Category: Destinations

What Exotik can offer

Japan was once closed to the rest of the world for a long time, but today Japan is an open country, full of contrasts, events and cutting edge technology. Traditional values are still strictly respected and remain the link between past and present. The country of the Rising Sun will charm you!

Cities

Tokyo

In Tokyo, where you can pass with veneration from the visit of an ancient temple to an evening in a karaoke bar, tradition rubs against pop culture. Get up before sunrise to see the excitement of a fish auction at the Tsukiji Market, then enjoy a stroll under the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River to rejuvenate yourself. Do not forget to take a tour of the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Then review Japan’s history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. And do not hesitate to eat sushi, udon noodles and wagashi (traditional Japanese pastries) as much as your stomach wants!

Kyoto

Kyoto is a large city located on the main island Honshu, in the Kansai region southwest of Lake Biwa. Former capital of Japan, named Heian-kyo at the time of the emperors, it is full of shrines, historical temples and monuments. Considered as the cultural capital of Japan, it is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to the delight of tourists who are more and more to discover it every year.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a coastal Japanese town overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, located on the main island Honshu and capital of the prefecture of the same name. Infamous for having suffered the first atomic bombing of history on August 6, 1945, precipitating the end of the Second World War, now the city is totally rebuilt and is the largest in the Chugoku region. The A-bomb, which exploded 600 meters above the ground, killed 75,000 people on the spot and about 220,000 in total. The city, meanwhile, has almost disappeared. After the war, the reconstruction was based on a “city of peace”. Nowadays, it is a big city of Japan which is of course completely rebuilt but, if the stigmata of this sad past are apparently discreet, it did not forget its history. In the heart of the city lies the large Peace Park which houses the dome of the bomb A (whose structure survived the explosion) and the eponymous Museum and its poignant testimonials.

Language

Japanese and English

Electricity

The electricity is 100 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: 00 International dialing code: 81 Concerning national calls made in Japan, it is not necessary to dial the 81 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 81 and finally the local phone number in Japan.

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What Exotik can offer

Greek islands are a group of many islands in Greece. The area of these islands is 879,6 km2. These islands are in the southern part of Greece.

Cities

Crete

The cradle of European Civilization – the Island of Crete and its genuinely friendly people welcome you and wish you a wonderful stay!! Some will be visiting for the first time whilst others have now become regulars, but either way, we promise you a truly memorable Mediterranean experience. Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Here, the visitor can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, gaze at impressive mountains, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teaming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover.

Corfu

The island of Corfu is in the Ionian Sea and is a Mediterranean jewel of incomparable natural beauty. Corfu attracts visitors from all over the world for its mix of lush green landscapes, golden sandy beaches, and charming traditional villages. Glufada and Sadari are must-see destinations for sun and sea lovers. Corfu’s beaches offer clear waters and a multitude of activities. The center of the island is characterized by green hills, olive groves and majestic cypress trees. Corfu town is steeped in history and culture. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Achilleion Palace, with its neoclassical architecture, is a major attraction on the island. Corfu is also renowned for its delicious Mediterranean-style cuisine.

Rhode

Rhode Island is the largest island in the Dodecanese group. The island is lined with golden sand and secluded coves with clear waters. Popular resorts include Falikari and Lindos, for those seeking sun and relaxation. The medieval city of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Palace of the Grand Masters is one of the city’s main attractions. Rhodes abounds in archaeological sites such as the Acropolis of Rhodes and the Temple of Apoleon on Lindos. The interior of the island of Rhodes has a wide variety of landscapes, from lush green valleys to rugged mountains. Rhodian cuisine features fresh, local ingredients such as olive oil and seafood.

Language

Greek

Weather

Mediterraneean climate

Electricity

230V/50Hz, you will need an adaptor a current transformer

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. 

Communication

To call in Greek Islands 00+30, urgence number 112

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What Exotik can offer

Albania is a destination that charms everyone with its range of attractions. Picturesque beaches offer incomparable moments of relaxation, while majestic mountains invite adventure and exploration. Its rich historical heritage is revealed through its ancient cities, archaeological sites and living traditions. Whether you’re passionate about nature, history or simply looking for a memorable getaway, Albania offers fertile ground for wonder and discovery.

