have frequent flyer tickets on hold for an october trip to Montreal, Quebec City and Charlevoix, but my husband now says he would like to go to New England - I can get FF tickets to Hartford on my dates, and from there could drive to Vermont, and then maybe to ME for some lobster. Help. I can't decide.

Even as a native (but not Quebecois, apparently) the Charlevoix is one of my favourite places in the world. Beauty + Food + Relaxation + Outdoor Activities = ME. Before AC even American Presidents would agree.

But you have to ask your husband--"Why the big change of heart?" We cannot decide for you.

JQ

JQ - what does "before AC" mean?

Before air conditioning the oppressive heat and humidity of summer in Washington D.C. "forced" those who were able to seek cooler climes. The Charveloix was a favourite of a couple of U.S. presidents. Even Montreal's wealthy (mainly Anglo) sought refuge outside the city. One of their favourite summer retreats was Metis-sur-Mer, where even to this day the street signs are in english.

JQ

Early October? Late October?

For years, northern New England pretty much shuttered itself up, from a tourist point of view, by the end of September. It's a bit different now, but a lot fo the great tourist attractions in Maine are closed.

That said, Vermont and New Hampshire have fall leaves, gret country restaurants, etc.

By late October, it's getting pretty cold outside, but up in Montreal and Quebec City, indoors, late fall is wonderful and some walking outside is still fine.

I'm about as serious a lobster eater as you can find -- although I don't do this often enough -- and in the summer Maine is wonderful. You can time things so you have a lobster roll for lunch in Boothbay and an early dinner outside in Lincolnville, and a late dinner indoors in Bar Harbor. But in the late fall????

Up in Montreal you can get lobster specials all year long in casual Greek yestaurants -- I have no idea why.

And for lots of money, Montreal has some excellent seafood restaurants, for fancy lobster dinners.

I've driven many tomes from Toron to to Halifax, and I prefer going through New England, fairly slowly, and coming back through Quebec, much more quickly.

Bottom line: in October, I'd recommend Quebec over Maine; in June, July, August, Maine is the winner.

BAK