When the snow blankets the landscape, the stage is set for the explorers who love being outdoor, and nature enthusiasts. With a range of winter experiences, one can simply enjoy this cold season by immersing in a realm where nature has so much to offer. It’s about embracing the charm that comes with winter.
Continue readingAuthor: Christie
Trapped
A hike to remember: Pico to Pico
The small island of Madeira, only 57 km long and 22 km wide, is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1000 km from the continental Portugal, and 700 km from Morocco. With an average annual temperature of almost 200 C in Funchal – the capital of Madeira, it seems that the island has an “eternal spring” type of weather, at least for us!
After a beautiful hike in the stunning Newfoundland, and a few short trails in the Adirondacks, my appetite for hiking had just ignited throughout 2023. With over 200 Levadas (hiking trails following the water canals) plus 30 Veredas (mountain or coastal paths), Madeira’s hiking network totals over 2000 km of hiking trails, a paradise for nature lovers.
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Continue readingFollowing the tracks
After a nice vacation in Madeira, and a quick turn to 2024, we finally had some time to relax and enjoy the new season in town. We had our first snow of the year (and of the season) here in Southern Ontario, giving us not only a new landscape, but a new occupation as well😊
Continue readingThe Atlantic puffin, cuteness overloaded
Nicknamed ‘sea parrots’ or ‘sea clowns’ for their cute appearance, the Atlantic puffins are some of the most loved seabirds. Although they are the smallest puffin species, they are actually tough birds.
Continue readingCity break: A walking guide to the most historic districts of New Orleans
First sighted as Indian portage to Lake Pontchartrain and Gulf in 1699 by Bienville and Iberville, New Orleans has been founded in 1718, and named in honor of the Duke of Orleans, Regent of France. It was later called the Crescent City because of its location on the bend of the Mississippi, which resembles a crescent moon.
Continue readingIn between..
A bird’s eye view of 1000 islands
The 1000 islands, a North American archipelago, lie along the border between the state of New York (USA) and Ontario (Canada), stretching for about 80 km along Saint Lawrence River. With a rich history, unique culture, and also with endless shorelines of picturesque islands, this area is a sightseer’s paradise, and a popular place for an authentic vacation. They are also famous for their magnificent summer homes. From Boldt Castle to House of Seven Gables, wealthy people have built retreats here since early 1870’s.
Continue readingThe Heart and Soul of New Orleans
Named in honor of Duke of Orleans, Regent of France in 1718, New Orleans is home to the most historic districts of any US cities. Besides history, New Orleans is known for so many other things such as festivals, food, architectural styles, or nightlife.

But what comes to your mind first of all when you hear New Orleans? It is about jazz music and its musicians, isn’t it?
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