This journey holds a special place in my heart. Not only did we discover incredible vintage finds, but we also had the chance to test out the new 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring Edition—a spacious, fuel-efficient, and comfy ride that made the trip seamless. Let me share the highlights from our trip, favourite antique destinations, and some personal stories that made this adventure unforgettable.

Road Tripping in Style: The 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring Edition

Before diving into our antique discoveries, I will give a mention to our ride for the day: the 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring Edition, provided by Honda’s press fleet. This car felt like the ultimate road-trip vehicle.

Equipped with ample storage space, we never had to worry about where to put our purchases from the antique shops. Its hybrid design saved us roughly 25% on gas compared to a non-hybrid CR-V we’ve used before—a real lifesaver for longer trips like this one. With top-tier features and comfort built into every inch, this Touring Edition comes with a price tag just over $50,000 all in, but it’s worth it for those keen on investing in modern efficiency and style.

We felt confident tackling everything from city traffic to winding roads between quaint towns, knowing we had a reliable ride on our hands.

The Antique Haven of Hamilton

Our adventure began in Hamilton, where we visited a trio of outstanding antique markets:

Hamilton Antique Mall

This multi-story haven is a paradise for antique lovers. The variety here is staggering—everything from comic books and glassware to retro electronics and vintage magazines. My partner was particularly thrilled by their selection of elegant glass decanters and cocktail sets, while I couldn’t resist flipping through some old vinyl records and scouting out vintage video games.

Personal Find: I stumbled upon some vintage magazines from the 60s and 70s with fantastic artwork and nostalgic advertisements.

Clappison Corners Antiques

Just on the outskirts of Hamilton, Clappison Corners has a cozy, curated vibe perfect for finding treasures. Though smaller than other spots, you’ll be amazed by the quality—beautiful furniture pieces, retro signage, and collectibles stand out here.

Personal Find: We spotted an ornate mid-century armchair that would be perfect for a reading nook. (Though, sadly, our CR-V was fully packed, so we didn’t bring it home!).

The Freelton Antique Mall

Another favourite was the Freelton Antique Mall, expansive and well-organised with stalls that you can get lost in. Whether you’re looking for old tools, retro toys, or unique home décor, this spot has a little something for everyone.

Personal Find: We completed a family member’s book collection by locating several missing pieces—including early editions they’d been hunting for years.

Brantford to Kitchener: The Midpoint of Antique Bliss

As we traveled westward to Brantford and then Kitchener, the charm of small-town Ontario unfolded with each stop.

Southworks Antiques (Cambridge)

Located near Kitchener, Southworks Antiques is spacious and packed with possibilities. It’s the perfect spot for digging through old comics, sports memorabilia, and one-of-a-kind toys.

Market Road Antiques (Waterloo)

If you’re near St. Jacobs, don’t miss Market Road Antiques. Nestled alongside farmers’ markets and local shops, this antique store is a great place to find funky art pieces and quirky items. My partner loved the vintage clothing here, and we spotted some handcrafted jewellery that really stood out.

Final Stops

We wrapped up our day in Woodstock and Waterloo, where we visited some absolute gems:

One Of A Kind Antiques & Collectibles (Woodstock)

This shop truly lives up to its name. It’s full of unique finds with a focus on rare collectibles. From 100-year-old furniture to vintage décor, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time.

St. Jacobs Antiques Market (Waterloo)

Lastly, the St. Jacobs Antiques Market didn’t disappoint. The warm, welcoming atmosphere pairs perfectly with its diverse offerings.

Personal Find: A collection of retro advertising posters was available—and we couldn’t pass up one that would look perfect as wall art in our living room.

The Joy of Antiquing

Reflecting on the trip, we realised how much we love the thrill of exploring and finding unexpected treasures. Whether you’re hunting old books, glassware, magazines, or vinyl records, every antique shop has its own unique story to tell—and you can bring pieces of those stories home with you.

This loop through Hamilton, Kitchener, Waterloo and Woodstock is an ideal day trip for anyone looking to escape their everyday routine and immerse themselves in vintage magic.

Final Tips for Your Trip:

Start Early: Some antique shops may close by early evening, so plan ahead to cover as much ground as possible.
Bring Cash: While many places accept cards, smaller shops sometimes prefer cash.
Pack Snacks: Exploring antique malls can work up an appetite!
Check Stall Rotations/Openings: Inventory shifts regularly, so it’s worth re-visiting your favourite stores another time.

Whatever treasure you’re hunting, this road trip is bound to bring you joy with every stop. Happy antiquing!

The post Road Trip Idea from Toronto: Exploring for Antique Treasures appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Welcome to Mont Tremblant, a picturesque haven nestled in the heart of Québec that promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights. Whether you’re planning a thrilling ski trip, a cozy winter getaway, or simply a delightful weekend in the village, Mont Tremblant offers a variety of experiences to suit every traveler. In this guide, we explore the best accommodations, dining spots, and must-do activities to ensure you make the most of your visit.

How to get to Mont Tremblant

Check out our 2026 Mont Tremblant Guide on where to stay, where to eat and what to do.

