Well the temperature got down to 4 degrees Celsius last night, yes chilly under clear skies. The good news is that we had another beautiful sunny day here in Quebec City with the high somewhere around 14 Celsius, so very manageable. Our day took us out to the Petit Champlain area for a nice stroll. Halloween is definitely in the air here, pumpkins and decorations galore, very nice amongst all these old buildings. We visited many shops and chatted with almost all the shop owners, they are very happy to see the busyness on the streets, the crowds and the tourists. There was one shop, Sculpteur Flamand, him and his brother have been operating for 41 years, they had a pre Covid team of 9 carvers now whittled down to 4, they carve almost everything in their shop by hand. Beautiful work, he asked a small group if they wanted to view the private workshop on the 3rd floor, well of course we did. There are a few pictures of their work here, I did ask him for a picture but he shyly said that he needed a haircut. No problem, but I did let him know that I would give him a plug on the blog. He thanked me. They are located on the Petit Champlain region.
From here we meandered up the narrow windy cobblestone streets up towards the Château Frontenac, stopping in several shops along the way, one a full blown, all out, Christmas store - nice job on this decor. Also, as we strolled the walls protecting the old city, I did not realize how many cannon and mortar guns there were lining these walls, to many to count. Let’s just say this city was well protected. At the top was the magnificent Chateau Frontenac and today we stepped into its past and strolled around looking at the grandeur of this hotel. We did stop in the SAM bar for an afternoon drink before heading down the Funicular and a little retail therapy. Back to ship around 3pm for a late lunch, swim, hot tub and cat nap before the wonderful sail away from this beautiful city.
Tonight was Gala (Dressy), Captain welcome address and yes the gang was all there. Jan is pictured with Florin, the Hotel Director, and Mitch and Daphnae from Guest services. Our Captain is Captain Smit, a 24 year Captain at HAL and yes we have sailed with him in the past. A very nice event. Dinner was Filet Magnon Oscar with a side of Rack of Lamb, all very nicely done and presented. I did make the mistake and had the chocolate soufflé for desert, so I’m expecting the 3 am caffeine hit to kick in and wake me up then. I know, such punishment right?
Another great day and great night as we see more and more people we have met on previous travels and will be continuing on with us for the Grand Africa. Some pics of our day, this one may be in two parts, first time this trip, hope you enjoy…
The former Prinsendam is following us…
Love that white ship, I even see my room 🥲 M&S
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