Yes, Québec is a French-speaking city, 95% of the people are of French language, and 82% in the rest of the Province of Québec. Most people can speak good English or some English and help out, something Québécois like to do. Many people working in restaurants, hotels or tourist information bureaux can speak two or even three languages. As for the water, I suggest that you use the numerous water fountains in the city, water that everybody drinks, it is safe and comes from a lake in the Laurentians and is as good as bottled water, which is bottled in other municipalities. Water from the fountain is free and it is good not to have those plastic bottles ruin our environment. Buy snacks, soft drinks or water if you have to in a «dépanneur», which is somewhat a corner store in the province of Québec. Remember that it is always better to walk the city than to tour it by bus or car. This city is full of history to uncover and it's many cultural events are a must from mid-June to mid-September. Enjoy your visit and don't be shy to ask information to the locals, most will go out of their way to accommodate you.
+Jacques Plov Maybe the many arrival of the new French speaking migrants from West African countries where the official language is French.I spoke English to one of the Front Office receptionist in a hotel in Montreal and she did not seems to understand me well.She is a very pretty and kind lady and speaks absolutely beautiful French though I have some limit understanding of the language myself.
I was going to recommend that as well. If anything, actually avoid kiosks... Their beverages are nearly always overpriced. Either be prepared and bring your own, or stop at a "depanneur" or corner store where the prices are fairer, they are everywhere.
Je me rappelle qu'il y avait des depanneurs dans les voisinages du Vieux Quebec, où j’avais acheté de bouteilles d’eau et de la charcuterie aussi....... Quebec=là où la rivière se rétréci. Quebec Je me rappelle c'est vraie, on ne s'oublie jamais.
I work in a coffe shop in Quebec and we got a lot of tourists... Of course we say "Bonjour" and not "hi" to everybody that comes in and we'll speak french between us coworkers. Somehow this really offended some people that asked for us to speak english even between us and to respect the english language by adressing our customers in english. Of course we try our best to be understood in english with english speakers but I thoutgh it was rude from them to ask more than that; to ask that we adapt to their comfort instead of them accepting that they are in a foreign country with foreign language and culture
@@aham5578 Not only is english not recognized as the official language by ANY instance, French is the ONLY official language in Quebec, and is therefore the language of work, service and education. About French in Quebec being a copy of another language: I don't know if fucking your cousins too much gives you this definition for "accent", but it is amazingly incorrect. The French spoken in Quebec never pretended to be a different language from international, standard French. I'm going to assume you're from the usa judging by the immense display of arrogance and stupidity you put for all to see.
A Ham Read a book. The vikings did go on the American coasts but they never inhabited the continent. Are you really trying to judge a country by their history? Where are you from, I can name you bad things your country did too, don’t worry about it.
That blows my mind. That would be like a Spanish speaking person coming to America and being offended that they did not speak Spanish behind the counter. Unthinkable. Our languages and diversities are what make this world great.
As an Anglo Canadian I've always found that if I start off speaking French they will appreciate the effort and either keep speaking to you in French or switch to English, but the important thing is that they see you are making an attempt. Montreal may be a different story, but you can't just go into the heart of Quebec where their official language is French and expect a positive response from everybody if you insist on speaking English first. It's possible they make more allowance for tourists, but my fellow English Canadians really have no excuse at this point
We're talking tourism here. Don't expect tourist from around the world to speak the language. Many people from France, depending where in France, don't understand the kind of French spoken in Quebec. That's why I call the language, Quebecois, and not, French. How many Quebecois travel to Cuba and don't speak a word of Cuban Spanish? Many! You don't hear Cubans complaining about it. When they do communicate to Cubans, the majority who don't speak Spanish, they will speak to them in English. Once again, it's an international language. So if we want tourism money in Quebec we must accommodate with knowing the international language of English. This is why Quebec tourism isn't a big hit internationally. As for the rest of Canada, Quebecers don't care about shoving French down their throats. That was a governmental move by the Federal government, not the government of Quebec. Within Quebec there is only one official language, French. And that also applies to Montreal too, French. And if the Feds adopted English being the only official language for the rest of Canada, Quebecers wouldn't care. You'd be surprised how many Franco Quebecois feel that way. They're logical about the hypocrisy of forcing French down the rest of the countries throat, while making Quebec a unilingual province. And why would English Canadians have no excuse at this point to know French, aka Quebecois, but not okay for French Quebecois to not know English? Be an individual and speak your mother tongue. That's my philosophy. You're not obliged to speak anyone else's language, especially within places that advertise themselves as "tourist" areas. Don't forget the word, "Tourist" in tourism. If that were the case the majority of people wouldn't travel anywhere in the world. And from my experience, most tourists don't speak the language of the place they are vacationing at. And real tourist destinations aren't insulted by that because they are "tourist" destinations; hence, they are able to "accommodate" multiple languages and cultures. That's why on many resorts in the Caribbean they have staff who can speak in multiple languages. And don't take my response as attacking yours btw. And look at my name. I'm Quebecois. Don't think we all agree with one another on this subject matter concerning language, because we definitely don't. But I do respect your viewpoint.
