If you are in North America but don't quite want to take that long haul flight to Europe, then look no further than Quebec City in Quebec, Canada.
Views: 5/5
When we first arrived in Quebec, we were struck by how picturesque the city and the surrounding countryside were. Everywhere I looked, it felt like I was in a movie. The city's European architecture, cobbled streets, and charming storefronts brought to mind the quaint towns often seen in Hallmark movies. The countryside was just as stunning, with rolling hills and endless greenery that seemed to go on forever. Throughout our travels, I found that there wasn't a single unattractive area in Quebec. Don't get me started on Le Chateau Frontenac!
Food: 5/5 Wine: 4.5/5
Quebec is a food lover's paradise, with a plethora of cuisines to choose from. However, when we visited, we decided to stick with Canadian and French cuisine since we were in Quebec after all. And let me tell you, we were not disappointed. One dish that stood out for me was poutine. If you haven't tried it yet, you are missing out!
Poutine is a Canadian dish that consists of crispy fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. It may not sound like much, but once you try it, you'll be hooked. The combination of crispy fries, savory gravy, and gooey cheese curds is simply irresistible.
At first, you might be a bit skeptical about trying poutine. I mean, fries with gravy and cheese curds? It doesn’t sound like the most appetizing dish. But once you try it, you will be blown away. The fries were crispy and perfectly seasoned, the gravy was rich and savory, and the cheese curds were gooey and delicious. The combination of flavors and textures was simply amazing.
Poutine has become a staple in Canadian cuisine and is now enjoyed all over the world. The dish originated in Quebec in the 1950s and has since become a Canadian icon. Poutine is so popular that there is even a Poutine Week festival held in Montreal every year! The best part is, it's easy to make at home. All you need are some crispy fries, a rich gravy, and some cheese curds. You can even add your own twist to it by adding bacon bits, pulled pork, or even lobster. The possibilities are endless.
The spotlight restaurant was Le Continental. The highlight of our dinner at Le Continental was the peppercorn flambé steak. This dish is a true masterpiece and is flambéd right at the table, which is a sight to behold. The steak is cooked to perfection and is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The peppercorn sauce is rich and savory, and the flambé adds a touch of drama and excitement to the meal.
But the steak isn't the only star of the show at Le Continental. The restaurant offers a wide range of French-inspired dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From escargot (which I loved!) to foie gras, the menu is full of classic French dishes that are executed to perfection. Even Anthony Bourdain thought so!
And what better way to enjoy a delicious meal than with a nice French wine? Le Continental offers an extensive wine list that includes some of the best wines from the Bordeaux region. The wine list is curated by a team of experts who can help you choose the perfect wine to pair with your meal.
Return Factor: 5/5
If you're looking for a city that you can visit time and time again, then look no further than this gem. This city is a true delight, no matter what time of year you visit. From the beautiful architecture to the vibrant culture, there is always something new to discover.
One of the things that makes this city so special is the changing seasons. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, you will be treated to a different experience each time. The spring brings blooming flowers and fresh air, while the summer is full of outdoor festivals and events. The fall is a time of colorful leaves and crisp air, and the winter is a wonderland of snow and holiday cheer.
One event that we are particularly excited about is the German Christmas market that takes place in November and December. This market is a true feast for the senses, with delicious food, mulled wine, and handmade crafts. It's the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit and pick up some unique gifts for your loved ones.
But even if you don't visit during the holiday season, there is still so much to see and do in this city. From museums and galleries to parks and gardens, there is something for everyone. And the food scene is not to be missed, with a wide range of restaurants serving everything from traditional dishes to modern cuisine.
City Safeness/ Upkeep: 4/5
We've been to cities where we could feel the unsafe conditions and this city is not one of those places. We never felt unsafe even when out in the middle of nowhere. Everyone we met was really nice and helpful especially when out of range for an uber.
When it comes to parts of the city it can seem a little run down with graffiti and some buildings aren't as nice as the the rest especially on the outskirts of the city. This doesn't take away from the beauty and wonder of the city though!
Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Our time in Quebec City was nothing short of magical, and we're already counting down the days until we can return. While it may be a bit off the beaten path, the city's charm and beauty make it well worth the trip.
One of the things that we loved most about Quebec City was the opportunity to unwind and enjoy some of the finer things in life. From the incredible food to the stunning views, there is no shortage of ways to relax and indulge. And if you're a wine lover, you'll be delighted to know that Quebec City has a thriving wine scene, with plenty of local vineyards and tasting rooms to explore.
But perhaps the best thing about Quebec City is that it feels like a little slice of Europe right here in North America. With its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and charming cafes, you'll feel like you've been transported to another time and place. It's the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the magic of Europe without leaving the continent.
So if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, look no further than Quebec City. With its breathtaking beauty, delicious food, and rich culture, it's a destination that you won't want to miss.
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