Driving to Mont Tremblant

We drove this time and were lucky enough to work with Mazda and their press fleet to test out the new 2025 CX-70 Mild Hybrid. This mid-size SUV is great for 2 couples or a family and has space in the trunk for our snowboard gear and bags for a 4-day trip. Driving long distance in the winter requires comfort, reliability and safety, all of which were accomplished by this vehicle. We also love the detailing inside of Mazdas as well as their user interface for their dashboard computer.

To get to Tremblant we took the 407 to the 401 and then up through Ottawa towards our final destination. The drive is about 6 hours from Toronto with places like EnRoute or smaller towns to stop along the way. If you have time, you can stop in Kingston or Ottawa to grab a bite to eat at a nicer spot.

Flying to Mont Tremblant

Flying to Tremblant requires you to first fly in to Montréal and then drive about 2 hours to reach your destination. We have often found it much easier to drive with all the time lost at airports and wait times. But if you are coming from somewhere else in the world, you will most likely fly into Montréal and then rent a car or take a bus the rest of the way.

Where to stay in Mont Tremblant

Check out our 2026 Mont Tremblant Guide on where to stay, where to eat and what to do.

Holiday INN Express & Suites Mont Tremblant

For an ideal stay in Mont Tremblant, consider the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mont Tremblant. Conveniently located on the main strip of the Mont Tremblant Village, this hotel provides easy access to various shops and eateries. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast featuring bacon, sausages, eggs, juices, toast, bagels, and even a pancake and crepe maker.

We stayed in a spacious suite complete with a fireplace and balcony, along with a full kitchen, bathtub, and a living room with a pullout couch. The hotel offers practical amenities such as ski gear storage, underground parking, a sauna, and a hot tub. Additionally, it’s just a short 5-minute walk to the town gondola, which takes you to the top of the town, adding to the convenience and charm of your stay.

Where to eat in Mont Tremblant

Check out our 2026 Mont Tremblant Guide on where to stay, where to eat and what to do.

Mont Tremblant boasts a vibrant culinary scene with options ranging from casual quick-service spots to cozy pubs and elegant dining establishments.

Le Shack – Resto-Bar

Le Shack is conveniently situated right next to the gondola at the top of the village in Mont Tremblant, making it the perfect stop for a bite to eat during a day of adventure. With a unique interior adorned with artificial trees in fall colours and spacious, cool shack-like structures that inspired its name, Le Shack exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Known for its pub-style menu featuring classic comfort foods such as fish and chips, mac and cheese, and a hearty Philly cheese steak, this establishment caters to families and visitors seeking a relaxed dining experience. Additionally, the terrace offers a picturesque view overlooking Place St-Bernard, adding to the charm of the visit. During your stop, be sure to treat yourself to their delicious strawberry milkshake and savour the crispy and flavourful fish and chips.

Le Grand Manitou

Perched at the top of the mountain and accessible by the gondola, Le Grand Manitou in Mont Tremblant provided a convenient and satisfying quick-service dining option. Offering a wide array of culinary choices akin to most ski resort lunch cafeterias, the cafeteria-style setup presented an assortment of options including customisable salads, self-serve soups with accompanying add-ons such as crackers, butter, bread, and sauces, along with burgers, pizza, snacks like chips and chocolate, and a variety of drinks. However, what truly set Le Grand Manitou apart was the breathtaking panoramic view it afforded, overlooking the mountain and the picturesque valleys below. The ease of access and ample seating made it an ideal spot for a pit stop during a day of skiing, eliminating the need to descend into the village. Furthermore, the affordability of the offerings made it a practical and inviting choice for a satisfying meal with a spectacular backdrop.

La Diable – Microbrasserie

At the microbrasserie La Diable, we indulged in a satisfying dining experience at this cozy bar and restaurant known for its impressive selection of meat dishes. The menu offered a variety of options, including sausages, steak, and ribs, perfectly complemented by the presence of some exceptional craft beers. Our meal consisted of mouthwatering ribs served with crispy fries and a refreshing Caesar salad, along with a delightful selection of two sausages paired with fries, sour kraut, and a house salad.

Opting for the Toulouse and Swiss sausages, we found each selection to be unique and satisfying. The service was quick and efficient, ensuring that we could fully enjoy our generous portion sizes, perfect for sharing. A unique touch was the opportunity to contribute to the bar’s collection of coasters displayed proudly on the walls. La Diable microbrasserie provided a welcoming atmosphere and delicious meals that left us thoroughly satisfied.

La Forge – Bistro-Bar & Grill

Located close to the gondola that takes you up the mountain, La Forge restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a bar and bistro downstairs and a steakhouse upstairs. We ordered the delightful chèvre chaud salad, artfully prepared with deep-fried goat cheese balls, balsamic drizzle, and figs, providing a delicious twist to a classic dish. The menu featured smashed burgers alongside a range of tantalising options, including the ability to upgrade your fries to a decadent poutine like the standout duck confit poutine.

The ambiance at La Forge struck a perfect balance – vibrant and energetic from the bar, yet maintaining a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. When dining at the bistro, you can expect a cool fireside patio seating experience with heaters above and a fireplace in each table’s centre. La Forge Bistro-Bar & Grill, owned by the same owner as Le Shack and ideally situated between the ski slopes and Place St-Bernard, is the ideal location for a trendy après-ski outing and enjoying delectable seasonal meals with family or friends in the heart of the pedestrian village.

