Quebec is undoubtedly one of Canada’s most unique provinces. Located in the heart of the country, Quebecers have a certain joie de vivre that spills into all aspects of life — be it work or play.
Quebec’s culture is reminiscent of Old World Europe — its architecture, food and culture can have some visitors thinking they’ve landed in far away lands instead of central Canada. And meeting delegates who are coming to the area for a major meeting or convention won’t be disappointed. Quebec does business like it does recreation — with style, warmth and oomph. Thanks to its vibrant cities, modern convention centres and comfortable hotels, Quebec is one of the newest hotspots for business travel.
“In this land of contrasts, historic and contemporary buildings stand side by side, and natural spaces border safe and welcoming cities,” says Susan Prophet, director MC&IT for Destination Quebec. “It’s the perfect setting for successful conventions, business meetings, trade fairs or even incentive trips.”
Whether the meeting is hosted in metropolitan areas such as Montreal and Quebec City or in quainter areas such as Outaouais or Laval, Quebec can accommodate any event — big or small — and have delegates discovering their own joie de vivre in a province guaranteed to tantalize the working mind and the playing soul.
Located at the northeastern tip of North America, Quebec covers 1.7 million kilometers — which is three times the size of France, 40 times the size of Switzerland and 50 times the size of Belgium. Its territory extends nearly 2,000 km from the U.S. border to the Arctic Ocean, between Ontario to the west and New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador to the east.
With its entire southern portion dissected by the St. Lawrence River, one of the largest rivers in the world, Québec is graced with an incredible variety of landscapes: a fertile fluvial plain between the Canadian Shield to the north and the Appalachian Mountains to the south, wide swaths of forest, taiga and tundra, all of which share more than a million lakes and thousands of rivers, or some 180,000 km of fresh water. The highest peaks in Québec are Mont D’Iberville located in Nunavik’s Torngat mountains, and Mont Jacques-Cartier, part of the Chic-Chocs mountain range in the Gaspésie.
Rich in history, Quebec was discovered by Jacques Cartier when he arrived at Gaspé in 1534, taking possession of lands that had been inhabited for thousands of years by Amerindians and the Inuit.
In 1608, Samuel de Champlain made landfall on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River at a spot that the Aboriginals called Kébec. In 1642, Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve founded a Catholic mission that he named Ville-Marie and which would become Montréal at the end of the 18th century.
New France expanded rapidly between 1660 and 1713. During the Seven Years’ War, the army of British General James Wolfe laid siege to Québec, and the Battle of the Plains of Abraham culminated in the defeat of the French General Joseph de Montcalm de Saint-Veran on September 13, 1759. Four years later, with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, the King of France ceded to the British crown “Canada and all its dependencies.” This led to significant immigration on the part of English, Irish and Scottish settlers.
In 1791, the Constitutional Act established two provinces in British North America: Upper Canada (Ontario), with an English-speaking majority, and Lower Canada (Québec), which had a French speaking majority. The Rebellion of Lower Canada in 1837 and 1838, was put down decisively by the British army.
In 1867, the British North America Act established a federation of provinces that became known as Canada.
Until the early 20th century, Québec’s economic life was heavily dependent on agriculture and the forest industry. With subsequent rapid industrialization and urbanization, there was a huge migration of people from the countryside to the cities. The 1960s were marked by the advent of the Quiet Revolution, crystallizing a decade later in debates on the predominant role of the French language. In 1976, the Parti Québécois, led by René Lévesque, was swept to power. In referendums held in 1980, and again in 1995, the people of Québec voted against a proposal for sovereignty-association with the rest of Canada.
Today, Quebec is fiercely proud of its French heritage and is a delightful blend of the Old and New World. Its enthusiastic and friendly people are known for their passion, spontaneity and unique lifestyle.
French is the language used by the majority of Québecers, although English is spoken or understood almost everywhere in the province, particularly in the large urban centres. Québec’s dual Catholic/Protestant heritage can be seen everywhere you look, especially in its religious architecture, such as the St. Joseph’s Oratory, whose gigantic dome rises high above the northern slope of Mont Royal and stands on one of the loveliest sites in Montréal.
Over the years, many other groups from around the world have arrived to complete the religious tapestry, joining the descendants of the French and English settlers who came before them.
