THC Science

Tourism is the fifth-largest industry in Quebec. Some 29,000 companies are involved in the industry, generating 130,000 direct and 48,000 indirect jobs.^[1] In 2006, Quebec welcomed 3.2 million foreign tourists, most of them from the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico and Japan.^[2] Quebec's French heritage sets the province apart from the most of Canada and the United States, as well as Mexico. The province has preserved its Francophone culture with a European feel.^[3]

Location of Quebec

Quebec is located in the northeast portion of North American and occupies an area of 1,667,926 km² (643,820 sq. mi.).^[4] It is the largest province in Canada with three times as much area as France. It borders on the United States to the south and Ontario to the west. Over 90% of its territory is made up of the Canadian Shield. Most of its population lives in the area surrounding the St. Lawrence River in what is commonly called the St. Lawrence Lowlands. The Appalachian Mountains occupy the southern portion of Quebec.

Culture and language

Language

Largely French in terms of language and culture, Quebec has preserved its Francophone heritage in the midst of a strong Anglophone culture. French is the mother tongue of 82% of Quebecers, and English is the mother tongue of 10% of the population. The remaining 8% is divided among some 30 languages such as, in order of importance, Italian, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese and Greek.^[5] Over 40% of the population is bilingual. In major cities like Montreal, this percentage is as high as 64%, and 16% of the population speaks a third language.^[5]

Culture

Quebecers enjoy dining and celebrating, which is clear from the many festivities that take place in Quebec. They also enjoy literature, the performing arts, painting, sculpture and fine crafts. Quebec talent has made its mark on the world, such as Cirque du Soleil, Céline Dion, and Jacques Villeneuve.

Tourist regions

Quebec is made up of 21 tourist regions:

Major cities

The two largest cities in Quebec are Montreal and Quebec City.

Four ways to discover Quebec

Quebec offers four different tourist experiences, each with a wide range of activities.

The City Experience

Montreal

The only Francophone metropolis in North America, Montreal is also the second largest Francophone city after Paris in terms of population.^[6] This major centre of 3.6 million inhabitants is a tapestry of cultures from the world over with its many neighbourhoods, including Chinatown, the Latin Quarter, the Gay Village, Little Italy, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, the Quartier International and Old Montreal.^[7] Montreal^[8] has a rich architectural heritage, along with cultural activities, sports events and festivals.

Quebec City

The capital, Quebec City, is the only fortified city in North America. The oldest Francophone city in North America, Quebec City was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985 and celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2008.

Resorts

Château Frontenac
Clarendon Hotel
Ice Hotel
Mont Tremblant Resort: Located in the Laurentides region, Mont-Tremblant Resort is a four-season resort offering activities for the whole family.

The St. Lawrence River

The St. Lawrence River is one of the largest rivers in the world and historically was the means of access to the centre of North America. Its 1,800 kilometres (1,120 mi.) are lined with coastal villages, bird and marine mammal sanctuaries, lighthouses and verdant and rocky shores. The river is one of the largest navigable waterways in the world, and its estuary is known for its marine mammals, birds and fish.

Upstream from Montreal to the tip of Gaspésie, a road borders the shores of the St. Lawrence River, allowing drivers to explore a coastline that changes from mountainous to rural to wilderness.^[9] Visitors can explore the rich Saguenay Fjord.

The 1,600-kilometre (994-mi.) St. Lawrence River^[10] transforms into a gulf that is more like an inland sea. The Gulf of St. Lawrence can be travelled by ferry, sailboat, kayak or cruise ship. Whale watching is popular in Quebec, particularly in Tadoussac.

There are also islands and archipelagos^[11] scattered along the river. The Île d'Anticosti and the Îles-de-la-Madeleine have legends from sailors and fishermen who continue to live there.

Adventures

For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure,^[12] Quebec’s wide open spaces allow outdoor sports, hunting and fishing:

Aboriginal peoples: Visitors can discover the traditional way of life of the first inhabitants of the territory, the Aboriginals.
Protected areas: Quebec has 27 protected national parks,
Rail trails
Ski areas and resorts

What to do

Sports and outdoors

Sports and outdoor activities in Quebec^[13] can be enjoyed summer and winter:

Hunting and fishing
Golf
Snowmobiling
Wildlife observation
National parks
Water sports
ATV riding
Hiking
Skiing
Dogsledding
Cycling

Sites and attractions

^[14]

Casinos: Quebec has three casinos: Montreal, Charlevoix and Lac-Leamy.^[15]

Cruises: Quebec offers cruises^[16] for whale watching, travelling the St. Lawrence River or touring the waterways.
Natural curiosities^[17]
Gardens: the Montreal Botanical Garden,^[18] the Insectarium,^[19] Reford Gardens^[20] and the international garden festival^[21] in Gaspésie are among Quebec’s garden attractions.
Museums: Quebec has over 400 museums.^[22]
Theme parks: La Ronde,^[23] the Old Port of Montreal^[24] and of Quebec City,^[25] the Village québécois d’Antan,^[26] Granby Zoo,^[27] etc.
Religious heritage: St. Joseph’s Oratory,^[28] the Basilique Notre-Dame-de-Québec,^[29] etc.
Historical sites: the fortifications of Quebec City,^[30] Old Montreal,^[31] etc.

