Entry 1: A Whirlwind Week in Montreal and Quebec City

Welcome to the first post of my new travel blog series, Mike on the Move: Discovering the World, One Mile at a Time. I’m kicking off my journey in the lively cities of Montreal and Quebec City, where history and modern life come together in an amazing mix of culture, architecture, and unforgettable experiences. I've been using Main Street Travel in Front Royal, Virginia for years, and they’ve never let me down. Their expertise has always guided me to the best spots, and this trip is no exception.

A Wonderful Stay at Chez Swan Hotel

My trip started in Montreal, where I checked into the Chez Swan Hotel. It’s this cool mix of old and new, designed by someone named Mary Moegenburg. Right when I walked in, the place felt lively and full of energy. The design is bright, rich, and a bit quirky—perfect for someone like me who likes a little privacy while being right in the middle of everything.

What really stood out to me was the attention to detail. Each room is decked out with furniture and decorations made by local artists, so every room has its own vibe. Plus, they have free Wi-Fi, unlimited calls to Canada and the U.S., and a 40-inch HD screen loaded with free movies. It was the perfect mix of comfort and creativity.

Sightseeing in Style: The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

On the second day, I decided to check out Montreal on one of those double-decker buses—the hop-on hop-off tour. It was super convenient because I could explore the city at my own pace with stops all over the place.

I really liked having the freedom to explore. I ended up wandering through some of the quieter streets until I reached Dorchester Park. It’s got this cool Victorian-style fountain, and a couple of arched metal and wood footbridges, with old churches and impressive buildings all around. It was a great spot to relax before heading back to the hotel.

A Taste of France in Montreal

No trip to Montreal would be complete without diving into its amazing food scene. I had dinner at Le Pois Penche, a French restaurant connected to the Chez Swan Hotel, and it was fantastic. The steak was spot on, perfectly cooked, and full of classic French flavors. The cozy vibe of the restaurant, along with the great service, made it a night to remember

Exploring the Historic Charm of Old Quebec City

On the third day, I headed to Quebec City and joined a guided tour of the historic Upper and Lower Town areas. With a knowledgeable guide leading us, we visited some of the city’s top spots, like the Fortifications of Québec, the Citadelle, and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church. It was like taking a trip back in time, from when the city was founded in 1608 to now, as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The guide made the tour both fun and educational, and I ended up learning a lot about Quebec City’s rich history, which gave me a new appreciation for the place.

A Scenic Escape to the Laurentian Mountains

On my last day in Montreal and Quebec City, I explored the stunning Laurentian Mountains, stopping at a few charming villages along the way. I visited St. Sauveur, Saint Adolphe d'Howard, where I checked out this really cool little blue church called St. Adolphe d’Howard Church, built back in 1914. The church is all wood, with a rectangular shape, white walls, and a tin roof as blue as the sky. The bell tower sits above the front, with arches, a spire, a cross, and even a rooster on top.



I also stopped by St. Agathe-des-Monts and visited the beautiful Vallée Bleue - Family Resort ski lodge. The scenery was incredible, and the locals were super friendly, making it a great way to wrap up my trip.

The Verdict: A Little Expensive, But Worth Every Penny

As my whirlwind trip came to an end, I couldn’t help but think back on all the amazing experiences I had in Montreal and Quebec City. Sure, the trip was a bit expensive, but honestly, it was worth every penny. From the artsy vibe of the Chez Swan Hotel to the rich history in Quebec City and the stunning beauty of the Laurentian Mountains, every moment reminded me why I love to travel.

Stay tuned for the next entry in Mike on the Move: Discovering the World, One Mile at a Time, as Mike continues his global quest for adventure with a visit to Iceland!