Québec has a population of approximately seven million people, the vast majority of whom live in the vicinity of the St. Lawrence River. However, meeting delegates don’t necessarily have to visit big city centres to have a classic Quebec experience. Some of its quaint smaller areas serve up fantastic opportunities for work and play.
The Outaouais
Located at the southwestern tip of the province of Quebec, the Outaouais region is bordered by the Abitibi-Temiscamingue region, the Laurentians and the city of Ottawa.
Neighboring Canada’s capital and gateway to the province of Quebec, the Outaouais region is located 20 minutes away from the Ottawa International Airport and less than 20 minutes from the train station. The urban region of the Outaouais is known as the city of Gatineau. On January 1, 2002, the former municipalities of Aylmer, Hull, Gatineau, Buckingham and Masson-Angers were merged to create the new, bigger city of Gatineau. Its population, which counts close to 247,000 inhabitants, makes it the fourth-largest city in the province of Quebec.
“The Outaouais effortlessly blends big city excitement and the wonders of nature with its four-season lineup of outdoor and cultural activities,” says Jose Lafleur, assistant director of communications for Outaouais Tourism.
“It’s a well-known fact the Outaouais region is famous for being a destination of contrasts. Indeed, the quietude and exoticism of the countryside and the luxury and excitement of the big city life side by side offer visitors and delegates the best of both worlds.”
Thanks to its vast 33,000-square-kilometre territory, which is dotted with 20,000 lakes and a dozen rivers, the Outaouais presents itself as a top destination for nature-loving delegates.
In fact, some of its greatest team-building activities revolve around the area’s great outdoors. For instance, the zip-line course in the heart of Foret de l’Aigle allows outdoor enthusiasts to conquer new heights with its vertigo-defying trail of 10 giant Tyrolean traverses high above the Hibou River. Canoeing, camping, horseback riding, hiking are also available for delegates in the area but it’s not all about roughing it — delegates can also relax and stay in the one of the area’s three luxury chalets.
Gatineau Park is also home to the Fortune Arial Experience, which boasts six courses of suspended walkways, rope bridges, net gangways, zip lines and Tarzan ropes 30 metres above the ground. The two-hour trek culminates in a thrilling zip line back to the starting point at the main cottage.
Team-building delegates who are good sports may also want to try clay shooting at Fairmont Kenauk at Chateau Montebello. This exciting activity offers challenges for everyone. The course consists of nine stations of varying difficulties that simulate hunting for small game birds and animals. The sporting clay package includes all required materials such as shotguns, ammunition, eye and ear protection, vests and trap guides.
For delegates who want a more civilized experience, the Canadian Museum of Civilization is one of Canada’s most visited museums and a great place to visit during meeting downtimes. The building, considered one of Canada’s 20th-century architectural masterpieces, features innovative exhibits presenting more than 1,000 years of Canadian history and the world’s largest indoor collection of totem poles. For spouses and children who get to come along, the adjacent Canadian Children’s Museum takes children on a trip around the world in search of fascinating places and interesting people. And, under the same roof, delegates and their families will also find the Canadian Postal Museum.
For some grown-up fun, delegates can bet on the Casino du Lac-Leamy for a good time.
The Casino has more than 2,500 seats, 1,900 slot machines and several games tables where delegates can try their luck. The adjoining Hilton Lac-Leamy hotel boasts a fitness centre, spa, indoor and outdoor pools, hiking trails, restaurants, bars and shows at the Théâtre du Casino.
Animal-loving delegates will want to check out Parc Omega in Montebello, where the surrounding nature will be sure to inspire. Walking paths and nature trails boast pristine settings as well as a non-aggressive animal or two. And for delegates with a wild side, black bears, wolves and wild boars can also be found in the area.
When it comes to getting down to business, the Outaouais region is home to various venues that can accommodate any need or budget. The Outaouais boasts more than 170,000 square feet of meeting space, two five-star hotels, seven four-star hotels and many exquisite restaurants, including one of only three hotels in the province of Quebec boasting the Five Diamond designation.
The Hilton Lac-Leamy offers an urban resort experience. Its congress centre consists of 33,000 square feet, 14 reception rooms with state-of-the-art technology, which can accommodate groups up to 1,600 delegates. The complex also boasts a theatre, casino and three restaurants making it an excellent venue to combine business and pleasure under the same roof.
