Life of a Staircase

Even though Montreal has distinctive styles in its' architecture, it was its' staircases that drew my attention whilst visiting. Back in the old days it was a by-law that Montreal appartments had a spot of greenery at the front of their homes. Therefore, to save space inside (which was taken up by the front garden), an inventive idea was to place the staircases on the outside of each appartment. But wait, I hear you ask, "What about winter time?". No problems, just ensure you have proper snow boots on, and hope that the resident likes to shovel the extra snow. Some people even place plastic walkway covers over the entryway during the winter months. But in summer, obviously you need to make use of this area. So what better place to secure your bike, plus it's easy access for a quick get away!

Mont Royal: elevation 235m

Jacques Cartier a Canadian explorer climbed this mountain under the guidance of Indians. Impressed with the beauty presented before him, he gave it the name 'Mount Royal', hence the city's name of Montreal.

Bonsecours Markets

Situated in the 'Old City', Bonsecours Markets was the hype of activity on Canada Day '07. Many of the street vendors sold items with a multicultural origin. This also applied to the entertainment and activities taken place.

Victoria Square

As a city Montreal is highly residential. One of the appealing functions of a city like this are the many parks and public areas availible for the locals. Victoria Square is located in Old Montreal and is used for activities like Yoga and Tai Chi. As you can see, the sculpture has taken on a kind of guard like stance to this inner city sanctuary.

Montreal - Old vs New

Montreal is actually an island, approximately 40km long and 15km wide. It has a population of 3.4 million, half the population choosing to speak french the other preferring english. The photos featured here are in the Old Montreal and Old Port area based on the water front of the St Lawrence River. The architecture is very distinctive with its' greystone buildings and narrow cobblestone lanes. Some highlights of this area were Basilique Notre Dame, Place Jacques Cartier - hosting lively Canada Day celebrations whilst we were there, and the Musee D'Archeologie et D'Histoire Pointe-A-Calliere. Along the Old Port, people cycle, rollerblade and walk the sights of the 2.5km shoreline, plus the four quays (quais). Whilst in Montreal, it was a pleasant walk taking in the sights of the local areas, window shopping in the local galleries and the sights and sounds of the local buskers. It was from here that Bern and I now headed to the highest point in Montreal, Mont Royal.

Coming or Going?

Saw this street sign in Stratford. A little bit Irish don't you think? Didn't know if I was coming or going. Just an interesting observation. Enjoy!

Barkery - Canine Boutique

Here you have the dog lovers shop of all time. A canine treasure chest filled with everything from home made dog biscuits, fashion wear and toys. One of the items I bought was a squeaky racoon for Daisy, but she'll have to wait until I get home.

Stratford

The town of Stratford has an obvious english appeal. The buildings and structure of the town are Victorian in their design. Other features of the town are the Court House, sidewalk cafes, boutique shops - many selling items relating to anything Shakespeare, and the Avon River. The outskirts of Stratford is rural, many farms have corn crops making for a lush green entry into this englisg style village.

Shakespeare's Stratford

Stratford is a well known town for its' theatre culture, and in particular Willliam Shakespeare. The town features many playhouses, plus Shakespeare Gardens in honour of the famous author. In the photos on this page, you can see a bronze bust in honour of Shakespeare, plus english style gardens. The waterway snaking through the town is called the Avon River - in England Shakespeares home town is named Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford is well known for its' Shakespeare Festival which runs annually from May until November each year.

A step back

The Menonite community are a Protestant sect originating in Switzerland, who settled in Canada late in the 19 century. Their lifestyle is characterised by traditionalmethods, as is their 'careers'. As you can see in the photos they use the traditional horse and carriage as a form of transport, although one member of the community does possess a 'car' for emergency purposes. Their dress style, again is traditional. With clothes being hand-made and usually dark or muted in colour. They are very community minded, including the schooling of their children and closed worshipping practices. As a community they are highly resourceful, growing and selling their produce, carpentry etc. P.S. Thanks to Tony, Sharyn and Josh for being excellent hosts whilst visiting them.