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Freshness with the delight of Perfection

Sushi Go

3712, Innes Road, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

(613) 424-7051

http://www.sushigoexpress.ca/

Doesn’t matter If you are Sushi connoisseur or just a shy beginner. Your palate will thank you for giving them a try. I am a very difficult critic to please, and they hooked me ! Lucky for me, they are located just outside of the fitness center where I do my training. That’s how I discovered them. After my training, on a Friday afternoon, I just noticed the Sushi sigh, and I said with all that training, I don’t want to waist all that training by having a pizza tonight. I walked-in, without having any idea on what to expect. The first contact was easy, you walk-in, you get to the counter (it’s a small but cozy business with a few waiting chairs and high tables and chairs, almost like a bar setting). The staff and very friendly, if you don’t know what to get they will guide you. I looked at the menu and decided to try a party tray (25 pcs for two person on the first visit).

When it was ready, I noticed that everything was as fresh as fresh can be. I have seen the staff do it. The presentation is neat, well placed in a plastic transparent carrying tray. You can see every items of your meal.

Once I got home (45 minutes later), I hurried to put them in the refrigerator until dinner time. I got all my stuff ready to make a complete meal (spring rolls, etc.). The moment of truth arrived, first I smell , then I taste. My reaction was a huge smile and said immediately…Divine!  So Fresh and tasty, it does taste what it should ( no bad smell of older fish or dryness of yesterday’s sushi). I am delighted with my new find.

From my point of view, after trying many restaurants who pretend to be mastering the art of making sushi . I can honestly say, that they were not. So far , I just have found one other Restaurant in Canada,  who could equal the quality of Sushi Go and they are in Quebec city.

I just returned last Friday, and I ordered a 15 Pcs (I was eating alone that evening). To my great surprise , I could have eaten easily 20. You eat and you don’t feel stuffed. they are very light and delicate.

Recommendations: You have to try the spicy ones!   For those who never tried Sushi before, start with the vegetarians , you’ll climb to the other stuff in no time…Promise!

Party Tray

Party Tray

sushi evening Dec 26th 2010

Party Tray

sushi evening-3 Dec 26th 2010

Party Tray

sushi evening-4 Dec 26th 2010

Party Tray

The Only Oxygen you’ll need

OXYGEN MEDISPA

2602, Innes Road

Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1B4Z6

613-317-7572

http:www.oxygen-medispa.com

My first visit at the Oxygen Medispa, It was after buying a Groupon (a rebate Voucher that you buy online). I was not too sure what to expect (hesitant and skeptical). Since I had tried many other spas in the past. I was wondering what else they can offer that I haven’t seen already. So I called, tried to book my first appointment, asking for the specific treatment of Ultrasonic Liposuction, The lady on the phone suggested having lots of water before and after the treatment. Then I asked her if I can combined two session in one (Usually the treatment is offered in 30 minutes in length session), But put two together and you’ll get a one hour session. To my great surprise, she said NO! It left me with a huge question mark in my head? Is it a question of making me paying for more session, after I am done with that voucher or else? I have seen it in other spas where I tried the Ultrasonic Liposuction (sometimes only the name changes, like Lipocavitation) back then, I was at my third spa with that specific treatment.
I needed to verify what was the technology they were using and if they were using it correctly (safety first), the instructions that they give you, the recommendations (pre and post treatment), if they welcome you in a proper way and make you feel welcome from the minute you walk-in until the moment your leaving, or am I just another digit $ in your daily cash register?

The day of my first visit:
I got my voucher, I am feeling a little nervous(I don’t know what to expect), but at the same time, I am feeling on my guards, with all my question ready. I am going to toast them with my specific questions (Usually the girls can’t answer them), and I’ll know for sure if they at least know what they are doing. I arrived at the location, lucky for me, it’s a free public parking, with enough parking space (good start). I got in with my “I mean Business face” (a determined women on a mission just walked-in or a real bitch if you prefer). Anyhow, the person behind the counter gave me her best smile and welcomed me, in a very friendly manner (destabilizing , far from what I was expecting). She right away took my voucher and offered me a beverage (water or herbal tea). I accepted a glass of water, and the glass was spotless clean, I was expecting lipstick traces or fingers prints all over, like I’ve seen in other places.

