Quebec is the largest of the Canadian provinces - it's bigger than Texas and California combined, but its population of six million is concentrated at the southern tip of the province. Quebec is the largest bastion of French language and tradition in North America, and the blending of both the French and the English cultures is what gives the province much of its unique character.

Provincial capital is charming and historic Quebec City. Tours can be enjoyed from a horse-drawn "calche" roaming the cobblestone streets. The winter "Carnival" festival has the air of Mardi Gras, despite the chilly temperatures! Two hours away is Montreal -- the second largest French-speaking city in the world, outside of Paris. It has a decidedly cosmopolitan flavor, and a bustling nightlife.

Further north, you'll find excellent skiing in the Laurentian Mountains, and untouched wilderness through most of the province. Hunters and anglers find deer, moose, caribou, waterfowl, and sport fish like arctic char. Much of this northern region is largely unchanged from the days of the early French explorers.