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Quebec:
Stimulating the Senses
Even though it is Canada’s largest province, Québec is bursting
with gorgeous scenery, world-class culture and first-rate entertainment. A melting
pot of artistic forms originating in Europe and North America, Québec
is alive with creative energy. The obvious Francophone cultural pride is displayed
in literature, music, theatre, dance, paintings, and sculptures.
Visitors from every corner of the world flock to the numerous annual festivals,
which consistently draw international praise. The calendar
of cultural events and activities varies from city to city throughout the
year, but one thing's certain: they are always packed. Whether you speak French fluently
or have no experience with the language, the gracious residents of Québec are
happy to accommodate.
Among the most popular shows are the Festival de théâtre des Amériques,
the Festival international de nouvelle danse, the Just for Laughs Festival, and
the Festival
d'été de Québec. Along with the Montréal
Jazz Festival, the renowned film festivals in Montréal and
Abitibi-Témiscamingue make
one thing clear: in Québec's cities the night-life never stops.
While travelers may come for the entertainment, many end up staying for the awe
inspiring physical beauty of the province. In summer the Montréal
Botanical Garden, one of the largest gardens in the world, is in full bloom
for all to see.
Throughout Montréal and Québec City there are many
important historical sites that have been preserved to capture the heart and
soul of the French culture in North America.
Still, others come to see Québec’s 27
national parks: each one is a virtual paradise featuring extraordinary ecological
surroundings. The Parc
national de Miguasha, on the Gaspé's Chaleur Bay, is featured on the
UNESCO World Heritage List. This unique area is known for the incredible preservation
of its plant and fish specimen, which could very well be 370 million years old.
With a remarkable combination of nature and cosmopolitan culture, Québec
remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. |