My first stop before having my treatment, was the bathroom (I need to inspect) for me, if the bathroom is not clean, I can only imagine that everything else is the same (I am Germaphobic to a certain point, mostly when it comes to public establishments). This one was clean, but they did not have a hook on the wall or behind the door (I can’t leave my purse on the floor with all the germs crawling around, neither should anyone else).
Now, time to get in the room, as I am walking in the hallway, I can se the candles, the pictures frames (Paintings), It’s nicely decorate, I could even say sophisticate without pretention. Right away you start to feel the positive and relaxing energy.
The treatment’s rooms (they have more than one), are small but cozy. Well organized, functional. I would even consider it to be ergonomic for the technician (everything is placed in a manner that the technicians don’t have to twist or stretch too much); The tables (massage tables) are at a proper height for either the technician or us.
Once I am in the treatment’s room, Joanne started with the first visit questionnaire, again I was on my guards (I was so sure that I was just going to do my 4 sessions and try other spa after that).She is asking medical questions, if you know about the technology they are using, the benefits of doing the treatments, your age, in resume they need to know who you are and what you’re hoping to find there.
Finally, I got on the table’ got my pants down on my hips (I was doing the Ultrasonic-Liposuction on my abdomen), while I was finalizing my questionnaire in my head. Joanne, started by telling me about the machine itself, what to expect after one treatment (30 minutes to a maximum of 45 minutes per session or it can literally hurt your organs and you have to wait at least 48 hours before another one). As I am lying on the table, she is starting the machine, put the gel (translucent conductor gel) and the massager on my abdomen. Here it is…the noise, it’s like a constant humming sound, loud enough…I asked about that and she said that she can hardly hear it, since the noise is coming from me….say what? Now I am an emitter…wow! (It’s the Ultrasonic waves crossing my body), so I guess now I can understand why we shouldn’t and can’t have 1 hour sessions!
While she was doing my treatment, it was time to carry-on with my own questionnaire. I asked her about her training and how she got started as a technician; How her boss was trained, who is the owner, for how long the business was operational, did it changed of owner recently, how they disinfect the machines, all kind of pertinent questions. To my great surprise, she was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions in a very professional way. Always polite and giving me even more details, then what I was expecting to get. At the end of my session, she took the time to clean-up all the gel that was left on me(I had some on my sides and on my abdomen), she wiped it all out(I was dry, usually with the other spas I tried, I was left with half of the gel, so I ended-up having gel in my underwear’s and on my tops). After that, she took my measurements, we need to compare from one session to the other (is it working or not?).
I booked my second session after that, that’s when I got introduced to the owner (Shawna), a real nice lady, who loves her work and who is passionate about helping each client’s reaching their best appearance possible.

To this day, I am still going on a regular basis to Oxygen Medisap, because they are reliable, the staff is fantastic, the location is good , but a bit far for me  (I have to drive 40 minutes to get there), you can book your appointment online, the price is average,  compares to the other similar services offered in the other spas. The Quality of services and effectiveness is incomparable to the others I’ve visited (In Ontario). I would give them a 9/10, because of the location and because they don’t take the Amex card.

The services they offers are multiples: Body Contouring, Alpha Led Capsule, Face Treatments, Reflexology, Reiki, Waxing (even where you can’t imagine someone would do), Nails, Ion foot detox, Lashes, Teeth Whitening, Botox and Filler, and yes they have specific treatments offered for Men (I have seen a few while I was there)! Good to know, they are wheelchair accessible (On the main floor, no steps and large doors) and I am sure that the ladies, would not hesitate to hold the doors and help you in.

Would I recommend? Yes, Absolutely! Why? Because, they are the best at what they’re doing and it works! Suggestion: For those tempted to do some treatments and expect to lose 100 lbs. without changing your habits (no exercise and eating junk-food), it’s no brainer…no pain, no gain! Oxygen Medispa is like a box of tools, and you should us it as a complement to whatever you are willing to do (Exercises program, diet, les alcohol, etc.) to achieve your realistic goal (los weight, get a tighter body, reshape, get back your figure after a pregnancy, etc.). Paying for a result is something, but without a superior amount of efforts and sweat, you will not be happy at the end!  (not the results your expecting and less money in your pockets)

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The front Door

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Inside in-front of the counter

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The Hallway to the treatment’s rooms

The owner Shawna

The owner Shawna

What they've help me achieved until now!

