Temp: Quebec -12 degrees C, clear skies, Montreal -10 degrees C, clear skies
Checked out of the hotel after breakfast and caught a taxi around 1100 hours. The trip into the train station was short and we were well ahead of time before the train leaves at 1310 hours. A suggestion was made to visit the farmers market, just across from the station (past the carpark), near the wharf. Under cover this market offers a huge variety of goods. The usual foods (bread, vegetables, cheese and condiments of all types), mixed with wines, sauces and ciders, maple syrup, jewellery, furs, perfumes, soaps and knick-knacks. Not cheap cheesy stuff though.
Eventually got onto the train to Montreal enduring the four hour trip. It was a good time to catch up on things, including some sleep. The train ride takes you along the flow of the Saint Laurent, although at some distance inland. Through what one imagines to be fields in spring and summer, open plains and heavy wooded areas. Although bleak the landscape contrasting against the white snow is worth seeing. Occasionally towns and building rise from the thick blanket of snow and ice, reaching to hold aloft the powdery snow draped over the rooves and eaves.
We arrived in Montreal as the sun was setting and took a taxi to the nearby Novotel Hotel. Although a short distance the luggage is beginning to get heavy.
Over evening we took in a stroll through downtown Montreal. The city trees, parks and building are encapsulated with festive lights. There is a fractured collusion of new and old buildings throughout. And the Underground City is a sight to experience. Began in the mid 1960's the Underground City, or Reso, boasts 33km of linked walkways, shops and stores. Started at Place Ville Marie where they raised the church on piles the shopping precinct now spans 7 city blocks. All underground.
Dinner was at St Huberts. A nice Steak and Chicken grill restaurant.
No comments:
Post a Comment