Category: Destinations

What Exotik can offer

The Seychelles are a group of 115 islands, only a few inhabited, in the Indian Ocean that lie off the coast of East Africa, northeast of Madagascar. The archipelago is one of the smallest members of the Commonwealth of Nations. Well known for its exceptional beauty, it has another special attribute. This can be discovered when its political, economic, social and cultural strides are compared to those of other developing nations in the region and worldwide.

Cities

Victoria

On the island of Mahé, is the capital of the Seychelles archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles National Botanical Garden features palms and endemic orchids, as well as giant turtles and fruit bats. On the colorful Sir Selwyn Clarke market, vendors sell spices, fruits, art objects and souvenirs. Near the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is the imposing residence La Domus, built in 1934 to house Catholic missionaries.

Mahé

Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean, off East Africa. Its relief is characterized by white sand beaches, like those of the famous seaside resort of Beau Vallon, and granite peaks, notably the Seychellois mountain, surrounded by the tropical forest. The island is also the site of the city of Victoria, the capital of Seychelles. The latter is known for its Creole architecture and colorful covered market with stalls featuring fish, fruit and clothing.

Praslin

Praslin is an island located in the Seychelles, in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its beaches lined with palm trees, such as Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio, along which stand large granite boulders. The main beach, Anse Volbert-Côte d’Or, faces the Chauve Souris islet on the open sea. Praslin’s jungle-covered wilderness is home to Praslin National Park.

Language

French, English and Seychellois creole.

Electricity

The electricity is 220-240 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: 00 International dialing code: 248 Concerning national calls made in the Seychelles, it is not necessary to dial the 248 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 248 and fnally the local phone number in the Seychelles.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Rwanda, nicknamed “country of the Thousand Hills”, is a country of Central Africa. It extends its 26,338 km² in the Great Lakes region and shares borders with, to the north, Uganda, to the east, Tanzania, to the south, Burundi, and to the west, the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its capital, Kigali, is located in the center of the country. Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where we can find mountain gorillas, rare species, now in danger of extinction. Experts estimate that there are only 780 mountain gorillas left in the world, and a third of them live in Rwanda. You will also have the chance to meet 13 other primates from Rwanda at the Nyungwe National Park. See also the capital of the country, and gateway, which is worth the trip. The Volcanoes National Park, as well as Akagera National Park, are rich in natural resources. The Rwandan fauna and flora are indeed worthy of interest. A visit to Rwanda and you will come back changed forever!

Cities

Kigali

Kigali is the capital of Rwanda and is located almost in the center of the country. It is crossed by multiple hills, ridges and valleys. The night life is lively and the gastronomy colorful. The Kigali Genocide Memorial records the mass killings of 1994 in Rwanda, associated with the civil war. At Caplaki Crafts Village in the city, traditional handicrafts are sold, including wood carvings and woven baskets.

Gisenyi

Gisenyi is a town in Rwanda, located on the north shore of Lake Kivu, on the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, capital of Rubavu District, also named after it. This city is also border with the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Ruhengeri

Ruhengeri is a town in the north of Rwanda, capital of the district of Musanze which it also bears the name. Before the 2006 administrative reform, Ruhengeri was the capital of a province to which it gave its name. In 1990, signifcant massacres of Tutsis took place in the Ruhengeri region.

Language

English, French and kinyarwanda.

Electricity

The electricity is 230-240 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: 00 International dialing code: 250 Concerning national calls made in Rwanda, it is not necessary to dial the 250 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 250 and fnally the local phone number in Rwanda

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What Exotik can offer

Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa whose diverse landscape encompasses the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Its abundant wildlife includes chimpanzees as well as rare birds. Remote Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a renowned mountain gorilla sanctuary. Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest is known for its 43m-tall waterfall and wildlife such as hippos.

Cities

Kampala City

Kampala, the capital city of Uganda is located in the central region on the shores of Lake Victoria. The city has many attractions, destinations and tourists activities ranging from events to prime time venues and hotels, that’s why it’s referred to as the East Africa’s happiest city. The city gets its name From Impala (Aepyceros melampus) a medium-sized African antelope that used to roam the jungles where Kampala seats today. Located just 40 Km from Entebbe International Airport, Kampala will amaze you with its beauty, culture and hospitality before you venture the rest of the country. The city boasts of many attractions visitors warmly explore everytime they visit Uganda; including the National Museum, the famous Kasubi tombs, Kabaka’s Lake, Bulange Mengo, Kabaka’s palace (Lubiri, Mengo), the Uganda National Cultural Center, various religious centers like Bahai Temple, Kibuli & Gadaffi Mosques, Namirembe Cathedral, Rubaga Catholics Cathedral, Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine, various shopping malls and night clubs.

