-created various climate zones and animal habitats.

Montreal is a rich city in both culture and history. Today, about 70 percent of its 3 million residents are of French descent, while another 15 percent claim British heritage. The remainder of residents come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, including a growing immigrant population. The various languages and cultures represented in the city today stand as a testament to Montreal’s storied history.

Have you ever visited Montreal? What interesting facts do you know about the city?

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Posted in 10 Things, Canada, Montreal

The Weekly Worldview: Connecticut’s Wadsworth Falls

Posted on March 16, 2012 by Ellen| Leave a comment
Spring snow-melt rushes over Wadsworth Falls in Middlefield, Connecticut

Spring snow-melt rushes over Wadsworth Falls in Middlefield, Connecticut

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Posted in Connecticut, Weekly Worldview

80 years and still smokin’ at Schwartz’s Deli

Posted on March 14, 2012 by Ellen| 30 Comments

Montreal's famous "shaved meat" at Schwartz's Jewish Deli

Montreal's famous "smoked meat" at Schwartz's Jewish Deli

New York has its corned beef. Philadelphia, its cheese steak.

But what to eat in Montreal, you may ask? That’s easy — smoked meat!

What exactly is “smoked meat” ?
Smoked meat is a Montreal tradition dating back well over 80 years. It’s pretty simple, really. It’s a kosher-style deli meat that is salted and cured with various spices. In the case of Montreal smoked meat, cracked pepper, coriander, and other spices are absorbed into a nice cut of beef brisket for at least a week.

English? Francais? Good thing this menu is bi-lingual!

What does it taste like and where can I get some?
It tastes amazing, tender and juicy, especially when served on rye and doused in plenty of mustard, and you can — and should — get your smoked meat fix at Schwartz’s Deli on Saint-Laurent Boulevard in Montreal.

Of course, you may have to wait your turn in line behind the likes of Celine Dion, Angelina Jolie, and the Rolling Stones.

That’s right! Schwartz’s is so famous, it’s on the radar of pretty much everyone in town, tourists, locals, and celebrities alike. Expect to wait in line no matter what time of day. Plan your visit during off-hours for a shorter wait. No need for a reservation … everyone has to wait their turn.

Despite its popularity, Schwartz's still has a small-town, neighborhood deli vibe.

Why Schwartz’s?
Schwartz’s Hebrew Delicatessen is a Montreal institution. It’s reputation boasts the best smoked meat in town. We didn’t sample it anywhere else, so we cannot say for sure. We can say, however, that we were extremely impressed by the quality of food and service at Schwartz’s. Despite the cramped space and limited seating (even at 8:30 on a Wednesday night …), it still had the feeling of a small-town corner deli, and the staff were fast, friendly, and funny, too.

Schwartz’s was started by Reuben Schwartz (I know, Reuben, how ironic), a Jewish immigrant from Romania, in 1928. Since then it has maintained its old-fashioned traditions of marinating its briskets for 10 days, without the use of artificial chemicals, and then serving it up with mustard on rye to hungry customers who come from around the world.

We’re certainly glad we took the time to grab a bite at Schwartz’s for a little taste of the history of Montreal. We definitely recommend you check it out, too.

What’s the best sandwich you’ve ever tasted, and where can we get one ?

For more information, visit Schwart’z Deli.

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Posted in Canada, Montreal

From Popes to Pop Stars: A brief guide to Montreal’s Notre Dame Basilica

Posted on March 12, 2012 by Ellen| 21 Comments

Montreal's Notre-Dame Basilica, located on Rue Notre-Dame in Old Montreal, is one of the highlights of any visit to Montreal

Celine Dion got married there.

Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass there.

But pop star romances and papal visits were not exactly why we wanted to visit Montreal’s Basilique de Notre Dame.

Located on Rue Notre Dame in the heart of Vieux Montreal (the Old Town), the Basilica of Notre Dame is one of the most spectacular sights in this, the city of a hundred steeples, and it was in large part the impetus behind our visit to Montreal. Before we arrived, we thought it looked like one of the most beautiful cathedrals we had ever seen. After visiting it in person, there is no question: it will be difficult to find a cathedral that will ever top Montreal’s Notre Dame.

It is by far the most beautiful cathedral we have ever seen.

If you’re headed to Montreal, the Basilica Notre-Dame is a must-visit. Here’s what you need to know …

A Brief History
This gorgeous cathedral was founded in 1642 as a simple wooden chapel in what was then known as the village of Ville-Marie (later to become Montreal). A larger Baroque-style cathedral was constructed and completed in 1683. But by 1800, the congregation had outgrown this building, and so construction on the current cathedral commenced. New York architect James O’Donnell selected the Gothic Revival style, the first of its kind to be built in Canada. Major construction of the cathedral was completed just after 1830. The cathedral’s famed bell towers were completed in 1841 and 1843.

Key Features of the Basilica

The Pulpit

This is one of the Basilica’s more popular features, and its ornate design makes it easy to understand why. It’s location toward the middle of the sanctuary on the left side of the cathedral made it possible for the priest’s voice to project out to the congregation. The Old Testament characters Ezekiel and Jeremiah are carved into the base of the pulpit. Surrounding the platform of the pulpit are carved the New Testament characters of Peter and Paul. Other features on the pulpit represent the role of the Holy Spirit and Faith in Christian doctrine.

The Stained Glass Windows

New stained glass was installed in 1929 to mark the centenary celebrations of the Basilica. The ground floor designs depict scenes from early Montreal life interwoven with Biblical stories and themes.

The High Alter

The crucifixion of Christ is the centerpiece. Below are scenes from the Last Supper. The blue lighting makes this sight incredible.

The Great Casavant Organ

The Great Casavant Organ towers over the choir loft

The Great Casavant Organ towers over the choir loft

This spectacular organ, built in 1891, towers over the choir loft and includes over 7,000 pipes!

Chapel of Notre-Dame du Sacre-Coeur

Sacred Heart Chapel, located behind the main sanctuary

Sacred Heart Chapel, located behind the main sanctuary

A smaller chapel located behind the main sanctuary was created to accommodate smaller functions. It was destroyed by fire in 1978, but restored by 1982. Its theme is the progression of mankind toward reunification with God and depicts various stages of life.

What else you need to know
An admission fee of $5 is charged to all visitors (Adults), regardless of whether or not you opt for a guided tour of the cathedral. Guided tours are offered Monday - Friday from 9 am - 4 pm, Saturdays from 9 - 3:30, and Sundays from 1 - 3:30. You can also arrange for a group tour. Tuesdays through Saturdays, you can also catch the evening sound and light show, “And then there was light.” Tickets for adults are $10. The show lasts approximately 35 minutes.

Whether you’re looking to visit the location of a famous Canadian celebrity wedding or just hoping to find an example of impressive architecture, the Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most stunning sights we think you’ll find in all of Montreal. We hope you’ll make time to stop by!

What’s the most impressive cathedral or religious site you have ever visited? What makes it stand out from all the rest?

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Posted in Canada, Montreal

The Weekly Worldview: Tastebud bliss in Vermont

Posted on March 9, 2012 by Ellen| Leave a comment

Our visit to Lake Champlain Chocolate factory in Burlington, VT was nothing short of delicious. We each selected three chocolates to sample. Our favorites were the Valencia (the one with the "m") and the Chocolate-covered Orange Rind (the long one), although we enjoyed them all.

 

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Posted in Vermont, Weekly Worldview