kateeya
Rest & Relaxation,
Foodie,
Girl-Trips,
Montreal,Qc,CANADA
Mix of Luxury/Budget,
AirBNB/VRBO/etc,
Barbados
Nice, France
Singapour
0
A Little About Me:
Hey! I'm Katia born and raised in Canada from Haitian parents I love traveling(that's what I do for a living); seeking different versions of myself through this passion! I'm a foodie, good viber, adventurer, party goer, history collector all in one! ...talk to me I don't bite!
I honestly don't know where to start. London is definitely charming !! I had multiple chances to go with and without work. Now what I can tell you is that August is a good period to go in my opinion... why? 1. The weather is good (not too cold, not too rainy) 2. A lot of festivals are happening during that time not to mention the Notting Hill Caribbean Carnival 3. Crease of the peak season (accommodation wise) My friends and I were staying in this very good area called Canary Wharf (the bougie/financial spot apparently). There were a lot of cute restaurants/patios around and also super close from the train which will bring you to Central London in less the 40 mins. You must stop by Shoreditch: the hipster spot with all the bars, lounges and restaurants!
Jamaica 2016 was my first "Girls trip" ever and one of the most memorable as well. So where to start? We were staying at this wonderful resort (Grand Bahia Principe) in Runaway Bay which is located in between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The resort itself was impeccable. The service was amazing. The staff was super welcoming. The view was to die for. Besides our glorious stay at the resort we wanted to explore outside so we booked a Catamaran from the hotel counter. It included eating, drinking while vibing to good music with a Dj on sight, scuba diving/swimming with the fish and finally accosting for a break, pictures, souvenirs just to hop back on the boat and party on the way back to our initial destination. For those who don't mind getting wet we also went to Dunn's river falls (hiking was also involved for that activity). We went to the luminous Lagoon in Falmouth at night where we were all in the water and the concept was the more you move the more luminosity you create and it was amazing to watch. Although drinking and partying was a daily thing, we booked a tour to go to Bob Marley's old house and mausoleum in the village of Nine Miles. We had a beautiful view over the mountains totally worth a capture. In conclusion, Jamaica was an amazing trip but one trip isn't enough to experience it to fullest since there's so much to do and see. But wherever you go you will definitely get a blast and the party starts as soon as you get in the plane!
So during this pandemic my friends and I were craving oversea flights so bad but we couldn't cross the sea. We told ourselves if we can't do international flights why not just travel within our country at least. So within that same week, we spontaneously booked our flights and a lovely Airbnb located in Canmore, Alberta which is one hour away from Calgary city as well as one hour away from Banff National park. The Airbnb is actually in the Solara Resort and Spa. We had a blasting view of the Canadian Rockies to wake up to every morning. We were at a walkable distance from the Main Street where the restaurants, bars and lounges are. Before heading to Banff National Park, we went for brunch at this breakfast place called Chez François, the service was excellent and so was the food. You can avoid paying entrance fees to the National Park by getting a free pass at the counter of the resort (if you stay there). Once inside the site, you have many. options. We specifically wanted to see Lake Louise so we drove all the way to the lake Louise parking lot. Some people park a little further so they can hike their way to the Lake. As soon as we arrived we were all mesmerized by it's beauty. It was such a breathtaking view. Nature is fascinating even a picture couldn't give it its full justice. If you want to take a closer look you can also take a relaxing canoe ride. Beside Lake Louise there are also other sites to see and lots of activities to do in the Park such as hiking tours, helicopter rides, zipline tour, cave tours, atv tours, wildlife tours etc. I will definitely go back for the sites that I didn't get to see.
So I went to Paris multiple times in 2019-2020. My most recent trip to Paris was during the first week of march 2020. Paris has my heart. It's a very lovely city among many others in France. One of the reason why I keep coming back is because there's always things to do such as taking a walk on the famous bridge of love with the Eiffel Tower in the background, witnessing from your own eyes the Mona Lisa at the Louvre museum, shopping at Les Champs Elysées, walk pass the Arc de triomphe, stop by les Galeries Lafayette(one of the most beautiful mall I've ever seen) and more... Food wise: the baguettes and croissants (I know it's cliché but it really hits different) we don't have the same bread.. Our juice is like their wine; it's everywhere and it's cheap! I personally love this red wine that you can find at mini-prix called Roche Mazet (merlot) There are Cafés everywhere btw and all worth trying. Here's a few restaurants/Café recommendations -Il Grano -Café Saint-Honoré (near Le Louvre) -L'avenue - Café constant and for my sweet toothers don't forget to stop by La durée and get yourself some macarons !
I was in Cancun in May 2017. It was Memorable. We were there for about a week. We got a hotel apartment on Kukulkan Blvd (where everything is at basically). Car rental is very cheap too if want to explore on your own and drive around. Night life: my top 3 clubs to go out are 1. La Vaquita 2. Coco bongo 3. Mandala All located in Hotel Zone We also went on excursions in Chitchen Itza, Cenote and Isla mujeres. We drove to Playa del Carmen and shopped on the 5th avenue (Quinta Avenida) stopped by this restaurant called La Parillo. Food was exquisite. I would go back anytime. I totally recommend. On that note, make sure you stop to get churros from street food trucks they're the best! hands down.