Jinja City

It is one thing to have the source of the longest river in the world at the heart of your city and it is another to know what to do with it. Jinja City manages to do both – and so well, it is dubbed “The Adventure City”. Jinja isn’t just an incredible tourist destination though, it is Uganda’s economic heartbeat, anchoring some of Africa’s most humongous dams and housing large industrial parks with close to 100 industries. Uganda isn’t without Jinja. The City somehow manages to put to good use the associated waterfalls and rapids on the Nile, and does so with just one goal in mind – to take your breath, literally. Located just 80 kilometers from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, here’s a pinch of what Jinja City has to offer. White water rafting on River Nile: Jinja is home to some of the world’s finest grade 5 white water rafting. Rafting is best done in groups with sessions spanning half or entire days and extending over a distance of 21 kilometers. At its best, rafting on the white water sections of the Nile will give you the best experience of your whole trip. Bungee jumping: This 43-meter high endorphin-gushing experience will have you screaming all your fears out. Travelers have attested that while hanging upside down mid-air, plunging down in this daring free-fall, they lived through the highlight of their entire experience. And in that moment, while the tips of their hairs brushed the surface of the great Nile, they knew they would return. The Source of the Nile: Not many places in Uganda hold as much sentimental value as the source of the world’s longest river before it meanders its way through valleys and gorges to the Mediterranean Sea. Jinja sunset cruises: There’s a saying; “when the sun is setting, leave whatever you are doing and watch it.” The evenings in Jinja embody exactly that. A typical trip in Jinja will include a boat cruise offering travelers great views for birdwatching and magnificent sceneries. Be sure to catch the golden sunset and its reflection at the water surface when you explore Uganda.

Language

Swahili and English are the official languages.

Electricity

Electricity is 240 volts. An adapter is required.

Communication

Exit code: 00 Country code: 256 For national calls from Uganda, you don’t need to dial the 256 country code. If you are calling from Canada, you need to dial 011, then 256 and the local number in Uganda.

What Exotik can offer

Country of light, colors, culture and history, Morocco offers an unequaled diversity. Variety joins a warm welcome and an irreproachable hospitality. Whether you want it or not, you will be treated like kings. Rich and tasty, Moroccan gastronomy will introduce you to the multiple flavors of its regional specialties. You can enjoy delicious dishes such as lamb couscous, honey and almond pastries and the popular mint tea. Respect of cultural traditions Avoid provocative clothes, accept the mint tea (a gesture of hospitality), eat with your right hand, taste everything, but you do not feel obliged to finish everything, it is usually impossible! Avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public during the day while Ramadan month. Before photographing a person, do not forget to ask permission.

Cities

Rabat

Modern capital and historic city, Rabat has a considerable architectural heritage that includes many important monuments, such as the Kasbah of the Udayas and the minaret of the Hassan II Mosque. With its port, Rabat is also a commercial and industrial city where tourism and local crafts also play a major economic role.

Casablanca

Casablanca (also called ‘‘white city’’) is the largest city in Morocco. With over 4 million inhabitants, the city is the first business center, the first port and the first university pole of the country. Morocco’s third-largest tourist, Casablanca reflects its colonial past through part of its intact architecture. Lively city, it also knows a large number of artistic and economic events throughout the year. It’s good to live there thanks to its climate, the sea, its gardens, its tradition and modernity in constantly opposition.

Marrakech

Marrakesh is one of those destinations that make you dream. This everchanging city leaves no tourist indifferent. Open your eyes let yourself be carried by the colors, the smells, and the undeniable charm of Marrakesh, this enchanting and fascinating city! The vast Jemaa el-Fnaa square and its agitation (day and night) are worth the trip. We also get lost in the colorful and noisy souks, probably the richest and most fascinating in the country.

Language

Arabic and French but English is well-understood in larger cities.

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: 212 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 212 is only required to call Morocco from abroad. So it will be: 00 212 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Morocco, it is not necessary to dial the 212 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 212 and finally the local phone number in Morocco.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Mauritius, sparkling jewel in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, will fascinate you. The contrast of colors, cultures and flavors give a charm to this island and sets the scene for an unforgettable holiday. Here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy unparalleled luxury, a level of refinement far above other tropical destinations. Here, you will discover the true meaning of the word “beauty”, a statement that will bring you back to the shores of Mauritius, again and again. It takes its name from the Dutch prince Maurice van Nassau…

Cities

Pamplemousses

Pamplemousses is a district of northwestern Mauritius It includes the garden. Pamplemousses founded in the 18th century. This botanical garden is the most remarkable, recognized worldwide, it has an area of 37 hectares. It is considered a heavenly garden where you will discover a wide variety of species and scents from all over the world.

