Montreal, Canada

I started this blog in October 2012 to document my experience of traveling through Europe solo. Two weeks before that, my mom and I spent four days exploring Montreal and getting a taste of France in North America. From the cobblestone streets to the unique art scene to the unbelievable cuisine, Montreal is a great place for a long-weekend getaway. A few of my musts are:

Olive + Gourmando. We loved this restaurant we went there twice on our trip {and would have gone a third time had it not been closed for the day}. This boulangerie features cozy rustic decor with some of the most spectacular casual cuisine I have ever eaten. Everything we ordered from the housemade ricotta to the artisianal breads and pastries to the bubbling mac & cheese was out of this world delicious. Definitely my top pick in all of the city.

Juliette & Chocolat. The perfect place for a girl's afternoon, order lunch but be sure to save room for as many chocolate concotions as your belt buckle will allow. From crepes to chocolate fondue to pastries to the most heavenly hot chocolate, this restaurant is all about satisfying your sweet tooth.

Jean-Talon Market. Jean-Talon Market. In the heart of Little Italy, this public market is a must for foodies. Be sure to save room in your suitcase for some local specialities, including the spectacular maple syrup!

Vieux-Montréal. With its cobblestone streets lined with buildings dating from the 17th and 18th century, Old Montreal is the touristic center of the city - and for good reason. It is truly beautiful and the perfect place to spend a day exploring on food and pretending like you're in Europe.

Notre-Dame Basilica. Easily one of the most spectacular churches in North America, the interior of the church features tens of thousands of 24-karat gold stars on the mystical blue ceiling {remnisicant of that of Saint-Chapelle Cathedral}.

Montreal Botanical Garden. Although many of the flowers had stopped blooming by our October visit {winter was already fast approaching the city}, the botanical gardens were absolutely beautiful and are highly recommended.