Article of the MonthWith the exchange rate against the Euro at an 18 month high, now might be the time to dust off your plans for a little break away. Berlin is only a 2 hour flight and with a cheaper cost of living than the UK, the summer months are a great time to go. more...  |
Quebec, CanadaQuebec, a UNESCO world heritage site, proudly celebrated its 400 Anniversary in 2008. The oldest quarter around Vieux-Port is a charming chocolate box collection of cobbled streets lined with cafés, galleries and fabulous shops. Nestled along the waterfront in the shadow of the much photographed Chateau Frontenac and the equally picturesque Vieux-Quebec within the old city walls.  Quebec proudly displays its heritage and it is wonderful to see the old merchant’s dwellings in the Vieux Port maintained and restored so lovingly. So much so, that if you were not aware that this area was 400 years old, you might be mistaken in thinking that it had been purpose built to attract tourists. This is definitely not the case and the flower adorned streets are lined with tiny cafés, restaurants and shops selling jewellery, souvenirs and clothing to keep out the worst of the Canadian weather.
Perched on the hillside above lies the original location of Quebec City, known as Vieux-Quebec and the city walls themselves. Getting from the Port to the walled city can be quite an challenge, the steep hill peters out at the foot of a gigantic staircase which will leave even the fittest slightly out of breath. Alternatively, use the historic Funicular ‘railway’ which has been taking weary pedestrians between the upper and lower sections of Quebec since 1879.
 Once inside the old city, the journey back in time continues; canons line the ramparts and stone gates protect the ancient boundary. The Citadel, which is still in use as an Army Barracks puts on a daily parade of the Changing of the Guard and draws in the tourists in the summer months. The narrow streets festooned with brightly coloured placards are a photographer’s paradise and the alley tucked away off of the Place D’Armes has a fabulous selection of original artwork to buy. Horse-drawn carriages and cyclo tours take in the grandeur of the city at a slower pace.  The city is proudly French and it is this conflicting mix of both the American and French influences that might leave you slightly confused and wondering which continent you are in. You get the best of both worlds here, famous for its Bistros and fabulous French cuisine and equally renowned for its shopping. Your Pound goes a lot further here than it does in Europe but don’t forget that prices are displayed without Tax so you have to add this when you come to pay.There are no direct flights to Quebec many go via Montreal or Toronto. Many of the Hotels are situated in Vieux-Port or Vieux-Quebec which is great for eating and drinking and being right in the heart of the city. Be aware this does get busy in the summer months and the prices are higher here as a result. It is a wonderfully historic place to stay though.
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