Happy New Year!

(S)unny & (O)riginal (S)unday

After several months of absence, here I am again! And seriously, how could we better start the year than by talking about music! So, here we go.

I have a dream, as a student, that, one day, I will work so hard during my weekend (well, on Friday and Saturday) that my Sunday afternoon will be free. Today, I'm happy that it kind of happenned because of the Holidays break. I'm sure I'm not the only one who enjoy to just sit around a nice spot and play some good music. I appreciate a wide variety of songs, but as a Francophone, I'm always happy to encourage some new local artists.

Karim Ouellet

This folk-pop singer-songwritter is my personal pick. I can't deny that his unique voice and music style attracts me. L'amour, the music video above (Not far from 1 000 000 views on Youtube!), is one of the songs on his first album Plume. His second album, Fox, won two Juno Awards in 2014.

Valérie Carpentier

Valérie Carpentier, the last winner of The Voice (Quebec version), has a lovely voice. This song, Le Rendez-vous, very often plays on the radio. She has a lot of potential and, hopefully, she'll record a new album soon!

Alex Nevsky

The young singer-songwritter from Quebec already has two hits, Les coloriés and On leur a fait croire, wich you can listen in the videoclip above. The somehow pop vibe is interesting. I'm sure it's just the beginning of a great carrier for him!

There is a lot more of interesting young artists from Quebec, I'll talk about more of them later!

-xox-

Bokchoi

Summer festivals: what's interesting here?

WTF: Get Your (W)ay (T)o (F)riday

(FRIDAY EDITION)

Long time no see!

Finally, I can almost see the light!!! Yes, one more week and my final exams are OVER. Damn, this week was so intense that I lost track of time...

After many reflections on the need to continue my blog, I noticed that the views had significantly lowered during my loooooooong break. I concluded that when I actively write, people read my articles more. And you know what, this summer will be an ideal opportunity to feed my blog with anecdotes and fun adventures!

Here is a list of festivals that I would like to attend.

- Jazzfestival: I didn't attend to this one for ages, but I sure enjoyed it in the past and will try to go this year :)

- Osheaga: music festival, popular and ''to-discover'' bands.

- Festival Mode et Design: fashion festival, outside runways, discount in store, make-up studio, ...

- Just For Laugh: humoristic festival, great comic performances (in/outdoor, $ or free!) and music too!

- African Nights: African music and culture, never went there, but it looks cool!

- And so, so much more :)

I will try my best to write headings that people from Montreal will enjoy as much as travelers or newcomers.

Among my topic ideas, I could test products or local shops and talk about politics, history, or anything people would like to suggest through the comment section.

Enjoy the summer that is coming,

stay tuned up for new articles!

Reminder (for next week):

• Monday = FML: (F)ashionable (M)ondays are (L)ovable
• Thursday = WTF: Get Your (W)ay (T)o (F)riday
• Sunday = S.O.S: (S)unny & (O)riginal (S)unday

more info: http://bokchoi-in-mtl.blogspot.ca/2014/03/what-i-plan-to-write-about-and-when.html

-xxx-

Bokchoi

A lovely picture of a beautiful area: Biosphère

(F)ashionable (M)ondays are (L)ovable

Hola!

On this Monday evening, I would like to tell you that I shall take a break of two weeks from my blog. A very important serie of exam is coming up and I have less and less time to think about my blog. 

However, I want to say that I will return with fresh and new ideas.

This summer, I will certainly go to plenty of events and describe them for you.
In the meantime, do not hesitate to ask questions!


Please, be a little more patient.
I invite you to read my other post :)

-xxx-

Bokchoi

Fun place to spend time on a nice week-end

(S)unny & (O)riginal (S)unday

Hellow :)

It was a nice Easter break, wasn't it? Since many of you still have a statutory holiday tomorrow, my proposition can also be done on Monday!

Yesterday, on my 'Extra Cheesy Post' I talked about the four universities in Montreal [link below] :
http://bokchoi-in-mtl.blogspot.ca/2014/04/extra-chezzy-post-as-promised-here-is.html

To continue in this perspective, I would like suggest you to visit the campus of Mcgill. Why? Simple, it has the most beautiful area. Located not far from the liveliest street, Ste-Catherine, but enough back to enjoy a leisurely walk, it is a perfect place to spend a nice afternoon. 

