Category: Destinations

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

Madagascar, a land rich in history and culture, offers a captivating journey through time. This island, once a crossroads of ancient trade routes, has been shaped by diverse influences, from its early Austronesian settlers to the arrival of Arab, European, and African traders. The island’s unique blend of traditions and cultures is reflected in its architecture, from the Royal Palace in Antananarivo to the historical ruins of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Madagascar’s complex colonial history also adds depth to its story, with the legacy of French influence visible in its cities and coastal towns. Visiting Madagascar is like stepping into a living history book, where ancient traditions coexist with a vibrant, evolving culture.

Cities

Antananarivo

Antananarivo is a real concentrate of what the island reserves in an urban framework. It is the capital of Madagascar, and is called “the City of thousands, referring to 1000 treasures to discover. With your family, visit a “rova,” a palace of the royal era, or wander through the animal parks to discover the fauna and flora visible all around the island. In solo or in couple, there is a trek to go through the 12 sacred hills to discover the Malagasy gastronomy in one of the restaurants of the upper city. Antananarivo offers you a rich journey for young and old.There are numerous activities to do there, for everyone of different tastes. Whether you prefer historical culture, fauna and flora, or adventure, the capital of Madagascar will meet all of your expectations. To learn more about Malagasy culture and history, you can visit the royal palaces or historical sites such as the Upper Town of the Pavillion Market, filled with atypical architechtures. Alongside an experienced guide, you will have the opportunity to quickly learn more about Malagasy people and their history. Customs are one aspect that makes the charm of the population, which will fill your outings with big smiles and greetings.

Nosy Be

Nosy Be is the main island of an archipelago of a dozen small islands. It is called the island of perfumes because of its scents of ylang ylang, sugar cane and spices. It is a land of dreams and adventure, and you can practice many activities there. You can also enjoy the heavenly beaches littering the coasts. Situated in the Mozambique Canal, near the north-western coast of Madagascar, Nosy Be is called Ambariobe (“the great island”) by the inhabitants of the region. This volcanic island of approximately 320 km² is the ideal starting point for cruises to paradisiac archipelagos, or to the west coast of Madagascar. Nosy Be contains many other surprises! The island is overflowed with a dense forest sprinkled with volcanic lakes, and an exceptional fauna and flora. The archipelago has many islands that are very easy to visit. The most famous are Nosy Komba, Nosy Tanikely, Nosy Sakatia, and Nosy Iranja.

Diego Suarez

Diego Suarez is the main town north of Madagascar. It is a dreamy destination and offers a range of nautical and land activities, in an incredible and breathtaking setting. From beaches to imposing mountain massifs, you will discover a different setting at each stage of your journey. This will be an epic journey that will offer you a lot of memories!The city of Diego Suarez, also called Antsiranana is the largest city north of Madagascar. It is also the 3rd port of the island. It was for a long time, the former French garrison, where the remains of colonization is still seen today. Diego-Suarez and its region are full of incredible landscapes – Ramena beach is the most obvious. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with miles of turquoise water and white sand bordering it. The region has many fishing villages and offers the Amber and Ankarana Mountains as background. You can’t miss the many other sites with grand landscapes that Diego-Suarez has to offer, like the red Tsingy or the Emerald Sea. An exceptional stay filled with flamboyant colors awaits you!

Language

The main language of Madagascar is Malagasy, but English and French are also recognized as official languages, with a preference in use for French.

Weather

The climate in Madagascar is very varied according to the regions. The Highlands have a mild climate, the West is warm and dry, the East coast is rainy, the North is hot and humid, and the South semi-arid. The dry season runs from April to October, and the summer, the rainy season, from November to March. The ideal is to leave between September and October or from April to June.

Electricity

Electricity is generally at 220V. Most hotels have their own generators. Provide a battery-operated device for extreme cases. For your calls, the code of Madagascar is 261, and the broadband internet is generalized in the hotels.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Belgium is Europe in a word, with 35 World Heritage sites. Do not be fooled by its size, however, Belgium has something for everyone: more than 200 museums, 300 art nouveau buildings in Brussels, 650 different styles of beer and more than 2,000 chocolate shops! It is one of six founding members of the European Union which it receives in its capital Brussels, the main institutions (the European Council, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission), as well as other international organizations such as NATO, Eurocontrol and the ACP. It is surrounded by the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France and the North Sea. Belgium is a constitutional monarchy whose king is Philippe, the seventh king of the Belgians, since 2013.

Language

Dutch, French and German

What Exotik can offer

Situated in the heart of Europe, Germany has plenty of fantastic tourist attractions and unique sights to offer. Visitors from all over the world travel to Germany to see architectural treasures and fascinating places of natural beauty. Experience the majestic beauty of castles and palaces, explore fascinating museums, or delve into the music of some of the most famous German composers. Explore the wine and beer festivals and visit the home of the discovery of Nutcracker! Germany’s landscapes offer a wealth of options for an unforgettable holiday: long sandy beaches on the coasts and lake shores, enchanting lowland plains, extensive ranges of hills and the high peaks of Saxon Switzerland. Whether you choose leisurely exploration, a spa or wellness break, or a sports activity, you’ll be amazed at what Germany’s natural landscapes have to offer

Cities

Berlin

Berlin is the largest city and capital of Germany. Berlin is best known for its historical associations as the German capital, internationalism and tolerance, lively nightlife, its many cafés, clubs and bars, street art, numerous museums, palaces, and other sites of historic interest. Berlin’s architecture is quite varied. Although badly damaged in the final years of World War II and broken apart during the Cold War, Berlin has reconstructed itself greatly, especially with the reunification push after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Munich

Radiant Bavarian culture, Munich is a charming and most popular city in Germany. Called München in German, the town takes its name from its first monastery where monks began the now traditional beer brewing. Although best known today for its annual beer festival, Oktoberfest, Munich also has an artistic side with important European art collections in many art galleries. Whether you are looking for perfect summer days in a garden café or a touch of festive magic of the snowy Christmas markets, Munich is guaranteed to please!

Frankfurt

Welcome to Frankfurt! The most international city in Germany, the largest financial centre on the continent, the historical city of coronations, the city of Goethe and the Frankfurt School… In brief, be ready to explore the smallest metropolis in the world, in which there is a lot to see at close hand! Whether this glance at the city’s home page is the start of a longer, maybe even permanent, stay on the banks of the Main, or if, as a business visitor, you only have a limited amount of time available: you will find that the city has interesting offers for extensive tours of the city, cultural enjoyment and attractive shopping trips waiting for you. No matter where visitors come from, they will always meet people in Frankfurt who speak their language and a restaurant that serves their favorite food. The open and hospitable atmosphere in Frankfurt stems from its centuries-old role as a trading centre.

Language

German 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: 49 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 49 is only required to call Germany from abroad. So it will be: 00 49 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Germany, it is not necessary to dial the 49 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 49 and finally the local phone number in German.