Tourism routes

King’s Road - historical 18th-century road connects Quebec City and Montreal)^[32]
New France Route (connecting Quebec City and Cap-Tourmente) - 50 kilometre (30 mile) route^[33]
Whale Route (Manicouagan and Duplessis)^[34]
Navigators’ Route^[35]
Wine Route (Eastern Townships)^[36]
St. Lawrence Route (Charlevoix)^[37]
Border Route (Bas-Saint-Laurent, the borders of New Brunswick and Maine)^[38]
Agricultural tour (Southern Quebec)^[39]

The four seasons

There are four seasons in Quebec — spring, summer, fall and winter.

Summer (end of June to end of September): Summers in Quebec are hot, and the season offers festivals and outdoor activities.^[40]
Fall (end of September to end of December): The leaves change colour in Quebec, creating colourful landscapes.^[41]
Winter (end of December to end of March): Quebec’s snowfall makes skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snowmobiling and dogsledding possible.^[42]
Spring (end of March to end of June): Nature awakens and Quebec’s sugar shacks open their doors.^[43]

Festivals and events

^[44] Quebec’s events include sports, cultural events and festivals. For all Quebec events and festivals, click.^[45]

Cultural events

Montreal

Montreal International Jazz Festival: With over 500 concerts, 350 of them presented free outdoors, the Montreal International Jazz Festival features Canadian and international ambassadors of jazz (end of June to beginning of July).
Just For Laughs Festival: Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival is the largest comedy festival in the world and attracts over 2 million spectators each year (July).
Les FrancoFolies de Montréal: The largest Francophone music festival, the Francofolies de Montréal features over 1,000 artists, singing stars, musicians and emerging talent from some 20 countries around the world (end of July to beginning of August).
Les Concerts Loto-Québec de l'OSM dans les Parcs: These three concerts by the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) are presented in Montreal parks in a family atmosphere (June and July).
L'International des Feux Loto-Québec: The International des Feux Loto-Québec presented at La Ronde draws the largest pyrotechnics companies from around the world. Each show lasts 30 minutes, and the fireworks competition is the largest in the world (every Wednesday and Saturday evening from the end of June to the end of July).
International Flora/Le festival de jardins de Montréal: gardens on the festival site (end of June to beginning of September).
Festival international Nuits d'Afrique: The international-calibre Festival Nuits d'Afrique features music from Africa, the West Indies and the Caribbean, along with workshops, an African market and exotic cuisine (month of July).

Quebec City

Quebec City Summer Festival: For 40 years, the Quebec City Summer Festival has been presenting hundreds of artists from around the world on ten sites around the capital (beginning of July).
Loto-Québec International Fireworks Competition: an international musical fireworks competition takes place at the Montmorency Falls (end of July to beginning of August).
Plein Art Québec: Over 100 craftspeople gather at the Plein Art Québec festival to exhibit Quebec arts and craft creations in ceramics, textile and jewellery (beginning of August).
SAQ New France Festival: A celebration of the history of the first Europeans to arrive in North America, the New France Festival presents over 1,000 artistic events every year in a journey back to the past in the heart of Old Quebec (beginning of August).

Gatineau

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival: One of the most popular events in Eastern Canada, the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival features hot air balloons and shows (beginning of September).
Casino du Lac-Leamy Sound of Light: The Casino du Lac-Leamy Sound of Light is a competition that crowns the champion of the international circuit of musical fireworks competitions over water (end of July to beginning of August).

Sports events

Montreal

Rogers Cup: For tennis fans, the Rogers Cup is one of nine Association of Tennis Professionals tournaments on the Masters circuit (beginning of August).
Presidents Cup: A golf tournament, the Presidents Cup presents the best international players at The Royal Montreal Golf Club (end of September).
Grand Prix du Canada Festival on Crescent: The Canadian Grand Prix takes place on downtown Montreal’s Crescent Street (beginning of June).
Montreal Bike Fest: cycling activities take place during the Montreal Bike Fest including the Tour de l'île de Montréal [40], the largest gathering of cyclists in North America (end of May to beginning of June).

Cuisine

Quebec’s cuisine^[46] derives its rich flavour from a blend of influences. It has a French culinary base and is enriched by the contribution of the Amerindian peoples and the communities that have made the province their home. Terroir products that grace Quebec tables include ice cider, micro-brewed beer, wine and over 100 varieties of cheese.

Another feature of Quebec is the sugar shack,^[46] a family culinary tradition of eating maple products to the rhythms of Quebec folklore (beginning of spring, during March and April).

Others Quebec culinary specialities include: shepherd's pie, poutine, sugar pie, pouding chômeur (a sponge cake with a maple syrup sauce), maple syrup, baked beans, tourtière (a meat pie), cretons (a pork spread with onions and spices), etc.

