North America
Traveling to Quebec – Everything You Need to Know
Traveling to Quebec – Everything You Need to Know
Visiting one of Canada’s most gorgeous provinces? Good. Here are some things you might want to know before you start planning your trip.
Known as one of the friendliest places in the world, Quebec is an ideal vacation destination. It’s especially true for anyone who doesn’t need sunbathing to relax. It’s a great place to go alone, as a couple, or with the entire family.
However, you may run into some language barriers – as is the case with many bilingual places. This is particularly so in Quebec, which can be bilingual in name only in certain parts.
Check out some facts about the region before visiting Quebec to avoid missing out on anything or going in unprepared.
1. Brush Up on Your French
French is the predominant language in this Canadian city. A good number of the people understand English fine and wouldn’t mind talking to you in English. But many signs and menus may feature more French than English.
If you want to get around town easier when visiting Quebec, knowing a bit of French will definitely help. You should also keep in mind that Quebecers speak joual. It’s a working-class dialect with unique contractions that may throw you off at times.
At any of the tourist hotspots, however, you won’t have trouble as a native English speaker. But conversational French will make things easier for you if you plan on exploring offbeat neighborhoods.
2. The Cuisine Is Interesting
Most of the chefs in the city come from diverse backgrounds. Even so, it’s undeniable there’s a heavy French influence in the cuisine. Pork, foie gras, scallops… These are on almost every restaurant menu in town.
It may seem like Quebec is not a cultural mecca when it comes to the restaurant industry. However, most emphasize using as many locally-sourced ingredients as possible. For that reason alone, it’s worth checking out some of the fine-dining establishments.
3. It’s Cold During the Carnival
Every February, Quebec hosts the Carnaval du Quebec. It’s a massive festival with tons of outdoor activities for locals and tourists.
The festival lasts two weeks and draws massive crowds despite the freezing weather. February is one of the coldest months in Canada, after all.
It’s an event for remarkable ice sculptures, contests, ice palaces, and a lot more. Just make sure that you pack appropriate clothing if you visit early in the year.
4. It Doesn’t Have the Best Roads
When it comes to infrastructure, Quebec doesn’t have much to brag about. Its roads are even notoriously known for cracks and potholes.
They can be in bad shape and get worse after the long cold winter. With the snow melting and the temperatures rising in early spring, the road conditions aren’t especially ideal for inexperienced drivers.
That’s why you’ll find Quebecers work on their roads every summer. As a result of all the construction work and repairs needed, however, you may run into traffic jams.
5. It Has Surprisingly Good Slopes
Tourists usually regard the western part of Canada as the best region for skiing. But Quebec may end up surprising you.
There are many ski resorts in the area if you visit in the winter. Le Massif, Stoneham, and Le Relais are all very close to Quebec City. If you hop in a car, they’re all a short drive away.
While not as memorable as the more popular tourist destinations, the ski slopes in Quebec are among some of the highest in the country.
6. No Underground Metro
If you’re to go on vacation in Quebec City without a tour, get ready for a different means of public transport. There’s no metro in Quebec so you can’t rush across town underground.
With the roads generally in poor condition as mentioned, getting a rental car is probably not the best idea. But this doesn’t mean that you have to walk. Among the top Quebec City travel tips? Use the Metrobus.
The city’s Metrobus system works just fine and doesn’t cost much. It also ensures that you don’t have to miss out on anything while traveling around town.
7. What to Expect from a Stay at the Hotel de Glace
When visiting Quebec, a trip to the Ice Hotel may seem like a no-brainer. There are tours of the hotel and many amenities you can enjoy. Most of all, you may also want to spend a night there and experience the accommodations.
An overnight stay at the Hotel de Glace sounds like a romantic notion. Yet there are some things you should know.
First of all, the hotel only opens from January to March. Second of all, it’s freezing and is totally not for the faint of heart. The only place to warm up in the hotel after all is the sauna.
Last but not least, the hotel only has around 40 rooms. Considering that it attracts tens of thousands of tourists each year, it’s hard to get a room if you don’t book well in advance.
