If we thought Quebec City was cold, it simple served as the entree to the main dish, Saguenay. Minus 6 kicked us off with a howling northerly off the water.
Saguenay, Quebec, is a picturesque city characterized by its unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. Nestled at the confluence of the Saguenay River and the vast wilderness of the Laurentians, Saguenay offers stunning landscapes, particularly during the colder months when the chill of the north winds sweeps through the region. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains, often adorned with a blanket of pure white snow, creating a serene yet majestic atmosphere.
During our visit we experienced the invigorating power of the northern winds, which added a dramatic touch to the tranquil autumnal scenery. The sound of the wind howling through the trees and across the river created a sense of isolation, enhancing the city’s natural charm. Despite the cold, Saguenay is known for its warm community spirit, which we experienced at the local brewery and restaurant, The Pavillion Noir.
The warmth of both the inside and staff. Helped thaw us out. Mardi enjoyed her first taste of Poutine and I enjoyed a Canadian nachos. Not unlike Mexican but with a few vegetables added.
We chat to our server who just spent two years in Australia. She loved it and is coming back again in a month or so to enjoy the summer and get away from the harsh northern Canadian winter.
We eventually get the nerve up to brace the cold and walk around for a few minutes before heading back to the ship. Our short port time doesn’t really allow time for us to explore farther afield. Although the weather isn’t really encouraging us either.
We re-board the ship and set up in Baristas lounge for a warming hot chocolate. Mardi does some video editing, I do some writing.
We then play some trivia and only score 11 out of a possible 17. Mardi did complete the daily Mensa quiz.
I go to the gym to exercise my recovering shoulder. It’s now time to start some weight training. Three to five kilos for 20 reps is enough for my shoulder and bicep.
We then head to Martini’s for a drink. The temperature is volcanic again, so we move to Baristas and enjoy a couple of drinks before dinner in the buffet.
For dinner we have rib rye steak and lobster tail. It’s pretty good. Some salad and bread rolls finish it off nicely.
Whilst the food is good, the Oceania claim of “the finest cuisine at sea” is a stretch. Interestingly that claim is a trade marked phrase. We see it everywhere with a little TM next to it. Very smart marketing!
After dinner we sit in the bar for a while before heading to the show. Tonight we enjoy some old tunes from the 1940/50s sung by female performers. We didn’t know most songs, but enjoyed the show.
We head off to bed. Tomorrow is a sea day, so we should be pretty relaxed as we make our way to Cornerbrook in Newfoundland.