Getting around

Getting to Quebec

Transportation^[47] to Quebec includes plane, bus, train and car. There are flights to Quebec from major cities in North America, Europe and Asia.^[48] Montreal is a 70-minute flight from New York and is less than 6 hours and 45 minutes by air from London or Paris. Provinces and states that border Quebec are served by rail and road networks. Other means of transportation such as boat and snowmobile can also be used by the more adventurous.

Getting around Quebec

Quebec has a road and air network for travel between cities, using car, bus, plane, train, bicycle on the Route Verte, or by ferry.

Lodging

Quebec has 5,800 establishments that hold official lodging certificates, from youth hostels to five-star hotels. Establishments are classified using a stars and sun system.^[49] Possibilities include:

Hotels
Bed and breakfasts
Tourist homes
Wilderness lodges
Resorts
Youth hostels
Educational institutions
Hospitality villages
Campgrounds
Outfitting operations

References

^ Bonjour Québec Medias: Quebec in a nutshell
^ Template:PDFlink
^ Bonjour Québec: Quebec Geography, history, photos, videos and screen savers
^ Institut de la statistique du Québec Comparaison entre la superficie du Québec et celle de divers pays
^ ^a ^b Les langues parlées à la maison au Québec
^ Bonjour Québec: Montreal
^ Montreal’s neighbourhoods: Latin Quarter, Chinatown, the Underground City, the “Gay Village,” Plateau Mont-Royal
^ [1]
^ The St. Lawrence: Discover it by roads, waterways and islands
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External links

Bonjour Québec - Official site, Ministère du Tourisme, Gouvernement du Québec Template:Fr icon Template:En icon Template:Es icon

[1] Bonjour Québec Medias: Quebec in a nutshell

[2] Template:PDFlink

[3] Bonjour Québec: Quebec Geography, history, photos, videos and screen savers

[4] Institut de la statistique du Québec Comparaison entre la superficie du Québec et celle de divers pays

[mef.qc.ca-5] Les langues parlées à la maison au Québec

[6] Bonjour Québec: Montreal

[7] Montreal’s neighbourhoods: Latin Quarter, Chinatown, the Underground City, the “Gay Village,” Plateau Mont-Royal

[8] [1]

[9] The St. Lawrence: Discover it by roads, waterways and islands

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[bonjourquebec.com-46] [37]

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[48] Getting to Quebec by plane, train, bus, car

