Category: Destinations

What Exotik can offer

England is a region of the United Kingdom. This region is southwest of the Ecosse and has a land border with it. England is the bigger territory of the United Kingdom, and its surface area is 130 279 km2.

Cities

London

London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is a dynamic, cosmopolitan city that combines history, culture and modernity. Situated on the banks of the River Thames, it is renowned for its iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the London Eye. Its distinctive neighborhoods, such as Soho and Notting Hill, offer a variety of experiences from bustling markets to contemporary art galleries. London is also a major financial center and cultural crossroads. The diversity of its population is reflected in its international cuisine, festivals and cultural events.

Birmingham

Birmingham, located in the heart of England, is a dynamic center of commerce, culture and industrial history. Birmingham played a crucial role in the British Industrial Revolution. Today, it is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit, cultural diversity and leading academic institutions such as the University of Birmingham. The city is also home to historic landmarks such as the Thinktank Museum and the iconic Selfridges building in Bull Ring. With its many parks, cultural events and thriving arts scene, Birmingham offers a rich and diverse urban experience for residents and visitors alike.

Manchester

Manchester, a city in the north of England, is a dynamic center of culture, commerce and history. Today, Manchester is a modern metropolis, with remarkable architecture ranging from Victorian structures to contemporary skyscrapers. The city is also renowned for its thriving music scene, world-renowned cultural institutions and passionate soccer fans.

Language

English british

Weather

Temperate climate 

Electricity

230V/50Hz

Entry requirements

If you have a regular Canadian passport, your passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. Customs authorities may ask you to show them a return ticket or a ticket for an onward flight, as well as proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay. 

Communication

00+44 to call in UK, 999 is the emergency number

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Slovenia is a true hidden treasure in the heart of Europe, offering an enchanting combination of unspoiled natural landscapes and a rich gastronomic tradition. Its picturesque alpine landscapes are among the most beautiful on the continent, offering endless possibilities for hikers, skiers and nature lovers. Slovenia also offers delicious, hearty cuisine, featuring simple but tasty traditional dishes. Austrian, Italian and Hungarian influences blend to create a uniquely rich palette of flavors. All in all, Slovenia is a must-see destination for travelers in search of natural beauty, authentic culture and unforgettable culinary delights.

Cities

Ljubljana

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a city whose picturesque charm and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Central Europe. Nestled in picturesque landscapes between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, this city abounds in natural beauty, rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Ljubljana’s historic center is a true gem, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and elegant bridges spanning the Ljubljanica River. The silhouette of Ljubljana Castle overlooking the city adds a touch of majesty to the whole. Place Preseren, one of the city’s main squares, is a lively meeting point featuring the statue of Slovenian poet France Preseren. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Franciscan Church and the Triple Bridge, a set of three picturesque bridges. Ljubljana is also home to a rich cultural scene, with many museums, art galleries and theaters to explore. The National Museum of Slovenia offers a fascinating insight into the country’s history, while the Gallery of Modern Art showcases captivating contemporary works. In summer, the city is transformed into a veritable open-air theater, with concerts, festivals and craft markets enlivening its streets and squares. Ljubljana’s parks and green spaces offer residents and visitors alike places to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Tivoli Park, the city’s largest park, is an ideal place to stroll, cycle or simply relax in lush green surroundings. In short, Ljubljana is a city where history, culture and nature come together to offer a unique and memorable experience to visitors from all over the world. Whether for a city break or as a starting point for exploring Slovenia, Ljubljana’s incomparable charm is sure to win you over.

Piran

Piran, a seaside gem on Slovenia’s Adriatic coast, charms with its picturesque ambience and rich historical heritage. Its cobbled streets wind between medieval buildings with colorful facades, while its ramparts offer spectacular views of the sparkling sea. At the heart of the town stands the church of St. George, with its soaring bell tower, the emblematic symbol of Piran. Around it, lively squares are home to open-air cafés and restaurants serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine featuring fresh seafood and local produce. Piran is also steeped in a vibrant cultural atmosphere, with museums showcasing the region’s maritime history and art galleries displaying the talent of local artists. But what makes Piran truly special is its enchanting ambience, which invites you to relax and contemplate. Whether strolling along the waterfront, exploring the narrow streets or lounging on a pebble beach, every moment spent in Piran is a true Mediterranean getaway.

