Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is one of my favorite Canadian cities to visit. Located near the narrowing of the Saint Lawrence River, it is one of the oldest European settlements in the North America. Quebec City is unlike any modern North American city and has a quaint and European-feel to it. The Ramparts of Quebec City (fortified high city walls) still exist and surround most of Old Quebec, thus was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Some of the most popular tourist spots in this French-speaking city are the massive Château Frontenac hotel, Old and New Quebec districts, the Plains of Abraham, Place Royal, the ancient Roman Catholic church Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, Citadelle of Quebec, Parliament Building and the endless, well restored shops and cobbled streets.

The best way to see the city is by walking. The city is not big, so spend the day and evening exploring the in's and out's of old buildings and alleyways.

Food in Quebec City is a rich blend of old and new European cuisines. Every time I visit the city, I have lunch at the restaurant Aux Anciens Canadiens, located in the historic Maison Jacquet. Waitresses dressed in historic attire serve classic Quebec city cuisines in a warm throw-back atmosphere. Check out their daily specials like Quebec meat pie, warm duck leg and maple syrup pie, from noon to 5:45 pm.

There are many stores that specialize in making maple syrups. Take some time to learn and sample maple syrups and products made with maple syrup such as cookies, scones, pies, ice creams and candies.

Don't miss the savory and sweet crêpes, a French version of thin pancakes served in French-style cafes. Like any other big cities, one can find a variety of other international foods ranging from American to Italian to Vietnamese to Greek.

On the wooden walkway near the Château Frontenac Hotel

Parents posing in front of well maintained old shops and cobbled road

Aux Anciens Canadiens' dishes served on blue porcelain china

Date: 8/14/2010

Cafe food consisting of savory crêpe, sandwich and a foamy cup of hot cocoa