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-{{Multiple issues|advert=March 2010|citation style=August 2010}}
+{{citation style|date=August 2010}}
-[[File:Montral-Tour KPMG.JPG|thumb|View of [[Tour KPMG]] from [[Saint Catherine Street]], [[Montreal]]]]
+[[File:Montral-Tour KPMG.JPG|thumb|[[Tour KPMG]] from [[Saint Catherine Street]], [[Montreal]]]]
 [[File:Le château Frontenac Vieux-Québec, ville de Québec, Québec.jpg|thumb|[[Château Frontenac]], [[Old Quebec|Vieux-Québec]] (Old Quebec), [[Quebec City]]]]
-'''Tourism''' is the fifth-largest industry in '''Quebec'''. In total, 29,000 companies are involved in the industry, generating 130,000 direct and 48,000 indirect''' jobs.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/medias/quebecbref/index.php?langue=en Bonjour Québec Medias: Quebec in a nutshell]</ref> In 2006, [[Quebec]] welcomed 3.2 million foreign tourists, most of them from the [[United States]], [[France]], the [[United Kingdom]], [[Germany]], [[Mexico]] and [[Japan]].<ref>{{PDFlink|[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/mto/publications/pdf/etudes/Tourisme_chiffres2006.pdf Quebec, Ministère du Tourisme, ''Le tourisme en chiffre 2006'']}}</ref>
+'''Tourism''' is the fifth-largest industry in '''Quebec'''. Some 29,000 companies are involved in the industry, generating 130,000 direct and 48,000 indirect jobs.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/medias/quebecbref/index.php?langue=en Bonjour Québec Medias: Quebec in a nutshell]</ref> In 2006, [[Quebec]] welcomed 3.2 million foreign tourists, most of them from the [[United States]], [[France]], the [[United Kingdom]], [[Germany]], [[Mexico]] and [[Japan]].<ref>{{PDFlink|[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/mto/publications/pdf/etudes/Tourisme_chiffres2006.pdf Quebec, Ministère du Tourisme, ''Le tourisme en chiffre 2006'']}}</ref>
-Quebec is unique among North American tourist destinations. Its French heritage sets the province apart from the most of Canada and the United States, as well as all of Mexico.  The province is one of the only areas in [[North America]] to have preserved its [[Francophone]] culture. Its European feel and its history, culture and warmth have made Quebec a favourite tourist destination both nationally and internationally.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/lequebec0.html Bonjour Québec: Quebec Geography, history, photos, videos and screen savers]</ref>
+Quebec's French heritage sets the province apart from the most of Canada and the United States, as well as Mexico.  The province has preserved its [[Francophone]] culture with a European feel.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/lequebec0.html Bonjour Québec: Quebec Geography, history, photos, videos and screen savers]</ref>
-==Geographic location of Quebec==
+==Location of Quebec==
 {{Main|Geography of Quebec}}
-[[Image:QC-Canada-province.png|thumb|Geographic location of Quebec]]
+[[Image:QC-Canada-province.png|thumb|Location of Quebec]]
-Quebec is located in the northeast portion of North American and occupies an area of 1,667,926&nbsp;km² (643,820 sq. mi.).<ref>[http://www.stat.gouv.qc.ca/jeunesse/territoire/compa_superf_pays.html Institut de la statistique du Québec Comparaison entre la superficie du Québec et celle de divers pays]</ref> It is the largest [[Provinces and territories of Canada|province in Canada]] with three times as much area as [[France]]. It borders on the [[United States]] to the south and [[Ontario]] to the west. Over 90% of its territory is made up of the [[Canadian Shield]], which is why most of its population lives in the area surrounding the [[Saint Lawrence River|St. Lawrence River]] in what is commonly called the [[Saint Lawrence Lowlands|St. Lawrence Lowlands]]. The [[Appalachian Mountains]] occupy the southern portion of Quebec.
+Quebec is located in the northeast portion of North American and occupies an area of 1,667,926&nbsp;km² (643,820 sq. mi.).<ref>[http://www.stat.gouv.qc.ca/jeunesse/territoire/compa_superf_pays.html Institut de la statistique du Québec Comparaison entre la superficie du Québec et celle de divers pays]</ref> It is the largest [[Provinces and territories of Canada|province in Canada]] with three times as much area as [[France]]. It borders on the [[United States]] to the south and [[Ontario]] to the west. Over 90% of its territory is made up of the [[Canadian Shield]]. Most of its population lives in the area surrounding the [[Saint Lawrence River|St. Lawrence River]] in what is commonly called the [[Saint Lawrence Lowlands|St. Lawrence Lowlands]]. The [[Appalachian Mountains]] occupy the southern portion of Quebec.
 ==Culture and language==
 {{Main|Culture of Quebec}}
 ===Language===
-Quebec has a unique and distinct culture in North America. Largely French in terms of language and culture, Quebec has managed to preserve its [[Francophone]] heritage in the midst of a strong Anglophone culture. French is the mother tongue of 82% of Quebecers, and English is the mother tongue of 10% of the population. The remaining 8% is divided among some 30 languages such as, in order of importance, [[Italian language|Italian]], [[Spanish language|Spanish]], [[Arabic language|Arabic]], [[Chinese language|Chinese]] and [[Greek language|Greek]].<ref name="mef.qc.ca">[http://www.mef.qc.ca/langues%20parlees%20au%20Quebec.htm Les langues parlées à la maison au Québec]</ref> However, it is very easy to travel in Quebec speaking only English. In fact, over 40% of the population is bilingual. In major cities like Montreal, this percentage is as high as 64%, and 16% of the population speaks a third language.<ref name="mef.qc.ca"/>
+Largely French in terms of language and culture, Quebec has preserved its [[Francophone]] heritage in the midst of a strong Anglophone culture. French is the mother tongue of 82% of Quebecers, and English is the mother tongue of 10% of the population. The remaining 8% is divided among some 30 languages such as, in order of importance, [[Italian language|Italian]], [[Spanish language|Spanish]], [[Arabic language|Arabic]], [[Chinese language|Chinese]] and [[Greek language|Greek]].<ref name="mef.qc.ca">[http://www.mef.qc.ca/langues%20parlees%20au%20Quebec.htm Les langues parlées à la maison au Québec]</ref> Over 40% of the population is bilingual. In major cities like Montreal, this percentage is as high as 64%, and 16% of the population speaks a third language.<ref name="mef.qc.ca"/>