Port Louis

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius, located in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its French colonial style architecture and 19th century Champs de Mars hippodrome. The seafront of Caudan is the place for restaurants and lively shopping. Nearby stalls offer local products and crafts in the huge central market. The Blue Penny Museum is dedicated to the colonial and maritime history of the island, as well as its culture.

Quatre Bornes

Quatres Bornes is one of the largest Mauritian cities located west of the main island, in the Hautes Plaines Wilhems, about ffteen kilometers south of Port Louis. It happens to be the nerve center of Mauritius, popular for its famous clothes fair. You will stroll through the aisles feeling thetypical Mauritian atmosphere, you will fnd a lot of choice (all types of clothing and a lot of very colorful fabrics) and do not forget that the negotiation is part of the game.

Language

Most people in Mauritius are bilingual and are equally fluent in English and French. Creole and French are the main languages in the everyday environment and several oriental languages are also spoken.

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: 00 International dialing code: 230 Concerning national calls made in Mauritius, it is not necessary to dial the 230 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 230 and finally the local phone number in Mauritius.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

A modern and prosperous city, Singapore is an object of fascination for Westerners as well as an introduction to Asia: the ethnic, religious and cultural diversity of this city gives some insight into the complexity of an entire continent. Singapore is a city-state of Southeast Asia. Its area is 719 km2 and has a little less than 200 km of coastline. It comprises 63 islands, the main one being Pulau Ujong (584.8 km2). This island is very densely urbanized, but the lush vegetation “even in the city center” has earned Singapore the nickname of “garden city”. Singapore has more than 5 million people whose origins are diverse: Chinese, Malay, Indian and many other cultures from neighboring or western countries. There are in particular many Eurasians (born to a European parent and another Asian). All these cultures mix and thus form the Singaporean culture. This culture is essentially based on respect for others. The official language is English, which allows all Singaporeans to understand each other, because all are bilingual and speak their native language. Singapore is home to mosques, Buddhist temples, Taoist temples, Hindu temples and churches, offering everyone the opportunity to practice their own religion. Must-sees GARDENS BY THE BAY: Huge botanical garden and ultra modern architecture, it is the lung of the city of 101 hectares. The park is subdivided into three gardens, Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay Central Garden. Here, we know why the city-state is called “Garden City”. SRI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE: The oldest and most important Indian temple in Singapore (1827), listed as a historical monument, with walls decorated with polychrome figures, it is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman known to heal the worst epidemics. HAWKER CENTER: In Singapore, hawker centers (or food courts) are a must. These large restaurant complexes never fail to fill up. In the front of the stands with impeccable hygiene, we enjoy dim sum, rice dumplings or chilly crab, for a modest price, in an incomparable atmosphere. CHINATOWN: In the bustling Chinatown, with its pagodas, silk shops, herbalist shops and calligraphy workshops, the atmosphere is unique. Visit the Heritage Center to immerse yourself in the historic Chinatown and attend a tea ceremony at Tea Chapter.

Language

Malay, Tamil, English and Mandarin.

Weather

 Located one degree north of the equator, Singapore enjoys a warm and humid climate with an average of 20 to 30°C throughout the year. The driest season is from May to September. The northeastern monsoon causes many showers between October-November and January. 

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: 00 International dialing code: 65 Concerning national calls made in Singapore, it is not necessary to dial the 65 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 65 and finally the local phone number in Singapore.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Uzbekistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia12 that lies mainly between two major rivers, the Syr Darya and the Amu Darya34. It has a diverse economy and a relatively young population5. It is bordered by five other Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan134. It was conquered by Russia in the late 19th century and became a republic of the Soviet Union in 192435. It also includes the autonomous republic of Karakalpakstan in the west34.

Language

Uzbek

What Exotik can offer

Once considered as mystical and inaccessible as Hilton’s Shangri-La, this landlocked country of valleys and peaks has attracted an astounding number of visitors for decades. From the endorsers of ‘Flower Power’ in the hedonistic 60’s to the daring adventure traveler, Nepal has catered to the diverse needs of visitors in its own inimitable way.

Cities

Kathmandu

The beautiful capital of Nepal is set in a valley surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains. Being the heart of Nepal’s art, religion and history, Kathmandu is the host of many religious and cultural festivities which form an important part of the lives of the people residing there. With its streets filled with stone carvings called Chaityas, multiple world heritage sites and religious temples which attracts both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, Kathmandu can be considered as the historical and cultural pearl of Asia. Here the visitor can enjoy exploring Nepal’s long history and beauty as well as spend time with the friendly locals.

Pokhara

Known for its beautiful view of the Himalayan range and lakes, Pokhara is an excellent destination for trekking, boating, canoeing, bungee jumping and many extreme sports such as rafting. Visitors can also see natural beauties such as the Fewa Lake, the largest and some would say most beautiful lake of all of Nepal all the while enjoying the mouth-watering menus of the restaurants that line its shore. On the south of the lake is the heart stealing and famous World Peace Pagoda with its four Boudhas facing different directions making the city a must see for those who travel to Nepal.

