A bundle worth its weight in blue/gold. Photo: d. king
If you’re looking for lavender products in Vancouver, look no further than Provence en Couleur – a one-stop-shop for all things lavender and more. Located at Granville Island.
Known as “The Blue Gold” because of its value as a crop, Lavender oil is a staple of perfumes, skincare and soaps.
Soaps + bath balms. Photo: d. king
In Provence the lavender fields conspire with the landscapes and perched villages to make stunning technicolor scenes.
So French to place in a market bag. Photo: d. king
The scented flowers signify purity, silence, devotion, serenity, grace, and calmness. That’s why spraying lavender scented water on your pillowcase before bed will give you a more restful sleep. Putting a few drops of the oil in a humidifier does the same.
You can hang, stuff or plant them anywhere you want to have more beauty. Photo: d. king
The scent of their dried flowers stays stronger for a lot longer than other types of dried flowers.
Photo: d. king
Purple is the color of royalty and speaks of elegance, refinement, and luxury.
Photo: d. kingMy bathroom window in a nautilus shell. Photo: d. king
My two canines took me to this huge event in Vancouver’s hip Yaletown district yesterday, and it made me reflect on how canines are replacing children in the lives of many. Also; how couples who’ve become empty nesters can gain companionship, love and affection from having a pet. In this case; specifically a dog. Judging by the attractions, booths and tents purposely laid out for dogs and their owners, it is clear that it has become a big business too.
I don’t think dogs want to run on a treadmill or get dressed up in a superhero costume as much as their owner wants them to.
However, having said this, my two got leid right after getting blessed under one of the tents. Then we went for lunch.
My blessed pair, but I’m even more blessed to have them.Treadmill for dogs – which could come in handy when the weather is really crappy – and provided you have space.
If you were to choose between having a kid or getting a pet, there are some pros and cons. Kids are fine at first but they can be unpredictable. Pets prefer predictability.
Let’s look at the CONS: pets don’t last as long, like kids, you can’t depend on them either to look after you when you get old and dogs need walks for frequent bathroom breaks.
The PROS: pets provide a purpose without the sacrifices required for raising a baby. No need for changing diapers in the early stages, they stay affectionate much longer than kids do, they’re unselfish, need minimal supervision, aren’t always on their phones, you don’t have to pay to send them to University or for weddings, they eat less, don’t do drugs and never talk back.
One of the new cars where the air conditioning automatically gets turned on when it gets too hot outside.This is Diesel. He won the “running of the bulldogs” contest but I’m not sure whether he’s French or English.
Growing up in Montreal I can certainly say that it is unlike any other city in Canada or anywhere else for that matter. I’ve travelled all over Canada, lived in Toronto for several years and made Vancouver my home. You can’t have it all! A city is like a relationship – neither will give you everything you need.
As much as I love living in Vancouver for the proximity to nature, I have to admit I really missed the energy and joie de vivre of Montreal. I was able to relive some of it on my recent trip.
In this post I want to share some of the old Montreal hangouts & establishments that are still around.
Although, at the bottom of this page I share a link to a previous exposé I wrote about Montreal in its absolute heyday when it was way further ahead of Toronto – for those who are still around and lived through it, only heard about it or want to know about it. The book “CITY UNIQUE” was as
William WeintraubMy uncle Frank
original as its author William (Bill) Weintraub. The writer, filmmaker, historian and part time provocateur began his career at the Montreal Gazette and was a friend to my uncle Frank (who wrote a column for the Gazette). They both shared a close bond with writing cohorts Mordecai Richler (“THE APPRENTICESHIP OF DUDDY KRAVITZ”), Brian Moore (“BELFAST”) and Mavis Gallant (“PARIS STORIES”). I loved it when my uncle would invite me over to the old Press Club on rue de La Montagne which at the time was an old boys club. I have a feeling if it still exists it’s not the same.
Weintraub especially was a walking history book of Montreal in the 20th century — one filled with amazing stories of mobsters and mayors. Made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2003, Weintraub never learned whether Jacques Parizeau saw the humour in his 1992 documentary, “THE RISE AND FALL OF ENGLISH MONTREAL.” although the former Quebec premier had requested a special screening of the film.
My uncle Frank and Bill Weintraub along with many of the original city classic characters, are now sadly gone. Ironically, news of Weintraub’s death came around the same time the city was fêting another of its famed cultural sons, Leonard Cohen, in a tribute concert at the Bell Centre marking the one-year anniversary of his passing.
