Doors Open: More Amazing Things to Do in London, Ontario:

Museum London Photo Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott

One of my very favourite touristy “things to do in London, Ontario,” happens every fall. Doors Open London is a weekn was initiated in 1984 in France but soon took over the European Union and countries around the world. In 2002 Ontario Heritage Trust took hold, and many Ontario cities (including London) jumped on the … Read more

A Unique Andalusia Experience: Sherry, Horses & Flamenco in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Bodegas Fundador Jerez de la Frontera Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott 2

Approximately three hours from Marbella or one hour from Seville, you will find the charming town of Jerez de la Frontera. It is the home of sherry, show horses, and flamenco. At times overlooked for the flashier, larger city of Seville to the north or the coastal vacation destination of Cadiz to the south, Jerez … Read more

Le Monastère des Augustines: A Unique Quebec City Wellness Retreat Rooted in History

Enterance Le Monasteres des Augustines Photo Credit Le Monasteres des Augustines

If you’ve ever wanted to experience Europe’s soulful hospitality without crossing an ocean, step inside Québec City’s Old Town. Nestled within the ramparts and centuries-old walls, Le Monastère des Augustines offers more than just a place to stay—it’s a space for restoration, holistic health, and cultural immersion. A Legacy of Healing, Reimagined The present-day Monastère … Read more

Toronto CityPASS: 5 Outstanding Attractions You Can’t Miss

Toronto CityPASS Photo Credit ©CityPASS®

Introduction – A Birthday Weekend with Toronto CityPASS® We recently headed to Toronto to celebrate my birthday — and even though we’ve been to this city dozens of times, this trip was different. We decided to be tourists for the weekend and experience the very best things to do in Toronto with the Toronto  CityPASS®. … Read more

Exciting Culinary News: The MICHELIN Guide Québec is Here!

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This spring, Canada’s culinary world was abuzz as the MICHELIN Guide finally cast its spotlight on Québec – bestowing nine highly coveted stars across the province. Québec City’s own Tanière³ earned two stars—a rare feat, matched in Canada only by one Toronto restaurant. Beyond the stars, MICHELIN recognized 17 Bib Gourmand eateries, celebrated for their … Read more

Discovering Québec City and Île d’Orléans: Start with a Food Tour

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my travels, it’s that the quickest way to get to the heart of a place is through its food. That’s why, whenever I land somewhere new, I sign up for a food tour right away. It isn’t just about filling up your itinerary—it’s about tasting what locals love, … Read more

The ABCs of Food Tourism – Delicious Gastro Tourism – 26 Foods to love!

The ABC of Food - S is for Southern Food at Southern National is for Mobile @DownshiftingPRO

After returning from Quebec City, the food capital of Quebec. I have to say, I’ve been thinking an awful lot about food tourism and the importance of good food at a destination. There’s something inherently special about focusing on the food. It’s more than nourishment—it’s storytelling, culture, identity, and memory. And for many travelers today, … Read more

Chasing Waterfalls & Monoliths: 4 Days Along Québec’s Côte-Nord

ile Quarry Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott

Québec’s Côte-Nord Traveling through Côte-Nord, Québec’s untamed northern coast, feels like chasing the edge of the world—a journey where colossal stone monoliths, untouched forests, and the salty breeze of the St. Lawrence River create memories that linger long after the trip. Over four days, I experienced sweeping beaches, vibrant local communities, and wild open spaces, … Read more