In addition to the splendid architecture and a very interesting site, a bustling of life neighborhood  hides behind Mcgill. Familiar called it for decades "Mcgill ghetto".

Even if certain streets are nicer than others, in general, people go there to observe the beautiful apartments and eat in a few trendy restaurant. There is also a library of old book that you can not missed, very convenient for students.

If you go to downtown, pass by there!

-xxx-

Bokchoi

Extra Cheesy Post~

As promised, here is my extra article! But what could I talk about? Walking in downtown recently, I realized something. Universities hold a very important place in Montreal. My hometown is also awarded amongst the the best student cities in the world!  therefore chose to make you learn a little more about the four universities and their renowned faculties.

Let's start with the two French one.

UQAM

The University of Quebec At Montreal (UQAM) campus extends around the 'Quartier des spectacles' (entertainment district) next to the Grande Bibliothèque near the Latin Quarter. This is a very interesting site for students since there is plenty of activites, restaurants and night clubs, in addition, the best place to study: the huge Grande Bibliothèque. 

UQAM is recognized in the field of arts, as well as its school of law.

UdeM

The University of Montreal is located at the bottom of the Mont Royal. The campus is large and a little out of city center.

The engineering (Polythechnique), entrepreneurship (HEC Montreal), medicine and sports programs are very popular, without counting those in law and psychology.

Let's now talk about English universities.

Concordia

Most pavilions of Concordia University are located in the heart of downtown, on Ste-Catherine.

Some of the buildings have a more modern appearance, whereas other keep their charm from the Victorian era.


From what I know,their  schools are more focused on Human Sciences, such as history, theater, art and education.

They still have some programs in a variety of other topics, like informatic.










Mcgill

This is the most British university, both in architecture and in teaching. To me, it has the most beautiful campus, a little set back from the Sherbrook Street. People come from all around the world to study there, many are Americans.

Did you know that there even has a Quidditch team? Harry Potter geeks, this school is your chance to meet your Magic soulmate hehehe~

The fields of prestige as medicine, law and economics,
are well recognized there.



Even if Mcgill as a 'Snob' reputation, I belive that
the beautiful campus (and the Quidditch team!!!) is
an enouggood reason for me to chose this university as mine.










Thank you for reading!

-xxx-

Bokchoi

Everything you need to know about work out in Montreal

WTF: Get Your (W)ay (T)o (F)riday

Hellow everyone!

First of all, I'm happy to tell you that I'll write an 'extra cheezy post' tomorrow! *clap clap clap*

For right now, I reserve you a very very interesting topic. Admit it, it's Easter long week-end and you're going to eat chocolat until your house is emptied of sweets... Where will you lose all those calories? Two main options are offered to you, indoors or outdoors.

Montreal is an active city. Generally, people are aware of their health. That's why gyms remains popular. Where to train indoors?

If playing sports indoors is important, then you should be able to rent an apartment in a building where there is a gym. Even in some big condo complexes, you can find this kind of place, even with a pool! Otherwise we find in almost every neighborhood a workout room. 

Another option, also very popular, are martial arts, dance and yoga. Around the plateau mont-royal, yoga studios are sprouting like fungus. If you are a fan of dance, just look a bit to find the perfect salsa club, jazz, or even ballet!

Finally, martial arts, though mainly popular among young children, become increasingly practiced by adults. You will find rooms like this a lot around the Mil End.

The second option is to train outside. It is less expensive and more enjoyable, if you have time. Run or walk on the Mont Royal, with a runner club or solo, is still a must. The air is fresh and the view of the summit is  breathtaking.

There are many parks in Montreal. So why not enjoy it for a few laps of jogging? In addition, streets away from downtown are often favorable, morning and evening, to do physical activities.

Do not forget the bicycle paths! The best places to derusting our bicycling are on the Plateau Mont Royal, around the Prince Edouard Street, in Old Montreal and along the Lachine Canal.

I hope you liked this article! Now it's time to work out!

-xxx-

Bokchoi

A little smoke by here, a little smoke by there: Cigarettes

(F)ashionable (M)ondays are (L)ovable

She's back!

And she found a hot topic for this sweet Monday... Smoking in Montreal~

This skyline set with dragged clouds reminds me of smoke. Oh no, it's not a coincidence if I chose it. Today, I'll write on the rise of nicotine.