For delegates looking for a more peaceful, relaxing environment, Chelsea — which is just a few minutes away from Gatineau — is home to Le Nordik Nature Spa. Meeting packages include use of the Lodge Meeting Room, access to high-tech audio and visual equipment, continental breakfasts or lunch buffets.
Whether it’s for brainstorming, strategic planning or team building, the natural and inviting setting of Le Nordik will contribute to an inspiring atmosphere. Made entirely of wood and offering an impressive view, the Nordik Lodge stimulates creativity while it promotes productivity. In a country living meets modern amenities style, the Lodge was developed with constructive and enjoyable meetings in mind. And, of course, delegates can get pampered at the spa after a long day of work.
“The Outaouais offers the best of both worlds — urban and countryside getaways,” says Lafleur. “Delegates should definitely choose Gatineau and the Outaouais region for the annual meeting or conventions if they wish to discover cultural treasures, nature riches and, foremost, if they want to select a destination that offers a wide variety of team-building activities.”
The Laurentians
The Laurentians, north of Montréal, is a world famous four-season tourist destination. The 22,000-sq. km. territory spans south to north from Rivière des Mille-Iles to the huge territories north of Mont-Laurier and east to west, from the borderline of the Lanaudière region to the boundaries of the Outaouais region.
Journeying over plains and valleys, trekking over hills and mountains, delegates will discover a kaleidoscope of landscapes, bursting with beauty. Mountainside and lakeside cottages, heritage homes, lively towns and villages will be sure to delight and inspire.
Shaped by courageous pioneers: Amerindians, French, Irish and Scots, the prolific and colorful Laurentian history has inspired numerous authors including Claude-Henri Grignon and Francine Ouellette. The vast Laurentians experienced remarkable development from the days of the first settlers to the arrival of tourists from around the world. A destination of choice for vacationers and meeting delegates, who come back time and again to admire its magnificence, many Laurentian aficionados set up a secondary home in the area.
“The reputation of the Laurentians as a Quebec tourist destination par excellence extends well beyond the borders of the province itself,” says Helene Prud’homme of Tourism Laurentians. “At the same time, the region has become equally well known as a destination for business meetings in a resort setting.”
One of the most well-known places to host a meeting in the Laurentians is Manoir St-Sauveur. With easy access to Pierre-Elliot Trudeau Airport and only 45 minutes drive North of Montréal this convention centre is located in the heart of the picturesque village of Saint-Sauveur and boasts more than 300 elegantly appointed rooms and suites that marry luxury and comfort.
With more than 20,000 sq. feet of conference space within the hotel, the Manoir Saint-Sauveur convention centre offers two ballrooms, 20 conference rooms and two major exhibition halls. The two ballrooms can accommodate 350 and 550 people so delegates can fully enjoy the flexibility to organize all types of celebrations.
Auberge du lac Morency is also a great venue for which to host any meeting or convention. In 2005, Auberge du Lac Morency developed an impressive, new multi-functional conference room wherein the main building, once home to 11 rooms, was completely transformed into one big conference room with the capacity to accommodate up to 160 people.
The room boasts 1,200 sq. ft. of floor space and can be set up to emphasize the focal point. For instance, a group of 40 people can be placed in a “U” shape configuration or a larger group of 80 people can be seated in a classroom-like seminar arrangement or by removing tables and leaving just the chairs facing the stage, it’s easy to create a theatre-like ambience. Whatever the preference, this venue can accommodate up to 160 people.
Auberge de lac Morency also serves up state-of-the-art technology and equipment that can rival prestigious hotels in the biggest city centres. Mechanized screen, overhead projector, Polycom system and wireless high-speed Internet are all available to meeting delegates.
“Meeting planners should take advantage of our professionals’ experience in the region to facilitate the organization of their event,” says Prud’homme. “Their knowledge of the various establishments, as well as the activities, attractions and services related to the needs of their meeting will simplify its organization and ensure it runs smoothly.”
And for delegates who want to run wild, the Laurentians is an outdoor playground.
Home to Québec’s largest protected area, Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, the Laurentians has a wide array of outdoor sports to choose from, ranging from hiking to canoeing, camping, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more.