 ===Culture===
-A complex mix of European and North American origins, Quebec has forged a unique and original culture and personality. Quebecers enjoy dining and celebrating, which is clear from the many festivities that take place in Quebec. In terms of culture, Quebec is brimming with creativity in literature, the performing arts, painting, sculpture and fine crafts. There are also many companies and Quebec talent that have made their mark on the world, such as [[Cirque du Soleil]], [[Celine Dion|Céline Dion]], [[Jacques Villeneuve]] and others.
+Quebecers enjoy dining and celebrating, which is clear from the many festivities that take place in Quebec. They also enjoy literature, the performing arts, painting, sculpture and fine crafts. Quebec talent has made its mark on the world, such as [[Cirque du Soleil]], [[Celine Dion|Céline Dion]], and [[Jacques Villeneuve]].
 ==Tourist regions==
@@ Line 23: / Line 22: @@
 [[Image:Coucher de soleil Gaspésie Québec.jpg|thumb|Sunset in [[Gaspé Peninsula|Gaspésie]]]]
-Quebec is made up of 21 separate tourist regions:
+Quebec is made up of 21 tourist regions:
 *[[Abitibi-Témiscamingue]]
 *[[Baie-James, Quebec|Baie-James]] (James Bay)
@@ Line 55: / Line 53: @@
 ===The City Experience===
-[[Montreal]] and [[Quebec City]] are an integral part of <ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/villes0.html City Experience.]</ref> Combining a European feel with the modernity of North America, Quebec’s major cities charm visitors with their vibrancy, energy and warmth. The cultural life of these cities is well developed with many festivals, shows and museums, and they also offer high-quality hotels and restaurants.
 ====Montreal====
-The only Francophone metropolis in North America, [[Montreal]] is also the second largest Francophone city after Paris in terms of population.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/villesmontreal0.html Bonjour Québec: Montreal]</ref> This major centre of 3.6 million inhabitants is a tapestry of cultures from the world over with its many neighbourhoods, including [[Chinatown, Montreal|Chinatown]], the [[Quartier Latin, Montreal|Latin Quarter]], the [[Gay Village, Montreal|Gay Village]], [[Little Italy, Montreal|Little Italy]], [[Le Plateau-Mont-Royal]], the [[Quartier international de Montréal|Quartier International]] and [[Old Montreal]], just to name a few.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/quartiersmtl0.html Montreal’s neighbourhoods: Latin Quarter, Chinatown, the Underground City, the “Gay Village,” Plateau Mont-Royal<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>  Montreal<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/villesmontreal0.html]</ref> has a rich architectural heritage, along with many cultural activities, sports events and festivals.
+The only Francophone metropolis in North America, [[Montreal]] is also the second largest Francophone city after Paris in terms of population.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/villesmontreal0.html Bonjour Québec: Montreal]</ref> This major centre of 3.6 million inhabitants is a tapestry of cultures from the world over with its many neighbourhoods, including [[Chinatown, Montreal|Chinatown]], the [[Quartier Latin, Montreal|Latin Quarter]], the [[Gay Village, Montreal|Gay Village]], [[Little Italy, Montreal|Little Italy]], [[Le Plateau-Mont-Royal]], the [[Quartier international de Montréal|Quartier International]] and [[Old Montreal]].<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/quartiersmtl0.html Montreal’s neighbourhoods: Latin Quarter, Chinatown, the Underground City, the “Gay Village,” Plateau Mont-Royal<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>  Montreal<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/villesmontreal0.html]</ref> has a rich architectural heritage, along with cultural activities, sports events and festivals.
 ====Quebec City====
-Each of the major cities offers a new facet of Quebec to discover. The capital, [[Quebec City]], is the only fortified city in North America and has its own European cachet. The oldest Francophone city in [[North America]], Quebec City was named a [[World Heritage Site]] by [[UNESCO]] in 1985 and has just celebrated its [[History of Quebec City|400th anniversary]] in 2008.
+The capital, [[Quebec City]], is the only fortified city in North America. The oldest Francophone city in [[North America]], Quebec City was named a [[World Heritage Site]] by [[UNESCO]] in 1985 and celebrated its [[History of Quebec City|400th anniversary]] in 2008.
 ===Resorts===
 [[Image:Terrasse à La Malbaie Charlevoix Québec.jpg|thumb|Terrace in la Malbaie, Charlevoix, Quebec]]
-There are many different resort activities in Quebec. Resort accommodations can be found in the city, countryside or deep in the forest.
 * [[Château Frontenac]]
 * [[Clarendon Hotel]]
@@ Line 73: / Line 68: @@
 ===The St. Lawrence River===
 [[Image:Queue de baleine Manicouagan Québec.jpg|thumb|A whale’s tail in the St. Lawrence River, Quebec]]
-The St. Lawrence River is one of the largest rivers in the world and historically was the means of access to the centre of North America. Its 1,800 kilometres (1,120&nbsp;mi.) are lined with old coastal villages, bird and marine mammal sanctuaries, lighthouses and verdant and rocky shores. The river is one of the largest navigable waterways in the world, and its estuary is known for its wide variety of marine mammals, birds and fish that live there year-round.
+The St. Lawrence River is one of the largest rivers in the world and historically was the means of access to the centre of North America. Its 1,800 kilometres (1,120&nbsp;mi.) are lined with coastal villages, bird and marine mammal sanctuaries, lighthouses and verdant and rocky shores. The river is one of the largest navigable waterways in the world, and its estuary is known for its marine mammals, birds and fish.
-Upstream from Montreal to the tip of Gaspésie, a road borders the shores of the St. Lawrence River, allowing drivers to explore a coastline that changes from mountainous to rural to wilderness.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/stlaurent0.html The St. Lawrence: Discover it by roads, waterways and islands<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> At one point, visitors can explore the rich Saguenay Fjord.
