Touring Quebec City & Area

July 3, 2008 Quebec City Celebrates it's 400th Anniversary

Today is the big day, Quebec's 400th birthday. We awoke to torrential rain, which continued all morning. As a result, we passed on attending the official opening ceremonies with the politicians and dignitaries. The weather kept some of us away but did not dampen the city's enthusiasm. The rain subsided late afternoon and by evening the skies cleared in time for the fireworks extravaganza; the largest display in Canada's history. Spectacular it was. and for us a fitting end to a fabulous few days in this magnificent city.

C'est une bonne soiree!

Bonne Fete Quebec

July 2, 2008

We  spent today playing tourist in this majestic city, steeped in history, and now celebrating its 400th anniversary. The day started with a bus tour through both the old city and Le Vieux Port (old sea port) to view the visiting Tall Ships. 

Quebec City has done a superb job of maintaining it's history and culture, and at times it was hard to believe that this is North America and not an old, quaint town in Europe. Our driver/tour guide was extremely knowledgeable   and kept us on schedule. During the afternoon we took a mini bus tour of the countryside north of Quebec City, where our stops included a walk about at Montmorency Falls, which overlook the St. Lawrence Seaway. At 250', the falls are higher than Niagara Falls, which are much wider and appear more grandiose.

Our ride took us on a rather eclectic tour into the farm country and a series of stops which included a chocolate factory, an old country bakery, some farms, fruit stands.
The final stop was a visit to St.-Anne-de-Beaupre Basillica. A magnificent and very large Catholic Cathederal, where many infirm claim to have been healed by a miracle.

This is evidenced by the large display of crutches and canes etc., left by the recipients of the miracle.