Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

I recently stayed at the famed Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Old Quebec City for 5 nights where a conference I had to attend was being held. This is supposed to be the most photographed hotel in the world and the best hotel in town. I tell the Quebecois where I'd stayed and I always got the “ah, not bad” look and nod.

My room was right next to the Place d'Armes so I had a clear view of the St. Lawrence River. Luckily for me, I had the special rate, otherwise my room would have cost twice as much. There was some sort construction going on in the plaza below, but I was not around during the day for the noise to bother me.

The outside of the hotel looks pretty and it's castle-like (see picture). I wasn't too impressed with the interior (decor and layout) because it looks like any ordinary hotel. I thought the interior of the Luxor in Las Vegas looked better quite honestly. Still, the service was excellent. The staff was always nice and helpful. Everything in my room worked and it was clean. The hotel is in a great location. It was by the St. Lawrence River and right next to the Terrasse Dufferin (promenade). The information center and post office are across the street. Souvenir shops and restaurants are all walking distance. The Lower Town was right below. It's also walking distance to Upper Town (Grande Allee). I give the hotel 4-stars because of the reasons stated above. However, it is pretty expensive and I really can't see the justification in the price.

The icing on the cake for me was the saxophone player in the Place d'Armes. Every afternoon and early evening, a saxophone player would come and play romantic tunes for a few hours. I tend to go to my room and relax during this time and listen to great music before going out in the evening.