The new Formula One season is almost upon us. After last season’s dramatic end conclusion, things are gearing themselves up to a really explosive year of racing.
We have looked at Formula One destinations previously, but today we are off to Montreal for the Grand Prix du Canada at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve from Friday June 17th till Sunday June 19th.
Originally held in late September the Grand Prix was moved to its regular mid-June slot to take advantage of the warmer weather with an average high temperature of 22.2°C. Due to the design of the circuit, the drivers are always close to the barriers which are unforgiven. Many a world class driver has been caught out by the wall on the exit from the final chicane and it has been given the nickname the “Quebec Wall”. In 1999, Damon Hill, Michael Schumacher and Jacques Villeneuve all hit the “Welcome to Quebec” sign.
Away from the track, Montreal has a lot to offer the visitor. The number one tourist destination is the Notre Dame Basilica. There has been a church on this site since the 17th century. The modern building has a design brief to accommodate and congregation of up to 10,000 worshippers. The interior of the church is one of the most dramatic in the world. However unusually the stain glass windows do not depict biblical scenes, but seems from the religious history of Montreal. Not too far away you will also find the Chateau Ramezay which was the first building to be designated a Historic Building in Quebec. Built in 1705 it has served as a family residence, a governor’s residence, university buildings and now it’s a museum.
Montreal is very French Canadian and a trip to Toronto by contrast is very English Canadian. The most iconic building in Toronto is the CN tower. For 32 years this was the tallest free standing structure in the world. For those of you seeking a thrill or two, you can try out the edge walk. It is the world’s highest free circle walk, you will be tethered to an overhead rail system for your own safety. You will be walking 356m/1168ft above the ground, not for the feint hearted.
For those of you who want to keep their feet firmly on the ground, head to the St Lawrence Market. There has been a market in this location for over 200 years. The main food market is closed on Sunday and Monday, but on Sundays there is an antiques market to look out for. National Geographic named this as the best food market in the world in 2012 and little has changed since. If you love food, then this should be on your list of places to visit in Toronto.
Maggie can organise for you a trip to Canada to include 3 days of tickets to the Grand Prix, a 4 night stay in the Chateau Versailles Hotel, Montreal, a 3 night stay in the Pantages Hotel, Toronto and flights from London for a very reasonable £2200 or maybe less depending on the flight timings.
Pay with the card that gives you complimentary access to over 1,200 airport lounges across more than 130 countries worldwide as standard plus reward points – The American Express Platinum Card*.
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