2 Nov. 2006
Day two of NaBloPOMo. 2130, and just arrived home from 6 days away in Quebec city, Canada.

Traveling by train from Brockville, Ont. to Montreal, Que. and on to Quebec City and the return was one of the best, if not thee best, most relaxing trips I've taken. Everything went smoothly, the connections we're a smooth transition. The abiltity to rest, and read and enjoy the countryside as we clickety-clacked along the rails was entirely relaxing.



Chatting with the station master in Brockville while waiting for the train revealed that I had failed to avail myself of a price saving promotion by VIA Rail. He inquired during the course of our conversation whether I was 60 or older. When I said that I was, he told me about the promotion which allowed a fellow traveler accompanying a passenger 60 or older to travel for free as well as giving a 10% discount to the elder traveler..all hinging on making the arrangements 5 days or more in advance. He was unable to give us the discount etc. for the trip up to Quebec city due to the 5 day advance requirement, but for the return trip he redid our tickets to take advantage of the promotion..saving us $100.00.

I point this out because he didn't have to even mention this deal. This is how we were treated throughout our trip both on the train and during our stay in Quebec City. Everyone was courteous and helpful at every encounter.

I was able to practice my French up to a point; As soon as it became apparent that English was my first language, whom ever I was conversing with would switch to english. I a few instances I did encounter some one who didn't speak english, and lo and behold.. I was able to converse acceptably. Yeah!