Chitwan National Park

One of the few remaining undisturbed vestige of the “Terai” region and is located at the foot of the Himalayan Mountains. Along with its rich flora, the National Chitwan Park is the home of one of the last refuge for Bengal Tigers. With the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayan Mountains Chitwan is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and visitors can enjoy elephant safaris as well as jeep safaris where you might get the chance to see one of the endangered One-horned Rhinos.

Language

Nepali, English and local dialects.

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: 00 International dialing code: 977 Concerning national calls made in Nepal, it is not necessary to dial the 977 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 977 and finally the local phone number in Nepal.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

The Malaysian peninsula that stretches south of Thailand is a prosperous country as evidenced by the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur that rival those of the United States. But this modernity is a complement to the dominant aspect of Malaysia: the forest. Malaysia’s rainforest is the oldest in the world. Modern cities, colonial past, primary forest, orangutans and sandy beaches, such is the beautiful Malay cocktail.

Cities

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a mix of huge towers, religious buildings and lush gardens. Interwoven with Asian, Muslim and colonial traditions, Kuala Lumpur is a contemporary, multicultural, vibrant and colorful city. Here is an anthology of the must see in Kuala Lumpur. The twin towers Petronas symbol of Kuala Lumpur that rise up to 452 meters in height and have 88 floors. Little India that will awaken your senses in a whirlwind of Indian smells, colors and flavors. The Batu Caves which are a set of limestone caves and some of which are real temples without missing the commercial district of Bukit Bintang and the Ornithological Park Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.

Penang

Penang is a Malaysian island whose colorful multicultural capital is called George Town. A former commercial center in the Straits of Malacca, the city is famous for its British colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses and mosques. Beyond the old city, George Town is a modern city with skyscrapers and shopping malls. Penang Hill’s green hill with hiking trails and a funicular overlooks the city.

Cameron Highlands

High plateaus at an average altitude of 1,500 m to 200 km north of Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands offer landscapes sculpted by tea plantations and a different atmosphere from the rest of Malaysia, somewhat out of time. In this privileged stage on the roads of South-East Asia, you will appreciate the visits of tea plantations, the excursions in full nature or you will simply benefit from the freshness of its tropical plains.

Language

Malay. English is frequently used as well as Mandarin and Tamil.

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: 00 International dialing code: 60 Concerning national calls made in Malaysia, it is not necessary to dial the 60 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 60 and finally the local phone number in Malaysia.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Despite its colonial past, its urban gigantism, its incessant activity and its noisy luxury, Hong Kong has retained a typically Chinese character and traditional aspects particularly attractive. Travel destination or a stopover, you will be surprised by all that this destination has to offer. Thanks to its very particular history, Hong Kong has become a unique destination in China and one of the most prosperous. Situation Located on China’s southern coast, on the east side of the mouth of the Pearl River. Hong Kong Island is south of Victoria Bay, while the Kowloon Peninsula forms its northern shore. North of Kowloon are the New Territories, which extend to the border with mainland China. Hong Kong also has more than 200 islands, including Lantau Island, where the international airport is located. History Hong Kong as we know it today became a colony of the British Empire after Qing China Dynasty ceded Hong Kong Island at the end of the First Opium War in 1842 to the British. But the history of the 1,100 km2 that today form Hong Kong dates back more than 1,000 years before the Qing Dynasty. Exploring the colorful heritage of the city, you will discover stories of powerful clans, adventurous pirates and European merchants.

Things to do

The Peak of Victoria

This is the highest point of view of the island that will allow you to observe the famous bay and its impressive skyscrapers known throughout the world. Small advice, it is better to climb to the summit in the late afternoon to enjoy the show of the colors at sunset.

Lantau Island

Visit the village of Ngong Ping where you will fnd the famous Big Budha, the monastery of Po Lin, the Ngong Ping Piazza, the Wisdom Path and a multitude of shops and restaurants where you will spend a pleasant moment.

Temple street night market

An amazing night market where you can find clothes, trinkets, antiques, watches and more. At nightfall, the merchants are installed and ready in front of their stalls; everywhere you will find opera singers and fortune tellers. A popular bazaar named after the Tin Hau temple located in the heart of its main street. This unmissable place is so immersed in local culture that it has served as a decor for many cult films.

Language

Cantonese, Mandarin and English.

Weather

Hong Kong has a humid subtropical climate Hong with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Hong Kong will be from September to December where the temperatures are the most enjoyable. 

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: 00 International dialing code: 852 Concerning national calls made in Hong Kong, it is not necessary to dial the 852 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 852 and finally the local phone number in Hong Kong.

Useful links