@@sebastienbolduc5654 everybody in France can understand Quebecois French...you're just ignorantly propagating that old myth that in France they speak French and in Quebec they speak "patois'." smh...
exactly...we are more interesting to help in english when we see the person make an effort to speak a litlle french ( and don,t bother if we laugh a bit of your french). We see that like a polite way.
@@sebastienbolduc5654quel discours totalement erroné c'est pas possible, tu ne t'es pas relu c'est certain , il y a minimum 60 accents Français différents , la langue Québécoise ça n'existe pas , les Français qui font l'effort nous comprennent très bien, les peuples, les nations les cultures les langues existent et doivent être respectées et c'est la raison principale des gens qui voyagent, se dépaysé, ton discours condescendant est vraiment celui d'un aplaventri faisant l'hégémonie Anglosaxone incroyable
For gods sake , I wish Canadians would stop being so politically correct. Just say it ! Its the CHINESE tourists that are so rude , weather its bumping into you , peeing on the side walk or busting up historical objects. They are known world wide for their foul behaviour !
@@ethics3 chill out, there is more than one type of rude tourist. Chinese have a bad reputation, but american, french or indians can be worst. Even quebecers from other town can be pretty rude. I speak from 8 years of experience working in that area.
@@ethics3 As a Chinese i don't think so. You may read some news of the misbehave, but you have to realize there are 13 million Chinese there who won't behave that way. When i bumped into someone i always said SORRY! Speaking of peeing, omg, where did you see that, i have not seen any Chinese doing like that LITERALLY in my life!!
@@ethics3 the fact that you are generalizing all chinese people after only hearing "foul rumors" and encountering a few, then resorted to talking bs about them as if you know every little thing about their behaviors, just admit it, you're racist.
As a french canadian i can confirm what he's saying about the 'ask for help'. Even if you sound shy and you ask for a little help in english you are fine. The thing is, people are open minded ,but we (i'm going include myself) don't really like to stop people when they don't need to. I mean you really need to look lost and alone so people can ask you if you need information, because if not, like he said, there is a huge chance that no one will move toward you. Moral of the story, don't be shy, you have nothing to loose as anyway. There is like 95% of people who speak french. and around 85% of them know english, no problem,
I agree with you except 85% know English...that is not accurate. Many people in Quebec do not speak English and that is not just rural areas. I have a huge family in Quebec although I was born in the states. I have 66 first cousins, many aunts, uncles, and many many more cousins. The vast majority do not speak English. Some speak English, some speak a little broken English but the majority do not speak English. Many are educated, white collar professionals. One aunt is a school teacher and she does not know a word of English. I have gone to restaurants, gas stations, McDonalds, and convenience stores....No speak English. The neighbors of my Family do not speak English. I have family in Montreal, Sherbrooke, and the majority in the Quebec City area and Chicoutimi. That statement in your post is definitely not accurate. If you work in tourism or hotel....yes it's likely you speak English.
Also my parents did not know a word of English when they moved to the states. They enrolled in night school to learn English because it was impossible to find a job. They had to live with an aunt who learned English from her husband after moving here.
I was on a school trip with my school to Quebec city and we were on a lunch break and were supposed to return at a certain time, but me and a group of friends got lost, we asked some workers how to get to the meet up place but they didn't explain well, so we ended up asking a French woman who didn't speak English, but we knew French so it wasn't much of a problem
+duke613 I think it depends on the level of English you waiting. I live in Montréal, my English is not very good, I rarely use it in my city and I need some time to wram up when I need it! I travel a lot and I always manage to make myself understood, so, I think i'm not so so bad... But, apparently, my English is not good enough for some tourists. Sometimes I just say one word, with my big french accent and they turn away. So, what is said in the video is true for me, I will never, never approach a tourist, take the first step to offer my help, even if he seems totally lost... And if he approaches me, for me, it's a stress. I beacome nervous when I understand that he will speack in English and I will have to answer in english. That said, if he lets me say two words, continue to smile and it seem to be happy with my limited English, I'd be happy to help! And generally this is what happens, but, the 5% of the time when the person turns his back, mark me more... and make me nervous for the next time.
I love Quebec city and this is my favorite city in Canada ever. I really love it here and it is the best city ever. I love it and i wish this was my hometown. I wish I could live for like three months and if I ever get a trip here I would be so excited and would never want to leave.
