We ate dinner tonight in a wonderful Italian restaurant a short walk from our hotel. It was packed with a familiar mix of tourists and business people enjoying a night out on the company’s dime. It felt like 2019. At least after we sat down and took off our face masks. Of course, before we were even shown to our seats we had to show proof of vaccination and our ID. Everywhere around us we see a disorienting mix of the familiar and the utterly strange these days. Imagine, if you will, walking into a bank two years ago wearing a mask. Now imagine the reaction if you walked into a bank today without one. On the streets masks are relatively rare, though you are not surprised when you do see one. It almost feels like being in Asia five years ago. You’d almost think that they had experience with pandemics. Oh wait…

A few random photos from our day in Quebec city (a destination that I recommend without reservation).

We had not anticipated just how non-flat Quebec city was. Our legs are paying the price, so we opted for the funicular when we visited the Plains of Abraham today. The wonderful views were included in the very reasonable price.

Another photo of the Chateau Frontenac – one of the most photographed hotels in the world. Of course, that is what they would say. But based on this blog, they are probably right.

I mentioned the “Quebec German Christmas Market” yesterday. Here is proof. It opens tomorrow, so expect more pictures…

Another world heritage sight added to our list. Only another 1100 and so to go.