All posts filed under: Travel

Veganism in France

Published by Molly Catherine

Irek and I recently spent 2 weeks in France and we divided our time between Paris, Nice and Cannes. We originally planned to spend some time in Monaco as well, but the trip ended up being quite hectic so we figured it was best to do Monaco next year. Coming from my vegan bubble in Vancouver, I was quite disappointed and discouraged to discover how lacking the country is when it comes to plant-based options (call me ignorant / naive – going into the trip, I was both). Now, when I say my ‘vegan bubble’, what I mean is that Vancouver is super progressive in terms of the acceptance and continual growth of people leading fully plant-based, cruelty-free lives. There are tons and tons of vegan and vegetarian restaurants all around Metro-Vancouver as well as the outskirts. Vancouver actually ranks in the top 3 cities of the world in regards to the amount of vegan restaurants we have… I will clarify that in Paris you can definitely find vegan restaurants – they exist and they’re lovely. …

Cannes, France

Published by Molly Catherine

Irek and I were in Cannes last week for four days. Unfortunately two of the four days the weather did not cooperate! The first day it was cloudy and rainy, and the second day it was so windy that we couldn’t even hang at the beach! So suffice to say, we didn’t get to explore as much as we would have liked… However, once the sun came out on the third day and the weather calmed, we took advantage and headed straight for the beach! The view from the beach is incredible too with beautiful mountains in the background and gorgeous yachts all around! It was very inspiring! Cannes is beautiful, but it definitely had a more westernized feel than Nice. There were high-end shops everywhere you look; Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci etc. It wasn’t exactly my style, as I’m not one for shopping really. Irek and I both prefer to be outdoors and exploring nature, than inside shopping for handbags and watches! But, if that is your style, then Cannes is most definitely the …

Sunshine and Cocktails in Nice

Published by Molly Catherine

A few days ago we did some exploring in Nice and ended up climbing to the top of this hill that overlooks the city and has incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s so important when traveling to find areas where you can get different perspectives to really appreciate your surroundings. Looking down on Nice from above made me feel entirely grateful for this life, for the people I travel with, and for the ability to experience different places and cultures. After we walked around for a while just soaking in the beauty, we had a few cocktails and some snacks at a little bar by the water… then we proceeded to the beach! This was the first time during the entire trip that we really took some time to just relax and take it easy! It was much needed and we all felt very rejuvenated after. 🙂 Have a beautiful day and keep smiling! Cheers, Molly xx Ps. Happy Father’s Day to my wonderful Dad; I love you so very much. __________ “Life is a …

Èze Village, France

Published by Molly Catherine

The other day we went to the most beautiful little town called Èze Village. It’s actually the highest point in all of Côte D’Azur so the view of the Mediterranean Sea was breathtaking. It was first populated around 2000 BC, so you can imagine all the history that lives there. Walt Disney actually spent a significant amount of time in this medieval village over the years. I have never fallen in love with a place so fast like I did with Èze; the cobblestone pathways, the stone buildings, the colourful flowers, the cute little shops… It was something out of a story book; so charming and romantic. I can only imagine all the inspiration Walt Disney must have cultivated in this beautiful place. We explored the exotic gardens at the very top of the village and I was in absolute awe of the beautiful succulents and cacti from all around the world. Irek and I also shared a bottle of rose at this amazing bar overlooking the sea. We both agreed that it was the most beautiful …

Nice, France

Published by Molly Catherine

Since I’m not one for major touristy things, Paris was a bit overwhelming for me! The crowds were extra crazy due to the Euro Cup and so it wasn’t relaxing by any means… That being said, it was still an amazing experience and I’m super grateful to have been able to see all the amazing buildings, structures, and famous landmarks Paris has to offer. Also, we had wonderful company, which makes any city you travel to that much more enjoyable and memorable. All that being said, when Irek and I arrived in Nice a few days ago, it was like a breath of fresh air! We definitely prefer to be close to the sea or ocean as much as possible, and also enjoy warmer climates… So we really have come to love Nice! We found a beautiful Airbnb about a 20 minute walk down to the beach, so the location was super convenient. It was also very nice to start the day with a bit of a walk… Although we’ve been walking 15-20 km everyday! …