I lived in Quebec city for many years and I'd say the #5 on the Hate List has probably more to do with the language barrier and a certain "shyness" than the culture or attitude. You'll probably find that locals will readily and proactively help francophone tourists while maybe even ignoring the anglophones. While it's true people here learn English at school, I'd say that many people's English in Quebec city is on par to most English Canadians' French. So they wouldn't want to get into a conversation in English and embarrass themselves. However if you ask nicely in Frenglish, they'll go out of their way to help. Only my 2 cents! ;)
Mathieu Baril You are 100% correct. It's a shame that Canadians learn both English and French in school - yet most Canadians do not have exposure to the other language/culture after school - and they forget their second language. It would be much better if Canada were structured to be completely bilingual.
Björn Borg I perfectly agree.After all It is English and French and at least 70% of the vacabularies from these two languages are identitical in meaning , maybe a little variation in pronounciation.Not English and Chinese which are two completely different languages altogether.I am so fortunate to know them all.
Mathieu Baril I agree. The shyness doesn't just apply to the Quebecois, though. I think it's a more universal feeling where someone who speaks English only as a secondary language would be a little more reserved in speaking it to one who is native at it. They feel like they're being judged. Me? I got over the shyness. If I make mistakes with my French when trying to converse in Quebec (French is not my Mother Tongue, just learned in school and continued even after), then feel free to correct me. I won't take it against anyone.
Mathieu Baril The xenophobic movement by the PQ has ruined the province and we have had generations of people who did not have the opportunity to learn English. I am a bilingual Québecer and when family and friends visit from other parts of Canada they have never had a problem communicating. I encourage them to learn the basics but even when they did site seeing on their own they reported being treated well. Lets separate the politicians from the ordinary folks who are wonderful people.
I speak French, so I love it when a town is francophone! Furthermore your impression of Québec-city fits perfectly the description of nice French towns like Lyon, Troyes, Reid’s, Blois, Tours, etc.
About your #4 and speaking french. I live in Quebec City so i can tell you it's not about tourists not speaking french that offense us, it's about tourists not even trying to. I mean if you travel to a foreign country it seems you should at least learn some basic words like hi, please, how are you, etc... You'll see it makes a world of difference to a local if he sees your at least trying.
+Kaynos Absolutely agree. We went to Paris in August/1999 and learend enough French to adapt the few days we were there...it's called respect to the community I hae no problem with Quebec folks getting irritated at travelers' refusal to attempt French learning.
I agree. If you try most people are willing to do whatever they can to help you. No effort is a sign of disrespect. I lived in the Quebec City region for a short time and loved every minute of it.
What i love most at Quebec in general is the fact that they succeed to maintain their own culture and language apart of the rest of Canada, even despite the anglophone goverment tried to break them down so many times. English Canada always tried to replace french language and culture in Quebec. BUT IT WON'T HAPPEN!!! Longue vie pour les Québécois et respect de leur langue et culture singulière !!!
That sounds like a view born out of populist propaganda to me (an outsider - not Canadian, who has been trying to find information on this topic). I can't find anything from the past 50 years to suggest such a thing. French is, after all, one of two equal languages at the national level - protected by law sine the 1960s. All provinces provide key services in both French and English, including basic education through post-secondary. Regular polls show almost 80% of the Anglophone population has supported offering federal services in French since the 70s. Today over 90% support the right to French language education outside Quebec. Most of the cultural dustups I found are disagreements about bilingualism or are actually Quebec vs laws and treaties (often international) concerning intellectual property, free speech, and accessibility, where Quebec is seeking exceptions to international norms and butting heads with multinational corporations. The former, trying to require English to be included alongside French in parts of the Quebec government (Federal road signs, federal judges, etc), is where a lot of contention seems to come from. Arguing that Federal bilingualism or multinational brands are a concerted campaign by the anglophones to replace French language and culture sounds paranoid and out of touch to me... But this seems to be what certain groups have been successfully claiming for decades... playing off our primal fear of eradication...
For the street performers, they actualy pay a permit to perform in the city. That is why they don't need to flee in front of police. Don't get it wrong, they are taxed and they pay the permit so they are good enough to play in streets. They are professionals.
I love Quebec City.. went there few times and each time had the best time over the other. I don't speak French but never ever got attitude from anyone..people are so nice ..locals helped us many times and gave us tips and recommended places to go to. me and my husband being Brown, that's pretty impressive that we never had anyone looking down on us.
@@woltersworld i agree i mean it shows a lack of respect to put that it the bad section ....its great that they speak their language ....i speak french so it helps ...but i also like going to greece or poland and trying to pull off a conversation
@@Stephen64138 how was I rude... I just said I didn't like how he put the French language as a bad thing. I am not from Canada. I am not a native French speaker but have learned it. I actually tried to make a balanced point saying that for me I like it but having French makes it easier. However, I also like going somewhere where I don't know the language.
I love and adore Quebec City. It was very interesting to hear the perspective of a non Canadian. I am so used to Quebec, it was good to see through fresh eyes! Your family is lovely.