Cities

Tirana

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a dynamic and constantly evolving city. Situated in the heart of the country, it is nestled between mountains and offers a fascinating blend of history, culture and modernity.One of Tirana’s most striking features is its architectural diversity. You can find buildings from the communist era alongside more modern structures.Urban life is lively in Tirana, with colorful streets, bustling markets and inviting cafés. Skanderbeg Square is a focal point of the city, lined with historic buildings and stores. Parks and green spaces also dot the city, offering places to relax and enjoy.Tirana’s cultural life is rich, with numerous museums, art galleries and theaters. The city is also home to a lively music scene and vibrant nightlife, with a multitude of bars, clubs and restaurants where visitors can discover Albanian cuisine as well as international dishes.All in all, Tirana is a fast-growing city that harmoniously blends its rich past with its vibrant present, offering visitors a unique and captivating experience.

Berat

Berat, nicknamed the “city of a thousand and one windows”, is one of Albania’s most emblematic and picturesque towns. Situated on the banks of the Osum River, Berat is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, rich history and natural beauty. One of Berat’s most striking features is its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This part of the town, known as “Mangalem” and “Gorica”, is made up of narrow cobbled streets and traditional white stone houses, characterized by their wooden windows that seem to stack one on top of the other. The town’s hilltop location also offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. Berat Castle, also known as “Kala”, dominates the old town. This well-preserved castle dates back to antiquity and today houses museums, medieval churches and historic residences. A visit to the castle not only immerses you in the history of the region, but also offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains. Berat is also known for its wine and olive oil production, and visitors can sample these local products in the town’s many restaurants and cafés. Berat cuisine is renowned for its richness and variety, reflecting Ottoman, Mediterranean and Balkan influences. In short, Berat is a must-see destination in Albania, offering visitors an immersion in the country’s history, culture and natural beauty.

Saranda

Saranda, located in southern Albania, is a picturesque and lively coastal town that attracts visitors with its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. What makes Saranda unique is its proximity to the magnificent Albanian Riviera and its many heavenly beaches. The region’s most popular beaches include Ksamil, a series of small islands linked by stone bridges, as well as Mirror beach (Pasqyra) and Pulebardha beach, known for their crystal-clear waters and unspoiled scenery. In addition to its beaches, Saranda is also renowned for its historical and archaeological sites. The nearby ancient site of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to remarkable remains from various eras, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian. Saranda’s seafront promenade is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of restaurants, cafés and bars where you can sample delicious local cuisine while enjoying views of the Ionian Sea. Saranda’s nightlife is equally lively, with a multitude of bars, discos and clubs attracting revelers until the early hours of the morning during the summer season. In short, Saranda is a vibrant, sunny seaside destination, offering the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and culture for visitors from all walks of life.

Bled

Bled, Slovenia’s jewel in the crown, is an enchanting destination nestled in the heart of the Julian Alps. Its international renown is largely due to its stunningly beautiful lake, overlooked by a medieval castle perched on a cliff and dominated by the majestic peaks of the surrounding mountains. At the center of this breathtaking scene lies the island of Bled, a small, verdant island home to the Baroque Church of the Assumption, whose iconic bell tower rises proudly into the sky. Accessible by traditional wooden boat called a “pletna”, the island invites visitors to a peaceful, contemplative experience. The shores of the lake, lined with lush trees and picturesque promenades, offer the ideal setting for relaxing, cycling or simply enjoying the breathtaking views. In summer, the crystal-clear waters of the lake invite you to take a dip, while in winter, Bled is transformed into a fairytale setting with its frozen lake and winter activities such as ice skating. In addition to its natural beauty, Bled also offers a rich history and fascinating culture to explore. Bled Castle, perched on its cliff, offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, as well as a captivating insight into the region’s history. What’s more, visitors can sample local delicacies, including the famous “kremna rezina” (cream cake) in the picturesque cafés lining the lake. In short, Bled is a truly magical destination, captivating visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an outdoor adventure or simply a quiet break in magnificent surroundings, Bled offers an unforgettable experience to all those lucky enough to visit.

