With a full tank of gas we hit Highway 104 at 8:00 AM. Our first stop was at Cabela’s in Moncton in search of some heavy duty winter gear. Funny… Dude from Brojects was there shopping! Environment Canada posted an Extreme Cold warning for New Brunswick and Quebec so we needed long johns, ski masks and some footwear. We hit the jackpot in the clearance area saving 50% on boots for Peter and I that will work great with snowshoes. Then back onto what were clear highway and roads until we ran into blowing snow on either side of Riviere-du-Loup. We pushed into a strong wind all the way… Mileage is definitely down on this excursion!
After a brief delay (traffic accident outside Quebec City) we headed directly for our accommodations at the Hilton Quebec. Quick and easy check-in and parking next door so not too far in regards to access. It was definitely cold work outside as arriving guests were being let out of vehicles and making a break for the door (where others peeked out with trepidation). We stopped, quickly dropped off luggage, and sorted out which warm clothes to put on. Then it was out the door on foot in search of food!
We had lunch at a little restaurant we’d seen online located close by, a Middle Eastern diner named Saveur du Monde. We had fun with the menu, sampling yummies like shawarma, couscous, baklava, and Moroccan Tea. It was quiet and the change of pace was welcome. The waiter quickly caught my attention… He switched skillfully through French, English and Arabic languages, in the three different customers that arrived during the time we ordered, with ease and we loved the way he was so proud of the business… Very interesting supper!
At about 8:00 PM, shortly after our return, the girls headed for the pool. Pretty wild… It’s an indoor / outdoor affair that’s heated. Looked like going swimming in Canso Harbour late January, with the vapour lifting off the water. I tried to get a decent picture, but between the frost and freezing temperatures it seemed impossible. Then the big crash, after the girls returned, with all hands getting some sleep in preparation for a big day in Quebec City on Thursday!