This is a great serie of videos. I really love what you do, especially the fact that you travel with your young kids. We've just starded our familly and I sometimes find a bit more complicated to swich from traveling alone or with adults only to traveling with a 5 years old and a baby. I used to be a tour guide in Québec city and never quite understood why some tourists get upset about the french. Would you hate that people speak italian if you were in Italy? If you give me the argument that Québec is in Canada and that Canada is an english speaking country, I'll say you've got to study a little more about the country you're visiting: french and english are the two official languages. And if you hate that sometimes locals do not master equally both languages then I'll reply they don't have to. If you ask why, then go learn about the history of the country. My reaction to the language comment is not because of my political allegence, I'm not particuly found of the idea of the province eventually getting separated from Canada. But I'm always puzzeled when I ear or read that tourists are upset because the everyday life outside the touristic areas hapends to be in french. That is how we live and who we are, how dare anyone hate that? Of course, if you say you do get upset at mexicans when visiting mexico because they live in spanish, or at Germans when visiting Germany because they don't live in english, well then I'll understand the comment about the french in Québec and Montréal.
I live near Montreal and I love going to Quebec City! It's an absolute charm and a beautiful city. Sometimes we just drive there a saturday morning, sleep there and come back sunday afternoon. We have our own little places by now! But you're right, don't drive in the Old Town! Park at your hotel or something and then just walk around, it's really easier.
an other advice to the tourists, don't talk about politics and languages (like french vs english)... these 2 subjects are extremly flammable. Just read the comments down below...
Salut, Je suis de Québec and I have to say you nailed it. I shared your videos with some friends that are thinking of visiting Quebec City. I'm surprised you left. most people never want to leave here :) Great videos by the way.
You see... if i go in USA as a tourist, i should not be offended by the fact that i cant be understood in french. I will need to communicate in english. It make sense since its their culture and their language. So why is it a problem for you to need to learn a bit of french if you come here in Quebec? Its our language! We are home, here since 1608. Way before english people. You need to understand that, in Quebec, your language is not the center of universe. Another point you need to understand is our mentality. For us it is not polite to jump on a tourist to ask if he want something. We dont invade your privacy. We assume that if you need something, you will ask and we are willing to help you. Nothing is more annoying when i shop in some stores than hungry salesman jump on me to make money. Like if i was a piece of meat, the second i walk in. Its like sharks after their prey! We have a more polite attitude. When celebrites from Hollywood come here, they enjoy the fact that fans are not crazy fucked up weirdos. Here, nobody jump on them if we see them in public. Bodyguards are almost useless here since people are politely smilling to celebrities and sometime saying hi to them, but nothing more, knowing that they want to be left alone. And if they are willing to chat, they will do first move. This how we are in Quebec. We are civilized. We respect others privacy. We are warm and friendly. If we feel that you are willing to communicate, we are always willing for it. But we dont jump on you like sharks on prey. Ask Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones and many other celebrities that come here. Many of them have houses here. They love it here. They can walk freely in streets, shop in public freely. attend to music festival, movies in theatres and so on without any annoying problem... People are polite, warm but NOT intrusive like crazy fans are in the U.S. Celebrities can live normal life in here like anyone else. In USA they cant live like normal people do. They needs bodyguards.
Fabrice Tremblay ,that IS a rather comendable societal , cultural phenomenon , and trait....decorum. I actually CAN beleive that is really how it is there also, for some reason. 😊
I grew up in Los Angeles and I can confirm that the locals don't give a crap about celebrities. In fact, it's annoying when one is around because their stupid security guards, etc. block of walkways and such. Whatever. I don't care. I'm from L.A. and I don't care that it's Brad Pitt, I just want to walk across this aisle to get to the bathroom so I can pee. Ok? Out of my way. There are a lot of transplants to the area who seem to care though.
Not all of us are rude and ignorant, I took up French in high school so I could understand and respect your language. So it’s really offensive when you say our language is the center of the world and how we “jump like prey to get money” and no bodyguards aren’t everywhere.
I agree with you. I think he didn't mean to be rude but in a way he did it anyways. I am from Québec as well and I understand what he tried to communicate but failed to do it properly. I also think he took the ''not speaking any french issue'' as a ''hate'' thing offensive. As the youtuber said, it is not really a hate category but a ''be sure you're aware of these details'' category. Minus the comment about english isn't the center of the world, he is right as when we travel somewhere, we have to learn a little of the local language and not be surprised if anyone can't communicate properly with you if you don't. I am dissapointed though that the Québécois are reticent about accepting english as the international language. We can understand why when we know about Québec's story but as usual, not everyone is like that. I am proud to watch my shows in english, being able to communicate in english, to travel in english cities and not worry about being lost. The language is simpler than french and I love using it. Not much of Québecers can say they are proud Canadians before saying they are proud Québecers. I am both. :)
For those who consider Quebecois to be rude or language snobs, just try to speak a little French. It doesn't matter how broken it is, just try. As soon as the locals see a little effort, attitudes change, and most of them appreciate the effort and many will switch to English if they decide that their English is better than your French. But just try. My old supervisor was very much an English only type, and I could see that some Quebecois were very offended by his attitude when we were there for a conference. Just try. Start with French and see how things go.
