Quebec in October

I don't know anything about Quebec City. I do know Montreal.

If you're looking for a "sexy party" go to the W or my favorite budget hotel, the Omni Mont-Royal. It's basically an old Four Seasons which sold out. It costs just under 200 bucks a night if you don't get discounts online. I have paid as little as 140/night with the 4th night free.

If you are looking for some fine steaks, there are two options. Time Supper Club (get there around 8PM so you've got the attention of the staff, but early enough that they don't push bottle service on you) and also St. Huberts. St. Huberts is the Francophone version of Denny's, (although there are Denny's there) but they have pretty darn fine steaks, roast chicken and BBQ ribs. Imagine a Denny's with six things on the menu, each costing 20 bucks and a massive dessert menu. Time will cost twice that, but you're also paying for the shows (the girls wear short and tight).

For daytime attractions, there are three that come to mind. One, the Biodome which is basically an indoor zoo. You'll see things like caymans and all manner of tropical creatures living in harmony in a single biome. There are 4 or 5 biomes, depending if you count the fish or penguins as a biome. In addition, right across the road is the Dejardins Botanique, or Botanical Gardens. The staff at both speak fluent English and both have a gift shop to pick something up for the kids. Finally, there is "Vieux Montreal" or Old Montreal. Forgive my spellings, but I stopped taking French the day I was kicked out of prep school. Old Montreal is basically a collection of buildings situated by the old port. If you have a lot of cash, take a horsedrawn carriage. If not, visit the various restos and stands, and take a lot of pictures. I was able to pick up a nice quality hoodie for my niece and one for my nephew for under 40 bucks (both). Yes, they're probably made in North Korea by political prisoners, but I don't worry about that for clothing too much.

In addition, depending on how flush you are, there is a very nice casino. I traditionally have lunch there when I go to visit friends and we enjoy the all you can eat for 16 bucks.

Just some thoughts. Feel free to reply with questions. I live in Alberta but have been to Montreal over 4 times in the past three years and am also writing a book on my experiences.

Tom

We just got back from a QC, Montreal, VT trip. The city is fairly small, w/ the quaint/touristy area in the old city by the water - high or low (haut / basse?) both have aspects to recommend them. The famous hotel is the Chateau Frontenac which dominates the old city. Lots of smaller places as well. The citadel is worth a visit (oldest/largest manned fortification in North America). Some good restaurants - the cathedrals (high & low) are both worth a look. Lots of history if you're into that kind of thing. English is not a problem, but + if you speak French. We were traveling w/ 8 yr. olds, so itinerary was a little skewed. Ate good seafood, kids liked crepes, cider was refreshing. Nordiques gear readily available. Very nice manageable city.