What to do in Mont Tremblant

Check out our 2026 Mont Tremblant Guide on where to stay, where to eat and what to do.

From exhilarating adventures to enchanting evening experiences, Mont Tremblant provides an array of activities to make your visit unforgettable.

Ski and Snowboard

Mont Tremblant is one of Canada’s best ski resorts and Eastern Canada’s crown jewel. If you are East of the prairies, then Mont Tremblant is often your best bet for quality slopes.

A pass for the day at Tremblant ranges from $104 for a half-day adult pass all the way to $177 for adult full-day during the New Year week. Kids under 4 can go for as little as $20 so be sure to get them started young!

Rentals for equipment cost about $100 a day and they offer free valet for your skis and snowboard rentals to keep them close to the hill over night so you don’t have to take them with you.

Lessons in groups or private also run throughout the mornings and afternoons.

Central Tapas and Nightclub

Central Tapas and Nightclub in Mont-Tremblant offers a vibrant mix of latin flavours and a lively nightlife experience. Drawing inspiration from traditional Spanish tapas restaurants with a touch of Quebec flair, the menu features delicious, creative cocktails, and playful wines. After 10 PM, the atmosphere transforms into the hottest spot in Tremblant, with the best music, dancing, and VIP nightlife encounters.

At Central, you can enjoy an array of mouth-watering desserts after dinner while immersing yourself in the energetic ambiance and diverse music selection curated by the DJ based on the night and crowd. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness flair bartending showcases for an added touch of excitement. A must try is their chocolate empanadas.

Sleigh Ride

Located just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, the local sleigh rides provide a charming and festive experience for visitors. Led by two horses originally from the south of France, the wood sled accommodates 10 guests, a driver, and a host who entertains with regional stories and jokes, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the hour-long trip. Halfway through the journey, guests gather around a fire to savour hot cocoa, creating a cozy and heartwarming interlude. It’s a popular destination and activity for international visitors seeking a snowy, Christmas-like experience, as evidenced by the diverse groups of guests, such as a family of 8 from Mexico, who were in town for a winter holiday. The excursion provides warm blankets for all participants, a thoughtful touch ensuring everyone stays cozy amid the winter chill. Whether enjoyed in the afternoon or at night, this old-fashioned family activity offers an enchanting way to embrace the winter season, complete with legendary tales about Mont Tremblant and folk songs provided by the host and storyteller.

Maison Fayard – Upscale Grocery

Nestled in the heart of the pedestrian village, this charming gourmet grocery store is the perfect spot to gather all the essentials for an impressive charcuterie board. Visit and indulge in an exquisite selection of crackers, cured meats, artisanal cheeses, sparkling fruit drinks, jelly, and pickled items. We enjoyed our assortment of goodies by the fire, creating a cozy and memorable evening. Maison Fayard is renowned for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, making each visit delightful. As a chain store with locations across Quebec, its quality and service are consistently top-notch, ensuring a wonderful shopping experience every time.

Luminosa Candle-light Concert Series at St. Bernard Chapel

Nestled behind the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, this candlelight piano concert series offers a magical holiday experience infused with the elegance of a warm, softly lit atmosphere. The chapel itself, a lovely old church adorned with candles, sets the perfect scene for an intimate performance.

The talented pianist Rafael Zaldivar breathes new life into timeless classics, delivering emotional and intimate interpretations that blend harmony with nostalgia. With a repertoire that includes plenty of Edith Piaf, Zaldivar’s piano rearrangements reveal fresh nuances and offer a rich, touching musical experience. Each note seemingly echoes the timeless legacy of musical giants, making the Luminosa Show a memorable holiday highlight for anyone visiting the area.

 

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Mont Tremblant invites you to explore its charming village, savour its culinary treasures, and enjoy its unique activities. Whether it’s your first visit or a favourite destination, this guide ensures you experience the very best Mont Tremblant has to offer.

For more information, please check out the Mont Tremblant website.

The post Mont Tremblant Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat and Explore in 2024/2025 appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Most of us are tired of being cooped up in the same familiar spaces with those all too familiar faces. But this summer, there’s something to be said about the novelty within the familiar. I’m talking, of course, about what’s found in our own backyard.

I say let’s ditch the flights, long lineups, and lengthy arrival protocols altogether and opt for a good old fashioned road trip. You don’t need to go across Canada or even leave the province to go exploring.

That’s where my head was at when I planned a road trip to northern Ontario with an old friend. As soon as lockdown restrictions eased and we had both snagged our second jabs of the COVID-19 vaccine, we decided to make the trip. On a casual Friday afternoon after work, we loaded up the car and headed north from downtown Toronto.

Sioux Lookout, “The Hub of the North”, was the destination – a town in Northwestern Ontario. “It can’t be that far,” we told ourselves, “after all, we’d still be in Ontario!”

Twenty-two hours later we were still driving, and we were still in Ontario.

If you’ve ever been on any kind of road trip across Canada, you would have already stumbled upon the curious fascination that small towns seem to have with the “world’s largest _______” roadside attractions. In other words, really big things.