Velika Planina

Velika Planina is a spectacular alpine plateau in the Slovenian Alps, about an hour’s drive from the capital, Ljubljana. This enchanting landscape is famous for its vast green meadows dotted with traditional wooden huts, called “stanovi” in Slovenian.The Velika Planina plateau is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and hikers. In summer, the meadows are carpeted with colorful wildflowers, while in winter, the plateau is transformed into a snow-covered fairytale landscape, offering excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.Wooden cabins, built using traditional methods, add a touch of rustic charm to the overall landscape. Some of these huts are still used by local shepherds during the summer months, while others have been converted into shelters for hikers and visitors.In addition to its natural beauty, Velika Planina also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and wildlife observation. What’s more, visitors can sample local specialties in the picturesque mountain inns dotted around the region.In short, Velika Planina is a true Slovenian natural gem, offering an ideal getaway for those looking to escape to a breathtaking alpine landscape, steeped in tradition and rustic charm.

Language

Slovenian, Hungarian and Italian

Weather

Alpine, continental and mediterranean

Electricity

220 volts

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link : www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Malta attracts more and more visitors every year. It has reserved the beauty of its landscapes which are at the most ancient yet very well known. From prehistoric temples, to the baroque architecture of Valletta, feasts of rabbit to festas of noisy fireworks, rattling buses to colorful fishing boats, this nation has loads of unique charm. Far from the excesses of mass tourism, Malta offers travelers a pleasant balance between authentic charm and modern comfort at prices considerably lower than many other comparable Mediterranean destinations. The celebrations are important in the life of the Maltese (which, on occasion, does not distain to drink to the health of the Knights of the Order of St. John): the calendar of religious holidays, in fact covers six months of year

Cities

Valletta

Valletta, The Fortress City, is Malta’s capital city: a living, working city, the administrative and commercial heart of the Islands. Valletta is named after its founder, the respected Grand Master of the Order of St. John, Jean Parisot de la Valette. The magnificent fortress city grew on the arid rock of Mount Sceberras peninsula, which rises steeply from two deep harbours, Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. The city is busy by day, yet retains a timeless atmosphere. The grid of narrow streets boasts some of Europe’s finest art works, churches and palaces. Walking around Valletta you’ll come across an intriguing historical site around every corner: votive statues, niches, fountains and coats of arms high up on parapets. Narrow side streets are full of tiny quaint shops and cafés, while Valletta’s main streets are lined with larger international branded shops for fashion, music, jewelry and much more.

Mdina-Rabat

Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture. Like nearby Mdina, Rabat played a major role in Malta’s past and is a prime source of its cultural heritage. This large provincial township was part of the Roman city of Melita, with the sites and archaeological relics found testifying to the town’s importance during the Roman period. The town is a commercial centre and acts as a market to its large agricultural hinterland. It is also well established on the tourist map due to its archaeological and historical sites: The Roman Villa (Domus Romana), catacombs, St. Paul’s Grotto and the fine churches and monasteries.

The Three Cities

The Three Cities offer an intriguing insight into Malta and its history. Left largely unvisited, these cities area slice of authentic life as well as a glimpse into Malta’s maritime fortunes. The Three Cities can rightly claim to be the cradle of Maltese history, as Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua have provided a home and fortress to almost every people who settled on the Islands. As the first home to the Knights of St. John, the Three Cities’ palaces, churches, forts and bastions are far older than Valletta’s. The local communities here celebrate holy days and festas as nowhere else on the Islands. The most spectacular events are the Easter processions when statues of the “Risen Christ” are carried at a run through crowded streets.

Language

Maltese (a Semitic language), Italian and English.