8. UNESCO World Heritage Site
One of the reasons many tourists prefer Quebec over Montreal is the architecture. Old Quebec still has its walled fortification, which is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Interestingly enough, it’s the only site of its kind north of Mexico City. And it truly makes Quebec a gorgeous town to explore.
9. A Camper’s Paradise
If you don’t mind the cold, Quebec is an excellent place to plan a camping trip. There are many campgrounds in and around the city after all.
Spending a few nights surrounded by nature is among the best ways to experience the Great White North. It will also make you appreciate the natural beauty that Canada has to offer.
Furthermore, it’s also safer to take advantage of the designated campgrounds to avoid getting lost or picking up a fine.
A Fine Way to Experience Canada
Quebec is among the most beautiful regions of Canada. It’s a haven for every nature-lover and is very family-friendly. While the weather can be harsh for most of the year, there are plenty of things to do both indoors and outdoors.
Plan to arrive for the festival if you want to see the place packed with people and entertainment. Experience the protein-rich local cuisine. Step away from the busy streets and take advantage of the many campsites.
Although it has its share of quirks, planning a trip to Quebec is not as impossible as you may think.
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Georgia
Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah
Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah
You shouldn’t postpone your trip to Savannah. See a city packed with American history, great scenery, and tons of attractions.
Visiting one of the oldest cities in the south should be on anyone’s list of vacation ideas – whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or nature enthusiast. That’s because Savannah has a bit of everything for everyone.
The city is a piece of living history, but with all the modern amenities and premium facilities.
Check out some of the top tours, attractions, and tourist spots in Savannah:
1. Relax in Forsyth Park
This park is part of the Savannah Historic District and is recognized for its impressive scenery. And every Saturday, you can sample the local goods at the farmer’s market.
The 300-acre park offers lush landscapes, flowers, green trees, a fountain, and enough room for live concerts. It’s so picturesque that you can find pictures taken in this park all over the internet. But nothing compares to experiencing it in person.
2. A Ride Down the Historic Route
The trolley tours in Savannah are legendary. One ride covers 22 squares and lets you see some of the most important landmarks in the historic district. It’s a great choice if you’re not thinking of an extended stay but want to see as much of the city as you can.
Each tour runs about every 20 minutes, so it’s impossible to miss one. Even better, it’s a hop-on-hop-off tour. That means you can step off the ride and spend time at any hotspot on the line and hop on another trolley to continue your tour anytime.
3. Walk the Wormsloe Path
Visiting the Wormsloe Historic Site is another good idea. Before reaching the estate, you can travel on a path covered by suspended trees. It’s quite the artistic marvel in a natural site and simply breathtaking in the summer.
You can see Savanna’s oldest building that’s still standing at the site. Tours are available throughout the year and the locals even host memorable events there.
4. Visit the Museums
If you’re a fan of old ships, the Sea Maritime Museum is the place to visit. The museum has a rich collection of ship memorabilia dating back to the 1700s. What’s interesting about this is that the museum opened only in 1966.
The Telfair Museum of Art is another top tourist attraction. This museum features 19th century and 20th century art collections of both European and American origins. It also has an impressive sculpture gallery. Even the building, the 200-year-old Neoclassical Regency mansion, teems with a rich history.
Located in the Tricentennial Park is the Georgia State Railroad Museum, another tourist hotspot.
Having multiple museums that are rich with history and unique collections on display, this city will meet all your need for history.
5. Admire the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Originally built in the 1870s, the cathedral saw many restorations over the years. The first rebuild was in 1899 and restoration work carried on up until the 1990s.
Its interior features marble floors, railings, and an altar weighing 9,000lbs that came all the way from Italy. The Renaissance murals and the Great Rose Window are breathtaking and any art lover would want to see them up close.
6. Learn More About the Girl Scouts
The Girl Scouts of the USA has its origins in Savannah at the house of Juliette Gordon Low. Being an iconic organization, the founder’s home became one of the first national historic landmarks of the city.
It’s been restored to its original look in the 1880s and you can even see most of the original family furniture and memorabilia. Many of the items on display, including photographs, personal jewelry, and writings, are more personal in nature
The house isn’t a destination just for Girl Scout troops, but also for tourists of all ages. And the tour offers great insight into the Girl Scouts movement from its inception to modern times.
