Arrival

My first days in Québec were terrifying. I didn't think there would be any language barrier. I have taken french for over 10 years. (since middle school) I thought I was well prepared. I was wrong. I'm sure nerves played a big part of it too. This is my first time truly away from home for a long period of time. To make matters worse, I didn't have internet! I wasn't allowed to sign up until I had enough classes to qualify me for a full-time student and the library on campus only had limited hours. So, that meant I didn't have much contact with my friends and family. I had my cell phone, but I knew that would get expensive if i would have used it too much.

I remembered seeing a "free Wi-Fi" sign at a little coffee place near the hotel we stayed at the first time my mom and I got there. It was called Presse Café. I also knew they spoke at least a little english seeing how they were right next to a hotel. The shop was only about a 20 minute walk from campus.

They served great sandwiches. My favorite had to have been the goat cheese and sautéed mushrooms. Also, since I couldn't find my normal iced coffees, I settled with an iced cappucino, which was wonderful. The cost wasn't too bad. It would probably be what you'd pay at your average Starbucks, but get a much better food selection.

So, for the first week or so, (until I was able to get internet on campus) I'd walk to this little coffee shop, with my laptop, and talk with friends and family.


Presse Café homepage