Never allow a possible language barrier to keep you from exploring a new city or country, including a charming and historic city like Québec City. In fact, there have been several instances when I have struggled to practice speaking French and a local has excitedly told me they can speak English. When I go out, I always use the above words, smile, and dish out extra charm and I have never had a bad encounter. Locals Truly Do Their Best to HelpĪs an anglophone who has moved to Québec City -and still struggles to learn French- I can personally attest to the kindness of the locals and the ease of life in this historic French-speaking city. If you are making an effort to communicate, they will make an effort as well. Think of it as visiting another country where you do not speak the language: use the words suggested above, smile, and speak kindly. While most of the locals working in the tourism industry in neighbourhoods like Vieux-Québec, Petit-Champlain, Place Royale and Vieux-Port will speak English locals in other neighbourhoods may not speak English as well (or at all). Do you speak English? - Parlez-vous anglais?Įnglish is Widely Spoken in Tourist Areas.I speak a little French - Je parle un peu français.Many locals working in the old city will speak English, but learning a few French words is always helpful. Learn a couple French words before you arrive - you do not need to take a French course, or learn a lot of phrases. Of course, as with any destination you visit, there are cultural things to consider. Today, English visitors and tourists are welcomed with open arms. This, thankfully, is complete fiction. Québec City is proud of its French heritage, as it should be, and while there have been strenuous relationships between the French and the English in the past, those days have all but disappeared. One of the common misconceptions about visiting Québec City is that you need to speak French and if you do not speak French, everyone will be rude to you.
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