My flight from Chicago to Montréal ran and landed on time. My check-in was almost smooth, but they confiscated my water bottle. Ha ha
I totally forgot about it. My connection to Québec City was almost smooth too, but this time they confiscated my shaving cream. My goodness. The thing was, in my pullman I had two quart-size zip lock bags. One I designated as morning toiletries and the other evening. When I passed security check-point at O'Hare, the only thing that was said to me was to take my toiletries bag out next time for a faster check-in process, which I did for the connection flight. So I pull both bags out and the security man said only one bag is allowed. He whipped out a bag for me to select and transfer items. Unfortunately the cream had to go, as everything else had higher priority. Well there goes 99cents!To count, I took 119 photos today. I would love to post them on here, but sadly the computers at the hostel do not have an SD media card reader nor do I have a USB cord that would connect my digi to the tower. Grrrr. So my entries will be picture-less
I will tell you though that I took pics of lots of people, lots of places, and lots of things. Very general, eh?Everywhere I turn in this city, I am hearing French being spoken by natives and visitors and me
While I am not fluent, I am able to get by. I am also able to comprehend the gist of what people are saying, just not every word. I am curious if by the end of my scheduled 8 days in the francophone parts of Canada I will be really conversant.I decided for no guided tour or the following of my outlined itinerary; I just walked the streets of Vieux Québec (Old Québec). I almost walked the entire quartier, but my thighs were giving out. I was out as late as 9:30pm, but don't tell my mother that as she will freak and give me a harangue! Honestly, though, I feel quite safe here. No imminent danger whatsoever. Of course, I will still keep vigilant.
Vieux Québec has a European feel to it with narrow and cobblestone streets, buildings that are neck and neck with each other, a castle and fortress... it is visual feast. Already on my first day, I am certain I will come back here.
Alright, folks, I am tired (the good, productive kind). I must re-energize myself for more exploring, French-speaking, and living like a Québécois tomorrow!
Exhausted but extremely happy,
H.