There’s even a classic road trip movie on this topic, One Week (2009), featuring Canadian icon Gord Downie, and starring Joshua Jackson. This movie will surely get you in the mood for a trip like this. It definitely did for me!

Now here’s a list of our top giant roadside attractions on our way up to northwestern Ontario!

1. “Big Nickel”, Sudbury, ON

2. “Northern Ontario’s Largest Muskoka Chair”, Thessalon, ON

3. “The Giant Loonie”, Echo Bay, ON

4. “Giant Baseball”, Sault Ste. Marie

5. “Canada Goose”, Wawa, ON

6. Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout”, Thunder Bay, ON

Aside from the top roadside attractions in this list, there were also a series of random roadside attractions that were just excuses to stop for a quick rest and have another pin to drop on the GPS map to keep things interesting. For example, we stopped at a Winnie-the-Pooh monument (not in the greatest condition) in what is said to be the beloved bear’s hometown in White River, Ontario. There was also a ridiculous “giant” thermometer. I do suggest you find some of these because they are hilarious and a great opportunity to stretch your legs. Trust me, you’ll need it.

Our road trip from Toronto to Sioux Lookout was an absolute blast, made all the more entertaining by our very random “giant” stop-offs along the way. If you’re looking for a COVID-safe travel idea this summer, I hope you consider taking a road trip and visiting some of the roadside attractions in this list. You may just surprise yourself at what the road holds. Let’s go local, and support local businesses while we’re at it!

Recently visited a roadside attraction? Was it “giant” or debatable? Share in the comments below.

The post Six GIANT Roadside Attractions for your Next Ontario Road Trip appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

If it’s your first time, and if all you had was a weekend, we’ve got you covered for the basics on getting the most out of your trip.

As unbelievable as this may sound, I’m going to posit that some of the most significant experiences can also be the “touristy” ones. If you’re keen for a gorgeous wintry walk, take a stroll through Chinatown, and the iconic Old Port (Old Montréal). In any direction, they are completely Instagrammable (is that a word? It ought to be). No two visits are the same.

Montréal is built on the well-known Mont-Royal (top of the mountain look-out), and it’s a dazzling, enchanting stroll any time of day or night at the man-made Beaver Lake.

Every weekend from January 18 to February 9, Fête des neiges is chockablock with fun, whether the ice slides, snow tubing, dog sledding or live concerts. Later, from February 20 to March 1, Montréal En Lumiere brings its arts, culture and food to indoor and outdoor venues, and there’s always something for any taste.

When those chilly bones of yours want to duck indoors, you can check out a Habs game or shows at the Bell Centre. But exploration evenings are when the parties really start, in a city that rivals the Big Apple in after-dark culture. Bar Le Royal in the Plateau-Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Ave. E) will give you the royal treatment. Boutique cocktails, refined and chic ambience is what it’s all about. They’re open from 5pm to 3am, so you can go for a late night dinner, a show, and spend the rest of the evening hanging out in this classy place.

Suffice it to say, Montréal’s gourmet and epicurean delights abound – it’s a city as much about the sights as it is the savours. As a matter of course, you must try the signature Montréal bagel, and smoked meat. But where? Two answers: St. Viateur for bagels; Shwartz’s Deli for smoked meat. (This, of course, is a matter of opinion, and you’re likely to get many opinions on who makes the best.)

For that unique dining experience that will have your taste buds singing, visit Sumac, a fusion of Israeli/Moroccan cuisine in Griffintown. Carve out the best memories with their delish hummus and labneh (soft cheese), and heart-stompingly great chicken.

As for authentic local fare, you must-try La Belle et la Boeuf or Notre-Boeuf-de-Grace (two different places, similar food). For sure, sink your teeth into their home-style burgers and poutines. Both have creative Quebecois comfort yummies; get Kool-Aid pickles at La Belle et la Boeuf, or fried Mars Bars at Notre-Boeuf-de-Grace.

Of course, if you haven’t already tried it, swing by the Orange Julep – the big orange structure – not just serving great poutine, but also their famous orange drink (like orange juice but tastes like a creamsicle).

Now, if you’re in the mood to splurge for a very special occasion, and want to enjoy the high life, try a night at the Ritz-Carlton Montreal. (It’ll be worth it – trust us.)

Granted the prestigious CAA/AAA Five Diamond Award – the only one in Quebec – the Ritz-Carlton Montréal has been the most elegant address in the city since 1912. In May of 2012, the hotel re-opened after an extensive multi-year restoration, which saw the Montréal landmark transformed into a chic and modern space.

Waiting for me at my room was a fresh delivery of fruit – plums, apples, berries, oranges, on a silver platter, of course – and a courtesy personalized tour of all of the room’s amenities. The first thing I did was shed my clothes, draped them on the bed, quickly showered (where I used the complimentary bathrobe), and ventured forth to see the town.

Two hours later I returned to see those very clothes folded so meticulously, like they came straight off the department store rack. I also loved the free shoe shine service: I left my shoes in the bag on the door at 11pm and they were ready by 7am. Turned a scruff pair of dress shoes, like brand new.

It’s not surprising that class met class, when in September, Grand Marnier and The Ritz-Carlton Montréal partnered to unveil a permanent 3-year branded space, the luxurious Le Grand Lounge.

