On the go with Vivian

Via’s Virtual Tour Guide

MUTEK: Electronic-music festival in Montreal

May 26th, 2009 by vivian is virtual

Love discovering new sounds? Plan a trip to MUTEK, Montréal’s trailblazing electronic-music fest, happening from May 27-31, 2009.

First time at the fest? Don’t miss:

  • Robert Henke & Christopher Bauder’s helium-filled ATOM installation
  • Mathew Jonson & Dandy Jack’s live collaboration
  • The much-anticipated return of Montréal native Akufen
  • Ricardo Villalobos at the Piknik Electronik on May 31

It’s easy. VIA’s Central Station lands you in the heart of downtown Montréal. Quick Métro hops whisk you to MUTEK’s main venues, including Metropolis, Parc Jean-Drapeau, and Monument-National Theatre.

With 50+ acts, it’ll be a whirlwhind five days. And as a Mutek sponsor, VIA Rail is offering festivalgoers 50% savings on Comfort class travel to Montréal. You know that’s a sweet sound to your ears :)

Hope to see you there.

Posted in Montréal, Travel in Canada | 1 Comment »

Go surfing in Canada

May 22nd, 2009 by vivian is virtual

You may have already heard about surfing in B.C., but did you know that you could also surf the Great Lakes, ride the St. Lawrence River in Montreal and shred the waves in Nova Scotia?

Although Canada may not have the tallest waves in the world, we have excellent beginner and intermediate surf destinations from Tofino to Crystal Beach to Lawrencetown Beach. There are also surf schools and surf shops to help you discover your inner ‘dude’. Here are some helpful links to help you get started.

Your one-stop sites for weather conditions, surf schools and news for each province:

Here are some of Canada’s best surf shops:

And if you just want to dress like a surfer, check out these top surf designers:

Need more inspiration for your surfing vacay this summer? Check out this video:

Travelling by train? We’ll even transport your board for you!

Posted in Travel in Canada | 2 Comments »

Save on your summer vacation

May 21st, 2009 by vivian is virtual

So have you bought your train tickets for your summer vacay yet? What are you waiting for? A better deal?

Wish granted!

Whether you’re headed east or west, VIA Rail has some great discounts for youth, families and adults too.

Or is it inspiration you’re lacking? It’s your lucky day because I’m feeling particularly helpful today!

Youth: Head west to Vancouver. Bike in Stanley Park. Visit the Granville Island market. Tan by English Bay.

Families: Get thee to Nova Scotia. Ride Theodore the Tugboat in Halifax. Gaze at the lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove. Eat seafood chowder in Lunenberg.

Adults: Choose Niagara Falls. It’s kitschy but grand! Get on the Maid of the Mist. Smooch under the Falls. Dine… a lot.

I think I’ve covered everything… now get booking!

Posted in Travel in Canada, VIA Rail stuff | No Comments »

Toronto–Montréal in business class – starting at $129!

May 15th, 2009 by vivian is virtual

Travelling between Montréal and Toronto? Treat yourself to the new 5 o’clock business class experience, for a fraction of the price!

With special fares starting at $129 (one-way, before taxes), you’ll relax at the in-station Panorama lounge, then wile away your voyage over an aperitif and a gourmet three-course meal of your choice.

Enjoy the luxurious comfort of our European-designed cars – snooze in our spacious seats, catch up on your laptop, or mingle in the business class lounge car.

Learn more about this promo!

Posted in Montréal, Toronto, Travel in Canada | No Comments »

Top 5 things to see & do in Niagara Falls

May 13th, 2009 by vivian is virtual

Planning a Niagara vacation? The scene for countless family and honeymoon snapshots, Niagara Falls delivers romance and adventure aplenty. Hop onboard VIA this summer and check out these top 5 must-sees!

Maid of the Mist
From Marilyn Monroe to Brad Pitt, everyone looks a little silly in those blue ponchos. But suit up! This world-famous (and soaking wet) boat cruise to the very base of the Falls can’t be missed.

 

Journey Behind the Falls
Descend 150 ft. by elevator and follow a tunnel to the observation decks located directly under the Horseshoe Falls. It’s thunderous, it’s wet, it’s a once in a lifetime experience!
Observation Tower
Get a sweeping view of the Falls and surrounding region from this high-soaring platform, including sunny day fixtures – spectacular rainbows.
Niagara Dining Scene
Who wouldn’t want to relax over a meal on a terrasse with that unbeatable view? Don’t miss Niagara’s newly invigorated restaurant offerings.

 

Niagara-on-the-Lake
One of Canada’s prettiest towns is just a short hop from the Falls, offering award-winning wineries, old-world charm, and the well-known Shaw Theatre Festival.

Find more Niagara Falls inspiration in my Flickr photostream – then visit the VIA web site to plan your trip!

Posted in Travel in Canada | No Comments »

Top 5 reasons to see the Montreal Impact play

May 8th, 2009 by vivian is virtual

The Montréal Impact will be playing their season opener this Saturday, May 9 against the Rochester Rhinos. If you don’t already have your tickets, allow me to provide five reasons for calling the box office like… now!

1. The Impact finished in third place overall in 2007 and last season, they finished second. Do the math… 2009 is their year to finish FIRST!

2.  Cute boys with great legs running around. Joey Gjertsen, will you marry me?

3. It’s a good excuse to book a weekend in MTL. See a game, take a stroll on the mountain and eateateat!

4. VIA Rail is a proud sponsor!

5. It’s an affordable family outing with plenty of exciting action and ambience!

Start planning your visit to Montréal and the Saputo stadium now!

Posted in Montréal, My Bests | No Comments »

New contest: Win $200 in train travel

May 5th, 2009 by vivian is virtual

While writing some future posts in response to your great ideas, I got a sudden urge to throw even more prizes at you.

So here goes!

  1. Leave a comment on this post describing your best family train trip in 100 words or less.
  2. Share your story before midnight on May 31, 2009.
  3. Be automatically entered to win a $200 VIA Rail travel credit.

The winner will be announced June 3, 2009. Ready? Get set!… GO!

Read the full contest conditions.

Posted in VIA Rail stuff | 43 Comments »

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