+Upstream from Montreal to the tip of Gaspésie, a road borders the shores of the St. Lawrence River, allowing drivers to explore a coastline that changes from mountainous to rural to wilderness.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/stlaurent0.html The St. Lawrence: Discover it by roads, waterways and islands<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Visitors can explore the rich Saguenay Fjord.
-The 1,600-kilometre (994-mi.) St. Lawrence River<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/stlaurent0.html]</ref> transforms into a gulf that is more like an inland sea. The [[Gulf of Saint Lawrence|Gulf of St. Lawrence]] can be travelled by ferry, sailboat, kayak or cruise ship. [[Whale watching]] is very popular in Quebec, particularly in [[Tadoussac, Quebec|Tadoussac]].
+The 1,600-kilometre (994-mi.) St. Lawrence River<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/stlaurent0.html]</ref> transforms into a gulf that is more like an inland sea. The [[Gulf of Saint Lawrence|Gulf of St. Lawrence]] can be travelled by ferry, sailboat, kayak or cruise ship. [[Whale watching]] is popular in Quebec, particularly in [[Tadoussac, Quebec|Tadoussac]].
-There are also many islands and archipelagos<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/stlaurentiles0.html]</ref> with rich flora and fauna scattered along the river. The [[Anticosti Island|Île d'Anticosti]] and the [[Îles-de-la-Madeleine (provincial electoral district)|Îles-de-la-Madeleine]] have fascinating legends from sailors and fishermen who continue to live there.
+There are also islands and archipelagos<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/stlaurentiles0.html]</ref> scattered along the river. The [[Anticosti Island|Île d'Anticosti]] and the [[Îles-de-la-Madeleine (provincial electoral district)|Îles-de-la-Madeleine]] have legends from sailors and fishermen who continue to live there.
 ===Adventures===
 [[Image:Tipi d'écorce Baie-James Québec.jpg|thumb|Aboriginal tourism, Baie-James, Quebec]]
-For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure,<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/grandenature0.html,]</ref> Quebec’s wide open spaces have a great deal to offer. There are many outdoor sports, hunting and fishing activities visitors can enjoy:
+For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure,<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/grandenature0.html,]</ref> Quebec’s wide open spaces allow outdoor sports, hunting and fishing:
 * [[Aboriginal peoples in Quebec|Aboriginal peoples]]: Visitors can discover the traditional way of life of the first inhabitants of the territory, the Aboriginals.
-* [[List of protected areas of Quebec|Protected areas]]: Quebec has 27 protected national parks for exploring nature and enjoying the outdoors.
+* [[List of protected areas of Quebec|Protected areas]]: Quebec has 27 protected national parks,
 * [[List of rail trails in Canada#Quebec|Rail trails]]
 * [[List of ski areas and resorts in Canada#Quebec|Ski areas and resorts]]
 ==What to do==
-Quebec offers many activities including sports and outdoor recreation, cultural and natural sites, festivals and events.
 ===Sports and outdoors===
 [[Image:Coucher de soleil Îles-de-la-Madeleine Québec.jpg|thumb|Cyclotourism in Quebec]]
-There are many sports and outdoor activities in Quebec<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/sports0.html]</ref> that can be enjoyed summer and/or winter:
+Sports and outdoor activities in Quebec<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/sports0.html]</ref> can be enjoyed summer and winter:
 * Hunting and fishing
 * Golf
@@ Line 110: / Line 101: @@
 ===Sites and attractions===
-Quebec has a number of sites and attractions.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/attraits0.html]</ref>
+<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/attraits0.html]</ref>
 * Casinos: Quebec has three casinos: [[Casino de Montréal|Montreal]], [[Casino de Charlevoix|Charlevoix]] and [[Casino du Lac-Leamy|Lac-Leamy]].<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/casinos0.html]</ref>
 [[Image:Jardin de Métis Gaspésie Québec.jpg|thumb|Reford Gardens in Gaspésie, Quebec]]
-* Cruises: Quebec offers a variety of cruises<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/croisieres0.html]</ref> whether for whale watching, travelling the St. Lawrence River or touring the waterways.
+* Cruises: Quebec offers cruises<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/croisieres0.html]</ref> for whale watching, travelling the St. Lawrence River or touring the waterways.
-* Natural curiosities: the province is home to many natural wonders<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/curiosites0.html]</ref>
+* Natural curiosities<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/curiosites0.html]</ref>
 * Gardens: the Montreal Botanical Garden,<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/qc-fr/fiches/en/attraits/1567679.html]</ref> the Insectarium,<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/qc-fr/fiches/en/attraits/10726745.html]</ref> Reford Gardens<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/qc-fr/fiches/en/attraits/1568368.html]</ref> and the international garden festival<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/qc-fr/fiches/en/evenements/1412473.html]</ref> in Gaspésie are among Quebec’s garden attractions.
 * Museums: Quebec has over 400 museums.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/musees0.html]</ref>
@@ Line 124: / Line 115: @@
 [[Image:Ski de fond et chalet Parc national du Mont Tremblant, Laurentides Québec.jpg|thumb|Cross-country skiing in Gaspésie, [[Mont-Tremblant National Park|Parc national du Mont-Tremblant]], Laurentians, Quebec]]
-* King’s Road (this historical 18th-century road connects Quebec City and Montreal)<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/cheminroy0.html]</ref>
+* King’s Road - historical 18th-century road connects Quebec City and Montreal)<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/cheminroy0.html]</ref>