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Communication

International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 356 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 356 is only required to call Malta from abroad. So it will be: 00 356 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Malta, it is not necessary to dial the 356 country code.If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 356 and finally the local phone number in Malta

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What Exotik can offer

The Netherlands, located in Western Europe, is known for its flat landscape, extensive canal systems, windmills, tulip fields, and cycling routes. Its capital city, Amsterdam, is famous for its museums, historical sites, and vibrant culture. The country has a rich history, with a legacy of maritime exploration and trade. The Netherlands is also renowned for its progressive policies on social issues, environmental sustainability, and high quality of life. With a constitutional monarchy and a strong economy, it is one of the founding members of the European Union, NATO, and the World Trade Organization.

What Exotik can offer

Sicily is the biggest island of the Mediterranean Sea and is located to the southwest of Italy. There are 2 highways communicating Italy and Sicily. The surface area is 25 711 km2.

Cities

Palermo

Palermo is Sicily’s lively capital and a city rich in history. Nestled on the island’s northern coast, it’s brimming with architectural treasures, winding streets and lively squares. Its landmarks include Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace and the lively Ballaro market. The city’s streets are steeped in Sicilian history, with Arab, Norman and Baroque remains. Visitors can sample authentic Sicilian cuisine in local trattorias.

Cefalù

Cefalù is on Sicily’s northern coast and is a seaside town combining medieval charm, natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere. The town is dominated by its majestic Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cobbled streets of the old town offer a multitude of craft stores, open-air coffees, and trattorias where visitors can dine on local specialties. Cefalù beaches are magnificent, with golden sands and clear waters. The main beach offers a lively atmosphere and spectacular views of the Rocca rock. The surrounding area is full of natural and cultural treasures, including the Madonie Regional Park and the ancient ruins of Himera.

Language

Italian

Weather

Mediterranean climate

Electricity

230V/50Hz

Entry requirements

If you have a regular Canadian passport, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure date from the Schengen area. Customs officials may ask you to show them a ticket for a return or onward flight and proof that you have sufficient funds for your stay. 

Communication

011+39+area code +local number to call in Italy, 112 is the emergency number

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, after Sicily, and one of the twenty regions of Italy. It is located west of the Italian Peninsula, north of Tunisia and immediately south of the French island of Corsica.

Cities

Cagliari

Cagliari is the sunny capital of Sardinia, nestling on the island’s southern coast. Cagliari is a fascinating city that combines millennia of history, Mediterranean charm and a vibrant atmosphere. Cagliari Cathedral is one of the city’s main attractions. The Bastion Saint-Rémy, close to the cathedral, offers a magnificent view of the marina and the bay of Cagliari. The Marina district boasts lively streets, open-air cafés and elegant boutiques. Cagliari is also renowned for its spectacular beaches. Cagliari’s cuisine is a delight for the taste buds, featuring local products such as seafood, cheeses and Sardinian wines.

Language

Italian

Weather

Mediterranean climate 

Electricity

220V/50Hz

Entry requirements

If you have a regular Canadian passport, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure date from the Schengen area. Customs officials may ask you to show them a ticket for a return or onward flight and proof that you have sufficient funds for your stay. 

Communication

112 is the emergency number, 011+39+area code +local number to call in Italy.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Iceland is the perfect destination for people looking for the unexpected, something out of the ordinary. Iceland is a unique destination that offers pristine nature, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. The people of Iceland are warm and welcoming. The nature is rugged and beautiful. The culture is rich and appealing. Nothing is quite what you expected. Come on an expedition of discovery to find out what makes Iceland special.

