The deep blue night of Quebec. A delicate crescent moon hangs in the sky, exuding the neatness of French style with an air of grace. The Château Frontenac, built in the Château-style that was popular for hotel architecture in the 19th century, is listed in the Guinness World Records as "the most photographed hotel in the world." It even gained fame in Korea as a frequent backdrop in the drama Goblin. Below the castle’s cliff, the St. Lawrence River sparkled with a massive cruise ship that seemed freshly arrived from its voyage across the Atlantic, adorned with bright lights like it was midday. The sight stirred an undeniable yearning for the open sea. I may only have memories of a short overnight ferry from Kitakyushu to Osaka, but how incredible it must be to cross the rough Atlantic on such a grand vessel. With the sound of the ship's horn echoing in the distance, I could almost feel the wind, beckoning me to set sail.
The St. Lawrence River begins from Lake Ontario’s northern shores near Kingston, winding more than 3,000 km to the Atlantic, carrying the energy and life of North America into the vast ocean. It was a gentle April evening, my first time wandering the streets of this historic city. Yet, the old buildings and narrow lanes of Old Quebec felt surprisingly familiar, welcoming me with open arms. The bricks of the château are so sturdy, they could easily last another millennium. Up close, the thick granite blocks, stacked with barely a gap between them, reminded me of enormous Lego bricks. Gazing at the moon through the silhouettes of bare trees, the mood was somehow cool and crisp, reflecting the clean and refreshing atmosphere of the night.
When I first set foot in Quebec, my initial thought was, "This place feels like Disneyland!" But unlike Disneyland, which hides its intricate machinery behind a polished facade of joyrides and entertainment, Quebec is a living, breathing place. It’s not a crafted illusion; this is a real city where provincial governance happens, where masses and religious services are held, and where consulate business between nations takes place. It’s a space where life unfolds in various forms, whether for the benefit of the tourists who flock here from around the world or for the locals who have lived here for centuries. This city, once a critical military stronghold, carries the living history of the Québécois, a heritage that predates Canada’s federation. It’s not just a postcard-perfect tourist destination—it’s the sacred ground of French Canadians, alive with the stories of the past...
Read moreQuébec City, a captivating blend of old-world charm and vibrant modernity, is a cultural gem nestled along the majestic St. Lawrence River. Steeped in history, its cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture transport visitors to a bygone era. The iconic Château Frontenac, a fairytale-like castle perched atop Cap Diamant, dominates the skyline, offering breathtaking views of the city and the river below.
Exploring Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, feels like stepping into a European town frozen in time. The fortified walls of the Old City, the only ones of their kind in North America, provide a sense of security and history. Place Royale, the birthplace of French civilization in North America, exudes a quaint ambiance with its charming square and historic buildings.
Beyond its historic core, Québec City pulsates with modern energy. Quartier Petit Champlain, a bustling area filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, invites leisurely strolls and shopping excursions. The city's culinary scene is equally enticing, with a mix of traditional Québécois fare and innovative gastronomy.
For a deeper dive into Québec's cultural tapestry, museums like Musée de la civilisation and Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec offer exhibitions that highlight the region's rich heritage and artistic expression. During winter, Québec City transforms into a winter wonderland with the Québec Winter Carnival, showcasing ice sculptures, parades, and outdoor festivities.
Nature enthusiasts can escape to nearby Île d'Orléans or Montmorency Falls, where outdoor activities abound amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Québec City's charm lies not only in its architectural marvels and picturesque surroundings but also in its warm hospitality and joie de vivre. Whether exploring its historic treasures, indulging in culinary delights, or simply soaking in its unique ambiance, Québec City promises an unforgettable experience steeped in...
Read moreOld Quebec City -A slice of Europe in North America! 🇨🇦✨ I stumbled upon Place Royale, a charming square that looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale. This is where the city of Quebec was born, and the buildings are older than your grandma’s grandma. Pro tip: find the bench in front of the statue for the best people-watching spot. And yes, the cobblestones are as photogenic as they look!
Wandering through the Petit Champlain District is like stepping into a postcard. The narrow streets, historic architecture, and adorable shops make it a must-visit. You might even feel like Belle from Beauty and the Beast (minus the singing, unless you’re into that).
🍁 Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning it’s officially recognized as one of the coolest, most historic places on the planet. So basically, you’re walking through history!
💡 Wear comfy shoes because those cobblestones are no joke! Also, treat yourself to some local maple syrup goodies because, when in Canada, right?
📸 Check out my snaps and videos from this magical place. Swipe to see more of my Old Quebec City adventure and maybe even plan your own visit! #OldQuebecCity #TravelDiaries #HistoricVibes #PlaceRoyale #quebeccity #travelphotography #TravelVlog...
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