Nestled at the base of the 968-m (3,176-ft.) mountain of the same name, the village of Tremblant repeatedly tops the list of eastern North America’s best resorts. The liveliness of its pedestrian village combined with a great range of activities — downhill and cross-country skiing, swimming, cycling, golf and luge are but a few — have earned Tremblant its enviable popularity. Nearby Saint-Sauveur is another landmark destination, its picturesque villages bustling with bistros, bars and boutiques. Unparalleled when it comes to skiing and sliding, Saint-Sauveur is the place for night skiing. In the fall, the forests of the Laurentides take on their characteristic flamboyant hues, reviving the festive spirit of the entire region.
For delegates with game, Le Diable, is a member of the prestigious Raven family of golf courses. Designed by master architect Michael Hurzdan and Dana Fry, this unique course offers 7,056 yards of impeccable greens, imposing red-sand waste bunkers and long, narrow fairways. The first in Québec and the seventh in North America to obtain the Raven certification, this renowned 18-hole championship course has surpassed all standard requirements by proving itself to be memorable, playable and pleasing, while also offering golfers a challenge.
Le Géant also offers a challenge within a pristine setting. In harmony with nature, with its plateaus sculpted into the mountainside, its quick greens and rolling fairways, Le Géant, created by architect Thomas McBroom, combines the challenge posed by a mountainous course sprinkled with two lakes and 52 white sand traps with breathtaking views of the Laurentian Mountains along its entire 6,836 yards.
Laval
Laval is the third largest city in Quebec. It was created as a result of the amalgamation of 14 municipalities in early 1965. Located in the southwest quadrant of Quebec and covering an area of about 274 square kilometres, Laval is home to approximately 376,000 people.
Just 20 minutes north of downtown Montreal, Laval’s vitality and enthusiasm attracts visitors who are often surprised by its combination of old country charm and futuristic high-tech attractions and industries.
“The island offers numerous activities for the family, as diverse as can be in terms of destinations, discoveries, encounters and things to do,” says Denis Giroux, director of media relations for Tourisme Laval. “Horticulture, eco-tourism, culture and scientific activities, incredible shopping, gourmet dining and great comfort all add up to a great experience.”
One of Laval’s most well-known attractions that delegates can enjoy during their downtime is the Cosmodome, which houses both the Space Sciences Centre and Space Camp Canada. The Space Science Centre was one of the first interpretation centres of its kind to open in Canada.
“This space museum is a great tourist attraction that proposes a scientific and educational tour through six discovery zones,” says Giroux. “Visitors of all ages are captivated at each interactive terminal where they can operate various pieces of equipment, instruments and models.”
The centre also features various simulations, films, revealing objects and artifacts that allow visitors to learn about telecommunications, space exploration and Earth observation. They can also experience the same disorientation as astronauts do while participating in a mission, relive moments of the Apollo program, admire a real Moon rock and complete their visit with an exploration of the solar system.
Musee Armand-Frappier is the museum responsible for generating broad interest among youth and the general public for biosciences and biotechnologies, in addition to showcasing Dr. Armand Frappier’s contribution to the development of research in public health in Quebec.
In line with its mission, the museum’s MicroZoo uses a zoological garden approach to feature the world of microorganisms, their harmful and useful aspects as well as their habitats. Computer terminals, short film, exploration islands, microscopes, association games and a sampling counter are all part of the memorable experience this museum offers.
For nature-loving delegates, the Mille-Iles River park is a must see. A partly protected wildlife sanctuary, this is the largest natural park in a metropolitan region.
“Visitors come to the park to enjoy a journey into nature armed with a self-guided itinerary map and to plunge into a fascinating environment where calm waters harmonize with the sounds of surrounding woods,” says Giroux.
Delegates can discover vast marshes and beautifully forested islands, which are home to a range of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish. The park also features an exceptional variety of aquatic plants. Delegates can take a canoe tour to sections of the river that are sheltered from the wind and avoid areas with strong currents.
“The energy spent paddling is well worth it as beautiful vistas come into view with every turn and twist on the river,” says Giroux.
Delegates planning a visit to the region in March 2009 will be treated to a unique attraction. SkyVenture Laval-Montreal will be the first 14-foot recirculating tunnel built by SkyVenture, LLC. The $6-million project is headed by Montreal businessmen Alan Guerin and Pierre Beaudoin.
“Our mission is to provide the Quebec market with the most advanced, efficient, safe, reliable, powerful and realistic skydiving simulator in the world,” says Guerin. “More specifically, to become the most sought-after, fun, exhilarating experience for the local population, the tourism industry, corporate groups and skydiving enthusiasts.”
