A Pot of Gold EXPLORING QUEBEC IN AUTUMN
Québec was definitely not on the list of my ‘must-go places’ but when we got an invitation from the Lincoln Motor Company to experience their all-new Aviator SUV I was interested. In the car. Quite frankly, other than on our Coast2Coast Challenge I have never been to Québec but this 4-day trip in the beginning of October made me become a fan of our mostly French-speaking province. Let me tell you why ...
The hotel of choice was the majestic Fairmont Château Frontenac Hotel, located inside the walls of Old Québec and towering the city with breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the architecture of the Old fortified City. Not only does it sit in the heart of Old Québec - it is the heart of it. All of the wonderful sites and experiences that the Old City has to offer are in easy walking distance, and the hotel itself will offer you all the luxury and amenities you expect, especially after its multimillion dollar renovation. Early October offers lots of sunshine hours and temperatures that are ideal for some exploring. Quebecers like to say their capital city resembles a visit to France – without the jet lag – and I couldn’t agree more. The old quarter is filled
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ICONIC CONCIERGE
with ancient churches, townsquares, cobbled lanes, buzzing bistros and outdoor cafes. This time of the year, you can still sit outside and sip a coffee or eat lunch or some delicious pastries. And the food, as they say, is to die for! Although Montreal might have more of a reputation as Quebec’s culinary hub, the province’s capital is not to be overlooked. There is a vibrant dining scene that has roots in traditionally Québécois dishes and produce, but is now showcasing Quebec’s terroir in creative new ways. Raphaël Vézina, head-chef and co-owner of Laurie Raphaël, is one of the creative culinary minds behind this new gastronomic era, setting new standards with his amazing restaurant. Here, the Chef Raphaël Vézina
