
What you need to know on Quebec
Tadoussac, Quebec
Before arriving in Quebec, you should know several cultural, social, and practical aspects to adapt better. Here are the main things to know:
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French is the official language. Quebec is a French-speaking province, so the majority of people speak French. Although English is also widely spoken, especially in large cities like Montreal, it is highly recommended to know at least some French to integrate better.
Accents: Quebecers have a distinct accent, which may sometimes be difficult for French speakers from other regions to understand. There are also local expressions known as "québécismes".
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Quebec's climate can be extreme, especially in winter, with temperatures dropping below -30°C. Winters are long and cold, with snow from November to April in some areas.
On the other hand, summers are relatively short but pleasant, with temperatures reaching 25-30°C. It's important to prepare for the different seasons with the appropriate clothing.
In Tadoussac, located on the Saint Lawrence River, experiences cold and snowy winters, but the winter can be less harsh than in some other parts of Quebec. Temperatures can drop below -20°C, with frequent snowfall.
Summers are mild, with average temperatures around 20°C, but the weather can change quickly. It's important to prepare for variable weather, especially if you visit outside the summer season.
In mid-October marks the transition between fall and winter. The average temperatures range between 6°C and 10°C, with daytime highs around 8°C. Precipitation levels are relatively high, with about 150mm of rain over 7 days, making it a wetter month than September. You’ll need to expect cool and potentially wet conditions. Altough nice hot day can happen, it's recommended to dress warmly and bring waterproof clothing to fully enjoy your stay.
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The people of Tadoussac are very welcoming and warm. It’s a small tourist village, so the residents are used to receiving visitors from around the world and will be happy to help you adjust.
It’s also common for visitors and locals to interact informally, with a warm greeting such as "Bonjour, comment ça va?".
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Whale watching is the main activity in Tadoussac. Due to the rich waters of the Saint Lawrence in krill and small fish, attracting various whale species. The village is famous for its boat excursions that allow people to see various species of whales, including the blue whale, humpback whale, the famous beluga and minke whale. It’s essential to plan your visit around the whale-watching season (May to October).
The Saguenay Fjord National Park, located nearby, offers spectacular hiking trails and stunning views of the fjord, all set in a preserved natural environment.
The Nature Museum and the Whale Interpretation Centre provide visitors with more information about the local wildlife and flora
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Poutine is one of the most typical dishes of Quebec. It consists of fries, gravy, and cheese curds. Many other local dishes include tourtière, maple syrup (Quebec is the world’s largest producer), and casse-croûtes.
Quebecers are proud of their culinary culture, and you will find a variety of restaurants offering local products.
Microbrasseries are too a cultural places in Quebec. Since the 1980s and 1990s, microbreweries have multiplied across Quebec, becoming gathering places and symbols of regional pride. Each one has its own unique identity, often rooted in local traditions, the land, or social and environmental issues. Quebecers have developed a strong passion for craft beer, from IPAs and sour beers to more original creations made with maple, haskap berries, forest mushrooms, or even seaweed. They’re a must-do when you’re in Tadoussac. Here’s some recommanation.
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Tadoussac is a small village, so some services may be limited. There are local grocery stores and small shops, but there isn’t a wide variety of stores. If you need specific items or specialized services, you may need to travel to nearby cities like Chicoutimi.
Due to its small size, the village is very quiet, and nightlife is rather subdued. There are a few restaurants and cafes where visitors can relax after a day of activities.
As Tadoussac is a small village, there is a small clinic and local healthcare center, but for specialized or urgent care, you may need to go to Chicoutimi (about a 2-hour drive away). It’s important to check if you have health insurance coverage for emergencies before your trip.
Essentials
What to bring to Tadoussac
We made a list of the essential things you might need to bring to Taddoussac, based on the season and activity you can do !
Packing List for Tadoussac (Mid-October) (it can be chilly in the morning or near the water) Clothing
Warm coat (windbreaker or lightweight insulated jacket)
Waterproof jacket
Warm sweaters or fleece layers
Thermal base layers (for layering)
Tech & Documents
Power adapter (Canada uses type A/B plugs, 120 V)
Other useful items
Reusable water bottle
Small daypack for outings
Binoculars (if you want to spot whales or birds)