What they’ve help me achieved until now!

Book your appointment ahead of time

Gentle Touch Spa&Laser

5657 Spring Garden Rd,
Halifax, Nova Scotia
902-429-6611

 

I have discovered that spa, using a search engine on the web. I was going to visit Halifax for 8 days and wanted to try a few spas during my stay . I choose that one first, because they are offering so many services and they are in two locations (Halifax and Dartmouth) . I booked my appointment, probably 3-4 weeks before my trip. I scheduled a Body sculpting session (thinking that it was the same thing that I have experienced in other spas), but it’s a very different technologies (they are using Accent XL) .

I was taking a walk in the area the day before, so I stop to see where the spa was located specifically , it’s in Park Lane mall -M2 . Very easy to find and a walking distance from most hotels in the area. I just went to the receptionist (a small counter), I taught to myself that it was so small , that it was impossible to have that many services or clients. But , I was wrong!  I asked her if I could get my treatment now, since I was on site, she said no, we are fully booked for weeks. The thing is that they have a sigh at the door, saying that walk-ins clients are welcome. I tested it and it’s not working (perhaps it’s a real busy time and it’s exceptional?) .

The next day, I showed up for my appointment and requested , if possible to have my nails done and a spray-tan, I wanted to try different services they are offering, it would make a better review. Yet again, they said that it was impossible, maybe a spray-tan, if my Accent Xl session was going well ( takes about 60-90 minutes) . I got to the treatment room , expecting that it was going to be like any other treatments’ I got in the past . To my great surprise, the technician (who was very knowledgeable) told me that It was very different, and that it was very important for the clients to drink lots of water (or you would feel a real burning sensation, like an open flame on your skin). Good thing that I am a huge water drinker. It was pretty tolerable . The technician was supposed to send me an email with her name and all the specific of the spa , but she didn’t . I would have told you more on the technology and on the services they offers.

The rooms are cleaned, the perfect temperature (not too cold or hot), a little music is playing in the background, but it’s relaxing. The staff members are well trained (most of them have studied in that field , have been trained by the owner or went on special trainings as far as Chicago or Vancouver, If I remember correctly).

After my treatment was done , she told me that if I wanted a spray-tan, that it would be feasible . (If you consider doing it, wear dark clothing). I got in another room, got naked and installed myself in a little tent. (put a little shower cap on my hair) It cost 45$ and last about 7 days, I choose the medium-dark tan (I am already pretty dark naturally). After it was done, I was a bit upset (with me perhaps) you have to stay in the tent after she is done spraying, avoid to touch yourself while you dry (fan in front of you).Suggestion, you have to take the time to let it dry, before getting dressed (it does streaks if you touch it). Lucky for me, I am so dark that it didn’t showed that much. After your done, they will offer to buy a can (for other applications when it starts to fade away) I have bought a can (same price) and it’s good for about 6 weeks of tan (like 6 tx) .

I would recommend their services, they have so many that I will not elaborate on the list, you can visit their website and see what they offer. The price list is comparable to any other spas.

Tips: If you live in the area, and that you consider making changes in your health (loosing weight or getting back in shape) book an appointment to see what services would be good for you, let them do an assessment that will work for you . Not all technologies or treatments, are recommended or works on  everyone ( we are all different). 
For the visitors, if you know the dates of your visit to Halifax, book your appointment ahead of time , even more true if it’s summer.

Happy relaxation, to all of you!

Organization

 

 

My husband and I discovered the Restaurant Sens , by accident…really! We had an accident on the highway …we lost a wheel (rear-left side). Rest assured, we were not harmed , but shaken quite a bit . To make a story short, we got towed to the Garage (Sega Chrysler St-Bruno) where they took care of everything. The repairs will be long, so we had no choice but to go to the Hotel. The Mortagne was suggested, and we went.