Characters are what make a City Unique don’t you think?
On this last trip I decided to book a hotel room for several nights in the midtown Montreal area. There were happenings around that part of town that I wanted easy access to get to, also somewhere not too far from the airport, close to a highway, smoked meat and a metro. I found the perfect solution for all of that at hotel Ruby Foo’s.
Some things do not remain the same…
For over half a century The Ruby Foo’s brand has been a mainstay in Montréal culture. The Chinese restaurant was a famous hangout and I remember going there on many occasions with my parents. It opened in the 1950’s and quickly became the go-to place for egg rolls and chicken almond gui ding. And for the less adventurous, there was always a club sandwich. The restaurant established itself as the place to see and be seen. Everyone from Politicians, Broadway stars, Movie Stars, the business and sporting elite all made Ruby Foo’s the top spot in the city. It was class personified, fun and lively. I went solely for the Chinese food not realizing that eventually I’d be living in a city that’s known to have the best Chinese food outside of Beijing.
Then came the Ruby Foo’s hotel which first opened its doors in 1962 and quickly became an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers. Then in 1984, a group of developers acquired the property with the vision of turning it into a 198-room hotel complex, including a mini convention centre, restaurant, commercial space and office tower. They succeeded. Sadly, the original restaurant was closed for good in 1984.
In recent years, the architectural firm of Lemay Michaud, which has built a reputation for its work on luxury and boutique hotels throughout Canada and North America has revamped the 4-star hotel complex to 198 spacious bedrooms, 6,000 square feet of meeting space in eight banquet halls, two restaurants, a barbershop (not a beauty parlour for women unfortunately – I did take exception to this), an outdoor seasonal pool and state of the art gym.
Ruby Foo’s Hotel
Overall I enjoyed my stay there. It was reasonably priced especially considering that it was high season. With so many hotels fully booked and knowing this, I booked about two months in advance. It’s clean, beds are extremely comfortable, comes with the essentials; an espresso maker, a safety deposit box, plush robes and mini fridge. The restaurant ‘Eggspectation‘ for breakfast was very good. Didn’t make it to the evening bar/restaurant. The gym is well equipped (my brother told me) and the pool area is nice except for how you reach these two places. They need to re-do the ground floor windy hallway area which gives you access to the gym and pool. I’m surprised it has absolutely no personality. Other than that, the hotel staff was really helpful and pleasant and it was very easy access to everything I mentioned. I would stay there again. Of course if you’re looking for a high end luxury hotel you want the Ritz Carlton (nothing beats the Ritz) and if you want more of a stylish boutique feel you might prefer Le Petit Hotel in Old Montreal. But for overall convenience to everywhere and price point, Ruby Foo’s is pretty decent. These are 3 totally different stays.
Casing the joints…
Montréal’s restaurant scene is one of the best in the world. From fine dining restaurants to casual eateries, the sheer variety satiates all palates.
The Orange Julep is pure nostalgia and located right across the street from the hotel. It’s an iconic giant orange orb drive in and takeout place for really good hot dogs, creamy orange drinks (they have their own secret recipe) & fries. I remember going as a kid with my parents where they come out to take your order and deliver it to the car. No drive in window. My mom would always order the Michigan Red Hot. It’s a hot dog covered in a meaty spaghetti sauce. It actually originated in Plattsburgh, New York – the closest American border for us to go cross border shopping, where we went on occasion.
For smoked meat sandwiches Schwartz’s still remains everyone’s favourite and a true Montreal classic. Located on Blvd Saint-Laurent, when you walk through those doors you take a step back 95 years. You have to lineup outside no matter who you are and wait your turn. You never know who you’re going to sit with too as they sit you wherever there’s space – everyone gets treated the same. You can rub elbows with politicians, movie stars (Elizabeth Taylor was one) to the local poet and blue collar workers. You won’t find better smoked meat anywhere else. My dad knew all the owners (family run and passed down the line) and we’d always order a slightly fatty sandwich with a black cherry cola and side of sour pickles while my mom preferred rib-eye steak. At this time Moishe’s #1 steakhouse was located right above, but she’d order the one from Schwartz’s.
However, Dunn’s is only a two block walk from Ruby Foo’s hotel and my second most favourite for smoked meat when I can’t get to Schwartz’s. They’re known for their famous cheesecake which I’ve made before and put a link to their recipe at the bottom. You’re welcome.
