Monday, 24 December

Quebec

We finally ventured into the old town today, walking through one of the gates in the city wall. We meandered along some pretty streets until we came to the top of the cliff, right in front of the Chateau
Frontenac. The funicular took us down into the lower town and that’s where we found all the other tourists and tourist shops. There was a nice little cafe, with hardly anyone in it, where we had our morning cuppa and cake. We couldn’t understand why it wasn’t packed with people. A little further on we saw Father Christmas having the same trouble he has at home - kids who don’t want to sit on his knee. These shoppers caught my eye.

We also saw men making maple syrup toffees from hot maple syrup poured onto a surface of ice.
Chris bought one and we had a taste. Very nice and chewy.

Lunch was in a tiny pub with stone arches. They had a real fire so we felt really cosy. Going outside again was a shock.

We walked across to the river and watched a ship being piloted through the narrows. Difficult walking there as the ground was very icy.

As we crossed back to the road we found ourselves opposite the Musee de la Civilisation so in we went. I loved a little carved pipe bowl.

A bit further on to the market but it was closing for Christmas so we only had a quick look. By the time we were back near the shops the lights were all on and it was looking very pretty and Christmasy.

Home on the bus in time for Karyn to Skype with her family who had gathered for Christmas. Our host popped in to check that everything was OK. I am worn out from all that walking and won’t be long out of bed.