The menu features Grand Marnier cocktails as the Grand Sidecar, Grand Margarita, Grand Collins, Grand Old Fashioned and Cuvée Louis Alexandre VSOP on the Rocks. It is the ultimate hideaway for a late-night cocktail in Montreal.

Amusez-vous bien (have a good time!) in what is assuredly one of Canada’s best culturally-rich cities.

The post Give Montréal Some Winter Lovin’ appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

We stayed in the best hotels, ate at the most talked-about restaurants, and got tips on where to shop, drink and party. Let’s get started on what to see and do in Montréal.

Toronto Guardian Guide To Montréal: How It Could Happen 4U!

Day 1 > Arrive With Ease, Stay In Style

Take the stress out of the five to six hour journey from Toronto to Montréal by booking business class on VIA Rail. The perks include a choice of three different three-course meals accompanied with a variety of beverages. On our train trip we enjoyed the beef tenderloin with olive bread and copious amounts of wine. Additional complimentary perks included WiFi, daily papers and current magazines plus hot towels, Sloane fine tea and Theobroma dark chocolate treats. We arrived in Montréal relaxed and ready to go.

Our first two nights in Montréal were at the W Hotel, just minutes from the Gare Centrale. The W is a vibrant downtown luxury hotel framed by the façade of the former Banque du Canada building. Our W Fabulous Room was large and luxurious, done in a soothing contemporary palette of white, grey and black with an illustrated wall treatment. It had a rave worthy bathroom: open concept rainfall shower, cube bathtub, and a large mirror over a generous counter with more than enough space for two guests to prepare for a night out in tandem. We loved that it was stocked with cozy white robes, ample towels and bliss skincare and bath products.

After checking in, we were invited to dine at Nom Nom Cantine; the hotel restaurant which features a fusion of French and Asian food. The Cantine’s look, designed by Philipp Haemmerle, is industrial décor meets boho-chic. Haemmerle’s background is rooted in fashion set design and he has worked with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Bruce Weber, Carine Roitfeld and Grace Coddington.

We begin the Nom Nom feast with delicious French champagne, Jacques Lassaigne Blanc de Blanc, followed by a remarkable array of dishes including: Tapioca Shrimp Dumplings, French Onion Dumplings (OMG, filled with Brie gooey goodness – totally unexpected!), Hoisin Crepes and Guinea Fowl, Coconut Curry Tempura Fish, Tuna Tartare and yummy Seaweed Rice.

Staying on-site, we popped into the W Hotel’s sophisticated Bartizen Gin & Perfume Lounge specializing in Québec gins and tonics. The bar menu features curated botanical drink recipes finished with edible essential oil perfumes – a unique concept influenced by drink consultant and phytotherapist Michael Isted. Of the 12 G&T botanical cocktails on the menu, we were delighted with the Romeo; dill, cucumber, fever tree tonic and soda and pure lavender essence that was spritized, like a perfume, into the drink – next level cocktail chemistry!

All of the edible plant essences for the Bartizen cocktails are created in-house, and the expert bartenders put on a show in the making of each perfume cocktail. If you visit make sure to look for bar experts Julien and Pascal (because they not only concoct wonderful drinks but share tips on where to throwdown after hours). This unexpected experience went beyond grabbing an after-dinner drink to being a divine olfactory pleasure trip. And as our first night in Montréal came to a blissful end, we floated out of the bar enveloped in the scents of sage, lemon, spruce, vanilla and lavender. Indeed the “W” stands for WOW!

Day 2 > Getting High Over The City  

After a restful night at the W Hotel, we headed to La Grande Roue de Montréal to get a view of the city from the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada. La Grande Roue is 60 meters high with a panoramic view of the river, Old Montréal, downtown and the mountain. It’s kind of expected that as a tourist you would go for an activity like this, but what you don’t expect is how fabulous it is! In the 20 minute ride, which included a rainbow, we were blown away by the view and didn’t want to get off.

After a dramatic start to the day, next on the agenda was finding an exceptional brunch. From speaking with our W concierge and a few locals, we discovered the best place to brunch was Le Passé Composé. This little corner bistro doesn’t take reservations, so show up early, or as in our case, wait for one hour in a quaint holding patio for your name to be called. Torontonians will be familiar with this scenario. Le Passé Composé’s Panko French Toast is the most talked about, so we ordered it along with a creamy Spanish Omelette, hot Apple Fritters, and a selection of their famous poached eggs. Main servings are accompanied by a mini fruit smoothie and a petit bowl of fresh fruits including fig, Physalis, strawberry, blackberry, orange and grapefruit wedges. We also had refreshing orange and grapefruit mimosas garnished with a delicate spear of golden Physalis, blackberry and strawberry. This was a superb brunch feast. The Panko French Toast lived up to its reputation – it was divine!

After brunch we thought visiting art galleries would be a perfect plan. Starting with the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, and then a walk north up Saint Laurent Boulevard to the arty Mile End neighbourhood.