Language

Albanian

Weather

Albania has a Mediterranean climate with each season offering distinct- yet pleasant weather. Despite the rain, Albanians enjoy a great deal of sunshine. The overall climate is pleasant and is favorable for outdoor activity. On average, Albanians enjoy a great deal of sunshine, second only to Spain (in Europe) in average annual sunny days.

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.

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What Exotik can offer

The harmony between man and nature, open spaces, the sweetness of life which flirts with the monotony of the landscape of absolute quiet, these are the images that you cannot escape by Sweden. Some believe that the aurora borealis is without a doubt the most beautiful thing to see on our planet. The first time they attend to this phenomenon, people are usually amazed. Sweden has a king; Carl XVI Gustaf is king since 1973. Sweden has a border with Norway in the west and another with Finland in the north-east. South, Denmark, which the country is connected by the Oresund Bridge, is located 4 km offshore. Northern Sweden is occupied by the Lapland Sápmi called by its inhabitants, the Sami, which were the original inhabitants of northern Scandinavia.

Cities

Stockholm

Sweden’s capital is one of the most beautiful major cities in the world, a mirage of saffron- and terracotta-colored buildings shimmering between blue water and bluer skies all summer, or covered with snow and dotted with lights in winter. It’s also a vibrant, modern city, famous for producing sleek designs, edgy fashion and world-class nightclubs. Stockholmers themselves are almost uniformly polite and friendly, making travel both easy and rewarding. Around 16% of greater Stockholm’s 1.2 million people are immigrants, which creates a much more multicultural and diverse cityscape than many travelers might expect. It’s certainly not all meatballs, ABBA and IKEA these days!

Gothenburg

Often caught in Stockholm’s shadow, gregarious Göteborg socks a mighty punch of its own. Some of the country’s finest talent hails from its streets, including music icons José González and Soundtrack of Our Lives. Ornate architecture lines its tram-rattled streets, grit-hip cafes hum with bonhomie, and must-sees include Scandinavia’s amusement park heavyweight, Liseberg. Best of all, Göteborg is comparatively cheaper than its east-coast rival, making it a top introduction to Sweden!

Swedish Lapland

In summer, the sun never sets and it can get hot, but until the beginning of the season, it is possible to ski in many ski stations. Many activities are possible such as: hiking, downhill and cross country skiing, fishing, boating, rafting, climbing, snowmobiling, cycling, dog sled tours, walks back reindeer tours and icebreakers. Meet the Sami nation, natives in Scandinavia, with a unique culture, crafts and traditions of its own. The Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park has been specially constructed so that we can observe the most beautiful light show in the world: the aurora borealis.

Language

Swedish and English.

Electricity

The electricity is 230 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: 46 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 46 is only required to call Sweden from abroad. So it will be: 00 46 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Sweden, it is not necessary to dial the 46 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 46 and finally the local phone number in Sweden.

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What Exotik can offer

Norway is a very long country which extends north beyond the Arctic Circle. If you turn it upside down, from north to south, it will pass through Europe to the Mediterranean! The northern half of Norway lived under the midnight sun of summer and the magical dance of northern lights over the skies of the polar night in winter. Hike-country skiing during the day, and choose from four restaurants Michelin night. Still further north you can join a safari to observe eagles and whales. In summer the sun never sets in this part of Norway, and in winter the northern lights illuminate the dark sky. Swim in the cool water of the fjords, and let the breeze caress you from the North Pole when you are on the northernmost point of Europe, the North Cape! It shares borders with Sweden, Finland and Russia. Its long Atlantic coast is home to numerous fjords

Cities

Oslo

Hemmed by a ‘fjord’ and kilometers of woodland, Norway’s capital is an easy-going city with an eclectic architectural mix of old, new and just plain 1960s that is hard not to like. The perfect size for exploring on foot, the city boasts world-class museums, a lively nightlife and plenty of outdoor activities for the energetic. Most visitors will find themselves struggling to choose between Oslo’s numerous museums, which offer something for almost every taste: a face-to-face with the haunting image of Edvard Munch’s The Scream at the National Gallery, a chance to stand in the shoes of an Olympic ski-jumper at the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, or a window into history and culture at the unforgettable Viking Ship, Polar ship Frame or Folk Museums on Bygdøy. And Oslo is certainly the cosmopolitan heart of Norway, with a rapidly growing café and bar culture, top-notch restaurants, and nightlife options ranging from world-class opera and jazz to indie rock