Laval also has a plethora of meeting venues from which to choose including four convention centres, three exhibition halls, 1,600 rooms, 95 meeting halls and 375,000 sq. ft of premium space for meetings, exhibitions and conventions.
“When meeting planners need expert assistance, our skilled planners in business tourism will gladly lend a hand,” says Giroux. “For all business activities in Laval, their precise knowledge of services available at hotels and restaurants and of resources available for convention needs, meetings, events or business conferences will quickly, simplify meeting planners’ organizational tasks.”
The Sheraton Laval and Convention Centre is a respected venue among meeting delegates. The hotel is located 20 minutes from downtown and is adjacent to the shopping centre Le Carrefour Laval. It boasts 18 multi-function meeting rooms with state-of-the-art equipment as well as 32,000 sq ft of area that can accommodate up to 1,250 people in banquet style. For after-meeting receptions and banquets, it has various-sized banquet halls to accommodate any group.
For a more intimate meeting, the Château Taillefer Lafon Winery offers an elegant touch to any meeting. Château Taillefer Lafon is the first vineyard in Quebec authorized to use the appellation “Château,” traditionally reserved for distinctive European vineyards. In its first year of existence, Château Taillefer Lafon participated in the prestigious Montreal international wine contest “Les Sélections Mondiales des Vins, 2004”. The two products presented, the Ice Wine and the Ice Cider were given a gold medal and a silver medal respectively. Furthermore, the Château received, for its Ice Wine, the prestigious international “Vinofed” trophy rewarding the best of the 2,300 products representing 30 countries at the contest.
In a charmed and charming setting, the winery offers reception halls for any type of event. On the ground floor is a large hall with an exterior terrace and covered canopy, ideal for events for up to 200 persons, while the venue on the second floor is especially suited for events of up to 60 persons. The hall can also be equipped for multimedia presentations (PowerPoint) such as all video conferences and other professional events and presentations.
Montreal
One of Quebec’s most popular destinations, Montreal is an island that measures 193 square miles and has about 1.8 million inhabitants. The largest French-speaking city after Paris, Montreal is a one-and-a-half hour flight from New York City, two hours from Chicago and only five hours from San Francisco.
But its convenience to other big-city centres isn’t the only appeal to this culture-rich city.
“Montreal’s appeal is not really any one attraction,” says Patrick Guidote, assistant director of International Media Relations for Tourisme Montreal. “Simply put, Montreal’s European history is the attraction. It feels like France but without the jet lag.”
Montréal is a one-of-a-kind, multicultural city that blends its French accent with that of more than 80 other ethnic communities and charms visitors with its Euro-American ambiance. Montréal is also innovative and invigorating, offering a whirlwind of cultural creations, both traditional and modern. Its downtown bustles with life at the foot of its mountain, while history is rooted in the old quarters near the river.
Delegates can explore the old city with a horse-drawn carriage ride around the 18th- and 19th-century residences of Old Montréal, where they will discover the imposing neo-gothic Notre-Dame Basilica, as well as museums that recount the past, such as the Pointe-à-Callière museum and the Centre d’histoire de Montréal.
The Old Port invites delegates to relax all year-round. Among its attractions, you will find the Montréal Science Centre, a vast complex dedicated to scientific culture that also includes an IMAX theatre. The Old Port is also the starting point for trips along the turbulent Lachine Rapids, at the western end of the island.
Montreal is a city that knows how to party. It boasts year-round festivals that are known worldwide for their culture and activity.
The Montreal International Jazz Festival is one of the city’s most well-known parties that take place every summer. The gigantic music celebration features 11 days of non-stop entertainment, from noon to midnight, right in the heart of downtown Montreal. Several city streets are closed to traffic, as right of way is given exclusively to pedestrians, creating a festive and secure spot with cafés and bistros, an art gallery, street performers and a musical park for children. It’s the summer celebration par excellence for people of all ages and origins, a cultural breath of fresh air, and a place for incredible musical discoveries with influence such as jazz, blues, African, contemporary and electronica.
Delegates with a sense of humor will want to check out the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. Hollywood heavyweights, A-list directors, internationally renowned comedy stars and industry executives all converge with about 2 million others in Montreal for the summertime Just For Laughs Festival presented by Vidéotron.