After getting to our room, we noticed that they had a terrace (a real nice one). After a glass of wine, and calming down a little bit (we were shaken after the accident , a very stressful event). We got down, sat on a sofa (it was very quiet and nice), superb place to be after such a scare. We noticed a few persons (staff) around the outdoor bar (counter), they were talking together, without noticing us (I figured), I went to the bar, and ordered our first drinks …making sure to let them know of our ordeal of the day. One gentleman (I guess it was the manager or something like that, was compassionate) . We had our drink while reminiscing the whole experience, that could have turned more badly . After a while, we were expecting that a waiter or waitress would showed up and ask if we want something else, but it did not happened. I had to return to the bar and asked again….but this time, I said If I were you guys, I would make sure to take good care of my clients , because at the end of your shift, the way you act will directly reflect on your tips.

They got my message, after that one of them ( young Italian man, he even spoke Spanish with me , it was real nice and unexpected, he was very nice.. Piedro , I think? but I am not sure,  sorry!) , more experienced or money wise, took the lead and was our waiter for the rest of the evening . At some points, we have met two salesperson who joined us on our sofa. We chatted a while, having a few more drinks ( it was also the Latino night and a live Cuban band was playing on site) and decided to stay for dinner (it was getting late, at around 9h00 ) . The experience was superb. the food is succulent (gourmet style). It was a very positive experience , that make us want to return  the next day(we had nowhere else to go), stuck at the hotel waiting for our jeep to be fixed. When we’ve returned , our yesterday’s waiter was fast on offering drinks and suggested food we should try at dinner. I listened to his suggestions and order a trio of spiced food ( I specifically said nothing too fat) and It was fat (but one’s taste is not another one). He offered something else, but that was it for me, I was not hungry anymore.

The service, started very slow and difficult, but once they are organized, or once they know that you are good clients (I am not sure which one comes first), they will run to make sure you are pleased with everything.

The Restaurant’s name couldn’t be more perfect, it’s an all SENSes experience (even more true in the summer). Beautiful for the eyes, agreeable for the ears (Latino Thursdays), Sensational for the nose (fresh herbs and gourmet food), Delectable for the palate (taste fresh and amazing),  the touch…well, if you happen to have a companion with you (hold hands or share fingers food) and if you have a 6th sense, you know that you have to visit that establishment.

I would definitely recommend to everyone, doesn’t matter if your a groups, between friends, colleagues, a family, a couple on honeymoon or even solo, in town for business. They will have something to make you want to return as soon as possible.

Suggestion: you have to try the Duck mousse “mousse foie de canard” with Clos du Bois wine!

 It’s a huge two tombs up for me!

 

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A fabulous find after a disastrous accident

Hotel Mortagne

1228 Rue Nobel,

Boucherville, Quebec J4B5H1, Canada

1-866-500-4938

http://www.hotelmortagne.com

reservation@hotelmortagne.com

 

It was the first day of our 3 weeks summer vacation (July 2014), it was a beautiful day, sunny with no cloud, but a bit cold. We took the road with our jeep and our camper-trailer . Heading to Quebec city (our fist stop). The road was on construction (In Canada , especially in the province of Quebec, most of the road are in constructions for years) nothing new. It was bumpy and we couldn’t even drive at speed limits (we were towing the camper). We started hearing strange noise and the jeep was acting funny (but no worries, it was at the garage for the past 10 days, for maintenance and some repairs, like the brakes, and calipers) . We were just past St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Qc. Getting close to Ste-Julie. when  I said to my husband, shouldn’t we stop and check what’s going on (it’s shacking a lot now), My husband said that he will stop in a few minutes, when their is less traffic . A few minutes after that, it happened….we lost a wheel (rear-left side). Rest assured, we were not harmed , but shaken quite a bit . To make a story short, we got towed to the Garage (Sega Chrysler St-Bruno) where they took care of everything. The repairs will be long, so we had no choice but to go to the Hotel.