-* New France Route (connecting Quebec City and Cap-Tourmente, this 50-kilometre (30-mi.) route is a trip through time) <ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/routenouvellefrance0.html]</ref>
+* New France Route (connecting Quebec City and Cap-Tourmente) - 50 kilometre (30 mile) route<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/routenouvellefrance0.html]</ref>
 * Whale Route (Manicouagan and Duplessis)<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/routebaleines0.html]</ref>
 * Navigators’ Route<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/routenavigateurs0.html]</ref>
@@ Line 134: / Line 125: @@
 ===The four seasons===
-There are four distinct seasons in Quebec—spring, summer, fall and winter—offering a changing landscape and variety of activities.
+There are four seasons in Quebec — spring, summer, fall and winter.
+* Summer (end of June to end of September): Summers in Quebec are hot, and the season offers festivals and outdoor activities.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/ete0.html]</ref>
-* Summer (end of June to end of September): Summers in Quebec are hot, and the season offers many festivals and outdoor activities.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/ete0.html]</ref>
+* Fall (end of September to end of December): The leaves change colour in Quebec, creating colourful landscapes.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/automne0.html]</ref>
-* Fall (end of September to end of December): The leaves change colour in Quebec, creating breathtakingly colourful landscapes.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/automne0.html]</ref>
 * Winter (end of December to end of March): Quebec’s snowfall makes skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snowmobiling and dogsledding possible.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/hiver0.html]</ref>
 * Spring (end of March to end of June): Nature awakens and Quebec’s sugar shacks open their doors.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/printemps0.html]</ref>
 ===Festivals and events===
-Quebecers are known for their festive spirit and taste for celebration. citation necessary This explains the close to 400 festivals held each year in Quebec.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/festivals0.html]</ref> Quebec’s events are varied, from sports to cultural events and festivals, and attract visitors from around the world.
+<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/festivals0.html]</ref> Quebec’s events include sports, cultural events and festivals.
 For all Quebec events and festivals, click.<ref>[http://www.evenementsquebec.qc.ca/accueil.aspx here]</ref>
@@ Line 150: / Line 140: @@
 '''''Montreal'''''
 {{See also|Festivals and parades in Montreal}}
-* [[Montreal International Jazz Festival]]: With over 500 concerts, 350 of them presented free outdoors, the Montreal International Jazz Festival features the top Canadian and international ambassadors of jazz (end of June to beginning of July).
+* [[Montreal International Jazz Festival]]: With over 500 concerts, 350 of them presented free outdoors, the Montreal International Jazz Festival features Canadian and international ambassadors of jazz (end of June to beginning of July).
 * [[Just For Laughs]] Festival: Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival is the largest comedy festival in the world and attracts over 2 million spectators each year (July).
 * [[Les FrancoFolies de Montréal]]: The largest Francophone music festival, the Francofolies de Montréal features over 1,000 artists, singing stars, musicians and emerging talent from some 20 countries around the world (end of July to beginning of August).
 *  Les Concerts Loto-Québec de l'OSM dans les Parcs: These three concerts by the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) are presented in Montreal parks in a family atmosphere (June and July).
-* [[L'International des Feux Loto-Québec]]: The International des Feux Loto-Québec presented at La Ronde draws the largest pyrotechnics companies from around the world. Each show lasts 30 minutes, and the fireworks competition is the most prestigious and largest in the world (every Wednesday and Saturday evening from the end of June to the end of July).
+* [[L'International des Feux Loto-Québec]]: The International des Feux Loto-Québec presented at La Ronde draws the largest pyrotechnics companies from around the world. Each show lasts 30 minutes, and the fireworks competition is the largest in the world (every Wednesday and Saturday evening from the end of June to the end of July).
-*International Flora/Le festival de jardins de Montréal: The International Flora lets you visit the loveliest gardens on the festival site itself (end of June to beginning of September).
+*International Flora/Le festival de jardins de Montréal: gardens on the festival site (end of June to beginning of September).
 * Festival international Nuits d'Afrique: The international-calibre Festival Nuits d'Afrique features music from Africa, the West Indies and the Caribbean, along with workshops, an African market and exotic cuisine (month of July).
 '''''Quebec City'''''
 {{mainlist|List of events in Quebec City}}
-* [[Quebec City Summer Festival]]: For 40 years, the Quebec City Summer Festival has been presenting hundreds of artists from around the world on ten sites around the capital, all easily accessible on foot (beginning of July).
+* [[Quebec City Summer Festival]]: For 40 years, the Quebec City Summer Festival has been presenting hundreds of artists from around the world on ten sites around the capital (beginning of July).
-* Loto-Québec International Fireworks Competition: This international musical fireworks competition takes place at the Montmorency Falls (end of July to beginning of August).
+* Loto-Québec International Fireworks Competition: an international musical fireworks competition takes place at the Montmorency Falls (end of July to beginning of August).
 * Plein Art Québec: Over 100 craftspeople gather at the Plein Art Québec festival to exhibit Quebec arts and craft creations in ceramics, textile and jewellery (beginning of August).
 * SAQ New France Festival: A celebration of the history of the first Europeans to arrive in North America, the New France Festival presents over 1,000 artistic events every year in a journey back to the past in the heart of Old Quebec (beginning of August).