Since when do people smoke? I cannot answer. However, I can confide that lately in Montreal, as elsewhere, cigarette is back into vogue. I am only speculating, but I think that the artistic universe influences increasingly our life style. I am not talking about derived products. Our daily habits, as simply as the way we dress or the tea we drink, come from what we decided to watch. 

Concretely, seeing your favorite singer wearing a leather jacket, you be tempted to buy one too. In a more intense case, it perhaps defines your new masculine or feminine ideal. This short lesson of psychology merely intended to explain that women, but especially men, are reintroduced to the cigarette, despite the professionals who condemns it. Why?

Following a few international male idols who are showing their sex appeal through a cloud of bewitching smoke:

Alex Turner

Kurt Cobain

Choi Seung Hyun

The Beatles

Whether they are dead, old, rapper or junkies, all these artists carry an aura of mystery thanks to the iconic object that held between their lips. 

I must admit, I would not have put them on this list if they did not attract me. Although nicotine kills, it attracts women like flies. Of course, we can say that there are always exceptions. I use to be one. But I must admit that I have not been able to resist at this futile charm. 

Now the question is whether it works or not with the fairer sex. Women who smoke, are they pretty? 

I hope you had a great time reading my "free-thinking" article. Smoking is bad for health. I hope you understand that six or seven cigarettes (in your life) won't kill you, but if you keep smoking, it can.

I wanted to point out that this is a trend, and I'm fine with it, as long as I don't directly smell it!

-xxx-

Bokchoi

*p.s I post it at night, that's why it shows 'tuesday' IT STILL IS MODAY, OKAY? ^^

Tough tough week: study

Hi folks!

I know, I know, I promised... You must have lost faith in me, and I'm so sorry :-/

Next week, I'll have much more time, so my post(s) will be awesome!

Waiting for you next Monday!

-xxx-

Bokchoi

P.S: I can not promise anything, but perhaps I would write extra texts :D

Arg

Again, I'm so sorry to tell you that I couln't post anything but this note. School takes an important place in my everyday life and I try as much as possible to find time to interest my lectors. 

Last week, my article about Louis-Jean Cormier was very very appreciate and I'm please of it! Please keep reading me :)

I'll come back stronger tomorrow~

-xxx-

Bokchoi

Let's talk about politics: election 2014

WTF: Get you (W)ay (T)o (F)riday

~2sd edition~

Ladies and Gentlemen, the subject is unavoidable... The weekend will not be of any rest since April 7 we will elect our next provincial premier. *clap clap clap*

I can (hopefully!) not vote because I'm not 18, which is the legal age to vote. However, I would like to clarify the difficult situation of politic in Quebec.

Important political parties

Name: Parti Québécois

Party leader: Pauline Marois

Creation: 1968

Members National Assembly: 54

Position: Quebec Nationalism

Name: Quebec Liberal Party

Party leader: Philippe Couillard

Creation: 1867

Members National Assembly: 50

Position: Quebec Federalism

Name: Coalition Avenir Québec

Party leader: François Legault

Creation: 2011

Members National Assembly: 19

Position: Quebec Nationalism

Name: Québec Solidaire

Party leader: Pierre-Paul St-Onge (Françoise David)

Creation: 2006

Members National Assembly: 2

Position: Quebec Nationalism

Name: Option Natinale

Party leader: Sol Zanetti

Creation: 2011

Members National Assembly: 0

Position: Quebec Nationalism

Name: Green Parti of Quebec

Party leader: Alex Tyrrell

Creation: 2001 (first one: 1985)

Members National Assembly: 0

Position: GREEN!

Name: Bloc Pot

Party leader: Hugô St-Onge

Creation: 2006

Members National Assembly: 0

Position: Legalisation of marijuana...

Why sovereignty?

Toronto Star

I will not venture into a thorny debate on Quebec independence, but simply telling you the facts:

You must know that from the start, Quebecers do not have the same origins as the rest of Canadians. In fact, our ancestors came from France, while those in other provinces, from England. Of course, this excludes the many immigrants who have adopted the Canadian identity, since the 19th Century! Neutrally, when Quebec was earned by England, it has not always been treated like other territories. It is true that we were left with our language and religion. The proof is that I'm writing right now with my second language!

All these cultural differences have brought political and economic conflicts, which will bring the dream of independence. This is just a brief summary, the complicated history of Quebec would be too arduous to be explained in a few lines!

In Quebec, the three main separatists parties are "Parti Québécois", "Québec Solidaire", "Option Nationale".

