WINTER IN CANADA

Vicky Alexander

Canada Product Manager

Winter in Canada

If you want to get into the festive spirit this winter then I recommend that you head to Quebec City. The scene resembles a picture perfect Christmas card, covered with a layer of snow and the small shop windows twinkling with lights which are superbly decorated – it makes for a lovely place just to wander around and explore the quaint cobbled streets of the old town. I stayed at the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City and it was wonderful, it is the city’s landmark and sits so proudly on the hill overlooking Old Quebec and the St Lawrence River providing a fantastic location. This year, Quebec City will celebrate its 400th anniversary, making it the ideal time to visit.

Montreal is also well worth a visit, nestled between mountains and the St Lawrence River - combining old world charm, French flavour and a modern style all on its own. Montreal is known as two cities in one, directly under the heart of the city lie 33 kilometres of brightly lit, immaculately clean passageways, linking thousands of shops, major hotels, restaurants, universities and other attractions. The underground network is ideal in winter if you want to avoid the cold weather, you don’t need to go above ground!

Toronto is a cosmopolitan city not to be missed, there is so much to see and do from shopping to visiting Niagara Falls. There is a wonderful choice of hotels to suit all tastes and budgets ranging from the traditional Fairmont Royal York to the smaller contemporary boutique hotels such as the sophisticated Soho Metropolitan Hotel.

I have realised that unlike England, when the snow falls things don’t just come to a standstill, there are so many winter activities on offer - the list is endless. The Canadians are used to the cold winters and as long as you dress sensibly then you too will enjoy these wonderful cities in winter.