7. A Tour of Unfiltered History
One of the most common things to do in Savannah is to visit historic landmarks just because there are so many of them. The Owens-Thomas House is a great example of a National Historic Landmark you’ll want to check out.
It commemorates the lives of 14 slaves that lived there, and it’s done in great detail. The tour helps one to understand the complex relationships of that time by putting things in perspective.
You can also visit the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. It’s in Franklin Square, inside the oldest African Baptist Church in Savannah. The exhibit features written stories and photographs, as well as lots of information that is not widely publicized.
8. Visit Georgia’s Oldest Still Standing Fort
Old Fort Jackson is a brick fort and one of the few still standing in America. It got its name in 1812, during the war, and saw enough action during the Civil War. The Coastal Heritage Society manages the fort and sees to the continuous display of military history.
And, if you’re lucky, you might see some old cannon firing demonstrations. Talk about getting a bang for your buck while vacationing in Savannah.
9. Outdoor Activities in the Fort McAllister State Historic Park
Even if you’re not a Civil War buff or offended by anything related to the Confederacy, this park is still great to visit. Along with cannons and military memorabilia, the park features acres of natural beauty.
It’s a wonderful recreational spot right near the Great Ogeechee River south of Savannah. You can enjoy various activities, like hiking, fishing, and going on picnics, and you can even camp in certain spots.
10. Experience the Local Cuisine in Unique Locations
If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in Savannah, GA, you might want to try the Olde Pink House Restaurant. It’s a great restaurant and a city landmark.
You can eat inside the 1700s mansion and sample the fine dining menu. It’s so popular with both tourists and locals that it also has accommodations nearby to cater to guests who need them.
The Oldest City Is Still Bustling with Life
Savanna, GA, may be an old town, but it’s teeming with life. It has so many attractions for you to see for yourself – from old mansions and history-packed museums to fine dining and lush parks. Savannah really has it all.
That’s why it’s worth more than your average weekend trip.
Denver
The 12 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Denver, Colorado
The 12 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Denver, Colorado
Planning a trip to the Mile High City? The views are spectacular at one mile above sea level and higher. And there are many outdoor and indoor activities for tourists all year round.
Denver is the most populous city in Colorado. It’s also a tourist hotspot due to its fantastic scenery and quirky attractions. It has parks, museums, and miles of trails, among many others. And almost no amazing area is off-limits throughout the year.
Not sure where to spend some time while in Denver, Colorado? Check out these locations.
1. Spend Half a Day at the Red Rocks Park
The Red Rocks Park in Denver offers amazing views and miles of hiking trails. It’s where you can see amazing sights, namely the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.
But that’s not all the 700 acres of rust-colored scenery has to offer.
The park also features a massive amphitheater that hosts world-renowned artists. What’s even better is that you get to experience the unique acoustics created by the park’s natural features. Bordered by the red rocks, the amphitheater is always worth a visit, if nothing at least for the view.
2. Visit Washington Park
For more outdoor recreation, visit the Washington Park. It’s just three miles from the city center so it’s easy to fit in your itinerary. The park occupies 165 acres and has two huge lakes.
For Denverites, it’s a regular weekend hangout spot. And for tourists, it’s an amazing spot near Denver where you can rent a boat or play some tennis.
The park is open all the time but, the facilities have their own schedules.
3. Sightsee on Colorado Highway 5
Denver is all about the views. That’s why you shouldn’t miss out on sightseeing on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. This spot is accessible by car so it’s easy to get to at any time. With an elevation of 14,264ft, the view here of the Rocky Mountains is amazing.
And if the idea of standing on the tallest paved road in America excites you, there are multiple stopping points along the road for you to do so. It makes it easy to avoid crowds of tourists who want to do the same.
4. Tour the Denver Art Museum
When you’re ready to immerse yourself in art, the Denver Art Museum is a great choice. It consists of two buildings featuring over 70,000 works of art. Even better, the museum’s collection features exhibits from artists with diverse backgrounds.
And it’s not just for art lovers. There’s a bit of everything here for everyone, including nice architecture.
5. Have a Beer at Coors Field
Visiting Coors Field is on many tourists’ to-do lists. After all, it’s the Colorado Rockies’ home field that’s sponsored by the famous beer.
