Postcards from Quebec City

“Stuff your eyes with wonder, he said, live as if you'd drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It's more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.” - Ray Bradbury 

My tendency to procrastinate when blogging stems from the expectations I have for each post. From word choices to every photo that I carefully select that would make the cut, and all the nit-picking things I notice (in which most people wouldn't). I have so many content ideas I want to create, but I realize this wish to perfect my posts is what's preventing me from sharing, to let the words flow naturally and trust that a story will be told, that someone reading this will understand. Okay, rant over. This post is dedicated to a Canadian gem.

Three hours drive from Montreal, Quebec City isn't a destination to skip. Driving into the city and seeing the changes in scenery but most importantly architecture, I didn't forget where I was, but it took a minute or two to convince myself this fairy tale-like place does exist within Canada. I have never been to Europe (and Prague is the first city I wish to step foot in when I do go) but surely there will be lots of landscapes and buildings as beautiful as this, or better; but I'm finding a little fairy tale in Canada, and it is so special.

To Taste: Saint-Henri Micro-Torrefacteur

Saint-Henri is how I would love to start my mornings if living in Quebec City. Spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows letting a whole lot of natural lighting in and wooden everything. It makes a great space to get work done as well. This was also where I had one of the best pistachio chocolate croissant of my life, we were lucky to grab the last one on the shelf (!!!!). Also I don't think one could miss out getting a donut (or six) from their drool-worthy donut case, they have really interesting flavors to choose from.

Wander: Old Quebec

Ah this neighbourhood is everything precious. Again I have never been to Europe hence wandering the cobblestones and admiring pretty balconies is the closest experience I have. All I wanted to do was explore every single street and discover all the hidden alleys, to let the unknown surprise me, to see where they would take me.

If you happen to be one that finds joy exploring by foot like me, you could easily spend the whole day wandering through this storybook-like place. I would not have stumbled upon the beautiful view (the first photo) of Old Quebec had we not choose to walk everywhere.

We had pasta and pizza for dinner at Portofino Bistro. I didn't keep photos of what we ate but I remembered it was a good meal. The dining options in Old Quebec are endless.

To See: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

A Quebec City classic landmark, this majestic heritage hotel overlooks the Saint Lawrence river in Old Quebec. What I loved even more was the courtyard area around the hotel, where one could take a scenic stroll or just sit and relax. There was a busker playing jazz, and with all the tourists and locals walking around, it felt livelier than ever.

Visit: Maison de la Littérature Library

This library is what a minimalist's dreams are made of. It was definitely one of the most beautiful libraries I've come across, I was so in love with all the pendant lights hanging across the high ceiling. The amount of natural lighting and bright walls makes it the perfect study space.

Although French is the official language in Quebec, we didn't find it too tricky to navigate around aside from the fact that street signs got a little confusing. Our airbnb wasn't located in Old Quebec yet it was a nice 30-minute walk, with plenty of stores around. I would say it's a fairly walkable city (although it was still quite chilly in April).

Other must-eats are crepes, smoked meat and poutine. I did have poutine but it wasn't life changing (like how everyone claimed it to be). Perhaps I didn't go to the right one, or I'm just not a huge fan of poutine in general (please forgive me, ha)!

Quebec city is a lovely place to visit for a day or two, a weekend trip would be more than perfect to soak up all the European vibes. I'd love to come back during the warmer months, to see every little thing come alive.

|| iPhone 6s | shot and edited by me ||  xx Sam