Le Steakhouse Rib ‘N Reef has a reputation over the course of 63 years for gastronomic expertise. It’s a swanky landmark for charbroiled meats & seafood, with a rooftop terrace and large wine & cigar lists. I think it’s a bit less than a two block walk from Ruby Foo’s. I met my childhood bestie there for dinner where we both ordered filet Oscar off the table d’hôte menu. They still maintain the old style of coming to your table to make Caesar salad. Both the meal and seeing my friend made for an exceptional evening.
Rib ‘n Reef is old style elegance
Unfortunately the live music is no longer. The Maître d‘ laughed at me when I asked what time the music started. It’s been a while.
Moishe’s in Old Montreal may still remain number one:
Founded in 1938 by Moishe Lighter, it was initially called “Romanian Paradise.” Legend has it that Lighter, an immigrant from Romania to Canada, became the owner of the restaurant in a card game. That’s when anything was wide open for negotiation if you catch my drift. The restaurant’s name was changed to “Moishes” at the outset of World War II.
After all this I should tell you that Montreal also hosts an abundance of good health food restaurants too, including vegan. Just in case you’re wondering. It’s not only bagels, poutine, smoked meat and steak.
I think this concludes my look back on Montreal edition. At least until the next time. I hope you enjoyed some of the history and stories.
An interesting and provocative look back:
My previous Post on Montreal days and nights inthe book CITY UNIQUE:
Wedding season peaks in August and the wedding I attended in Montreal was beyond beautiful, as was the bride. Therefore I appreciated seeing these bridal dresses amongst the other fabulous fashion at the Barbie Expo.
Going to the Barbie Expo while in Montreal was not intended, but it turned out to be an added bonus. It’s the largest permanent exhibit of Barbie dolls in the world.
This is an haute couture Barbie Exposition, where on display is an array of the worlds most exclusive and unique Barbies. A space where fashion meets history, featuring some of the most incredible high-fashion looks you’ve ever seen. Have a sneak peek:
Designers include Christian Dior, Donna Karen, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Oscar De La Renta, Christian Louboutin, Reem Acra, Carolina Herrera, Diane Von Furstenberg, Zac Posen and many more.
Bridal gowns by Vera Wang. Monique L’Huillier, Carolina Herrera, Badgley Mischka, Bob Mackie and more.
Unfortunately at this time the expo is undergoing a renovation, but keep checking to find out when it will re open. It’s well worth the visit when in Montreal.
This one didn’t make it to market but I think she looks beautiful and I love the dress, especially with the cape.
Watch the virtual tour here: (if you get this blog via e-mail please click on the “Barbie Bridal” title at the top of page to bring you to the full website.
The Barbie slogan “You Can be Anything” is proof in itself. Over the years the brand has expanded to include ethnic, kitsch, celebrity, designer and now represents people with disabilities. They come curvy, petite, rounded and tall. They have it all. Their goth to glamour is shown here at their very own museum in Montreal…
Bob Mackie (whom I had the pleasure of meeting in Palm Springs) has a few cases dedicated to his super glam designs alone.
Growing up with Mattel
Mary Poppins + Mr. Dawes (Julie Andrews/Dick Van Dyke). I believe that’s Lawrence of Arabia behind them – looking more like Johnny Depp. These are all part of the Barbie collection.
Everyone knows Mattel because we all grew up with one of the following iconic brands: Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price® and more. At least these are the trademarks and toys I’m most familiar with. The company’s motto is to empower the next generation to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. I’m not really sure about the full potential part but the wonder of childhood I’m quite familiar with. Of course some of these toys make you think and have educational purposes, especially during the time of no cell phones. Mattel, the company, either owns or licenses these brands in partnership with global entertainment companies. Their reach is huge!
Morticia Addams + hubby Gomez with Frank Sinatra behind them. These dolls are all under the figurehead of the Barbie brand that includes a range of fashion dolls and accessories.David was nice enough to open the doors to show me around and this is the catalogue of around 1,000 dolls from all over the world at the museum – closed for renos at the moment. https://expobarbie.ca/
Gone are the childhood gender identification toys of yesteryear. But for me personally, it’s a wonder I don’t have any kids because my dolls were everything. I loved pushing them in strollers and treating them as if they were the real thing. Funny to even think about it now.