You are so right!! Just a little effort is the best. I live in Québec and at my work place less than half the tourist ask me if i can speak english they just assum we all do because of Montreal maybe. So its very nice to see someone trying is best. We dont judge 😊
Excellent video to show my French class. I am French-Canadian "Fransaskoise" (born in Saskatchewan) and enjoyed this explanation of Quebec City. (Shame about how rapidly comments degrade to swearing and rudeness. What is it about the internet that brings out the worst in people?)
I never found it hard to find water. I did bring mine because of your video but there are a lot of shops to buy water and I went through my water fast. I nipped into places that sold ice cream and tourist crap and they all had water. I didn’t find ATM’s that easily. I was there three times last year because I loved the city so much. The signs did suck but I used my gps and still found it poopy. The tourists are horrible but the locals are great and in the down town historic areas everyone spoke English. There is a lot of people out side of the main areas of Quebec City and in rural Quebec speak French only. I spoke only French the first trip and only English the second and didn’t have a problem I made so many friends and people wanted to talk about their city. I found them very friendly
Thank you for that video Wolt, I always like to click on your tapes since, I've said it before, the infos are interesting and real helpful actually. Its a reliable combination of your own impressions and an generally objective point of view. Also what I do love, especially in that one, you manage to focus on the important little details around the spot without loosing the threat. Good job, Sir! :) Oh and by the way, I so much agree with what you said about the French mentality all over Quebec. I've been to France several times as well and its quiet ironic to see the parallels between the "character of Quebec" and the mentality in original France!
Job well done! Quebec City is my favorite city in North America. Next month will be my 6th Winter Carnaval. Watching your video makes me want to head up in the spring/summer. Take care!
I loved your video on your visit in Quebec City, our beautiful area. For some advice, you can park on the south shore in Levis, near the ferry that crosses the St. Lawrence River if you want to avoid all the traffic to go from the bridges to the old part of the city, as there are no freeways that make the way through. I don't know what you're talking about when you say there are some rude tourists. I've never had any issue with rude tourists in Quebec City.
Worst traffic jam of my life was in nearby Montreal. I fear that area, but yes, the architecture and homes were beautiful! The French provencial antiques were very affordable- at least back then.
I'd love to have that European feel when I visit Old Town but living 20 minutes from it, whilst having been there more than I can count, it truly ruins the atmosphere and what not. It's extremely nice to have a professional opinion on the city since I can finally see the reason for voyager's trips to end up in Quebec. And quick explanation for the lack of english subtitles on various road signs and etc: the history of Quebec has been very harsh, and a long series of events have ended up making Quebecers proud of their culture and brought a lot of nationalist ideas, therefore, we have enacted a surprising amount of laws and acts that protect the french culture from fear of assimilation. If my memory serves right, Bill 22 and Bill 101 are some main bills that prevent the use of english words in a lot of things, including the obligation of english characters to be smaller than french characters in restaurant menus, etc, and the list goes on. Also, from my point of view, we are shy and humiliated to express our horrible accent and lack of english understanding. I've been raised in french but passed my entire 16 years of my life in english institutions, making me (not to brag) more knowledgable about the language than the majority. I know for a fact that my french friends hate speaking english. Myself included, even without the french accent, I barely speak english unless I'm being evaluated on it at school. Without further explanation, I hope you understand the reason for our lack of english language present in the province, though I agree it must be irritating to foreign english-speakers. I'm also sure most Quebecers, if they can understand what I wrote, will absolutely agree on every point I stated. Thanks for the video, it was appreciated and I hope you appreciate my short Quebec 101 class as well! Feel free to correct my grammar.
Toboto "I'd love to have that European feel when I visit Old Town but living 20 minutes from it, whilst having been there more than I can count, it truly ruins the atmosphere and what not." That sounds like a case of "familiarity breeds indifference" or in other words, being so used to something, it doesn't really get noticed much, I'd guess. I used to work in the interpretive centre of a wildlife sanctuary in town, and while tourists from France, the UK, and the U.S. had no problem finding it, some of the local taxi drivers had never heard of the place.
Susan Stenson I would agree that it is familiarity, much like how people who live in Manhattan stay away from Times Square, Parisians don't visit the Eiffel Tower, etc.
I am visiting Quebec City this fall with my fìance and am very excited. I have been practicing French for the last few months so that I can at the very least have a basic understanding. My question and main concern- Is it frowned upon more by locals to speak French and possibly mispronounce something, or to not even try at all?
