Great Summer Destination Revealed

Where in the World is this Train?
With summer around the corner, more Americans are banishing last year’s staycation from their vocabulary and yielding to their pent up demand for travel. We’re already seeing clues about a tour that is going to be a top seller this summer season.
What’s your guess? Hints: It’s in North America. And it’s perfect for those looking for:
- A destination not over-crowded with tourists, so you can interact with more locals.
- A vacation with a wide selection of hands-on experiences.
- A premier hotel experience.
- A tour that includes a train travel element.

Fairmont Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City
Bethany Manchester, Collette Vacations’ product manager, reveals the destination as Northern Quebec: “No other major tour operator is traveling to Northern Quebec; most only offer Montreal and Quebec City. We offer stays in both cities at beautiful Fairmont properties but also explore the Charlevoix region and Gaspe Peninsula – both offering amazing landscapes. Travelers just love this 10-day tour; our 2009 survey results show that 98.8% report an overall excellent/good experience on this tour.”
Discover Quebec by Rail
The villages you’ll overnight in allow you to interact with friendly locals. The museum visits that are included are often family-owned and operated; many of our past travelers on this tour have kept in touch with the families. These economuseums are hands on, and showcase regional arts (apples, flour, maple syrup, cheese, etc.).
Some additional highlights
- Stay at THREE Fairmont Properties (Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in the heart of Montreal, Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu along the St. Lawrence River, and finally the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac in the Old city of Quebec).
- Ride an overnight train from Montreal to Gaspe, aboard the VIA Rail Train “The Chaleur”
- Embark on a whale watching expedition as a naturalist guide introduces you to many species of marine mammals found in the St. Lawrence River.

Historic street in Quebec City
I haven’t been myself but I think it sounds simply wonderful, filled with activities that my whole family would enjoy. I’d love to hear from readers who have traveled to this area of Canada. The numbers are coming in proving this tour will be a summer sensation. When did you go? Did you love it?
posted by Melissa McKee
Collette Vacations
Tags: 2010, Canada, Collette, Destination Spotlight, Escorted Tours, Fairmont Hotels, Family Travel, Quebec