One of the local Gentleman’s that was at the garage, suggested Hotel Mortagne (in Boucherville) 10 minutes away from the garage ( fairly new, good restaurant, higher quality, pool, terrace, close to stores and other restaurants). I just took my IPhone and made the reservation. We got to the hotel at around 3h00 pm. The receptionist did her job well, but when I mentioned that I was there because of a car accident on the highway, and that I had to book online with my phone and that it was not an easy task (the website is not IPhone or Ipad friendly..it kept asking me to go to the main website) , it only offered to book a room (no choice of rates possible ) she didn’t reacted.

We finally got our Room keys, went upstairs ( we were on the 5th floor) . As soon as we walked-in, we both said the same thing, it could have been worst. We didn’t had any expectations, we were not planning a stay in that area at all. The bedroom is huge, with nice furniture, clean, no dust, no stains, no bad odors . The bathroom , is also a very comfy size, with saloon’s full doors, It’s different. The shower, is large and functional (no need to worry about low pressure or not having hot water).  Now, it’s time to talk about The view…It’s in an industrial part of the town (so you can see lots of vans and vehicles), but if your lucky enough to get a room that is above the patio (terrace) you will be very happy with the view, because not only you got to see the amazing terrace (with flowers, trees and many other plants), it’s like being down-south for a moment. You will also , be able to see the Olympic Stadium in Montreal (you have a direct view),

The bed and pillows are very nice (one firm and one soft), the mattress is more on the soft side, but we have good night sleeps (even if we were still shaken from the accident).

I had only a few problems during my stay. One was about the ladies room next to the restaurant , one of the toilet, was so dirty (someone must have been very sick ) it needed to be cleaned real bad. I told the staff at the reception, and within minutes it was cleaned (spotless cleaned) . I returned about an hour after and it was done.  My other problem, was about the rate of the room, as I told previously, the website was not Iphone or Ipad friendly, so I couldn’t select Governement rate, and mentioned it on check-in (without saying that I wanted that specific rate). I assumed that it would be fine anyway. On the second day, after I was a bit more calm (less stressed then on my first day), and remembered that I should tell them about the rate that I needed. The lady at the reception, said no we can’t . I asked to see her manager, she was gone home. On the day of my check-out (after 2 nights), I asked again the lady that was working that day (Roxanne), she was kind enough, to say that she was not able to do it manually on her computer, but she would let her manager help me with that. The next day, I received an email from the manager Mrs Katrine Montbriand , she gave me the rate (I have showed Roxanne the proper Id card ). The adjustments was done and was attached to my email. After all that we’ve been trough, we were grateful that she agreed to refund the difference . Thanks to Roxanne for making the request. I appreciate it!

So people, if you have difficulties using the website, you shouldn’t hesitate to call directly to the hotel , with all your specific demands.

Would I recommend this Hotel? of course I would,  without any hesitation. If you have to go in that area and consider just passing-by, you should make a stop and stay for a night, really you should!

 

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The best Restaurant In The Gigantic Saguenay- Lac-Saint-Jean

Port D’Attache

 

860 Rue Arthur, Roberval,

Quebec G8H 2M1, Canada

(418) 765-1200

http://portdattache.ca

My husband and I just bought a Sailing-boat at the Roberval Marina, and decided to start our vacations on our boat . It was during the festivities of The Traversée internationale du Lac St-Jean , The town of Roberval probably triples in size during a full week.  We were expecting to find a good table for the two of us. The Port d’Attache is located in the Marina’s building (they have 2 level and a huge outdoor terrace that is the best place to admire the boats) . The restaurant is managed by a team , leaded by two fantastic ladies , the twins sisters , Denise and Diane Maroux. 

