Montreal

Hey gang,

I'm going to Montreal in a couple weeks and am looking for recommendations. I've been there several times and have done most of the tourist stuff (i.e. Olympic Park tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mount Royal Park). Are the Lachine Rapids worth a go? Insectisarium (sp)? I'm staying in Old Montreal, so transit isn't a problem. The Als aren't playing at Molson Stadium, so that's out of the question.

As a side trip I was thinking of taking VIA Canada to Ottawa. I think it would be cool to see Parliament Hill, some of the museums and whatever. I would assume being a capital city, there is enough to do to kill a day.

And lastly, what type of beer should I bring back? I need something specific to Canada that I can't find in the U-S. That used to be Molson Triple-X, but that has been available in my state the past two years or so.

 

Buy Youppi a drink. Or 10.

 

Oh, and what about the exchange rate. Should I just bring cash and exchange it at the bank? Travelers cheques? Or use my credit card? (although the fee for a cc in a foreign country is 1% of the transaction)

 

I usually just drink all night and sleep in when in Montreal, but I do know that city has the most gorgeous women per capita of any city in North America I've been in. The best dont' compete to New York's best, but almost every girl there is good looking.

 

The exchange rate is as close to being on par with the greenback since the 70s for what its worth.

I went to some great bars there in 2003 and I'm kicking myself right now that I can't remember what they were called.

As far as Canadian beer only in Canada ... That would require me knowing what is available in the states.

Some of my favourites are Ricakrds Red, Keith's and Moosehead - for purely Canadian. Pilsner (green label, red flag) is Saskatchewan's official beverage, not sure of it's availablity in Montreal though. If you want cheap, try Mountain Crest (although I'm not sure if that's avaliable out East)) but it tastes like horse piss.

 

I'm past the drinking horse piss stage just to get drunk. Actually brought back a 12-pack of Rickard's Red last time I was there and kind of liked it.

 

Avoid.
The.
Casino.

 

There's a restaurant/cafe that is supposed to serve a great smoked meat sandwich, it's legendary. You should hit that.

 

Ottawa's pretty good - as is Gatineau which is right next door. The Byward Market in Ottawa has some good bars as does Elgin St. (both not far from the Parliament buildings). Looking for a great post-bar joint to eat, look no further than the Elgin St. Diner.

 

Too bad you're going to miss the jazz festival (I think it ends the 10th, going on now).
Lots of great outdoor shows with thousands and thousands of people listening to great music.
Comedy festival comes up after that.

Go to the amusement park (La Ronde), site of Expo 67, on a Wednesday night and watch the international fireworks competition. On site, the shows are set off to music and it's spectacular, with the firebombs exploding over the water.

Take in an Impact soccer game, full house and great atmosphere, even if you don't like soccer.

Bring back some of the local micro brews, depending on what you like. Griffon Extra Blonde ale is a good one. Try em all in the various clubs before you decide

As for money, don't waste your time bringing it. Go to an ATM and take it out directly. Might take a slight hit on the exchange but it's much easier.

Instead of hitting Ottawa, take the Via to Quebec City instead (it's about 150 miles). If you think old Montreal has atmosphere, Quebec City is like old Montreal on steroids. There are also great Parliament buildings and plenty of history.

 

Skip Ottawa for the side trip and go to Quebec City instead. Lots to do there and the street-side cafes are awesome. Plus, you really get a taste of Old World Europe here. Beautiful dinner cruise on the St. Lawrence available, and the changing of the guard at the Citadelle is a can't-miss. Also, tour the old fort there for a terrific history lesson. Plenty more, to include a couple of hot discos. It's about a three-hour bus ride from Montreal.