The draw at the Musée d’art contemporain was the opening of two new exhibitions: Alone Together and The Prophets. The Alone Together installation probes the concept of solitude in our hyper-connected society and showcases new acquisitions by four Canadian artists Sarah Anne Johnson, Graeme Patterson, Jon Rafman and Jeremy Shaw. The Prophets is centred around an installation by that name created by Québec artists Richard Ibghy and Marilou Lemmens. Works by Josef Albers, Jack Bush, Sol LeWitt and Jana Sterback round out the exhibition.

It’s hard to pick a standout from these Musée d’art contemporain exhibitions, but the vast collection of small handmade sculptures using everyday materials like string, bamboo sticks, wire and sheets of acetate created by Ibghy and Lemmens had visitors giggling out loud, as the delicate sculptures are infused with humour and irony. Each piece is accompanied by a short hand-written description that expressed scepticism regarding the accuracy of their sources. Highly recommend this smart and funny exhibit! Both shows run until August 26, 2018.

At this point in the day (about 4:30 PM) we had thought we would be taking a shuttle bus to the Santa Teresa Festival in Sainte-Thérèse. But it started raining (this was expected), so we decided on a disco nap back at the W Hotel. Uber!

Since our music festival plans tanked, we found ourselves without an evening itinerary. Our W concierge came to the rescue again with a recommendation to dine at Pamika – Brasserie Thai. Arriving at 9:00 PM we expected a somewhat empty restaurant….it was packed! We begged to sit anywhere, even the kitchen. Lucky for us, Pamika is connected to the Hotel de Paris, so we were seated in the empty mini lounge out back of the hotel. Sure it was unexpected, but in the end we got to enjoy fabulous authentic Thai food along with fast, friendly service. We recommend the Pineapple Fried Rice and the Beef Panang Curry.

Looking for a new experience we dropped by a typical Montréal supper club (so you won’t have to!). Soubois is an all-in-one bistro, bar and nightclub, located in an underground forest (or maybe it’s a wood cabin). We made it inside before the lineup started (around 10:30 PM) and sat at the bar to people watch. You only need to know two things about this place: it’s 90 per cent raw testosterone, and at the many massive wood tables, all anyone seems to order are thick wood platters stacked high with meat. Imagining this place transition into a nightclub seemed frightful. We didn’t stay long. Goodnight!

Day 3 > Radical Shifts, Punk Attitude

For a change of scene, we checked out of the W Hotel and took a quick Uber to the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, the largest luxury hotel in Montréal, and newly reopened last July after extensive renovations. The shift in our accomodations was radical – we went from an intimate 153 room boutique hotel to a monolithic 900+ room hotel. Our room was fresh and looked modern with touches of artistic décor, and the bathroom was well stocked with posh Le Labo Rose 31 bath products developed specifically for Fairmont hotels. From the window there was a grand view of the Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde and René-Lévesque Blvd.

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth is famously known for hosting John Lennon and Yoko in 1969 for their 8-day Bed-In for Peace in suite 1742. What you might not know is the hotel hosts a modern art collection featuring over 123 new works by 37 contemporary artists. With Montréal just having celebrated its 375th anniversary, the Fairmont installed historic and interactive wall projections in a striking salon space on the main floor that are part of Montréal en Histoires Cité Mémoire. And yes, there is an app for that! Mobile app Montréal en Histoires. http://www.montrealenhistoires.com/en/mobileapplication/

OMG the Fairmont is so big, it has so much to offer, it’s hard to highlight everything. Here are the two most important things you need to experience at the new and improved FQE: Sunday Brunch and the Marché Artisans.

The Fairmont’s stunning new restaurant, Rosélys, offers a phenomenal Sunday Brunch. We strongly advise you reserve a spot in advance, and recommend you sit along the central bar as the decorative overhead canopy of glass and mirrored ceiling make for a breathtaking vision  – an Instagram photo opp. Brunch features 12 food stations with everything from seafood, crepes, bacon and eggs, salads, roast meat, hot vegetables dishes, pasta, fresh fruits, cheese and bread, pastry and dessert and more! We feasted for a full two hours taking breaks between plates of food to quaff outstanding mimosas.

Also new to the Fairmont, and highly recommended, is the Marché Artisans, the first gourmet market inside a Canadian hotel – a chic supermarket featuring eat-in counters. Conveniently open daily, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, the market is a lifesaver if you need a bite to-go before you hit the city on walking tour, as well as an ideal place to buy foodie souvenirs and made in Québec treats to take back home.

Next was shopping along Saint Laurent Boulevard. Unexpectedly, we discovered a vintage pop-up called Flohmarkt. The pop-up collective was started by Alex Mondry after she spent time in Berlin and saw similar collective pop-ups there successfully connecting young people and creating community fun. Flohmarkt’s schedule is random, mostly on weekends, and usually in different locations, once or twice a month. You have to follow Flohmarkt on Facebook to find out where and when the next pop-ups are happening. Flohmarkt attracts about 20 to 25 independent vintage vendors per event. The selection is great and the prices are cheaper than Toronto. Here’s a small selection of Montréal vendors who were at this pop-up: Pink Parade Vintage, Reruns Vintage, The Vintage CoMTL, Sunset People Vintage, Hodge Podge Attic and La Petite Veste Rouge.