My experience: We went to the restaurant, expecting to have a table with a view…foolish of us, it was full , and at the time, I didn’t really believed it . Since the upstairs terrace was empty, that’s where we asked to be seated instead. The waitress told us, that if it rains , the chance to get us inside, is minimal to none. We still stick to our idea of eating outside. We placed our order, my first choice was to get the Fondu Vignerone ( a fondue with fresh cut slices of filet mignon). To my greatest deception , we can’t have that outside (of course not, open flame in the wind). We ordered , steaks and a very good bottle of wine. We just received the bottle of wine, when we noticed the sudden changed in the winds and the formation of huge dark clouds. I looked at my husband and said it’s not going to be pretty. I jumped out of my chair, and ran to Kevin (one of the waiter), I told him, it’s going to be ugly in a few minutes, could you do a miracle and find us a small area inside (even the smallest), He said all cute, don’t worry mam, it’s not going to rain, we are used to those clouds around here, it will be all gone in a few minutes….I insisted that it was a matter of minutes before the rain gets here and it will hit real hard. He went inside, got us a table (a small one, but a table inside close to the bar). I returned to my husband, the waitress (Carolanne ) was arriving with our steaks, I said lets go inside, we have a table, it’s now or never, or the steaks are going to be flooded. We just got to the table inside, and the rain started ( heavy rain and winds). Kevin, came to me after that and asked me for the weather predictions for the next day. Again, I have to say thank you to both of them , Kevin and Carolanne, you were totally awesome for helping us, our evening was saved! Total amount for that evening (Two steaks, one very good bottle of wine and a cognac) 110$ without the tips. Quality/price, you can’t compare to anywhere else, it’s a gourmet meal at the price of a fast-food chain. One note about the baguette bread ….If they forget to bring you some, you really should insist on getting it, it’s warm and they have soft buttercream (frosting kind of) mixed with fresh green onions…it’s to die for !

After that first experience, well…let’s say that we were addicted. We returned at least 6 times during our 2 weeks at the marina , we had breakfasts, we had Lunches , afternoon snacks and drinks, and of course more dinners (just the two of us or with some family members). Every time, it was superb, the staff always pleasant and welcoming (even to tourists). Even if they know me now, I think that they are wonderful with every one and don’t take your patronage for granted. They are truly appreciative.

Recommendations: You should make a reservation, ask for a table close to a window (the view), tip the staff well (they work very very hard and they deserve more gratitude).

It’s  a Restaurant that is accessible to anyone ; families (with kids or teenagers), between friends, solo, couples (good for romantic dinner’s as well), the can accommodate even larger groups (a wedding reception happened while we were at the marina) .

The Marcoux’s sisters have succeeded with that business, I predict that they will be in business for a very very long time …franchises in a near future perhaps? It would be nice, to see more restaurant like that .

Kudos to the owners and the staff!

On ne sait jamais quand une critique touristique est en ville!

On ne sait jamais quand une critique touristique est en ville!

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A Tourist’s Charmer

Stayner’s Wharf Pub & Grill

5075 George St

Halifax, NS B3J 1M3

 

902-492-1800

http://staynerswharf.com/

 

It was my second day in Halifax (8 days vacation), I was walking around in the area of  the Upper water street. When my husband text me (he was at the convention center for the week), he was on lunch break, he wanted to know where I was and If I was ready to have lunch, so we’ve meet on Upper street and decided that the closest Pub-Restaurant was Stayner’s Wharf Pub & Grill . We decided to sit on the patio (terrace) outside, it was a lovely day, lots of sunshine and it was hot ( we used the patio umbrella).  As soon as we found a table, the waitress was ready to take our order (a couple of beers on the tap and a fish n’ chips) , they are used to have lots of clients at lunch time, so they were well prepared and organized . We got our meal and beers, even had time to talk a little bit with the waitress (very charming, knowledgeable  and tourist’s oriented) , she was very helpful when it came to suggestions on where I should go for a visit that afternoon (The lower water street, the boardwalk and the historic properties) , she even mentioned that If I get bored alone, I can always come back for another beer and a chat with her.

The food was very good, the beer was very cold and the price, amazingly low for the quality of food and the service. So, we tipped very well!

I am a maritimer and most of us are very social, but with all my years of travelling;  I can say that we can’t generalised on that one, some persons are not social and can’t interact with visitors, but in that case , they know how to make a fist impression on tourist. She made us feel at home and welcome.

It’s one of my best experience during that 8 days trip; I would recommend to anyone to try Stayner’s, and please , let me know if it’s the same thing year-round. Perhaps it was just a summer thing?!

