I first visited Montréal over fifteen years ago, and from the second I arrived in this culturally vibrant and international city, I knew I would return often. On each visit to the city, there were always new sights and pleasures to discover, but there were also certain attractions and experiences that have become almost mandatory pilgrimages. Yes, there is much …

The most depressing place on the planet is my hometown of Seattle in the month of January. The December holidays are over with January’s grim back-to-realty winter looking us straight in the face. In Seattle that generally means endless light showers and a sun that has completely disappeared. But leave it to the Canadians who embrace the long winter months of ice and snow with celebrations that warm both the heart and soul.