I just got back from Quebec City for the first time. I didn’t have trouble with people not talking to me. My friends and I had people coming up to us and offering advice and just to say hello. Also I found places to buy water everywhere in the little shops. My grade 9 French cane in handy and I didn’t have any issues. The parking sucked and the roads was difficult to get around. Thank god for my gps. My issue was finding bank machines. The tourists I agree while heartedly lol. They were difficult especially all the school kids who were..... energetic.
@@lucasgaumondmusic I only use it on F1 weekend. Have been a regular visitor since 08. It's the only time I get any real exercise! It took 8 years to get timing right for a Mount Royal sunrise! So far 4 for 4 with really good snow for winter trips! February the only month I have not been there.
Thank you for your Canada tips, we've just been there with my family and Tim Hortens was actually our "best friend" - anyway, in Québec there's the Casse-Croûtes everywhere
Thanks for the video. I am going there in August and this video helps. Yes, I have met French people and worked with them. They are like that. i will be staying next door to the castle as they call it. Thanks for your tips. I will walk with my water bottle and snacks.
OMG, this video is for English speaking people planning to visit Quebec city. It would be great if in the comment section, people would keep things in English. I'm tired of having to translate everything here in french in google translate and it doesn't even translate well! Some of the french content seem interesting too. Anyways, from what I've read in the comments, seems like some Quebecers might hate it when you speak English to them although they speak it. I will bring my french phrase book with me when going over there so I minimize unnecessary hate. I'm coming over from British Columbia, always wanted to try visiting Quebec as I've heard it's a nice vacation spot in the east of Canada.
If it can help ya... I dont speak a damn word of French and locals always did everything they could to make sure I had a wonderful time there. Also, Quebecers dont hate it when you speak English. Just start with a simple "Bonjour" (means Hi), then the locals will switch to English immediately. Quebec City is as pro-Canada as it gets and you can speak English all you want there. If you need help, you need to ask for it though. That is true... but you will never get a "screw you, I'm not going to help you" from locals. The locals are very very very proud to be from Quebec City, and they'll do everything they can to make sure you have a good time there.
These are everywhere in Canada, because of our rude winters. The worst period of the year is in March and April, when winter comes at end and the soil melts. You have to watch where you go with your car and avoid them. Some are very deep and could cause serious damages to your car. And, in this case, under the Quebec Civil Code, you can't file a lawsuit for this because nobody excepted you could be declared responsible of pothole caused damages. You have to pay for the repairs.
I have been up to Quebec City myself, and I must say I absolutely love it. In your opinion though would buying real estate up there for say like summer or even winter getaways be a good investment for someone who just loves the whole atmosphere and feel of the city?
So grateful for your posting about Quebec city. Looking forward to going there next week. You are a very helpful. Your pics are lovely and your kids are adorable.
Lar M not everyone has the time and not everyone is able to learn a second language. I know two languages do you think I give a crap about learning French
when one travels, one respects the culture one travels too by learning key phrases--the natives will appreciate this--didn't rick steves say something like this 30 yrs ago?!
As a resident of Quebec City I can assure you that there is a certain reserve or respect of privacy towards tourists, but that does not mean that they will be unhelpful if asked, and not all citizens are completely bilingual but have enough knowledge to understand and help if asked, (in other words they are not brash).!!! That is part of the European charm of the city, and the residents of Quebec are proud to live in the cradle of the "Nouvelle France" and show it to their visitors!!!! Another aspect is the extreme efficiency of the local bus services, with bus only lanes, (a nightmare for visitors with automobiles if they do not stay out of Diamond marked lanes), with latest technology on bus and at stops!!!!! Well worth the price if staying on the outskirts, much better than paying parking fees in the old town!!!!!!!! Another plus are the great summer festivals with top spectacles on the Plained of Abraham, and historic house garden spectacles all over the city!!! And in winter Xmas land and Mont St Anne for skiers!!!!!
One of the reason we need to be asked for help and are not as forthcoming as other places I think is because we value privacy and personal space quite a bit and therefore are generally not too intrusive on other people's business. A lot of Hollywood super stars come to Montreal and Quebec City for that very reason actually. They all remark on how they are never swarmed by fans here. People just peek from afar and respect their space. They actually can enjoy peace and quiet and more importantly, privacy, something they rarely have elsewhere. So it really shouldn't be taken as an insult or as some sort of say on what we think of you, we don't mean anything by it. I think it's a trait we've kept from the centuries we've spent in self-imposed isolation, living like recluses. We've learned to keep our distances, until asked otherwise.
Hi Mark, Quebec City is on my must-visit list for Christmas markets with the family (hopefully 2021). Flying into YUL. Car rental and make the drive, or take the train from YUL? I know the train might take twice as long, but thinking it might add to the experience. Thoughts?