 

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A Part of the Canadian Heritage

Alexander Keith’s Brewery

1496 Lower Water St, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 1R9, Canada

(902) 455-1474      

http://keiths.ca  

 

If you don’t already know, Alexander Keith’s is part of our Canadian heritage. It was founded in 1820 , by Alexander Keith, a Scottish Immigrant and also a Politician.  The brand became very popular, it is now sold in the USA since 2011. Good to know, in 2002 the Halifax mayor Peter Kelly , decided to include in every Alexander Keith’s case of beer,  a special invitation to the clients, an invitation to visit Halifax (good marketing strategy). It must be working , because they have lots of visitors.

 Now, back to my review;  I wanted to visit Alexander Keith’s brewery since 10 years ago, it was my first time in Halifax and I was a bit shy and would not have went by myself. Now, it’s another story, I am more  daring …I am so curious that I visit and do things that I would not have believed possible for me to do.  I went on a cloudy day, it was about 2:30, I took many pictures outside and inside. Good to know, you don’t have to pay to get inside, but you will have to pay if you want a guided tour  ( a new tour starts every 1/2 hour), I would suggest that you do it , if you have the time , it’s about 45 to 1 hour long, depends on the questions you might have. It’s possible to taste a full size beer, that have a bar on site. 

I have to tell you that, besides learning about the process of making beers, you’ll have full show, the guides are wearing costumes and are singing often. So If you are not fans of musicals, it might not be for you. If you don’t mind the music and the acting part, you’ll have a wonderful time!

Everyone are welcome to visit, I have seen some families with kids (but they are not allowed to taste anything). It would be a good activity for groups of friends  who wants to have a good time.

Suggestion: Visit on a rainy day, even if it’s a bit more crowded, you don’t want to waste a nice sunny day inside of brick walls (humid and dark).

I would recommend to anyone , solo, couples, groups and families. Keep in mind that it’s  more of a show , so if you want to really learn about the beer fabrication, you might want to ask lots of questions or visit something else.

 

 

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For History and the Architecture

Historic Properties,

1869 Upper Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 1S9
(902) 429-0530
 
   

If you want to travelled back in time, this is the place to go. The site is rich in history, don’t be afraid to enter on the site, you will not regret it. At first I was inside , where they have a few boutiques with souvenirs, and local artisans clothing, jewellery, etc. even a Subway restaurant and a nice little café. Go outside, it’s the door on the left side (Salty’s restaurant’s side, not the Murphy’s side). It’s really like you’ve just jumped in time, it’s all old and authentic buildings, well preserved. Many of those buildings are used as little shops. In that area you will also find a well-known restaurant (establishment that is very popular for tourists and locals in Halifax) Salty’s.  You will also find another local attraction, Cow’s. Worth a visit if you don’t know what it is.

So, if you are an architecture enthusiast , I would recommend that visit. Don’t miss it!Halifax, waterfront boardwalk2014-07-09 10.30.13 HDR2014-07-10 11.19.48

For the Historic aspect

The Old Burying Ground,

Barrington St, Halifax, NS B3J 3K4

I visited the Old Burying Ground in July 2014 , it was a very hot summer day, so I visited by accident . I was looking for a shaded site to sit . They have some large older trees. So while I was entering the site. I just decided to visit.  

Like the name says it’s an old burying ground , if you prefer …it’s a cemetery. Don’t expect to see splendors or luxuriant flowers. But still, they have some benches if you need to rest or just want to meditate . They also have some monuments, that might be of some interest if you like to read (culture and heritage of Holigonians) .

Be careful when you walk and what you touch ,  It’s very old, some tombstones are already broken , some names have erased in time , we need to protect and respect this historical site.   Some of these old tombstones belongs to notables , a few militaries and regular  civilians , many of those died of the typhoid fever epidemic . From an historic point of view , It’s probably the oldest cemetery in Halifax. It was created in 1749, it’s now more then 2 acres of ground. Lots of ground to cover ( wear flat shoes).

Tips:best time to visit  is in a very hot summer day, since you’ll have lots of shaded area to protect you from the sun.

It’s free , easy to access, I would recommend to anyone who is eager to learn more about the culture of Halifax and their heritage (historic site).