It is hurting financially big-time.
It took 3 decades to pay off the Olympics held there.
Their covered stadium "The Big O" is a bust.
Lots of industry left the province when the French only language law came into effect.
Italian Mafia presence is very widespread, as is the art of the under the table payoffs for construction, utilities, etc.
But enough of that.
I left around 7 pm in a taxi for dinner.
Wanted to check out one of my old haunts from the late 80's. Of course it was not only open, but packed.
Ordered water, tea, tomato & basil soup, a 2 scallop appetizer and vermicelli with spicy pork and lemongrass. Delicious to a "T"! Damage was $ 35 (cash only).
From there I walked to "Chez Paree", one of the strip clubs that has been around, literally, forever.
Cover was $5.
I had two (2) scotch and waters @ $ 13 each.
My first stripper was Stephania from Colombia. A hot blonde with a great body.
Five dances from her set me back $ 65.
The 2nd one was a 5'-10" goddess (part Yugoslavian). A very hot & sexy dancer and we appeared to really get along. Took another five dances from her, at the same $ 65. Then I bought us a round which was $ 25.
I asked her to go out with me for dinner on Thursday before her 9 pm to 3 am shift.
She hinted Yes at first, then ultimately said No, she doesn't do that for personal reasons.
The Colombiana would have come over the next afternoon for certain. But she wanted $400 + taxi fares.
By this point I had enough and wanted to get back to the apartment. The cab home cost $ 12.
Dr. J.