So what to keep your eye out for next? From September the 11th-20th the quaint village of Saint-Tite in the Maurice region plays host to the biggest, wildest, Western festival in the whole of Canada. The usually peaceful town is flooded with over 400,000 bare-back riding, John Wayne wannabes, all saddled up, and raring to go.
rodeo
Marvel at the agility, bravery and downright madness of the rodeo cowboys, as they show off their skills at over 9 different events including bareback bronc riding, calf roping and rescue racing. Cow girls can get involved as well; this is one of the only Western Festivals where women can saddle up, and take to the ring and demonstrate their prowess.
Country and Western is most definitely alive and kicking in this remote corner of Québec. Familiarize yourself with the music and line dance the night away. Yee Haw.
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Rivière-à-Pierre train
Stress free and from the comfort of your locomotive, idly gaze through huge panoramic windows at the picturesque forests, and quaint villages of the Lanaudière and Mauricie regions. This exhilarating journey crosses an almighty bridge which glides above the tree tops. Something you’d only expect to see in an ol’ Western railway movie.
Your gently meandering rail adventure comes to an end in Saguénay, where you’re free to explore the surrounding area. Hop on a bike and get some fresh alpine air, marvel at fiery hues of the never ending forests. Or grab a canoe,and head out onto the Lac St Jean, an inland sea where at the right time of year you may bump into a graceful Beluga Whale or two.
If you’d like to see Québec by train, get in touch with us
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phoca
Being an international hub, Johannesburg is the perfect venue for such an event. It attracts visitors from all over the country and continent resulting in a colourful explosion of dance, song and infectious African spirit. This year’s line up includes performances from South Africa’s finest talents; Caiphus Semenya, Lira, Zonke and Afro’traction. So grab a panic basket, a chilled bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, and enjoy the music.
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markets to haute couture, find out what makes this city tick
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seine
explore the markets
To get your Paris trip perfect, you must wonder the labyrinth of ramshackle, twisting and turning, flea markets. Les Puce de Saint-Ouen is a good place to start. The most famous of the all (and the largest, over 6 hectares in fact), Les Puce is the ultimate Parisian shopping experience. Kick start your day with a croissant and coffee (trust us, you’ll need it), and wonder the bustling markets to pick up a great bargain or two. Items to look out for? No questions asked the antiques are drop dead gorgeous.
Foodies listen up. For the best pancakes, muffins and fois gras in town, head to Marché Biologique. A loud, rowdy farmers market, all the produce is organic and, simply put, absolutely delicious (plus, they sell great herb medleys and coastal sea salts too). Fashionistas, you best head to Marché Saint Pierre, a buzzing hub for upcoming French designers and the latest fashions. And, if you’re looking for an exotic bird (a long shot perhaps, but they’re still great to gawp at) try Marche aux Fleures et aux Oiseaux on a Sunday.
Louvre
stroll the streets
When it comes to Paris, it’s a tale of two cities. There’s the old quarter containing the likes of St. Germain des Pres and beyond, and the newer, more cosmopolitan quarters like Belleville and Châteaurouge. We just can’t resist Montmatre though. An area that stays true to that seductive Parisian bohemia feel. This is one hip, arty, poetry drenched hotspot. A favourite of Picasso and Dali, see and be seen on Rue de Martyrs – it’s great for trendy vintage clothes too.
Lose yourself in the Bastille district. Bustling and exciting, this is where the faire la fête comes alive at night. Hit Rue de la Roquette for stylish nightclubs, bars, and great music venues.
hit the shops
Paris holds the world’s fashion key. So, in a city where style and elegance are paramount, where on earth to go to hit the best shops? Those who live to shop, will feel right at home amongst the Haute Couture on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigue. Or, hit the shops on Rue Etienne Marcel and Place des Victoires where the trend is set, and not merely followed. To shop à l’américaine style – as the French would call it – Paris is also home to some spectacular department stores; Printemps, Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché just to name a few.