Bergen

Surrounded by seven hills and seven fjords, Bergen is a beautiful, charming city. With the Unesco World Heritage–listed Bryggen and buzzing Vågen Harbour as its centerpiece, Bergen climbs the hillsides with hundreds of timber-clad houses, while cable cars offer stunning views from above. Throw in great museums, friendly locals and a dynamic cultural life and Bergen amply rewards as much time as you can give it. For an unbeatable view of the city, ride the 26-degree Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mt Fløyen.

Fjords

Norway’s epic landscapes rank among the most beautiful and varied in Europe, and the sheer drama of the fjords is alone worth the effort of coming to this remarkable country. Here, fjords of extraordinary beauty cut gashes from a jagged coastline deep into the interior, cliffs plunge down to barely populated shorelines, and vertiginous waterfalls drop from impossible heights. All the while, isolated farms occupy seemingly inaccessible pockets of green.

Language

Norwegian, Danish and English.

Electricity

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

Communication

How to call in Norway International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 47 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 47 is only required to call Norway from abroad. So it will be: 00 47 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Norway, it is not necessary to dial the 47 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 47 and finally the local phone number in Norway.

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What Exotik can offer

Denmark is the smallest of the Scandinavian countries and is certainly the most southern in its geographical position. Its people are livelier and warm Scandinavians, always ready to drink, talk, walk outdoors, and enjoy the sunshine. The Danish monarchy, one of the world’s oldest, is a very popular institution fully anchored in the Danish society. Beyond the capital and the bigger cities, Denmark offers a mix of lively towns such as Ribe and Odense plus rural countryside, medieval churches, Renaissance castles and tidy 18th-century villages. Neolithic dolmen, preserved 2000-year-old “bog people”, and impressive Viking ruins are just some of the remnants of the nation’s long and fascinating history.

Cities

Copenhagen

The coolest, most cosmopolitan, most exciting and, yes, Danny Kaye was right, the most wonderful city in Scandinavia welcome to Copenhagen (København). These days the Danish capital is blossoming. There is a spring in its step borne from a mixture of some brave new architecture, continued prosperity and a burgeoning confidence in its own charms. There are more cafés and restaurants than ever! Copenhagen is clean, safe and ridiculously easy to get to know, the locals all speak superb English and the transport system makes London’s look like it’s on the verge of a nervous breakdown. It usually makes the top five, if not the top spot, as the “most livable city”!

The Funen

Funen (Fyn) is engagingly pretty, with rural scenery, thatched farmhouses and a surprisingly varied set of attractions. The chirpy modern city of Odense is Hans Christian Andersen crazy – sculptures of trolls lounge on street corners, duckling-and-swan mobiles dangle from gift shop windows, and even the lights at pedestrian crossings feature a certain well-known fairy-tale writer. Even if you scoff at fantastical fabrications, Odense will have something to hold you – old steam engines, manatees at the zoo, imposing churches and cathedrals, art galleries, open-air museums and chilledout boat rides on the river.

Jutland Peninsula

One of Jutland’s most prized areas is the Lake District (Søhøjlandet), as it dazzles with hills, forests and lakes not found anywhere else in Denmark. This region is home to Denmark’s longest river: the Gudenå, Jutland’s biggest lake (Mossø) and Denmark’s highest point, Ejer. In many countries, visiting the land would probably be a passport to gob smacking scenery and have you reaching for your camera and grasping for superlatives. Not in Denmark! Instead of craning your neck at sky-reaching peaks, here you can marvel over the gentle nature, neat and tame, and the superbly pretty scenery.

Language

Danish 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: 45 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 45 is only required to call Denmark from abroad. So it will be: 00 45 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Denmark, it is not necessary to dial the 45 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 45 and finally the local phone number in Denmark.