Cities

Reykjavík

The world’s most northerly capital combines colorful buildings, quirky people and a wild nightlife. Most visitors fall helplessly in love, returning home already saving to come back. The city’s charm lies in its many peculiar contrasts, which, like tectonic plates clashing against one another, create an earthquake of energy. Reykjavík offers a bewitching combination of village innocence and big-city zeal. It’s populated by darkly cynical citizens (a quality brought very much to the fore by the country’s recent near-bankruptcy) who are, in spite of everything, filled with unstoppable creativity and enduring spirit. In summer the streets are washed by 22 hours of daylight; in winter they’re scoured by blizzards and doused in never-ending night. Reykjavík is a city that treasures its Viking past but wants the future – the very best of it, now ! You’ll find all the cultural trappings of a large 21st-century European city here: cozy cafés, world-class restaurants, fine museums and galleries, and state-of-the-art geothermal pools. Reykjavík has also become famous for its kicking music scene and its excessive Friday-night ‘‘runtur’’, a wild pub crawl round the small, super stylish clubs and bars. Add to this a backdrop of snow-topped mountains, an ocean that wets the very toes of the town, air as cold and clean as frozen diamonds and incredible volcanic surroundings, and you’ll agree that there’s no better city in the world.

Akureyri

Akureyri stands strong as Iceland’s second city, but a Melbourne, Manchester or Montreal it is not. And how could it be? There are only just over 17,000 residents! It’s a wonder the city (which would be a ‘town’ in any other country) generates this much buzz. Expect cool cafes, gourmet restaurants and something of a late-night bustle – a far cry from other towns in rural Iceland.Akureyri nestles at the head of Iceland’s greatest fjord, at the base of snowcapped peaks, and across the city flowerboxes, trees and well-tended gardens belie the location, just a stone’s throw from the Arctic Circle. With a lively summer festival season, some of Iceland’s best winter skiing, and a relaxed and easy attitude, it’s the natural base for exploring Eyjafjörður.

Language

Icelandic, English and Danish

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required

Communication

International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 354 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 354 is only required to call Iceland from abroad. So it will be: 00 354 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Iceland, it is not necessary to dial the 354 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 354 and finally the local phone number in Iceland

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

From beautiful Budapest – the city of lights to its many quaint villages and fantastic scenery, Hungary evokes a strong sense of history and tradition at every turn.While Budapest, justifiably compared with cities like Prague and even Paris, is by far the country’s biggest tourist draw, not all the exciting places to visit and things to do in Hungary are in the capital. Cities and towns of all sizes have preserved their classic old historical attractions, many of which exhibit influences from various cultures, including Turkish invaders and Italian Renaissance designers. And Hungary’s countryside includes some of the most beautiful scenery to be found anywhere in Eastern Europe. In fact, wherever you are in Hungary, you’re never far from spectacular mountains and lakes, beautiful river scenes (the Danube runs right through the country), and lush valleys, all providing great opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Cities

Budapest

Although it takes several days to fully explore the Hungarian capital (chosen by the readers of the respected Condé Nast Traveller tourism magazine as the world’s 11th best travel destination for 2017) itself, it is also worth seeking out attractions in the surrounding area. The most popular day-trip destination is the Danube Bend with its unparalleled panorama, medieval castles, and small, inspirational towns. But there are numerous other interesting and exciting locations to visit only 1-1.5 hours away from Budapest: the former residence of the ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, rows of wine cellars offering tempting culinary experiences and exquisite wines, a vast film studio where you can walk among the set pieces of major Hollywood blockbusters, and many others.

Szeged

Szeged lies in Hungary’s sunniest region, which is why it is also called “the city of sunshine”. You can explore its Mediterranean streets, green spaces and the two banks of the River Tisza that flows through the middle of the city on foot, riding the narrow-gauge train, by boat or on Segway. You can climb the tower of the 90-metre high cathedral, the symbol of Szeged for a magnificent view over the entire city. The monumental cathedral serves as a magical backdrop to stunning performances staged at the country’s largest outdoor theatre in the summer months, located in the square at the foot of the cathedral.

