Admittedly, my caffeine intake has risen significantly this past winter, and with the onset of “spring” – I think that’s what’s happening outside, but I’m not entirely convinced yet – I am determined to explore beyond my usual McGill and Mile End stomping grounds for new spaces to sip lattes, read good books and probably consume a croissant-type food item (that I may or may not dip into the aforementioned latte. Ahem.)

Ever so excitingly, Indie Coffee Passport, a successful Toronto-born initiative with a mandate to get lesser known local coffee shops onto the map, has landed in Montreal to make this possible.

For $22 (+tax), the quest for new, underappreciated coffee shops begins with the purchase of an Indie Coffee Passport. This can be accomplished online, or at one of the participating coffee shops.

From here, the caffeine-driven adventurer may visit any of the 18 cafés/locations between April 1 and October 31, 2013. Each participating coffee shop will feature a special menu of five beverages for passport holders to choose from. Select a bevvy, tick the spot off your list, and hopefully find one or two hidden gems and new study spots along the way!

A full list of participating coffee shops can be found here, comprising a great combination of our old favourites and exciting newcomers.