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What Exotik can offer

Kenya is situated right along the equator, on the eastern coast of the African continent. Its coastal region is on the southeast, and to the east lays Somalia. Ethiopia is to the north, the Sudan to the northwest, and Uganda directly to the west. The southwestern border of the country is marked by Lake Victoria, and southward lays Tanzania. Kenya’s geography is marvellously varied. While much of northeastern Kenya is a flat, bush-covered plain, the remainder of the country encompasses pristine beaches, scenic highlands and lake regions, the Great Rift Valley, and the magnifcent Mount Kenya.

Cities

Nairobi

Is the capital of Kenya. In addition to its urban center, the city also includes the Nairobi National Park, a large reserve inhabited by black rhinos, a threatened species, as well as giraffes, zebras and lions. Next door is a famous elephant orphanage, managed by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Nairobi is also often the starting point for safa.

Mombasa

Is a port city of southern Kenya on the Indian Ocean and the county seat of Mombasa County. Located 440 km southeast of the capital Nairobi, it is connected to it by the road A109, a railway line and daily air links.

The Masai Mara

National Reserve is a wild savannah area preserved in southwestern Kenya along the Tanzanian border. It is home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras and hippos. Wildebeest roam the plains during their annual migration. The landscape, consisting of grassy plains and hills, is crossed by the rivers Mara and Talek. The area surrounding the reserve is dotted with Maasai (enkang) villages.

Language

Kenya is a multilingual country. Its official languages are Swahili and English. There are a total of 62 languages spoken in Kenya, most being African Languages with a minority of Middle-Eastern and Asian languages spoken by descendants of settlers.

Electricity

The electricity in Kenya is 220/240 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. If you travel to Kenya with a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter. The plugs are 3-point square.

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: 00 International dialing code: 254 Concerning national calls made in Kenya, it is not necessary to dial the 254 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 254 and finally the local phone number in Kenya.

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What Exotik can offer

The well named kingdom count in its ranks: Scotland, Wales, England (which together, form Great Britain) and Northern Ireland, with their own unique cultures and traditions. For centuries, exporting its language and culture, the UK has become a model in many areas. Its advantages give high standards: vast natural heritage through its green hills, mountains and coastline, lakes and national parks; enormous potential historic image of his castles, churches and museums; incredible range of activities in the country of music, theater, football and golf.

Cities

London

Sprawling city, both temple of classicism in English and ultra trendy, business and avantgarde kingdom, London is more than a city, it is a universe! Center of European capitalism, home of all cultural experiments, London is an elusive city, a mosaic of districts and the queen of allparadoxes. Must sees in London are: Piccadilly Circus, London Eye; for a panoramic view of the city, Hyde Park; for a moment of rest. For shopping, visit Harrods or Oxford Street, for designers and haute couture, New Bond Street is a must. The main tourist attractions: the London Bridge, Big Ben, takes a cruise on the Thames; see the Parliament, the Royal Palace, St. James Park, the British Museum and many more!

Stonehenge

Stonehenge, whose name means “suspended rocks” is inscribed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO and attracts nearly a million visitors per year. It is described as a sanctuary consists of stones circles arranged in a pattern whose astronomical significance is still being explored. This sacred place and the nearby Neolithic sites are an incomparable testimony to prehistoric times. Stonehenge is one of the most impressive monuments in the world due to the size of its megaliths, the complexity of the series of concentric circles, and its architectural design

Edinburgh

For many, Edinburgh is the gateway to Scotland; we visit it before going into the Highlands. It is the city of culture and ideals, art and literature, philosophy and science. The Scottish capital, the second tourist destination in the United Kingdom, is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its medieval and Georgian districts. This city has a unique personality and we can only return again and again to discover each new facet: its iconic castle, pubs atmosphere in pure traditional Scottish style, its many green spaces where is good to rest, museums, and especially its many festivals that are a reason to celebrate and have a good time in good company! Cheers!

Language

English

Electricity

The electricity is 230 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.