@@ Line 172: / Line 162: @@
 '''''Montreal'''''
 * [[Rogers Cup (tennis)|Rogers Cup]]: For tennis fans, the Rogers Cup is one of nine Association of Tennis Professionals tournaments on the Masters circuit (beginning of August).
-* [[Presidents Cup]]: A prestigious golf tournament, the Presidents Cup presents the best international players at The Royal Montreal Golf Club (end of September).
+* [[Presidents Cup]]: A golf tournament, the Presidents Cup presents the best international players at The Royal Montreal Golf Club (end of September).
-* Grand Prix du Canada Festival on Crescent: The [[Canadian Grand Prix|largest F1 celebration in the world]] takes place on downtown Montreal’s Crescent Street (beginning of June).
+* Grand Prix du Canada Festival on Crescent: The [[Canadian Grand Prix]] takes place on downtown Montreal’s Crescent Street (beginning of June).
-* Montreal Bike Fest: A number of cycling activities take place during the Montreal Bike Fest including the Tour de l'île de Montréal [http://www.velo.qc.ca/feria/index.lasso?page=tdi], the largest gathering of cyclists in North America (end of May to beginning of June).
+* Montreal Bike Fest: cycling activities take place during the Montreal Bike Fest including the Tour de l'île de Montréal [http://www.velo.qc.ca/feria/index.lasso?page=tdi], the largest gathering of cyclists in North America (end of May to beginning of June).
 ==Cuisine==
 [[Image:Gastronomie de Montréal, Québec.jpg|thumb|Quebec cuisine]]
-Quebec’s cuisine<ref name="bonjourquebec.com">[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/plaisirsgourmands0.html]</ref> derives its rich flavour from a blend of influences. It has a solid French culinary base and is enriched by the contribution of the Amerindian peoples and the different cultural communities that have made the province their home. This blend of culinary cultures is what makes Quebec cuisine what it is today. Many quality regional products are also used in its cuisine. Terroir products that grace Quebec tables include [[ice cider]], [[Microbrewery|micro-brewed beer]], wine and over 100 different varieties of cheese.
+Quebec’s cuisine<ref name="bonjourquebec.com">[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/plaisirsgourmands0.html]</ref> derives its rich flavour from a blend of influences. It has a French culinary base and is enriched by the contribution of the Amerindian peoples and the communities that have made the province their home. Terroir products that grace Quebec tables include [[ice cider]], [[Microbrewery|micro-brewed beer]], wine and over 100 varieties of cheese.
-Another unique feature of Quebec is the [[Sugar house|sugar shack]],<ref name="bonjourquebec.com"/> a family culinary tradition of eating maple products to the rhythms of Quebec folklore. You can go as a group at the beginning of spring, during March and April.
+Another feature of Quebec is the [[Sugar house|sugar shack]],<ref name="bonjourquebec.com"/> a family culinary tradition of eating maple products to the rhythms of Quebec folklore (beginning of spring, during March and April).
 Others Quebec culinary specialities include: [[Cottage pie|shepherd's pie]], [[poutine]], [[sugar pie]], [[pouding chômeur]] (a sponge cake with a maple syrup sauce), [[maple syrup]], [[baked beans]], [[tourtière]] (a meat pie), [[cretons]] (a pork spread with onions and spices), etc.
 ==Getting around==
 ===Getting to Quebec===
-Several means of transportation<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/serendreauquebec0.html]</ref> can be used to get to Quebec, including plane, bus, train and car. There are flights to Quebec from major cities in North America, Europe and Asia.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/serendreauquebec0.html Getting to Quebec by plane, train, bus, car<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Montreal is a 70-minute flight from New York and is less than 6 hours and 45 minutes by air from London or Paris. Provinces and states that border Quebec are served by easily accessible rail and road networks. Other means of transportation such as boat and [[snowmobile]] can also be used by the more adventurous.
+Transportation<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/serendreauquebec0.html]</ref> to Quebec includes plane, bus, train and car. There are flights to Quebec from major cities in North America, Europe and Asia.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/serendreauquebec0.html Getting to Quebec by plane, train, bus, car<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Montreal is a 70-minute flight from New York and is less than 6 hours and 45 minutes by air from London or Paris. Provinces and states that border Quebec are served by rail and road networks. Other means of transportation such as boat and [[snowmobile]] can also be used by the more adventurous.
 ===Getting around Quebec===
-Quebec has a vast road and air network that makes it easy to travel between cities. You can travel by car, bus, plane, train, bicycle on the [[Route Verte]], or by [[List of crossings of the Saint Lawrence River|ferry]].
+Quebec has a road and air network for travel between cities, using car, bus, plane, train, bicycle on the [[Route Verte]], or by [[List of crossings of the Saint Lawrence River|ferry]].
 ==Lodging==
 [[Image:Auberge du Trésor in Quebec city.jpg|thumb|Auberge du Trésor in [[Quebec City]]]]
-With over 5,800 establishments that hold official lodging certificates, Quebec offers choices for any budget for those seeking accommodations for the night, from youth hostels to five-star hotels. Establishments are classified using a stars and sun system to help visitors choose their accommodations.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/hebergement0.html]</ref> Possibilities include:
+Quebec has 5,800 establishments that hold official lodging certificates, from youth hostels to five-star hotels. Establishments are classified using a stars and sun system.<ref>[http://www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/hebergement0.html]</ref> Possibilities include:
 * Hotels
 * Bed and breakfasts

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