Delegates who visit Montreal in the winter don’t have to miss out on festival fun. The Montreal High Lights Festival brightens up the heart of winter and entices Montrealers out of hibernation every February and March. With its large and diversified schedule devoted to culture, gastronomy and urban entertainment, as well as the Montreal Downtown & Underground Event and the wild Montreal All- Nighter, festival-goers enjoy 11 days packed with 1,000 possibilities and opportunities to join in activities, take in a show or event, enjoy a delicious meal or taste fine Quebec cheeses and Chilean wines.
Last year’s Hydro-Québec Celebration of Light made itself at home in Old Montréal and on the Quays of the Old Port. Highlights included the thrilling 120-metre Milk Ice Slide entirely made of ice, the artistic illumination of De la Commune St., the stunning 20-metre GiveItYourMinimum AXA Sphere, a heated, inflatable pleasure zone, as well as the Milk Jumpaï, the braziers, the Bistro SAQ and the new 15-metre giant LED screen, where fans projected the designs they’d created at the interactive console at the Hydro-Québec Stage.
When it comes to getting the job done, Montreal is a fascinating backdrop for any meeting or convention. Easily accessible from the U.S., the city is also accessible for Europeans.
“Montreal has North American standards and work ethic but with an Old Europe charm,” says Guidote. “For any organization that is looking to go ‘international,’ Montreal is a great stepping stone.”
One of the biggest meeting venues is the Montreal Convention Centre. Linked by weather-protected access to more than 4,000 hotel rooms, the Palais des Congrès is strategically located in downtown Montreal.
Versatile and functional, The Palais des congrès de Montréal is also distinguished for its design, architecture and accessibility. The design, an inspired blend of gracious elegance and playful avant-garde, remains linked with its past while promoting more contemporary lines, reflecting its spirit of openness to the world.
The three main levels of the Palais, while serving different functions, allow for maximum use of space in order to meet all exhibition and convention needs. There are almost limitless possibilities for space configuration, all designed to ensure complete satisfaction.
Two large, fully-equipped reception halls can accommodate a large-scale event or two mid-sized events at the same time. Both feature the same high-quality services: registration area, ticketing, bus terminals, coat check, washrooms, access to other levels and parking.
The Exhibition Level’s total surface area of 200,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 1,000 booths. Optimizing versatility of space on level two is a 50,000 sq. ft. multipurpose room without columns, the largest in Canada. With a capacity for 6,000 people, room 210 is ideally suited for all types of events, including exhibitions, gala evenings or plenary sessions. Its heritage wall and natural light lend the room a distinctive charm and appeal. The multipurpose character of the space is reinforced by a 30-foot ceiling (9.15 m) offering more versatility in sound and lighting.
In addition to traditional venues such as the convention centre, Montreal also boasts some unique historical venues such as the Mount Stephen Club.
Founded by a group of Montreal businessmen, the Club started in 1926 on the estate of George Stephen, co-founder and first President of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The house, built between 1880 and 1883, is located in the heart of downtown Montreal, in an area known as the Golden Square Mile, once the wealthiest residential neighborhood in Canada. It is one of the last intact mansions of the area and one of most beautiful examples of late Victorian Renaissance architecture in North America. The grandiose, yet muffled ambience, as well as the fine cuisine of the Mount Stephen Club have turned this home into a privileged place for business meetings and private gatherings or quite simply, refined meals in a quiet and private setting.
Quebec City
Quebec City recently celebrated 400 years of history, culture and beauty. Perched atop Cap Diamant, old Quebec relates its 400 years of history through its architecture and breathtaking scenery.
In 1608, Samuel de Champlain founded the city of Kebec and built his first “habitation” under the bluffs of Cap Diamant. Today, this spot is called Place Royale and it is part of the historic area that put Old Quebec on the UNESCO world heritage list in 1985.
The capital of the province of Quebec since 1867 and the cradle of French civilization in North America, Quebec City has maintained its heritage and historic character. Charles Dickens, one of the first travel journalists to discover Quebec in 1842, described the landscape in these terms: “The impression made upon the visitor by this Gibraltar of America: its giddy heights; its citadel suspended, as it were, in the air; its picturesque steep streets and frowning gateways; and the splendid views which burst upon the eye at every turn: is at once unique and lasting.”
It seems not much has changed.
Meeting delegates from around the world are attracted to the city for its culture and corporate sophisti
