I am visiting Quebec, Montreal, San Fransisco, Vermont, Massachusetts, Boston, and New York?

Question

in September-October this year, from Australia.
As its the autumn season, what sort of weather can I expect, so that I have some idea of what clothes I'll need, and are there any quilt fabric shops in these areas?
How lucky am I!!!! I'm so excited!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 1

Sounds like a wonderful trip. Also a great time of year for sightseeing. Temperatures can vary from 10 to 80 degrees F. More typically, from 30 to 70. Remember these are Farenheit, not Centegrade. The difference is critical to understanding what you will encounter.

You will see some rain and perhaps even some snow. The snow is unlikely, but possible. Rain is definate. It is best to dress in layers so you can remove a layer if you get too hot.

There are quilt fabric shops in virtually every major city. They are not unusual is smaller cities too. Our fall season is around August through October. The calandar may not agree, but that is because it has to be divided more mathamatically than seasonally :-)

Fall in New England can be a sight to behold. Each year is different, but some years have unbelievable colors when the trees change. Many photographes take prize winning pictures during this period.

Fisherman's Wharf in San Fransisco is not to be missed. Try the crab coctail and the sour dough bread. You get the crab coctail from street vendors or small shops to eat while you are walking around. There is nothing like it anywhere, even if you use the same ingredients.

If you can manage a side trip to Yosemide, it is worth the effort. It can not be done in one day, but it is one of the most beautiful natural places in the world.

The giant redwood forests are also a sight. Sausalito (sp?), across the bay is very interesting to visit and shop in. It is essentially an artist community and is very eclectic. The San Fransisco area is one of the best tourist spots I have ever visited.

You might be shocked at how friendly most people are, too, but beware of the crazy people. They have more than their share of clinically insane people walking the streets. I rode the mass transit system a little bit, and I felt completely safe and welcome.

Do not let the cheap prices on lobster and other sea food in the Boston area mislead you into thinking it is anything other than top quality. I was so shocked, that I wouldn't try it at first. I didn't understand that it would be good, even if it was so inexpensive.

Boston has a lot of very interesting sights from our Revolutionary War. Sorry to bring that up, if it is a sore point. We hold no ill will, hope you don't either. LOL. I found Plymouth Plantation (not the way they spell it) to be quite interesting. It gives a glimps into what it was like to live in the 17th century.

Keep in mind our electricity is 115 volt 60 cycle. Anything that you have with 220 volt and/or 50 cycle may be a problem. Better to buy new items here than to mess with transformers though.

Answer 2

The areas you're visiting are mostly in the north, and weather at that time of the year can vary greatly. Your best bet is to pack a bit of everything so you can layer it. T-shirts, button down shirts, sweatshirts or sweaters, and light or medium weight jackets are good. A windbreaker is also a good idea. Jeans or twill/khaki pants are a good bet at that time. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes that you can walk in, and break them in before you leave! There's nothing worse than getting a blister on your first day. (You might also want to invest in some moleskin or molefoam to prevent or protect any blisters that may develop.)

As far as quilt shops go, there are a couple of books available that are guides to the shops throughout the US and Canada. My local quilt shops carry them, and I've seen them on eBay. That would probably be the most complete list. You could also try websites of the big name fabric brands (Moda, for example) and publishing companies. They often have directories of shops that carry their products. They aren't 100% complete, however. Also, don't be afraid to ask at a quilt shop if there are any others in the area. Most are happy to share customers with their competition.

There's a museum in Massachusetts, about 30 miles north of Boston, called the New England Quilt Museum. It's supposed to be wonderful. Their website is below.

Answer 3

Vermont in August is usually hot and humid - but the weather changes from year to year.

Last summer, we were in our hottest phase for about a week, and then it rained a lot otherwise.

Answer 4

well I live near san francisco and in august it is really really cold during the day, and really foggy, so bring along thick clothing. although during the night all that clears up and its really nice , but make sure you have jackets and warm hats.

winter is the best time to visit SF, its beautiful here in december and january.

Answer 5

i could say.. why in this earth could the Queen bypass to SF..which would be intense to me.. SHE would desire to be over there in England celebrating with Philip..with a bit of luck if she did she has her crown in hand and a powerful pair of strolling shoes. Bless her heart she aint gettin no youthful..in simple terms makes me ask your self whether she will nevertheless decrease the mustard.

Answer 6

Shouldn't this question be in the gay/lesbo section?