Who will win the election

What is the priority of Quebeckers? Economy or independance? 

So far, the Parti Québécois government was elected after the last election call. Their leader, Pauline Marois, now wants to be elected majority to pass a bill on a charter about religion.

Philippe Couillard from the Quebec Liberal Party seems to be on the verge of winning, according to polls.

My opinion?

One of my favorite ABBA's song is called The winner takes it all. Sadly, I think that it is also de case in politics. Whoever wins the elections, this person can take advantage of its power to corrupt or to make decisions without necessarily listen to the opinion of the population.

Again, we must elect the ''least worst''...

The winner takes it all

-xxx-

Bokchoi

From Karkwa to solo: our favorite singer, Louis-Jean Cormier

(F)ashionable (M)ondays are (L)ovable

~2sd edition~

Hellow ^-^

I would first like to thank my worldwide readers: many of you come from North America, and some from Europe (wow)! I am very proud that you follow me and I hope from the bottom of my heart that you appreciate my blog.

Yesterday, I have promised to write about music...

Did you know that Quebec has its own version of the popular TV show "The Voice" ? In fact, the judges are singers with impressive career and recognized throughout the "Francophonie" (Mainly France & Qc).

[From left to right: Marc Dupré, Éric Lapointe, Isabelle Bouley and Louis-Jean Cormier] 

Although I respect them all, today, I will introduce you to the sexy talented Louis-Jean Cormier. I would like to warn you right away that he is married and has two children... just in case...

Is he an hipster, a weirdo, an angel, a demon? Let's discover LJC's music together!

In 1998, L-J Cormier and some friends from the "Cégep Saint-Laurent" form a band called Karkwa. Their unique musical style is now recognized by several awards. My favorite song of the group? 

Le pyromane

They produce very different chords than the usual "popular" Quebec music. Listening to their music, I feel that I can travel through time and space. The enigmatic 33 years old singer's voice sooths me.

[Louis-jean Cormier: in the middle]

Louis-Jean Cormier recently released a solo album: Le treizième étage (the thirteenth floor). The great success of this album has been rewarded by prestigious prizes as well as a Gold Record for 40,000 copies sold!

My favorite songs from his solo album are Le monstre (the monster), Un refrain trop long (a too long chorus) and Bull's eye (Bull's eye hehehe).

Bull's eye

I hope you enjoy my article on the bright and charming Louis-Jean Cormier!

See you on Thursday!

-xxx- 

Bokchoi

Will it ever ends: the Winter's comeback

(S)unny & (O)riginal (S)unday

~1st edition~

Well well well...

I feel completly desperate! Will the winter ever ends or?

I hope so.

Too much is too much TT-TT

I like snow but... reading in a park, during a sunny Sunday afternoon... What a lovely Spring activity~

I'd sincerly like to write more... But my day was very long and I have just too much study.

However, I promise to make a super duper cool F.M.L tomorrow!

Clue: music ;)

-xxx-

Bokchoi

For a relaxing weekend: David's Tea

WTF: Get your (W)ay (T)o (F)riday

~1st edition~

I am currently overloaded... I love to learn and put my knowledge to good use, to help people and being creative throughout my work.  I think that this spirit of study extends over almost all institutions of our beloved city. But this week, the school sickens me! I feel like a ball of nerves.

I therefore propose a express chronicle on the headquarters of students: David's Tea.

I recently joined the fan club of this tearoom commercialized after the passage of Oprah W. Montreal.

Actually, I didn't even know about the existence of this lovely shop. Thanks to Oprah, I discovered a simply irresistible place, created by a Montrealer. 

Today, I can say that I prefer by far this tea lounge at any coffee shop from all the places I've traveled!

My first cup of David's tea

My first experience at David's tea was very nice. The saleswoman was attentive and aware of the products' value. She took the time to show me all the teas that might interest me and make me smell them one by one Even though she's not a specialist, she possessed important knowledge and seemed really passionate about her job. 

The benefits

I finally left the store with two sweet teas that have been recommended to me and I drink them about twice a week. Even if they have cost me $ 15 in all, I took advantage of a promotion allowing me to get a glass of tea to drink with the flavor of my choice. I chose a blueberry one!

In addition, by becoming a member, I received a card that gives points to have free loose tea and gifts!

The price of their infusions between $ 4 and $ 20 for a pack of 50g. Yes, it is pricey, but I am proud to be a client because besides an attentive staff, the benefits of tea have been recognized since the mists of time.