Ground tours are available in the off-season. There are video batting cages that scream fun for all ages. Why not try your luck at hitting fastballs?
Best of all, you’ll always have a view of the Rocky Mountains that tower over the ballpark.
6. Check Out the Museum of Transportation
If you’re out of luck with Denver weather, here’s another indoor destination – the Museum of Transportation. It has a large collection of quirky automobiles, including Amelia Earhart’s Big Boy locomotive. And your kids might get a kick out of seeing Herbie the Love Bug.
Everything looks alive in this weird little museum. Especially with all the mannequins posing in and around the exhibit pieces.
7. Take a Stroll Down Larimer Square
If you’re looking for things to do in Denver, a trip to Larimer Square should bring up plenty of opportunities.
This square is actually a street no longer than one block. And yet, it is rich in historic buildings, shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You’ll have lots to do here both day and night, what with the lively atmosphere that seems to never end.
8. Reach for the Skies at the Rockies Air & Space Museum
If you thought the Museum of Transportation was a weird hotspot, wait until you see this museum.
Not only is it rich in history, but it also features amazing aircraft. Where else would you see a B-18A Bolo and a Star Wars X-Wing Fighter in the same hangar?
The guided tours are great for taking in some knowledge. And the unique collection of space vehicles is one you won’t find anywhere else.
9. Go Climbing
Being next to the Rocky Mountains, Denver is one of the best cities to visit if you’re a climber. But even if you’re not, you can try your hand at it if you want to. That’s because there are many companies that offer lessons and guidance.
For starters, check out the Outdoor Climbing School for a variety of programs for those traveling with or without kids. You don’t have to be an expert to take a shot at climbing the Rockies.
10. Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens
The gardens are a beautiful place to go for a walk. They feature multiple conservation programs and a variety of natural habitats for many species. There’s even a tropical biosphere if you want to see some exotic plants. And the Japanese garden section looks as authentic as it can be.
Did you know that you can also have a picnic at the Denver Botanic Gardens? It’s an amazing destination for those who want a more relaxing outdoor adventure.
11. Quick Stop at the Colorado State Capitol
Are you a history buff with a thing for the Gold Rush? You might want to make a quick stop at the Colorado State Capitol building. Commissioned in the 1980s and made out of white granite, this historic building is impressive to see in person.
It’s a landmark location that perfectly commemorates the Colorado Gold Rush, complete with a golden dome made with actual gold leaf. In fact, you can climb and get to the top of the dome if you want an amazing view of the city.
12. Visit the Denver Zoo
The zoo’s 8 acres of land houses over 4,000 animals – from aquatic creatures and invertebrates to birds, reptiles, and mammals. And it’s not the only sight to behold.
There are also some cool Lego animal replicas around the compound. These are sure to excite the younger audience, especially once they see the animatronic dinosaurs.
Prepare for a Rocky Adventure
Back in 2016, Denver received the award for being the best place to live in America. And the city hasn’t slowed down since.
But if you’re just visiting, you might want to plan a longer vacation because there’s a lot you won’t want to miss.
There’s so much to do here in Denver – whether it’s hiking the Rockies or touring unique museums and attractions.
Florida
The 9 Reasons You Should Visit Daytona Beach,
The 9 Reasons You Should Visit Daytona Beach
Whether it’s the need for speed or sandy beaches, Daytona Beach has it. This beach is a top tourist attraction that caters to thrill-seekers, kids, families, and birdwatchers alike.
There’s more than one reason to visit Daytona Beach. It’s not just about shopping, premium accommodations, and exciting cuisine – it goes beyond that. This place is home to many historic locations and businesses that offer unique experiences.
Check out some of the best places to relax, party, or educate yourself on history, art, and the sciences.
1. Relax or Party at Daytona Beach
Among the top Daytona Beach attractions is the beach itself. The sandy shore stretches over 20 miles of prime beachfront real estate. Known as one of the best beaches in Florida, it’s an energetic scene for tourists and locals.
The beach hosts dozens of festivals each year, so there are plenty of opportunities to plan your visit. The boardwalk, known as the center of Daytona Beach, is famous for its restaurants and street performers. It’s where most of the restaurants and attractions are.
