Places I Love - Travelling In My 70s

Washington DC Landmarks and Oak Leaves

Posted on November 13, 2023November 13, 2023 by Roberta Hill

I was so glad to be going back to Washington, DC. I can’t believe that it’s been almost 20 years. I’ve always loved the city, even if, at times, it seems a bit contrived. The DC Landmarks, cleanliness, architectural consistency, and free museums make it a great place to visit. Although it mainly focuses on American experiences and history, it is still quite enjoyable. It’s pretty apparent to me that it’s due to cold weather when I enjoy a vacation or trip a little bit less. Well, that certainly wasn’t the case this past week. We had a couple of…

Iconic Exterior Staircases of Montreal

Posted on November 4, 2023 by Roberta Hill

Montreal’s signature exterior staircases are not just architectural elements; they are woven into the city’s cultural and historical fabric. These staircases, primarily found in neighbourhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End, have become emblematic of Montreal’s unique architectural identity. Origins: Practical Design Choices The origins of these staircases are rooted in practicality and efficient use of space. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Montreal experienced rapid urbanization, there was a need to maximize living spaces within the constraints of narrow lots. Placing staircases outside allowed for more interior living space and helped reduce construction costs. Influence of Climate…

The Dignified Dolmens of Carnac

Posted on October 28, 2023November 11, 2023 by Roberta Hill

There’s something about the “Standing Stones” that seems to fascinate everyone. Seeing them, such as the Dolmens of Carnac, is quite remarkable. I understand now that people are often disappointed in Stonehenge because of the over-tourism and limited access. It was different for me the first time I saw them as a younger child. But one doesn’t have to venture far to visit the more isolated stones of Avebury. In 2008, we were living in Geneva and looking for a holiday. France is always attractive, but driving can be somewhat of a nightmare with traffic jams no matter the season….

Unbelievable Landmarks in Old Montreal

Posted on October 22, 2023 by Roberta Hill

Venture into the charming streets of Old Montreal, and you’ll find yourself amidst a maze of history and beauty. This district is rich with landmarks that have stood the test of time, bearing witness to the ever-evolving story of the city. Must-See Landmarks in Old Montreal Landmark Description Location Notre-Dame Basilica Architectural masterpiece highlighting Montreal’s deep religious roots. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colours from its stained glass windows. 110 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montreal Place Jacques-Cartier A historic square that is teeming with energy from street performers, artists, and charming cafes. Place Jacques-Cartier, Montreal Bonsecours Market A historic hub of…

Fall in Quebec: The Symphony of Colours

Posted on October 16, 2023 by Roberta Hill

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10 Best Roof Top Views in New York City

Posted on August 27, 2023 by Roberta Hill

Ah, New York City – the city that never sleeps, and for good reason. The hustle and bustle of this vibrant metropolis are unparalleled, and there’s no better way to take in the sights and sounds than by visiting the roof top views in New York City. I’ve been quite a while since I visited New York City, so when we went in April 2001 after the pandemic, our goal was to visit all the tourist highlights. To that end, we purchased one of those city passes with, I think, five events. It turns out that the rooftops tend to…

Delightful Stratford a Timeless Legacy

Posted on August 6, 2023August 6, 2023 by Roberta Hill

It had been a very long time since I had visited Stratford. While completing graduate school and in the area, I would surely see some of the plays each summer at the Festival. I often went with my Mum, from whom I had acquired a love of the theatre. Thomas Wolfe wrote “You Can’t Go Home Again,” but sometimes he was wrong. I don’t remember many of our trip’s details, but the atmosphere remains as wonderful as before. The fantastic Church restaurant opened the first year Mum and I went in 1975; it was our favourite. I specifically remember her…

Rawdon – The Perfect Day Trip From Montreal

Posted on July 24, 2023July 26, 2023 by Roberta Hill

We have friends who live in the area of Rawdon, and we go up a few times each summer to visit. It is a little over an hour’s drive on a weekday, making it the perfect day trip, although I must confess we often stay over. We tell ourselves that we must visit the area’s rapids each time. When I was young, the area was free to walk and discover. That is no longer the case. As Rawdon continued to grow, the town recognized the importance of providing accessible parks for everyone. But the infrastructure needed to be funded. While…

The Lovely Lower East Side District

Posted on June 16, 2023June 24, 2023 by Roberta Hill

There is just so much I like about the Lower East Side, and because the area is so big, it’s taking me quite a while to write this blog post. LES is my favourite part of the city, and while we were staying in Midtown, we made our way down to the Lower East Side at least once a week, sometimes on our way to other places. So, put on your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and join me in the sights, sounds, and flavours of this captivating part of New York City. A few weekends ago, we headed over…

Are you a committed or a serial nomad

Posted on June 14, 2023June 14, 2023 by Roberta Hill

To begin, I don’t care what you call yourself. Nomad is just one label. It is a bit like trying to define “senior.” I am not a traveller – I travel as much as possible. I don’t know if others of you feel this way, but for the fun of it, I’ve concluded that I am a serial nomad. Prior to Covid, we lived as ex-pats for 15 years. Since Covid, we’ve been able to do five-week, 13-week and 17-week trips. We have recently returned from 4 months in NYC. We hate to say goodbye every time we depart but…