An unique mood

This shop becomes increasingly run by the locals, this is why I prefer to drink their tea in my cup. Remains true that falling on a quieter time, the relaxing armchairs and the free wi-fi now available provides a wonderful space for young people.

Stop resisting to the charms of this shop!

My favorite David's Tea is near Park Avenue, on the Mile-End, but you can easily find one on their website: http://www.davidstea.com/

Thank you so much for reading and see you on Sunday!

-xxx-

Bokchoi

Welcome in Spring: Floral hat & T.U.K creepers

FML: (F)ashionable (M)ondays are (L)ovable

~1st edition~

You have no idea how excited I am to write my first  'FML' article !

I know, I know, I promised. FML won't only be about Fashion... But since Spring is finally coming, I decided to introduce the new season with two very original items. These two accessories are also linked to the Fashion Week in Tokyo, which started recently, because they were brought to us by the Asian modern fashion wave.

'Vibrant Floral Fitted Hat'

Ladies and Gentleman, may I present you the 'Vibrant Floral Fitted Hat' (up) ? Well, there's absolutly no good reason to refuse this one way ticket to a young and refreshing look that you can easily find on Forever 21's website for less than 15$.


The anecdote

Approximately a month ago, I was travelling by subway near downtown by a late Sunday afternoon, when I noticed a young Asian man who wore our dear floral hat... Try to imagine how surprised I was! Flowers are usually used in feminine fashion. However, I think this hat looks as good on a girl than on a boy's head!

How to wear it ?

Our role model is Taemin, a young dancer and singer from a famous Korean band called SHINee. 

In one of their previous music videos, Dream Girl, Teamin shows brilliantly his androgynous style with a 'Joyrich' floral hat and a blue sky coat.

'T.U.K Mondo Sole Creepers'

If I say Japanese Kawaii's icon, you MUST say Hello kitty. This cute kitten has cradled my whole childhood. I recently rediscovered Hello Kitty thanks to Sanrio and their selection of articles as the Wedge shoes made in collaboration with T.U.K. 

Everything about those shoes is perfect! The sole extends the leg without giving a too heavy effect. 
Because the colors are more neutral, black and white, it allows to bring out the pattern without any exaggeration, providing a unique touch to this classic shaped shoe.

They are essential in Asia, particularly in Japan, in the streets of Tokyo's trendy neighborhoods. The compensated heels are also emerging in America, but remains discreet. Something new to watch out!

Thank you for reading and I hope to see you next week again~

-xxx-

Bokchoi

What I plan to write about and when?

Hi everyone!

Firts of all, I'm very happy that so many of you guys read my last article about 'Nuit Blanche of Montreal'          Link: http://bokchoi-in-mtl.blogspot.ca/2014/03/nuit-blanche-of-montreal.html

 I would like to make this blog as interesting cool as possible :3

Here's what I plan to talk about in the coming weeks:

Monday

FML: (F)ashionable (M)ondays are (L)ovable

We all have a very busy schedule, especially on Mondays (Oh gosh, three exam this week: FML!). 

That's why I decided to write about a light and funny subject : Fashion~

Even if I enjoy shopping and window shopping (he.he.he), I won't only talk about it. 'Fashion' also means popular things, such as makeup and other skin product brands, new and old music bands, popular national literature, trendy places and much much more.

In one word: Vogue

Thursday

(WTF): Get your (W)ay (T)o (F)riday

The title says it: we're getting ready for the weekend... In a pretty much 'WTF' way!

Thursdays, I will try to inform you about upcoming events, some interesting attractions to do in Montreal and (of course!) food. My hometown is THE cultural capital of Canada, so I do not risk running out of inspiration on this topic! I will not forget to speak as often as possible about restaurants, grocery stores and gourmet products.

In one word: Refreshing

Sunday

(S.O.S): (S)unny & (O)riginal (S)unday

If there's one universal 'I won't get out of the bed' day, it's Sunday... You may run out of ideas of interesting and relaxing activities to do for a perfect Saturday afternoon. Your 'S.O.S' has been heard!

The game plan for this review will be about the neighborhoods of Montreal (even perhaps the contry side) architecture, politics and actuality.

In one word: Unstressful  you like this word, right? x)

May this spring bring a lot of luck to my first blog!

-xxx-

Bokchoi