Those attractions include the Ferris wheel, go-kart tracks, and concert venues. Don’t forget to take in the scenery by walking the 1,000ft-long Daytona Pier. It’s another city landmark and a prime fishing spot.
2. Visit the Daytona International Speedway
You can’t visit a historic location in the world of racing without checking out the Daytona International Speedway. It’s a place not just for racing fans but also for any sports enthusiast.
The speedway features premium amenities and a ton of history. It’s also home to the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. The hall of fame catalogs racing that goes back to the early 1900s. And you’ll learn why this is the world’s first motorsports stadium. It’s a sight to see and an excellent location to learn about the history of racing.
Aim to book your visit in advance. That way, you can book a copilot experience with a NASCAR driver, or drive on the track yourself.
3. Embark on an Equestrian Adventure
For those who prefer to go at one horsepower (literally), why not embark on an equestrian adventure? This is one of the most popular Daytona Beach attractions for families. Horseback riding on the beach is relaxing, especially given the excellent trainers and horses.
The trail also goes beyond the sandy beach, so you can take in some of the scenic woodlands scenery.
4. Check Out the Jackie Robinson Ballpark
This landmark location is something you can do before taking in the Daytona Beach nightlife. Visit the stadium that hosted the first game with an African-American baseball player – it’s a must-see for any baseball fan.
Besides touring the stadium and taking in its rich history, you can also catch a game. And, when the Daytona Tortugas aren’t playing, the stadium sometimes hosts concerts.
5. Visit the Museums
There’s more than one museum to see in Daytona Beach. You can check out the Museum of Arts & Sciences, the Museum of Photography, and even the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art.
The latter is an interesting attraction that houses over 2,000 works of art. It tells the story of Florida – a history that goes back to the days of the pioneers to the modern times – through the work of various artists. You’ll also be treated to a nice collection of pop-culture exhibits.
If you’re planning a school trip or a family vacation, there’s enough action for everyone.
Daytona Beach is home to not only sports and entertainment but also educational attractions. It’s rich in history and art that will satisfy anyone who wants to experience other things aside from the lively nightlife or beach activities.
6. Tour the Chocolate Factory
Angell & Phelps is not Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. But it is a hot tourist attraction with its handmade chocolate confections. It’s also among the first woman-founded companies and still offers many of its products made using original recipes.
Touring the historic factory is free. It’s definitely a fun activity, especially if you have a sweet tooth. But even if you don’t, it’s still worth a visit to see one of the factories that had a massive impact on female entrepreneurship in America.
7. Take in the Scenery in the Tomoka State Park
If you’re willing to take a 20-minute drive up north, you can visit the Tomoka State Park. It covers 2,000 acres and runs along the Tomoka River.
Since 1945, tourists have flocked here to see the scenery or engage in various water activities, like kayaking and fishing. It’s also a great spot to visit if you’re a birdwatcher, considering the variety of species around like bald eagles.
The park also offers camping accommodations, provided that you get a permit first. It’s a good idea if you want to trek more nature trails.
8. Visit the Marine Science Center
Another great location for educational purposes is the Marine Science Center. It also doubles as a research and learning center and hosts a variety of species of underwater life.
This is the place that nurses back to health everything from sea turtles to injured birds. You can even interact with some of the “residents”, as many species are in touch-tanks. There is also a bird observation tower and a boardwalk trail for you to explore.
9. Look Down on the Beach
If you’re not scared of heights, here’s one of the coolest things to do when you visit Daytona Beach. HeliHogs helicopter rides offer an amazing perspective of the lively beach. It’s also one of the best ways to see as much as you can in a short amount of time.
The tours go further up north along the coastline. Seeing the waves crash and the dark blue ocean water from above is something everyone should experience at least once.
Fun for All Ages in the Sunshine State
Anyone that thinks Florida is for old people hasn’t visited Daytona Beach.
This is an amazing location for single people and entire families, especially given the range of activities and attractions available. There are reasonable accommodations for all budgets and has more than you can hope to see in just one holiday.
It hosts numerous festivals, offers fresh seafood, and an active nightlife. That and its impeccable beach make Daytona Beach a destination you don’t want to miss.
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