We asked Alex where we should go next for more vintage shopping and good prices. She was happy to direct us to a nearby shop called Eva B. She forgot to mention it’s a massive three story vintage and designer emporium, packed to the rafters with everything you can imagine, along with a café, three patio decks, free popcorn and kombucha on tap. It was fabulous fun just exploring the place and the prices were unbelievable (my travel companion got three dresses for $30). If you love hunting for a bargain, you will love Eva B.

At this point in the day, we needed to refuel – shopping is exhausting! Back at the Fairmont we first popped into the Marché Artisans to grab Cobb and Caesar boxed salads to-go for a light dinner on the move. Upstairs in our hotel room we discovered a lovely dessert plate waiting for us with maple fudge, chocolate tarts and macarons.

Our last night was all planned out as a result of talking to people we met in Montréal. One of the W Hotel bar experts had told us about Pouzza Fest, an annual punk music festival happening all weekend. Little did we know over 175 bands perform in different venues all within walking distance from each other in the downtown core. What a great opportunity to check out the Montréal punk scene! We walked from the hotel to the Pouzza outdoor venue, where we listened to live music while eating our Fairmont gourmet salads – kinda punk don’t you think!

Energized with punk spirit we hopped in an Uber around 10:30 PM to follow a tip we got earlier in the day at Flohmarkt for a DJ night called RapMommies. The event was hosted by ARTGANG Montréal at their Saint-Hubert gallery space (one of two in the city). From what we gathered, both gallery spaces feature avant-garde contemporary art and they also throw dope parties! The two RapMommies DJs, local moms with a fan following, had everyone dancing to a correct mix of old school classics and new hits including Beyoncé, NERD, Cardi B, TLC and The Notorious B.I.G. They even threw down Britney Spears’ I’m A Slave 4U! When’s the last time you danced to that one. There was a giant video screen over the DJ platform showing a mash-up of videos from the Spice Girls to No Doubt, even clips from Meghan Markle’s wedding! Along with a smoke machine and a live rap performance this night really hit us with the unexpected.

Day 4 > Total Immersion, Beyond The Core

After a boozy, sweaty night dancing till 2:00 AM we needed to rejuvenate. After checking our bags with the concierge and grabbing coffee at the Fairmont’s Kréma Café we walked to Old Montréal to the Scandinave Spa to experience traditional Scandinavian hydrotherapy. We thoroughly enjoyed the peaceful (no talking allowed) atmosphere as we drifted from the large hot tub with thermal waterfall, to the ice cold plunge pool, to the eucalyptus steam room and Finnish dry sauna. After each round of hot/cold water treatments we rested on large bean bags sipping Camellia Sinensis organic herbal tea and fresh fruit smoothies. All you need to bring is a bathing suit, the spa provides all other essentials like a robe, towels, sandals, an electronic padlock for a locker and ONEKA shower products. Toronto needs a Scandinave Spa! 

Feeling refreshed, we now had the rest of the afternoon to explore Griffintown, the banks of the Lachine Canal and Little Burgundy before catching the seven o’clock train back to Toronto. We ubered to Griffintown for lunch at Le Marché Italien Le Richmond; a beautiful open concept space with bar, bistro and a food market which has more than 2,000 exclusive grocery products imported from Italy, as well as many local ones, such as brewed in Montréal Fous de l’île Kombucha. Our lunch starters were salads: Mozzarella Di Bufala with fresh strawberries, perfectly crisp croutons and a fig balsamic dressing and an elevated Caesar with the most heavenly bacon. We split our main, the Pizza Prosciutto – Le Richmond’s thin crust pizzas are popular in the neighbourhood. The Brioche French Toast was also recommended, but we didn’t have room for it, so sad!

After a long, languid lunch we realized our itinerary was a tad too ambitious if we were going to make the train on time. Our brilliant Le Marché Italien Le Richmond server, Victoria, advised us to find La Station F-MR, an outdoor space along the Lachine Canal featuring a beer garden (also serving Kombucha & vodka cocktails!), live DJs, fashion Boutique Phi and a café. All assembled in and around a massive  scaffolding which included four old, out of service Montreal subway cars. Inside three of the subway cars were an art installation, the café and the fashion boutique with a MR-63 VR installation. Boutique Phi stocks local designer clothing like Daa, Pony, Dulcedo and Nik Brovkin, as well as accessories, magazines and art books. La Station F-MR is the temporary precursor to a much bigger permanent community project by the non-profit organization MR-63; a three-storey culture complex to be built in 2020. The City of Toronto and Waterfront BIA should be looking at this sustainable development project for inspiration! Check it out here: https://mr-63.ca/en/the-project/.

With the clock ticking, we had to pull ourselves away from La Station F-MR and circle back to Old Montréal for one last important stop. No trip to Montréal is complete without tasting French pastry created by a Master Pastry Chef and M.O.F. recipient (the Meilleur Ouvries de France is like the most prestigious French award you can get for pastry). Introducing the Maison Christian Faure’s Ecole de patisserie on Place Royale! We could hardly wait to try the pastry shop’s Snacking Chic menu (when I read about it online, I thought it was the coolest menu name ever, LOL). The selection of delectable éclairs, macarons, babas, mille-feuilles and cakes is insane. We settled on a summer fruit éclair avec vanilla and white chocolate creme. It’s hard to describe just how amazing the éclair was….I think my heart stopped (in a good way!).