But then Barbie came along and changed everything. Baby dolls were pushed by the wayside to make room for seemingly adult looking dolls without genitals that you could dress up or down from wearing jeans to haute couture. It started out innocently enough but the fashion show soon began. Then came the friends, the sisters, the pseudo boyfriend Ken and finally the house, the car, the keys to the car and a condo in Florida just kidding about that. The clothes were a constant because she was very socially involved and couldn’t be seen wearing the same thing twice. Everything looked good on her too. She could rock a bikini and then change into an evening gown and look equally amazing. Her skin tone was very even, her polish never chipped and her hair perfect – but if not; you could always put a wig on her. She’s into the plastic but never had plastic surgery.
Legally Blondecrazy, right?
Get this: she has a last name! Her full name is Barbie Millicent Roberts as do her sisters; Chelsea, Stacie, and Skipper Roberts.
I’m a Barbie girl in the Barbie world Life in plastic, it’s fantastic You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere Imagination, life is your creation
My Barbie dolls went shopping, had tea parties and hung out in their perfect Barbie world. I never questioned whether or not any of them had jobs in order to afford their nice wardrobe and accessories. That was my parents’ department. I believe playing with Barbie(s) expanded by sense of style and the love for the colour pink.
Sandra Dee + Farrah Fawcett made it to screen but not to store.
What’s so interesting is that many dolls became less significant or faded away altogether, but Barbie became a mainstay – not only for girls everywhere but for Mattel; the manufacturer who launched them in 1959. The company was founded in Los Angeles by Harold Matson and the husband-and-wife business team duo of Ruth and Elliot Handler in January 1945. By now and especially since the movie, we know that Barbie was created by Ruth Handler. Barbie was named after Ruth Handler’s daughter, Barbara, and Ken after her son, Kenneth. And what a savvy businesswoman she was to create something that remains strong to this day and just as fashion changes, Barbie changes right alongside fashion. To put it clearly “All Barbies matter!”
some of the beauties that didn’t make the cut – you know it’s a competitive world out there!
So out of sheer childhood history and curiosity (not to mention the perfect casting) I went to see the movie with a few ex-Barbie doll playing friends. It was very enjoyable, the sets are amazing and the message is insightful. A real non-guilty pleasure.
This Bob Mackie designed Barbie didn’t make it to market either – but I love it! Something to do with the circus outfit on a swing.fashion mavens
Then someone posted on Facebook about a Barbie Expo (museum) that had taken place in Montreal. Since I was going to Montreal I wanted to check it out. As it so happens the expo (or museum if you want to call it that) was in re-construction mode and not open to the public. But lucky me; I had an in with someone connected to Cours Mont-Royal (the upscale shopping mall that houses the extremely well curated event) who was able to open the doors to show me around. It was fabulous! Way more interesting than I had ever imagined.
Once the expo re opens and you happen to be visiting Montreal or you already live here and haven’t been….put it on your list of “must sees.” Really – it’s brilliant!
When I stepped into Montreal’s most luxurious day spa last week, I might’ve been having a bit of a chocolate craving.
Waiting Area
This was my first time at Spa Diva, voted the finest spa in Montreal for 6 consecutive years in a row and recognized as the largest and most luxurious full-service day spa in Canada. Now I understand way. The spa is located downtown Montreal on the second floor of the elegantLes Cours Mont-Royal; a prime shopping and dining destination. Such a beautifully decorated mall.
To get there I decided to take the metro from my hotel which was located midtown Montreal. I hadn’t taken the metro in years and almost forgot how convenient, fast and super easy it is. I arrived at Peel station in minutes where there’s an entrance to the mall. Once inside I took the winding staircase up to the second floor where Spa Diva is located.
What a gorgeous mall. Photo: d. king
Before my service I was met by a very pleasant esthetician named Yenzy, who escorted me to my very own change room complete with private shower with all the amenities, plush robe and slippers and a key to lock up when ready. Everyone who books a service gets their own room. How nice is that?
I had a tough time choosing from the multitude of services available but finally decided on a decadent chocolate body wrap. It was amazing. I was smothered and scrubbed all over in warm luscious salted chocolate combined with the healing properties of soy. I was then body wrapped and left to rest for about 15 minutes before Yenzy returned. This treatment is a natural detox to satisfy the body’s craving for replenishment andchocolate and revitalization (the brochure was right) while leaving skin hydrated and feeling very very smooth. It’s followed up with a mini tension relieving facial massage. Sooo relaxing.
Then you get to relax in a deluxe waiting area until they’re ready for you on the most comfy sofa beds drinking tea or lemonade and eat chocolate covered strawberries. That is divine enough on its own. They don’t rush you. You’re allowed to spend as long as you like (except for staying overnight of course) after whatever service you’re having too.