My most recent trip to Miami was during spring break earlier in March...Before this whole...you know...pandemic. Whew! If you know, YOU KNOW. Miami is always a vibe. The best time to go in my opinion is during Spring Break, Memorial weekend and or during Carnival in October if you're there to turn up obviously. First stop is usually on the strip (ocean drive blvd) in South Beach and from there you can go to the beach, eat at one of the many bars/restaurants on the strip (try to go on happy hours). I also love stopping by Fingalicking, The wings stop, ChefCreole(in little Haiti) and many other black owned restaurants. Wynwood is also a great area to hang out and go out.
I was in Istanbul in November 2018, the weather at this period of the year is a bit chilly. Coat, leather jacket weather. Turkey has a lot to offer food wise. My friends and I were staying in (Beyoglu)Taksim (Nightlife, hipster, alive area). We went for breakfast to this restaurant called Privatocafe for a typical Turkish breakfast. DELICIOUS. Later that day for lunch we stopped by another place called Antakya kebab (kebabs are very popular) and so full of flavours. We would have at least one each day. Istiklal street is where it's at. Cafés, restaurants, boutiques, lounges, bars you will find everything on that street. Here's a top 10 of restaurants I've been to 1.Privatocafe (breakfast) 2.Antakya kebab (snack, lunch) 3.Haci Abdullah (lunch, dinner) 4. Antique Market old bazaar (spices) 5.Berivan Çay Ocagi (cafe) 6. Ruby (in Besiktas)for drinks 7. Mado (dessert) 8. Galata Meyhanesi (dinner) 9. Cappadocia Restaurant (in hobyar)(dinner) 10. Liman Cafe (by the water) All super affordable!
My hotel was located in New Delhi so it was about a 3 hour drive on the way to Agra and about the same time to come back. We used an express toll highway (less traffic). The driver is a friend of my work colleagues. A very kind and humble person. He drove us around and from New Delhi all the way to the Taj Mahal for a reasonable price. There are also great tour companies that offer Delhi, Agra, Jaipur tours ...a little more pricy but totally worth it. The Taj Mahal surrounded by 2 Mosques in a concept of symmetry is very impressive. Each monument has its own history. Every single details has a meaning. The architecture is unique. From outside to inside everything was meticulously done. A beautiful experience to witness and capture with your eyes. The best time to go is Now (March) it's less crowded, no fog and the weather is perfect. Side note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
VEGAS BABYY! I was in Vegas for my birthday weekend. A blast. Here's a few good hotels to stay at : The Venetian, the Palazzo, the Bellagio, MGM, Ceasars, SLS As you walk on the Vegas strip while drinking you 5ft drink you can stop by the attractions on the way such as Madame Tussaud and many more. Night life wise: just by walking on the strip you'll be approached by promoters and you'll know where it's at. Drai's Nightclub (they often have celebrities over), Cameo, Tao, Laos, Marquee, Omnia are good ones Also a tour for the Grand Canyon, antelope (underrated), Spring Valley totally is a must.
I went for the first time to my mother's land in January 2019. This trip was memorable to me in many ways. I knew that there was more than what medias are saying about Haiti. I had to experience it for myself. Haiti is beautiful. There is so much to see and experience that one trip is not enough. I fell in love with the mountains in Fermarthe/Kenscoff you have a breathtaking view of the mountains and the city of Port-au-Prince. We also went Decameron hotel resort for 2 days. I Went jet skiing for a very good deal there. You can book a massage session outside facing the ocean for a very good price as well. I had exquisite seafood dishes by the beach it was amazing (you can also get a boat tour while drinking ,eating, snorkelling). I went to my Dad's village called Petites Desdunes.. Seeing how the people in that village were beyond excited to see different faces and how they welcome you warmed my heart. Karibe hotel rooftop is also a nice place to hang out and vibe to kompa and zouk music. Port-au-Prince is where the movement is. I would also recommend Jacmel , Bassin bleu (excursion) or Jacmel in general, a beautiful city. Ile a rat, Labadee, Kokoye beach, Petionville, Citadelle Laferriere, Fort Jacques (historic monuments), Main Haitian dishes : diriz sauce poid(rice with peas and sauce), diriz legume(rice with vegetables), diriz collé(black rice with peas), may moulin ak zaboka(blended corn with avocados), fritay, paté(patties), lambi(goat), krab(lobster), banan peze (plantain) Drinks : Rhum Barbancourt, prestige(beer), Malta, Cremasse (eggnog) Hope this helps!