The UK is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system that will be mandatory for all Canadian starting on January 8th, 2025. The ETA is a digital pre-travel authorisation required for most visitors to the UK, including those from previously visa-exempt countries. It costs £10 and is valid for multiple entries over two years. This new system aims to enhance security and streamline the entry process. While it’s an extra step, it should make travel smoother in the long run.

What Exotik can offer

Northern Ireland is located to the north of Ireland and is a nation of the United Kingdom. There is a land border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. The area of this nation is 14 130km2.

Cities

Belfast

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s dynamic capital and a city that blends history, culture, and modernity. Nestled along the banks of the River Lagan, the city is steeped in a rich industrial and maritime history. Belfast is the city where the Titanic was built. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, with fascinating museums, contemporary art galleries and lively theaters. The Cathedral Quarter is a must for those seeking to discover the city’s art and food scene. There is also a wealth of frescoes for history buffs. Belfast offers many parks and green spaces to relax and enjoy nature, the Belfast Forest Park and Botanical Gardens being just two examples.

Language

English and Irish

Weather

Temperate and maritime 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

0044 to call in Northern Ireland, 999 is the emergency number

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

With more than 58 million tourists visiting per year, Spain is among one of the countries most visited in the world. Its animated cities, the riches of its historic monuments, its paradise beaches, its hospitality and its joys of life give this country its reason to be explored. The birthplace of such great artists as Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Velázquez, Miguel de Cervantes, and Antonio Banderas, all add to the fantastic culture of Spain. For thousands of years, Spain has been one of the cultural centers of Europe. It has many beautiful cities and towns, offering thousands of monuments as well as a tremendous diversification of architecture.

Cities

Barcelona

Catalonia and Barcelona have become one of the first tourist destinations of Spain, it knows how to please the big majority : with a history among the oldest in Europe, a capital, Barcelona, which never sleeps and an inland full of charm not to forget beautiful beaches in La Costa Brava. The variety of artistic treasures, the Romanesque churches and the great names in modern art and architecture, Dali, Gaudi, Miro, Picasso… Barcelona sited between the sea and the mountains, has found a formidable balance: a foot in the traditional things and the other in the avant-garde.

Madrid

Madrid is often considered the European “capital of joy and contentment.” Although the city is a dynamic business center, Madrileños clearly enjoy life, taking time for long walks, extended evenings with friends over tapas, and dinner often as late as midnight. Madrid is a city of passion and drama, from the mournful beauty of flamenco to the intense baile of matador and bull. Madrid’s Museo del Prado, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Centro Reina Sofia are world-class museums with works of El Greco, Velázquez, Ribera, Murillo,Goya, and Picasso.

Costa del Sol

Mediterranean climate, more than 320 days of sun per year, the sea, small charming towns and a lot more… The Costa del Sol casts a spell over you and it has logically converted itself into a key international tourist destination since the middle of the last century. The Costa del Sol offers luxury and glamour, taking advantage of the frequent presence of film stars since the seventies. Today, between 25% and 30% of the large luxury hotels in Spain are found in Marbella and its surroundings, not to mention the first class golf courses. A luxurious and international character which contrasts the typical small Andalusia villages such as Ronda and Mijas, with narrow streets and white-washed houses adorned with flowers.

Language

Spanish, but many of its derivatives are also spoken, such as Catalan. English and some French can be spoken as well.

Weather

Spain is a sunny country with around 3,000 hours of sunshine every year. The temperatures are mild, but there are still differences depending on the seasons and areas of the country. The mildest temperatures are in spring and autumn, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors practically the whole day long. Maximum temperatures are reached during the months of July and August, which are hot and dry throughout the whole country. The coldest temperatures occur during the months of December, January and February, which are the months with the most rainfall, mainly in the north of Spain.

It is essential to pack:

• Sunglasses, which you will use all year round.
• Comfortable footwear, especially if you visit museums, go sightseeing in cities or hike in nature.
• A light, comfortable backpack to carry your things, for example, sunglasses, sun cream, a bottle of water and a small travel umbrella for any eventuality.

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: 34 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialling code 34 is only required to call Spain from abroad. So it will be: 00 34 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Spain, it is not necessary to dial the 34 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 34 and finally the local phone number in Spain.

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