Have visited Quebec City at least five times for Winter Carnival, and have NEVER experienced anything to hate.I am a Quebecer from Montreal, and as such my French is passable. But any time I tried to speak French, I was answered in English. People in Quebec are generally more polite and helpful than in Montreal in either language. I guess the language and the politics of Quebec are not an issue for their citizens, as they seem to be constantly in Montreal. We in Montreal could certainly learn a thing or two from the welcoming citizens of Quebec City. They are not insecure about losing their culture and their heritage to English speaking people. Bravo to Quebec City, a wonderful place to vacation.
+R. H. Hewitt Unlike what Mr. Twit says there is a confortable English community in Quebec city. The difference is that instead of being a anglo vs Franco duality like in Montréal, it was an uptown vs low town duality. I analysed that such duality is common in most places, small or big. A bit like in New York it's NY vs New Jersey etc. I agree though that refusing to learn French in Québec city means living in margins of society since French is always the defacto language unlike Montréal.
An english speaking individual reviewing Quebec without being racist against Quebekers??!! And talking about actually important things?!! INCREDIBLE!!! AM I DREAMING??? Everyone is welcome in Quebec, just learn french please or at least try!! We love everyone from everywhere. Certainly, like everywhere, we have some people that are extremist, but the big majority is against them, The big majority of Quebekers are VERY welcoming people that love everyone!
This reviews over-the-top focus on the car parking situation makes its train platform logo a bit ironic. But if you're worried about parking, come to Quebec City by train. Canada's ViaRail kicks USA Amtrak's butt, and the train station in Quebec City is a small jewelbox and a short walk into Old Town. Also, explore outside the walls either by walking, bicycle (plenty of rental places), or by the bus. Limoilou is a short bike or bus ride, with a bike path coming from Lower Town, and feels like Boston or Philadelphia. St-Roch has a lot of restaurants and pubs.
I live in Québec city and I just like to watch people how saying how much they like our city. Ahah.! Seriously, sometimes I feel like too many locales don't even realise how incredible their own city is.
Living here in quebec and watch your video! Love all comments they were pretty much accurate and not hateful! And im totally agree with the no parking everywhere in the main city ahah
I'm from quebec and I know some people think that we are not able to speak english and if you ask a question we will answer you in french but it's not true. Most of the population talk english and french fluently because we learn that in highschool and everything . I'm in secondary (I don't know what it is for the americains or the others but is when you are approximately 12-17 years old) and I'm now trilingual. But when I was little I was only speaking french :) so you can ask questions in english and most of the quebecers will answer you correctly (yes sometimes the person can be snob but we can't change his attitude ;)
Laulau p A lot of people can speak English in Quebec.Those who do not speak English are mostly new migrants from West Africa or French Polynesians State or part of Vietnam.I like they way they speak English. They really make the vowelsSOUND not silence.
Laulau p I can understand French very well but cannot speak it as well.Maybe it help me a lot with my french when I ask a question in english and the respond is french.Yes. Snobs can be found in anywhere in the world not only in Quebec.
Laulau p Oui, c'est une honte. Vous êtes en train de perdre votre langue bande d'idiots. Pendant que vous apprenez l'anglais, les anglophones n'apprennent rien. Pourquoi n'apprenez vous pas l'espagnol ou le chinois. Personnellement, j'ai appris en France, l'espagnol, l'allemand, le chinois, le russe et l'arabe (car eux apprennent le français). Je suis venu tardivement à l'anglais tardivement car en France nous pensons que leur langue influence le mode de pensée. D'ailleurs vos tournures de phrases en anglais, vos anglicismes constants injectés dans le français (en France nous en avons à hauteur de 0,09% du vocabulaire selon l'académie française quand vous en avez 6%, toujours selon l'académie française), votre joual est une honte pour la langue française.
FYI, Mexico. Central America, and the islands of the Caribbean are also in North America. Your competition for most European looking cities in North America is not just between Canada and the US.
Actually there IS another North american City that is VERY European and that city is actually the 2nd largest French speaking city in the world; Montreal, Canada...about 2 hours away from romantic, charming Quebec City . BOTH of these cities- if you never actually make it to Europe; esp. France -will at least give you the definite European authenticity that no other cities in North , Central & South America can give you.
Thanks for the recommendations! I'll be with my wife next month of March. Hope to catch some snow. Quebec City is like another country, so we should expect to deal with french language. In fact, is perfectly normal.