For something a little different, and more authentically French for that matter, the old-fashioned 19th-century shopping arcades are wonderful. The city’s best are Passage de Panoramas in the 2ième district, and Passage Jouffroy in the 9ième district.
traditional eats and watering holes
When in Paris, do as the French do. And that means utter dedication, and appreciation, of good, authentic food. Start the day in le café, we like Chez Prune in the north-east of the city for baguettes and cheese platters, or Le Loir dans la Théière for a trendy brunch finished off with their tangy lemon tart. Lunch time strikes and it’ll be time for Le Relais de L’Entrecôte for the ultimate steak frites, or Chartier, a relaxed and casual eatery great for éscargots, egg mayonnaise and potato purée. And supper, well grab your lipstick and heels and head straight for L’Ecailler du Bistrot for deliciously fresh seafood. Alternatively, and for ultimate bragging rights, recently opened Ralph’s in St Germain is the flash new eatery to head for. But don’t stop there. For every moment in between indulge your sweet tooth with some of the finest patisseries in the world. Our favourite’s La Pâtisserie des Rêves; it’s the latest gourmet boudoir opened by the King of Pastry himself, Chef Conticini. Think cakes, pastries, tarts, chocolates, and the list goes on and on…
And to wash it all down with? Hang out at the horseshoe bar with the locals at Au Petit Fer à Cheval. For the best jazz, pull on your some casual jeans and loathers and soak in the laid back classics at Baiser Salé. For a colonial chic atmosphere sip delicious cocktails at Le China in the 11th district, or for a wild night out hit Murano for test tube tasting of 180 vodkas.
Bon appetite.
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explore the streets of kyoto
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kyoto
explore the markets
On the 21st of each month, the usually tranquil grounds of Toji Temple erupt into the great and spectacularly colourful Toji Market. A distinctively unique shopping experience in Japan, the goods at Toji range from expensive antiques, dubious ‘cure-alls’ to row upon row of authentic Japanese artefacts. But don’t miss Tedukuri-ichi flea market too. An open-air craft market, two locals triggered the explosion of this market back in 1986 after setting up a small stall selling handmade goods and crafts. Today it’s home to over 1,000 stalls selling everything from spices, pottery, coffee, and bread. Arrive with a suitcase and you’ll return with a supermarket.
stroll the streets
To spot a geisha, the Gion district is the place to be. Here you’ll find busy, ramshackle streets aligned with small, wooden houses in the beautiful machiya style. It was in the late 1500′s that geishas made these narrow laneways their home, amongst the ancient ochaya (teahouses), but today you’ll stumble across the maze of cool bars and riverside restaurants too. If you’re lucky enough to be in Kyoto in July, don’t miss the annual Gion festival. Over 1100 years old, you’ll find the locals in traditional dress parading the streets with lanterns in honour of the great Yasaka shrine.
hit the shops
For shops, more shops, and – you guessed it – even more shops, Teramachi-dori is every shopper’s dream. A pedestrianised, one kilometre long, lane; it has everything you could possibly need, plus a whole lot more. A historic street due to the creation of warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s many temples here, when it come to clothes shops, souvenir stores, antiquarian bookshops, instrument outlets, and traditional teahouses, Teramachi-dori is unrivalled.
Looking for a kimono? Try Erizen, Kyoto’s leading kimono store stocked to the brim with a rainbow of kyo-yuzens (Kyoto-style dyed fabrics). And we just can’t resist Benri-do too. This converted machiya (traditional Japanese house) is fantastic for out of the ordinary postcards to send home.
Rurikou
traditional eats and watering holes
For the best of exotic dining in Kyoto, the Pontochó district is the best place to be. The restaurants here are the crème de la crème of Japanese cuisine; from super exclusive geisha houses to common yakitori bars. For lunch, it has to be Efish. A small cafe tucked away down one ramshackle hidden street, Efish is a hotspot with the locals (always a good sign) with a trendy ambience and river views. Order the okra curry, it’s not to missed.
Yearning for sukiyaki? (that’s the Japanese speciality, a hot pot meal of slowly cooked beef.) Then Mishima-tei is your best bet. Go for dinner and a fine dining experience awaits you. Be bowed in, slippered, and escorted to your private tatami room by your own kimono-clad waiter. No doubt about it, Mishima-tei serves up some of the best food in town.
Kyoto is also home to numerous vibrant bars and watering holes, all with large varieties of great local tipples. The Marble Room is where you’ll spot the cool cats. Bright and airy, be seated in white retro buckets on the balcony and taste the best coffee, cocktails and cakes in town. Or, discover Ace Cafe, the frontrunner of retro 50s cool. Popular at sunset, its boasts spectacular views of the city with three floor- to-ceiling glass walls. This place is relaxed, friendly, and effortlessly chic. But whatever you do, don’t pour yourself a drink – it’s extremely rude according to Japanese etiquette.