Exploring Paris

Published by Molly Catherine

I’ve been in France now for 5 days and it has been an absolute whirlwind. We spent the first couple of days exploring the city and seeing the sights, and on the third day my sister got married to her wonderful husband beside the Seine River. It was an honour for Irek and I to serve as their witnesses and to experience such a beautiful ceremony. Paris is definitely a busy, happening place. It’s even busier right now with tourists than usual as France is hosting the Euro Cup. I am not one for crowds really and so 3 days in Paris was enough for me. But definitely glad we were able to explore a bit, see the amazing architecture, and spend quality time with my sister and now brother-in-law. I also got to see my beautiful adoptive Godmother after 12 years, so that really made my trip thus far. Irek and I arrived in Nice yesterday afternoon and now we’re about to head out into the city and explore Old Town. It’s been a …

Alice Lake

Alice Lake

Published by Molly Catherine

Irek and I did a bit of exploring around the Squamish area this weekend. On our way to Whistler we always pass by this sign that says “Alice Lake” and are always intrigued. This time we decided to stop by and have a look! Turns out it’s a beautifully secluded little area with tons of places to picnic and a lovely beach area. We noticed right away how quiet it was and the area just felt very calming. We looked on the map to see if there were any hikes to do to find some nice view points. We ended up just doing a short 2 hour hike through the forest, which was super easy, and there wasn’t too much of a view. However, if you have little ones, or are not into super tough hikes then this one would be a good option. We’ll definitely be going back and bringing a SUP. The lake was perfect for supping, especially if you’re a newbie, as it was very calm and quiet. There were at least …

Deception Pass Park Washington

Deception Pass

Published by Molly Catherine

There is the most amazing park about 2 hours south of Vancouver in Washington, called Deception Pass State Park. Irek and I haven’t done too much exploring in Washington since we moved to BC almost 3 years ago, but there is so much to discover all around the Pacific North West. This park in Washington was surrounded by some of the greenest water I’ve ever seen. It was breathtaking and really took me by surprise. Once we went down below the bridge, the only sounds you could hear were birds chirping and bees buzzing! And, overhead, eagles were soaring and pelicans were hunting for fish. It was absolutely incredible, I fell in love with it. We didn’t realize how huge the state park was, until we arrived and had a look at the map. We could have spent much longer than just the few hours we were there exploring. It’s definitely on my high priority list to head back there, and potentially camp for a few days in the summer. Hope you enjoy the pictures …

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

Published by Molly Catherine

I’ve lived in British Columbia for almost three years now and have never made it to the Abbotsford Tulip Festival. I saw some amazing photos on Instagram over the last couple of weeks and had to make my way over there! It’s actually coming to the end of the tulip season, so we made it just in time. The colours were unreal, it was truly a spectacular sight. I dream in colour and so for me, this place was super inspiring & magical. I read that on the weekends there is a lineup so long to get in that it causes huge traffic jams! So luckily we went on a weekday. The tulip festival is open only until this Sunday, May 1st. So, if you live in the area make sure to check it out ASAP. It’s only about an hour drive from Vancouver. Hope everyone is finding time to explore nature and appreciate all the beauty that surrounds us! 🙂 Cheers, Molly xx __________ “Wherever you are, and whatever you do, be in love.” …

Cascade Falls

Published by Molly Catherine

Exploring in British Columbia is endless! We found such a beautiful spot about an hour and 15 minute drive East from our house, in Mission. It’s a stunning waterfall, called Cascade Falls, with a small suspension bridge. The waterfall is tucked right into the woods and it’s just a short 2 minute walk to the viewpoint. It’s perfect for people who want to experience a beautiful site, but don’t want to hike hours to get there! It’s honestly probably one of my favourite spots in BC, even though everywhere we go is breathtaking! But this felt very intimate and secluded, and no one was there when Irek and I arrived. So it was a lovely experience. I’m sure it’s quite busy on weekends though. I was able to take some time to meditate when we arrived while Irek took some photos.  It was a very serene moment. Hope you enjoy the pictures & if you’re in the BC area make sure to check it out! Cheers, Molly xx __________ “It is only in adventure that …