Tam Tam of Montreal

Tam Tam is a free ‘festival’ that takes place every Sunday in Montreal around the Georges-Etienne Cartier monument in Parc Mont Royal. It is a drum and dance activity that is almost like a tradition for locals and a popular hit for tourists.

Tam Tam starts at around noon and continues until sunset. Hundreds of people gather there to picnic, walk on ropes, sword fight, play Frisbee, throw balls around, smoke, take in the sun, or just people watch. It truly is one of the most entertaining things to do on a non-rainy Sunday.

The photos (taken on June 1st) will give you a better idea. It truly is a wonderfully spirited event that makes sure you’re not bored on Sunday!

Pagaille!

As you know, I am a huge coffee enthusiast, not just for coffee as a drink but cafes as places. On my way to work in the morning, I stop by a cafe to enjoy 30 minutes of good morning music, morning smiles, and a warm cup of caffeine. Sunday afternoons, I find a good couch at one of my neighborhood’s cafes and I just unwind there with my book or magazine listening to music and enjoying the vibe of the people around me.

Today morning’s pick was Pagaille on Villeneuve right on the northwest corner of St. Urbain. The cafe offers a nice list of coffees and a variety of sandwiches and pastries. I loved the interior deco of the cafe and definitely the little patio outside. I had a cup of latte and the surprise is that the prices include the taxes! I think the owners are non-Canadians :)

How about you? Do you have any rituals that you are attached to?

Cafe Hopping

I was reminded today of why I like Montreal, why I feel good here, why I feel welcomed, and most importantly, why I feel I belong.

While cafe hopping over several consecutive weekends, I stumbled upon this cute scene. I was browsing the world on my tablet, sipping my latte, when three girls come into the cafe, sit on the floor, form a triangle, and start playing Bananagrams. They were not having any coffee or tea. What happened next was even more charming; the lady of the cafe offered them free loukoum.

Bon weekend tout le monde!

St Joseph Oratory

I have been to St. Joseph Oratory in Spring, but I have never visited it in winter. I knew that it would be lovely, so I headed there this evening with a couple of friends with the intention of taking photos and relaxing in the warmth of the churches. I managed to come out with these photos. I hope you like them!

Free Pets

Montreal is full of interesting and trendy people; I love walking down Mont Royal or St. Denis and admiring the fashion on the street! I spotted this man walking with his family (wife and baby) and their pets: a dog and these two lovely birds perched on his hands! Quite a quaint fashion statement, eh?!

My New Neighborhood

The big move has finally taken place and we are here in Montreal. At the airport, everything went smoothly and we were out of immigration and announced permanent residents in less than an hour. We arrived last Thursday and so far it has been a warm welcome (weather and people) and a great beginning to a new journey.

Just because I like to take photos, here is an album of photos taken this weekend while strolling in my new neighborhood.