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discover the city VIP style
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We wanted to bring you behind the scenes of Paris only the VIPs get to see. From backstage passes to private champagne tasting, we’ve whipped up something really quite special. Prepare to be blown away.
Louvre
lido and lourve
Stage to Shirley MacLaine, Laurel and Hardy, and even Elton John, the Lido has been the venue for some of the most famous shows and performers. Having illuminated the city of celebration and entertainment since 1946, its walls echo the works of flamboyant displays, dances and song, and it can all be experienced by you. A glittering venue, discover it for yourself by walking onto the renowned stage, visiting the wings, walking the corridors and stairs to the boxes, seeing the 600 plus sumptuous costumes in the dressing rooms, as well as getting an insight into the magic that creates no less than 23 sets for the revue. Share the exhilaration and enchantment of the performers with the best seats in the house, and take your candlelit supper in private, with personal waiter on hand. A performance fit for royalty, soak up this enlightening night the way the VIPs do. Enjoy.
Next up, after a good night’s sleep in the glorious 5-star Le Meurice, relish the freedom of the Louvre all to your very self. Led exclusively by an elite art historian, get face to face with some of the world’s finest masterpieces, whether it be the Mona Lisa, Venus of Milo, a Rembrandt or Rubens. Minus the queues and crowds of tourists, we guarantee this one an unforgettable experience.
sunset on the seine
As night falls, take to the River Seine, the most beautiful avenue in the world. Jump aboard your private yacht, champagne in hand, and sail to see the sights at sunset. Discovering the panoramic view of the French capital on water, you’ll capture Paris’ iconic landmarks in all their glory; basked beneath the falling sunshine, and later a starlit sky. From the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, an expert guide will accompany you for the journey, sharing the stories of each historic monument as it passes. Best of all, be seated, and sit back to a three course gourmet meal on board. Bon appétit.
Veuve Clicquot mansion
champagne and chateaus
Having wined and dined under the stars, we’ll soon whisk you away (in a vintage Mercedes no less) to one of the greatest historic French provinces: Champagne. And, what to do in Champagne? Well, champagne, champagne, and more champagne of course. Flying through the breathtaking French countryside, you’ll arrive at one of the world’s most prestigious champagne makers; Verve Clicquot. While visiting their cellars, you will discover the step and techniques of wine making, from vineyard to glass. Pressing, fermentation, blending, and bottling, you’ll see it all. And when it’s time for lunch, where else but Clicquot’s magnificent chateau itself. Sitting in the heart of a rolling vineyard, take your place in the grand banqueting room and prepare yourself for some of the most exquisite cuisine you’ll ever taste.
Finally, the day ends in the famous champagne house Moët & Chandon where the chef de caves will privately show you the largest wine cellars in France; an impressive labyrinth of 30km, 30 meters below Epernay. And before you go, don’t forget a private tasting of Moët & Chandon’s Millesime blanc et rose 2003. It’s truly magnificent.
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uncover the urban unknown
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kids mongolia
Explore the markets
Regional markets are the best way immerse yourself in a country’s way of life, and take a peek at how the locals do things. Head to the Farmer’s Market outside the Museum of Revolution, for a unique chance to feast your eyes on some fresh Mongolian produce. Stock up on your 5 a day, with freshly picked berries, and seasonal vegetables. Wander around the stalls sampling the traditional cheeses and meats. Best of all when you’ve made your purchases you can duck into the guanz (a traditional cafe) and hunker down with the locals for a hearty dish of horsemeat, a local specialty and definitely worth a try.
Wander the streets
In the centre of the city, you’ll find the Sukabaatar Square surrounded by stark examples of Soviet architecture which contrast with the rolling mountains and endless blue skies. The beating heart of Ulaanbaator, the Square is constantly a hive of activity. It was here back in 1921 that Damdin Sukhbaatar declared final independence from the Chinese. Marvel at the statue of this Mongolian legend astride his stead, which takes centre piece of the square. Perched along the edges of square you’ll find the austere State Parliament House, as well as the Palace of Culture, a beacon of modern Mongolia, this landmark contains the Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery and several other cultural institutions.
Feed your inner culture vulture
Not many people know about the history and events that have shaped this fascinating country’s identity today. Wow your friends back at home with some awesome Mongol style knowledge, after a visit to the National Museum of Mongolian History. The museum features exhibitions from the Stone Age, to the god father of Mongolian culture ol’ Genghis Khan.
