My recent trip to Montreal was fantastic. The city always revitalises me and shows me a different side. Though we went primarily for the Jazz festival (which of course did not dissapoint), the market at Jean Talon was the big winner. Fabulous ambiance, incredible local produce and products and great deals on everything. I really haven't seen a market like that since leaving the shores of Europe.

My favourite aspect was the amount of local producers and artisans. Preserves, juices, liquors and beers, cheeses and countless varieties of produce all grown within la belle province. The pride Quebeckers have for their land never ceases to amaze me and always rubs off on me.

Other big winners were a small arts festival we stumbled upon close to the downtown, finding a certain French language hip-hop CD I am interested in and meeting friends not seen since a years time. All great times set in a fabulous city.

One thing I did not manage to accomplish was renting a bike and seeing a bit more of the city on bike, however that is still on the plate and will have to wait till next year I suppose. Can't do it all and the market was really a bit one that occupied a good part of our day.

All in all, my visit was once again thoroughly satisfying. Great to speak the language again and great new finds around the city.