Enfin, votre vidéo au sujet de Québec! :) I speak decent French that's why I did not have a problem with conversing with the Québécois-I had a very pleasant stay all in all. I do agree with the necessity to speak French. It's interesting that between the Parisians and the Québécois, I found the latter to be more, um, prissy, in terms of speaking the language. This is a personal hate about Québec, but I don't really like the fact that they don't have a train system. I don't know, maybe it's because I'm spoiled with my travels to Europe (and living in NYC) that's why I assume a major city to have one. At any rate, I enjoyed the city thoroughly and I'm already planning on coming back during the winter. Excellente vidéo, comme d'habitude. Merci, Mark!
woltersworld Québec may be a major city of Canada, but compared to the rest of the world's larger cities, we're insignificant. It would be difficult for us to have a train system, as the city is built on a hill. And our bus system is amazing.
Sorry bro but you should visit a bit more Quebec city, we do have a train system but if you are speaking the streets cars electric, we have electric buses. Hope you will visit us again and learn more about us and about our city so relax there time REALLY STOP.
papa54321 There was? I genuinely didn't know that Québec City has a Metro system. No, I didn't mean street cars and electric buses-I meant a literal above-the-ground or subway train system. :) As for visiting again, of course! I actually made true with what I said above and went back last month. It was quite difficult to do so, but I was able to enjoy the city's snowed-in feel.
@Wolters World As a Quebecer, I agree with everything you are saying (the good and the not-so-good). The tourists can be a pain. As for the water, there are many convenience stores or ''dépanneurs'' (pronounced day-pan-nerz) where you can find any drink of your choice. You can also find beverages in the hundreds of souvenir shops around town. As for Quebecers in general, we are a bit reserved at the beginning but once you get to know us, you will love us. We are proud of our province and yes, we are different from the rest of Canada. Everything is French and that can be frustrating for the average tourist but a few French words go a long way. RECOMMENDATION : Try to avoid the language issue and politics with Quebecs. These are delicate topics. However, most of us are fully bilingual and will be happy to help you in English. I highly recommend visiting Quebec between the end of September to mid-October. The autumn colors are spectacular, the apple orchards are in full season and you can get baked goods and ice wine and iced cider. Thank you for your wonderful channel. I enjoy your travel vlogs very much! Hope to see you in Quebec in the near future!
I love the U.S.A. and I look forward to going there every chance I get. It's pretty easy as I live 30 minutes from the U.S. border :-) I've been to the South many times. I even drove to New Orleans from Montreal. My sister lives in the South. The South is amazing!
In summer it gets hot in July and August where the humidity makes it feel like 40°C and more. June and September are cooler and there are less tourists. Winter is a white desert of death but you should come anyway 😄
It's great , you were honest, but you should have shown some einter shots.. they are the best .. I live there and man , you missed it, go again ahaha 🤭🤣🥰
Serge Boucher Kanada (Canada) is French , Quebec is Aboriginal.The national anthem of Canada has the French verse first long before the English version came along.French is Nouveau Orlean en Amerique du Nord.
Serge Boucher A lot of Quebecois do speak English and speak it well indeed as good as their French.You maybe from a small town in Quebec and yes few folks there can speak English and they are some of the most wonderful people I have ever met.Don't forget, Quebec has recently taken in lots of new migrants from West Africa , French Polynesian , and other French speaking countries and most of them do not understand a single word of English. They speak seulement Francais.Et puis en Quebec vous avez the generations of Irish and French mixed marriages and their decendents refer themselves as Quebecois aussi.
All the tourist shops sell water, soft drinks, and snacky things. There's one every 2 shops, seems like! I kind of agree about us not being super outgoing though, but for I do like to go up to people that seem lost. If it were me, I'd appreciate it. Oh, and a LOT of locals are a-holes on the road...
Very nice review of the city. Thanks a lot, you seem like a very nice person and you have a lovely family. I wish to be able to visit Quebec one day! Living in Los Angeles I really miss European architecture.
i like that when you sad that the street performers not running out of site like in the usa i live in utah and budapest hungary also where we have street performers and street musisons are part of the cultura and sometimes come from all over from the world but i never seen any in the us
Also here in Nova Scotia our capital city Halifax has some architecture similar to old city but a lot of it was destroyed in the explosion. In PEI they still have the beautiful old styled buildings.
I'm Canadian and my father is from Quebec city and I couldn't agree more about the parking in the old town haha! Its awful! Great video! All good points :D Cheers!
Not a good way to give reviews, starting with all negative things. I live in Boston which is polar opposite of Quebec City. Been to QC ten times. The people of Quebec City are in better shape, dress sharpely and enjoy life without making fools of themselves. People in Boston are ten times ruder and not helpful. When I see someone dressed like a slob, overweight and loud I know they are Americans. You need to get it with their being a FRENCH culture and city. When people come to Boston we expect them to speak English but especially with a Boston accent. Learn a few sentences in French and stop your stupid tourist belly aching. Oh, and by the way, there are plenty of stores to purchase drinks.
Well this would be logical. You come to a place where the language is diffrent. It upsets me when someone comes to Quebec and EXPECT everyone to speak English... English is not the answer to every questions.
