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Romantic Getaways |
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QUEBEC CITY: THE ROMANCE OF GORGEOUS FOOD & GREAT ARCHITECTURE
By Richard N. Every
Art historian and author Cindy Nemser first came to
Quebec City when she was 12. For more than 50 years, she has
carried the image of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in her
mind. “Even though I was just a kid, I was so struck by the
hotel’s magnificence that I decided I’d return to stay in the
hotel when I grew up.”
For more than 110 years, the chateau’s distinctive
architecture has been a symbol of this elegant city. Throughout
the year, you can take a 50-minute guided tour of the property
to learn about its history and design.esign.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Treasure because of its
unique architectural and historical value, Quebec City is known
world wide for its extensive and eclectic art galleries and
museums. Spend a morning touring the Musee National des Beaux
Arts du Quebec, which in addition to its impressive permanent
collection often showcases spectacular touring exhibits like
Picasso’s ceramics. For a taste of how locals live, stroll down
Le Grand Allee to Rue. Cartier, a recently gentrified vibrant
neighborhood touted as the most typical street in Quebec. Tucked
between boulangeries (bakeries), bookstores and sidewalk cafes
are the boutiques of three French designers – Marie Dooley,
Atelier de Couture Marie-Laurie Trembly and Lycia Cardy, where a
woman can have ensembles custom tailored for the equivalent of
American off-the-rack prices.
Then
indulge in what may well be Quebec City’s main attraction, the
draw even for Manhattanites like Nemser – incredible
restaurants. Ensconced in an 1825 converted convent, Le Saint
Amour, winner of the Grand Prix du Tourisme Quebecois 2004, does
justice to its name. With a soaring glass canopy and enormous
pots of plants suspended from the ceiling, the restaurant’s
romantic atrium has the ambiance of the Grand Époque, exquisite
French food and charming service. Their table d’hote fixed-price
menu is remarkable in quality and price, as are their wine list
of over 1500 bottles.
Complete the fairy-tale experience with a moonlit ride
through the old city in an open horse and carriage. For more
information, visit (http://www.bonjourquebec.com/)
Richard N. Every is a professional travel journalist and
photographer, and a member of the North American Travel
Journalists Association (NATJA).
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