Debrecen

Debrecen has great cultural significance to the country, it served as the historical heart of the Protestant Reformation movement in Hungary (thus the city is often referred to as “The Calvinist Rome”). It is also among the most important university cities in the country. Visitors to Debrecen are welcomed by well-preserved streets with their shops, lovely squares and malls bustling with flowers and fountains – providing a perfect spot for a nice walk. Those with a keen heart for history must pay a visit to the Reformed Great Church, a symbol of the city offering a spectacular view of Debrecen from its panoramic walkway that runs between the two spires of the church, the library of the Protestant College built in the 16th century and the recently renovated Jewish Quarter. The city also offers a lot to explore for art lovers: they can check out the Déri Museum with the grandiose Christ Trilogy of famous Hungarian painter Mihály Munkácsy, or visit the MODEM Modern and Contemporary Arts Centre, among many other venues

Language

Hungarian, German and English

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Communication

International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 36 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 36 is only required to call Hungary from abroad. So it will be: 00 36 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Hungary, it is not necessary to dial the 36 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 36 and finally the local phone number in Hungary.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Finland, the mythical and mysterious land of Northern Europe. Its vast, wild and peaceful spaces will delight the hearts of nature lovers, as more than 90% of the country’s surface is occupied by immense deep green forests and sparkling blue lakes. Explore these pure landscapes by first visiting Lapland, the Arctic province where the sun shines 24 hours a day in summer and the Northern Lights illuminate the dark days of winter. Don’t forget the coastline and the Finnish archipelago, a coastal region perfect for discovering maritime culture and its majestic national parks. After discovering Finland, you will certainly be recharged and ready for new adventures.

Language

Finnish and English

Electricity

220 volts

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link : www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.

What Exotik can offer

Wonderful castles and chateaux, world famous spas, unspoilt countryside, historical cities and legendary cuisine – what will you choose? In this small country at the heart of Europe, you will always have a copious wealth of natural and cultural treasures within reach! Nowhere is too far for you to be able to set out for. Discover the historical heritage of the Czech Republic: the most interesting castles and chateaux, UNESCO monuments and also the fascinating atmosphere of ancient cities. Treat yourself to a stay in the Czech spas and allow yourself to be pampered, body and mind. But don’t forget the monasteries, mountains and national parks. In short, stay in the places you like and make time for unusual experiences according to your taste and inclination!

Cities

Prague

Prague, City of a Hundred Spires, a UNESCO monument and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Get to know it in person! The Old Town Hall with the famous Prague Astronomical Clock. The winding lanes of the Jewish Quarter, which you know from the novels of Franz Kafka, steeped in the legend of the Golem. Cafes enticing you to come and have a seat, boutiques and sight-seeing cruises on the Vltava. The Gothic Charles Bridge and Church of St. Nicholas in the Lesser Town, the most beautiful Baroque church in Prague. The Palace Gardens set away from the bustle of the city, Petřín with a lookout tower reminiscent of a small Eiffel Tower and Prague Castle … Each of Prague’s districts has its own characteristic atmosphere and unique charm. Prague presents itself to you as a changeable city, which likes to alternate styles: it is romantic and successful, ancient and modern, but above all it is a city that is cosmopolitan through and through, and is used to welcoming foreigners. It is time to get acquainted.

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary: Jewel of the West Bohemian Spa Triangle. The incarnation of spa elegance, imposing colonnades, exclusive spa buildings and a wonderful layout in the heart of a forested valley. That is Karlovy Vary. The best known town in the world renowned West Bohemian Spa Triangle, in which some of the most famous figures in European artistic and cultural life have enjoyed treatment, is today the second most visited spot in the Czech Republic. Thanks to its unique architecture, it is one of Europe’s most beautiful spas.

Ceský Krumlov

The Czech Renaissance gem Ceský Krumlov, poetically called the Gate to Šumava, is a town where you either want to live or at least visit repeatedly. The town surrounded with meanders of the Vltava River used to be a seat of many powerful Bohemian families. Today, there is a protected monument reservation in the centre, a large collection of the work of Egon Schiele, a fascinating photo studio, and one of the most beautiful castles and chateaus in the Czech Republic. Thanks to its unique preserved medieval core, Český Krumlov is included on the UNESCO list. Get to know Krumlov and fall in love with it before you finish reading the following lines.

Language

Czech and English.

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country. 

Communication

International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 420 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 420 is only required to call Czech Republic from abroad. So it will be: 00 420 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Czech Republic, it is not necessary to dial the 420 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 420 and finally the local phone number in Czech Republic.

Useful links