2024
Quebec
June
Arriving in Quebec on a lovely afternoon, I sat on the bus, taking in the sights of clean streets, well-maintained houses, and lush green leaves. Compared to where I live in the USA, one noticeable difference was how close people seemed to be to nature. Many were cycling, even on the hilly terrain, and the girls wore less makeup, embracing their natural beauty. Quebec’s rich history was evident everywhere. From being a colony of New France in 1534 to British control in 1763, and then evolving through various names until becoming the Province of Quebec in 1867, its past was reflected in the fleur-de-lis flag, the French language, and the historic citadels.
The natural attractions, like Montmorency Falls and the whale-watching tours, were simply breathtaking. Standing by the falls, I could hear the thunderous roar of the water, feel the humid breeze, and see a beautiful rainbow, which took me back to my travels in Shennongjia Forestry District. The whale-watching trip was a first for me. Despite the cold and the fleeting glimpses of whales and dolphins, the experience was unforgettable. A sea lion leisurely crossed our path, adding to the charm. While waiting to board, I met two photographers who introduced me to their fancy equipment - an omnidirectional camera. I was lucky to meet Bendeguz, who shared tips on adjusting aperture, shutter exposure, and stabilizer settings through continuous shooting.
Another delightful surprise was stumbling upon a cowboy festival. We played games like Jenga and Wheel of Fortune and enjoyed a feast with friends. By the way, I encountered Rembrandt’s masterpieces once again. The exhibition featured his engravings, bringing back memories of my visit to the Rembrandt House last summer.