Music enthusiasts will not want to miss The Khatan Ekh National Song & Dance Group. Party like a local and view outstanding examples of the unique Mongolian throat-singing, known as khöömii; full-scale orchestral renditions of old and new Mongolian music; contortionists guaranteed to make your eyes water; and recitals featuring the unique horse-head violin, the morin khuur. A night you certainly won’t forget in a hurry.
Traditional eats and watering holes
Mongolian food is simple, honest and delicious. And as all true Mongols will tell you meat is a staple part of their cuisine. Ikh Mongol doles out huge platters of grilled meat and jugs of beer, probably not the best place for the calorie conscious among us. But the views from the terrace of this secret little eatery of the surrounding rugged peaks certainly make it a must visit spot.
mongolia valley
For a bonafide Mongolian meal the Taliin Mongol, will not disappoint. Walk inside to find walls covered with traditional art and tamga (traditional livestock brands), as well as a miniature felt ger. Try a number of Mongol treats, including grilled yak cheese with yogurt, lamb khorkhog (steamed meat) traditional Kazakh horse sausage and even boiled lamb’s head. Definitely an adventure your taste buds will never forget.
For a unique after hour’s experience, get yourself to Ismuss. This nightclub offers revelers a chance to dance the night away in a retro Soviet chic style. The centre piece of this urban hot spot is a 7m statue of Stalin which once stood outside the National Library, now it dominates the dance floor.
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live it up in Russia's glamorous capital
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Manezhnaya Square
Explore the markets
For souvenirs there’s no better place to pick up your very own Matryoshka doll than at the Izmailovsky Market. This enormous, Kitsch market is a must see spectacle. Spend hours wandering through the labyrinth of stalls charmingly decorated with various statues of figures from Russian folklore and myths. Browse at unexpected finds from pre-war cameras and binoculars, to traditional Russian handicrafts and an impressive selection of original paintings, all at bargain prices. When you had your fill of bartering, rest your feet and enjoy a freshly barbequed Georgian shashliki, a traditional kebab.
Wander the streets
To conjure up an image of true Russia head to the Old Arbat Street, one of the oldest roads in the city. Known for being the hub for Moscow’s artistic community during the 18th century, take a stroll along this charming mansion lined boulevards. Pull up a pew outside number 53, where Pushkin once called home, now a museum celebrating the poets work.
For all you literature junkies familiar with Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita, get yourself to Patriarshy Prudiy. For those who haven’t come across it paints the perfect picture of Stalinist Russia, and the Surrealism that still exists here today. Patriarshy Prudiy, or “Patriarch’s Pond,” is surrounded by Stalin-era architecture, and features a dramatic sculpture garden allowing insight to the artistic movement at the time. The best time to go is early in the morning, armed with a coffee and a copy of Bulgakov’s masterpiece, what better way to get and under the skin of Moscow’s history.
Moscow by night
Hit the shops
As all well heeled Muscovites will tell you, the only place to shop is the Gum shopping mall, located opposite the Red Square. A designer divas heaven, locals refer to the mall as an exhibition space, as no one can afford the mind boggling price tags. However, if you’re not willing to drop a bomb for your threads then even window shopping here is a worthwhile experience. Wander through the capacious, architecturally stunning hallways packed with every designer boutique you could ever dream of, and marvel at the splendour and pretentiousness. Those with a sweet tooth will love the famous Russian Confectionary Krasny Oktyobr, which specialises in traditional dark Russian chocolates.
Traditional eats and watering holes
In a city that isn’t too keen on small and intimate hangouts, Simachev Bar is a Jewel in the usually over glitzy champagne fuelled Moscow nightlife scene. With a quirky retro 70’s look, delicious drinks and a rocking DJ, kick back with a Moscow Mule and let the good times roll.
No trip to the Russian capital is complete without a dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant such as Tifilis. Moscow is the best place outside the Caucasus to sample the spicy cuisine of the former Soviet republic of Georgia, famous for its hearty meat dishes. Try the thick, rich and oh so tasty kharcho (beef soup).
