Happy Monday traveler!

This week, we’re taking you to the most European place in North America. We know it’s only August… but trust us — the most magical time of year in Québec City is worth planning early for.

🌍️ What’s Going on In the Travel World?

• Removing shoes to board a plane may be a thing of the past - not huge but will be nice

• Thailand travel advisory: Do not travel to Cambodian-Thai border - Careful if you’re planning a trip to southeast Asia

• Greenland’s tourism industry is expected to boom - Now this is a place to go

• Tracee Ellis Ross offers tips on solo travel in new docuseries for Roku - We don’t do it solo but this will be worth it if you do

• I used to travel without much planning. Having kids made me change the way we take vacations - Trisha knows how smart kids are about travel

A message from Passport Inspiration

Looking to plan an inspiring adventure right now?

Planning an international trip can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be.

How?

You just need a plan for your plan.

It’s important to prepare with enough time for things like:

• Visas

• Dining

• Lodging

• Passports

• Excursions

• Travel Arrangements

  If you want a head start planning, we can help you prepare for an amazing trip.

🙌🏼This Week’s Inspiration

Picture this: twinkling lights and snow-covered streets to festive food and unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebrations. Welcome to Québec City, Canada. This city transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season. And now’s the perfect time to start booking your trip!

Québec City is one of the oldest and most picturesque cities in North America, with a unique split between Upper Town and Lower Town. The Upper Town is home to landmarks like the Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, and the Citadel, offering fantastic views of the St. Lawrence River.

This area is rich in history and architecture. There are cobblestone streets and stone buildings that date back to the 17th century. French is the main language spoken here with English the second.

Horse-drawn carriage rides are festive and popular.

Lower Town, located at the base of the cliff, includes the Petit-Champlain district, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and festive decorations during the holidays. The two parts are connected by streets, staircases, and the historic Funicular, which is an old-fashioned cable railway. Together, Upper and Lower Town create a magical, walkable city center that feels like stepping into a European winter village.

Québec City's New Year’s Eve street party is one of the biggest in Canada…and it’s completely free. Live entertainment, pop-up bars, fireworks, and a countdown to midnight in French is definitely a memorable way to ring in the new year.

How to Get to Québec City:

The nearest airport is Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) with direct flights from major North American cities. VIA Rail offers scenic train service from Montréal, Ottawa, and Toronto. Québec City is just a 2.5-hour drive from Montréal but we highly recommend your car has winter tires on it.

Where to Stay:

Here are our recommendations:

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac 

Hotel Palace Royal

Hotel Manoir Victoria

What to Eat:

No visit to Québec City during the holidays is complete without indulging in some local favorites.

Cozy up with a slice of tourtière, a traditional French-Canadian meat pie often served during Christmastime.

Grab a forkful of poutine, the iconic combo of fries, cheese curds, and rich gravy — especially satisfying on a snowy day.

Don’t miss tarte au sucre (sugar pie) made with maple syrup, if you’re looking for something sweet.

Or try vin chaud (mulled wine) at the Christmas market for a nice drink.

And for the ultimate winter treat? Try a warm, freshly fried BeaverTail. This is a pastry shaped like a beaver’s tail and topped with cinnamon sugar, chocolate, or maple glaze. It’s a Canadian classic and perfect for enjoying while strolling through the festive streets!

What to Pack:

Winter in Québec City can be cold and snowy, so dressing in warm, layered clothing is essential.

A heavy, insulated winter coat, along with thermal base layers, will help keep you warm while exploring the city.

Don’t forget a hat, scarf, and insulated gloves — wind off the St. Lawrence River can make it feel even colder.

Waterproof boots with good traction are a must for navigating snow-covered cobblestone streets.

If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, wool socks and hand warmers can make a big difference in staying cozy.

👋 Have an Inspiring Week

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Québec City. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

• Québec City Walking Tour - the perfect way to get acclimated to the city

• These jackets (women’s, men’s) would be nice if you go when the weather is real cold. They’ve kept us warm in many places.

• Women’s fleece-lined leggings.

• Men’s Sherpa-lined crewneck sweater

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob