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Québec:  Family Fun in the Province with “Joie de Vivre.”
Are we having fun yet? In Québec you will never need to ask that question. It all started with Jacques Cartier who claimed the land for France and so for nearly five centuries the spirit and vitality of French culture has grown. It can be said the best of France, at least for families, may be found in Canada. Québec is a work of art.

Here’s the scoop. In Québec families can share a foreign experience without the jet lag (and the exchange rate is favors the US dollar).  From small seaside villages to world-class cities North America’s version of French culture is friendly and welcoming. Québec is a destination for the senses. Residents smile and nod, bienvenue – welcome.

Go for the fun of it. Québec exemplifies “joie de vivre” (joy of living). From the toe-tapping music of the Laurentians to Baroque ensembles in Montreal and Québec City, there is energy and a zest for the finest that life offers. Doorsteps convey a sense of pride and often a hint of humor. Residents encourage visitors to simply enjoy.

You will taste the difference. Patisseries and cafes yield luscious entrees – some kid-friendly and some not so. Restaurants serve exquisite entrees labeled “poisson du le jour” and “les fruits de la saison.”
 
Experience a sense of place. A province with ancient mountains, expansive forests, thousands of freshwater lakes and streams and a dramatic coastline, Québec is naturally beautiful. From the rugged Gaspé Peninsula and the majestic Gulf of St. Lawrence to the southern plain that stretches between the Canadian Shield and the Appalachian Mountains, the landscape is dramatic. Hiking and biking trails lead from one magnificent view to yet another. Waterways provide thrills for adventurers and quiet moments for reflection. Cities mix old-world traditions with the tempo of today.

Not to be missed. Seek the music, anywhere, anytime. Visit Montmorency Falls, the highest falls in Canada, is even higher than Niagara Falls. Take in the the changing of the guard at the Citadelle du Quebec which includes plenty of old-world pomp along with the Regimental Band and "Batisse," the regimental goat. Take pause at The Plains of Abraham in the heart of Quebec City, awesome for its natural beauty and somber because of historic battles. Enjoy an airboat ride from dockside in Montreal and count butterflies at Montréal’s Biodôme. Linger on at Insectarium; browse the  Botanical Garden and share the awe at the Planetarium.

Editor’s note: The list of festivals, events and activities in Québec is exciting and worth a look if you are planning a family vacation and want something edgy, fun and inspiring.  For example:

How about surfing in Laval? Beginning in May Centropolis in Laval will offer surfing for the first time. Maeva Surf will provide flow boarding in a safe and secure environment. With FlowRider® technology, participants ride the surf on artificial waves.  Laval is also the home to Space Science Centre and Space Camp. There’s also SkyVenture, a one-of-a kind vertical wind tunnel, it simulates the free fall sensation of skydiving. Details at www.tourismelaval.com

It’s a circus of laughs. In Montréal this summer coinciding with “Just For Laughs” acrobats, trapeze artists and jugglers will be performing during the city’s newest festival - International Festival of Circus Arts (July 8 – 25, 2010). Plus under the famous blue and yellow tent Cirque du Soleil's latest creation, Totem will be showcased. Totem, presents a  provocative look at the ties that bind other species to mankind. My advice – see Cirque du Soleil with your family anytime, anywhere. Sharing creativity with your children is inspiring and the Cirque troupes never disappoint.
 
Free under the stars. In Québec City once again the summer visitors will have a rare treat. The famous Image Mill, a light and sound show involving a mega-projection of Québec's history on grain silos will entertain each evening and  for a second consecutive year, Cirque du Soleil's will perform a 60-minute street show featuring more than a hundred actors, acrobats, dancers and trapeze artists.

Make it happen. For more family vacation ideas log on to www.bonjourquebec.com

Content created by FTF and video link provided West and Lesley McDonald our family connection in Canada. More of their video journeys may be viewed at  www.havefunoutthere.ca Copyright 2010. 
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