I was in Dubai in September 2018. I had a blast and I would definitely go again. First of all the architecture speaks for itself...very impressive and modern. As a black woman tourist, you outstand obviously and for that particular reason you can get a free pass on what you're wearing and or where you're going (clubs, lounges) to a certain extend. Day 1: my girls and I went to this hookah afro club in Za'abeel (yes there is an afro community in Dubai) we had a good time! Good Dj, good crowd. Day 2: We went to Barasti beach club, you have an amazing view of Dubai's typical tall buildings worth a capture!( Ladies, yes you can wear bikinis but only at the beach as soon as you step out you need to cover up) Day 3: We booked a Safari tour ( A MUST) Gateway Tours.. this activity lasted the whole day. It includes ( Camel rides, sand surfing, motocross, dune diving, dinner, entertainment show in the desert to end the day) Day 4: We went to Yas Mall, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Heritage village in Abu Dhabi (there's a whole lot more to do there) Later at night we went to this very known club called White, believe the hype it was great. The music was good and the crowd was alive. The place is on rooftop and you get a beautiful skyline view while turning up! Day 5: We went to the Dubai mall where is also located the aquarium. A very huge mall with a variety of stores and boutique for people with expensive tastes such Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint-Laurent, Gucci and many more. We also saw the Burj Khalifa which is known as the tallest building worldwide. Very impressive. You can also have dinner at the last floor. Day 6: We went to some "Souks" which means little market where you can find spices, jewelry, fabrics, pretty much everything.. definitely a must.
I was in Abu Dhabi for a day in the end of September 2018. It felt like 40 degrees Celsius in other words...Very hot. As a black tourist woman there was a lot of stares but nothing more. We were told be covered from head to toe when we walked outside... not that they were going to do anything if not but it was a friendly advice from the hotel receptionist. (strongly recommended) So we obviously had to stop and see from ourselves the majestic Sheikh Zayed Mosque. It was breathtaking, the pictures don't give its full justice. The whole experience was memorable. You also have to keep in mind that the mentality is different and you have to be opened to it. Women and men had separate entrances. Hugs and holding hands were not allowed inside the Mosque. Women had to wear a sail and remove their shoes. This was one of the most beautiful mosque my eyes ever got to see. My girls and I also went to the Heritage Village. There is a lot to learn about the whole family behind the throne of the UAE if that's something that you're interested in. You should also stop by the Marina Mall. There's a lot of sightseeing to do. The architecture is impressive.
Lisbon, Portugal. Despite the language barrier, the people are very kind and curious. I loved Lisbon. The food in general was top 3 and it's not 3. Let me start by saying that I was pleasantly surprised of how well seasoned and flavourful their seafood is; Exquisite. My girls and I went to LX factory which can be considered as the nightlife spot as well as the place to go to chill in the day. There's a lot of movement there. Wine stores, souvenir boutiques, lounges, rooftop clubs, restaurants, bars. Before you leave Lisbon for my sweet toothers you must go get yourself of pack of 6 or 12 pastéis from Pastéis de Belèm. Thank me later!
When I think about Zurich the first thing that comes to mind is RACLETTE and the clocks everywhere... for all my cheese lovers Zurich has some of the best raclette spots. I went to this spot called Raclette factory. The food was great. Cool spot where you can chill and get raclette dishes and hot chocolate (what I had). Good customer service as well. People were really curious about my origins in a good way.
I was in Barbados for 4 days last month and I'm definitely going back. Barbados has my heart. The people are welcoming, polite, warm, humble. At this time of the year, it is quiet. Quiet also means peaceful, relaxation vibes, quick escape, time to retreat... I went to the Oistins fish fry market on a Friday which is also the best day to go. Good music, amazing food and a great crowd is the ambiance. You can get drinks there for very cheap. In the day time, the white sand beaches and turquoise water are mesmerizing where you can swim with turtles as well... PS:A festival that you should definitely experience when you go to Barbados is Cropover in August which exactly where I shall be this summer.
So Montreal is my hometown. For my foodies, here's a list of my favourites affordable restaurants (top 5) 1. Banquise (where they sell the famous Poutine) Ask for "The Reggae" Poutine it's my favourite and you won't be disappointed. 2. Ganadara (Korean Food) hands down. That's the type of restaurant that only the real knows. Honestly everything on the menu is a must try. 3. Agrikol (Haitian food) one word Amazing. ..not only because I'm Haitian but you should definitely give it a try. Right seasoning, good proportions, cute food presentations and also good music to set the vibes you don't want to miss out! 4. Seasoned dreams (black owned) they also have an instagram page! try the jerk poutine you'll love it guaranteed 5. Petinos (breakfast & brunch) and you always have to add both cheeses to your potatoes... yum! Here's a few recommendations If you like eating with a view: Les Enfants terribles, terrasse Nelligan, Terrasses Bonsecours, Terrasse William Gray, Terrasse sur l'Auberge. They are mostly located in the Old port of Montreal. (always good to call in advance for reservation). Terrasses are only opened in the summer time (from May to September)
I was in Brussels last September (perfect time because there's not a lot of tourist) there's a lot of museums, historic monuments to visit it's quite interesting if you're into it. Other than the chocolate museum the another one that really got my attention is the Beer Museum ...you get to taste all kinds of beer. A must!