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soak up the sights in style
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Whisked straight to the buzzing civic centre, start your trip with a welcome class of Champagne in the great Red Square (which is neither red nor square). Soak up the atmosphere of central Moscow in style. Marvel over St Basil’s Cathedral, shop the boutiques at GUM, and tour the vibrant Arbat Street. A soulful city with endless sights, Moscow is one place that won’t fail to impress.
moscow by night
‘city within a city’
Following a delicious buffet breakfast at your hotel, the five-star Ararat Park Hyatt, it’ll be up and out to explore the city’s magnificent sights. First up, the Kremlin. As its red brick towers rise defiantly over the city, you’ll be quick to realise here lays the historical heart of the city. Iran the Great’s ‘city within a city’ appears a continuous reminder of the dark history Russia has endured, yet will seem long gone amongst the hustle and bustle of street performers – from ballerinas to chimps – at its feet. As you soak in its glory, begin your tour of the grand Kremlin Grounds, making your way to the Armory. Here you’ll see the beautiful Faberge eggs, each made from precious metals and stone, intricately decorated with combinations of enamel and gems. With a private curator on hand to share their stories, you’ll get the real insider’s view as you get an insight of the indigestible wealth of each egg.
backstage pass
Next up, enjoy an exclusive backstage visit of the infamous Bolshoi Theatre. A major symbol of Russia as a great nation affluent in artistic and creative expression, Bolshoi leads the world in opera and ballet. With a behind-the-scenes pass, you’ll be able to discover the history of the theatre in depth, with access to the wings, costume and set-design departments too. Enjoy tea backstage, and don’t forget to star-spot the leading actors and dancers.
L-39 fighter jet
bird’s eye view
With the city discovered and explored what next? Well, how about you see Moscow from 10,000ft up? Train with the experts and take to the skies in an L-39 fighter jet for a full days catapult training one mile high above the city. Take your seat in an Aero Albatros for unique view. It’s thrilling, gripping, and spectacular. So go on, fasten your seat belts and prepare for the ride of your life.
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hunting with eagles
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But the real edge to our trip comes in the form of eagle hunting, Kazakh hospitality, and mountain trekking. This is one action-packed, wildlife-fuelled adventure.
snow capped mountains
meet the red hero
Experience Ulaanbaatar – meaning ‘Red Hero’ – Mongolia’s glittering capital city. This is where tradition meets modernity; Ulaanbaatar is a hub of Mongolia’s bohemian culture and pulsating lifestyle. As shocking as it is electrifying, picture ornate flowing eaves of the monastery temples standing beside communist planned courtyards and modern sky scrapers.
Be met on arrival by your driver and guide who knows this city like the back of his hand. He’ll take you to each and every hotspot, to marvel at the city’s spectacular sights, taste the local cuisine, and feel the vibe of the bustling city. An eye-opening introduction to this fascinating country, Ulaanbaatar is where it all begins.
hunting with eagles
Next, catch an early-morning flight out to Ulgii, predominantly a Kazakh city that happens to be in Mongolia. Here, Muslim influence is widespread, so from the religion to its people, clothes to the food, Ulgii shines within its unique and special atmosphere. Ulgii is your gateway to the remote far west, so following a whistle-stop tour, you’ll be up and out to Altantsogts with a stop en route to Oni Mountain, the birthplace of these astonishing birds.
legendary eagles
Meet Sailau and his family. Sailau is one of the most experienced eagle hunters in the region, and your ticket to experience firsthand Kazakh hospitality and the nomadic lifestyle. You’ll roam the vast, empty lands learning the unique skills and techniques of eagle hunting. From the horse’s mouth, Sailau excels in passing on all there is to know about eagle hunting and its fascinating history.
Before embarking on a hunt, you’ll take training sessions with an eagle against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and breathtaking glaciers. Then on board horses, or on foot if you wish, you’ll trek deep into the Altai Mountains to begin the hunt, watching the eagles soar to monumental heights before swooping down to catch prey.
Hunting with eagles is a life’s profession in fact; master and bird have an intimate relationship which is built on over 20 years of trust. It is an all-consuming relationship too, particularly considering that when young, the growing bird will depend entirely on their master for sight. As legend goes the man trains the eagle, so does the eagle train his man. This is one truly thrilling sport.
shamans, cashmere and caviar
Before returning to Ulaanbaatar (one night was never going to be enough), you’ll travel to meet a local shaman. Shamans are the messengers between the human world and the spirit world. They are said to mend the soul through treatments, seeking to restore balance and wholeness to the individual. An intricate art form, the shaman will welcome you and provide a unique insight into his world.
For one final night, kick back in Ulaanbaatar and enjoy the city as you will. Stock up on all those things that caught your eye; cashmere jumpers, Mongolian boots, fur hats and caviar. Complete your evening with a farewell meal at one of our favourite restaurants.
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