With no time to spare, we departed the Snacking Chic Parlour with some of Christian’s macarons, to catch the train back to Toronto. On the train we were surprised to find our traveling companion was a demure white poodle named Gypsy. She had her own seat and was clearly used to traveling first class. Dinner was Chicken Tikka Masala along with Quebec beer Chipie Pale Ale. In the time it took to get back to Toronto we had convinced Gypsy she needed to get on Instagram. I wonder what her handle will be?

Guide Summary: How To Embrace The Unexpected

We hope this guide will inspire you to travel to Montréal soon. Based on this experience, our advice is; book a fabulous hotel, linger over every meal, treat yourself to exotic cocktails, and when a local invites you to a party, say yes!

The trick to discovering the unexpected in Montréal is to stray from your travel plan a little bit every day. Make conversation with bar staff, the hotel concierge, shop clerks – tell them you are looking for something new and different. Mix it up! Don’t be a slave to your itinerary.

All our unexpected experiences happened because we looked up from our phones and Yelp reviews and talked to people we encountered randomly. We found Montréalers to be incredibly courteous and hospitable. Torontonians could learn from this openness.

***

Montréal Recommendations

Don’t worry if you can’t speak French that well, almost everyone in Montréal speaks English. Also, we used Uber on this trip (Lyft isn’t in Montréal yet), and the average ride was $10. In total, we took about 14 Ubers in four days.

EXTRA Shopping

OFFICIEL MONTRÉAL https://www.instagram.com/officiel.mtl/?hl=en

Independent Montréal label with retro-Olympic fashion sensibilities and a contemporary attitude. DM to order.

Flohmarkt https://www.facebook.com/flohmarktpopups/

FYI, Alex plans to bring Flohmarkt to Toronto soon!

Eva B www.eva-b.ca/en/

SSENSE https://www.ssense.com/en-ca/locations/montreal

Boutique Denis Gagnon http://denisgagnon.ca/en

Boutique du Musée D’Art Contemporain https://macm.org/renseignements/boutique/

Feature many Québécois and Montréal products as well as special artistic collaborations with local designers.

Check out this Made In Montréal link! https://www.madeinmontreal.org/

Good, Good Food

Brunch/Breakfast >

Le Passé Composé http://www.bistropassecompose.com/photos/

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Sunday Brunch http://www.restaurantroselys.com/sunday-brunch/

Arthurs http://arthursmtl.com/brunch/

Byblos Le Petit Cafe http://bybloslepetitcafe.ca/

Lunch/Dinner >

Nom Nom http://nomnommtl.com/

Pamika – Brasserie Thai http://www.pamika.ca/

Nacho Libre http://www.vivanacholibre.com/

Richmond Terrace & Le Marché Italien Le Richmond http://lerichmond.com/en/

Perles et Paddock http://perlesetpaddock.com/en

Boris Bistro http://borisbistro.com/en/

Punjab Palace http://www.punjabpalace.ca/

Snacking/To-Go Foods >

Maison Christian Faure’s Ecole de Patisserie https://maisonchristianfaure.ca/en/

Snacking Chic Café

Alexis le Gourmand https://www.alexislegourmand.com/

Upscale food market, prepared foods & groceries

Fairmount Bagel http://www.fairmountbagel.com/

24-hour bakery

Where To Crash In Style

W Hotel http://www.wmontrealhotel.com

Shout-out to our W host, Jean Sebastien Labelle, who is fabulous!

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth http://www.fairmont.com/queen-elizabeth-montreal/

Hôtel William Gray https://hotelwilliamgray.com/

Hotel de Paris http://hotel-de-paris.hotels-in-montreal.net/en/

Hotel Monville https://www.hotelmonville.com/en/

For the Love of ART

Galerie Youn https://galerieyoun.com/

ARTGANG Montréal http://artgangmontreal.com/

Art Mûr Montréal http://artmur.com/

Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal https://macm.org/en

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts https://www.mbam.qc.ca/en/

Phi Centre https://phi-centre.com/en/

Arsenal Contemporary Art Montreal  http://arsenalmontreal.com/

Reopening June 29, 2018

Check out this link for more art gallery locations in the city. http://galeriesmontreal.ca/?lang=en

Get Outside

La Station F-MR https://mr-63.ca/mr-63-devoile-la-station-f-mr/

Sundays at Piknic Électronik https://piknicelectronik.com/montreal/en/

May 20 to Sept 30, 2018

La Grande Roue de Montréal https://www.lagranderouedemontreal.com/en/ticketing

Fitz & Follwell Bike Tours  https://fitzandfollwell.co/tour_category/bike-tours/

Travel

VIA Rail Toronto/Montréal https://www.viarail.ca/en/explore-our-destinations/trains/ontario-and-quebec/toronto-montreal?gclid=Cj0KCQjwl7nYBRCwARIsAL7O7dE385K5gv44UDGF0e2e-Qg2ygu9YYPV-Vlr8cGoI_EP13EysCNwtMAaAsV7EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Montréal Tourist Information

https://www.mtl.org/en

https://www.oldportofmontreal.com

https://www.quebecoriginal.com/fr-ca

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