If I didn’t have to catch a flight back to Vancouver that same day I would’ve tried to add on something else. But I’ll definitely go back when in Montreal next.
To be fair, this mural of Leonard Cohen isn’t situated in Old Montreal…but since we’re talking about charm I had to include it. After all, Leonard Cohen was synonymous with everything charming about Montreal. The self confessed man who was born in a suit was a true gentleman, poet and all around music legend.
This last trip to Montreal was primarily to attend the wedding of a family member but it would not have been complete without an evening in Old Montreal. Montreal after dark is enchanting.
If Paris is the city of light, Montreal gives it a run for its money! The city beams with artistic light installations. One of the oldest and most famous lights in Montreal is the rotating beacon of Place Ville Marie in the downtown core (not shown here).
Old Montreal is the oldest area in the city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, dating back to New France. Old Montreal itself is a major tourist draw; with the oldest of its buildings dating to the 17th century, it is one of the oldest urban areas in North America. This pic taken from images.
After dark, the city transforms: the bare stone walls of Old Montréal become history projected, while the Jacques-Cartier Bridge lights up in flashes of colour over the St. Lawrence River. Building facades in the entertainment district turn into movie screens, and the power of light to trick the eye gives some of Montréal’s first buildings all new life.
this one is a bit haunting
Spanning several blocks near the waterfront of the Saint Lawrence River, Old Montreal is home to historical sites dating back to the 17th century that showcase the city’s indigenous and colonial past. The district also offers a taste of Montreal’s contemporary cultural standing, from art and food to health. Local musicians and dancers entertain in various areas and the place is alive with a European vibe. Actually Montreal is the most European city in all of Canada.
There may be an American flag but we’re still in Canada.
We had just finished watching a flamenco dancer in the square.
I love all the outdoor cafés, restaurants & shops along the cobblestone streets.
And then there’s all the ART GALLERIES – a sampling of some of my favourites here:
A splattering of photos from our joie de vivre trip in Montreal.
Pre-wedding celebration at the home of the bride and groom – Shanny & Pete.
My siblings and I attended the weddings (plural because our gorgeous Irish/Italian cousin Shanny married a very nice Indian man named Puneet (or Pete as we call him) so there was first a modern Indian style wedding at the Hilton followed by a more traditional wedding at Jardin Royalmount the following day. Jardin is a sophisticated outdoor/indoor venue for hosting private events and special occasions for hundreds of guests. The whole setup is quite beautiful. Prior to these two weddings there was a private party at their lovely home situated across from a lake for close friends and family members.
After these celebratory events we spent a couple nights in the Laurentians at my cousin John’s house in Estérel on the lake. It was amazing. I loved re-visiting the quaint little village of Saint-Sauveur for all the shops and bakeries. I got to also re connect with an old friend at her country home and lastly, my childhood bestie over dinner on my last night there at the Rib ‘n Reef; a Montreal favourite steakhouse. We reminisced about the past, caught up on the present and talked about what the future may hold. I can’t describe how wonderful it was seeing her after so many years. All I can say is that if you’re truly connected with someone, the time and distance doesn’t matter when you meet up again. You just pick up where you last left off. But back to the reason we went to Montreal in the first place….
The catered event had various food tables with all kinds of seafood including lobster rolls, a pizza bar and bartenders hired from the Ritz Carlton no less (the iconic hotel where Elizabeth Taylor married Richard Burton) serving up any kind of cocktail you can imagine. Also a DJ. So so much fun.
Sisters Hayley + Gail. Photo: d. king
Lisa getting henna on her hand. I did the same. Photo: d. king
Shanny & Pete with her dad John and his Fiancée Stephanie. Photo: d. king
3 sisters with their mother.
Stephanie + Tyaa (Shanny’s sister). Photo: d. king
Indian Buffet (one of several tables with amazing delicious delicacies). Photo: d. king
with Lisa
Lisa and Brad; my sister & brother
Bridesmaids. Photo: d. king
With Lisa, Stephanie, cousin Liz + Lucia (who married our uncle Chuck and now lives in Florida)
Cousin Adan + Brad. Photo: d. king
Stephanie + John (Lucia + cousin Frankie behind them) Photo: d. king
Lisa in the Garden. Photo: d. king
The celebrated couple Pete and Shanny. Photo: d. king
More photos and stories to follow including Old Montreal, Barbie Expo and Canada’s most luxurious day spa.
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