Is the red parka pub a gay bar

While I have already told you about the different attractions and things to do in this charming old town, Quebec City Couchsurfing was an experience in itself. For 4 days, I stayed in a neighborhood north of Rue Saint-Jean and Avenue Turnbull up the hill and it was the perfect solo trip.

It was a gray, chilly, rainy summer day. FOUND it! Not only that, but as soon as the door opened, warmth overtook me. The welcome included plenty of Spanish discourse, hot apple cider tea, and Polish beet soup. Suddenly, everything was all right. Everything was perfect. Which meant only one thing: whether I wanted to or not, I had to go out and explore the city on my own.

Here, take my waterproof parka, sneakers, and scarf.

MY UNUSUAL LIFE IN BOOZE

AND I got to explore a new city and have the rest of the day all to myself. My crazy layers! The multiple cultures I encountered within the first five minutes shocked me. From an Eastern European international grocer to a French bakery and authentic Arab restaurants — it was a quaint version of a small New York City neighborhood.

With much more character! And beautiful architecture…. Terrasse Dufferin, the beautiful boardwalk with gorgeous views of the sound Lawrence River and nearby towns. No corkage fee and an incredibly sumptuous Tunisian dinner in an unreal environment — plus an unexpected price!

Dinner would be even richer: traditional French-Canadian fare at the historical, fancy Aux Anciens Canadiens restaurant. Better yet, go between noon and PM in order to get an incredible three-course lunch or early dinner including a glass of wine or beer! I know many solo travelers overlook Couchsurfing because they feel they have to give up most of their independence during their trip.

And so my Quebec City Couchsurfing experience was a perfect mix of self-guided walking tours, multicultural chatter, and exotic dinners shared only occasionally with someone just as passionate about languages and travel as I am. I fell so deeply in love with its walled old town and basse-ville when I visited last June.

Just, the vibe … unbelievably romantic, captivating, beautiful. So glad I got to cross this lovely town off my travel bucket list on my first trip to Canada! My first Quebec City travel tip? Go online and print a map of the city. Because I did my best to arrange the recommendations and landmarks on this photo essay in a way that allows you to create your own walking tours!