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Tag: Montreal

Schwartz's Deli

Schwartz’s Deli in Montreal is Overratted

Posted on by Roberta Hill

I wrote a lengthy article comparing smoked meat in New York and Montreal. In it, I implied that Schwartz’s Deli might not be the best in town. My observation had not been drawn on any recent verification. This is still a nostalgic, popular spot, local, and because Schwartz’s Deli is listed in almost every travel book, blog and video, as a place to visit Montreal, it tends to have long lineups even off-season. So, as we were passing by last Wednesday afternoon, we were surprised to find a few seats available. I thought this would be a good time to verify my…

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Landmarks in Old Montreal

Old Montreal Quick Reference Guide

Posted on by Roberta Hill

Montreal has much to offer visitors from The Plateau to The Mile End to The Underground City to Saint Laurent Boulevard. It is my hometown, and I live in Ville Marie (Old Montreal). This article and checklist are geared toward first-time visitors. While the itinerary is four days, it includes arrival and departure. Old Montreal can be done in two full days, and I have asterisked what I consider the essential places to visit. I hope you come for a more extended stay and discover all my city has to offer. Download Your PDF Copy Here Old Montreal for First-Time…

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Exploring Your Own Backyard: Becoming a Tourist at Home

Posted on by Roberta Hill

Travel often sparks visions of exotic beaches, bustling cityscapes, or winding mountain trails, but there’s a hidden charm in rediscovering the place you call home. Becoming a tourist in your backyard offers a fresh perspective on your familiar surroundings, turning everyday sights into a unique adventure. Here’s how to dive into this local exploration and enjoy all the benefits of travel without needing a suitcase. All photos were taken recently in Montreal. Why Explore Locally? Staying close to home doesn’t mean sacrificing adventure. Local exploration offers several perks that travel abroad might miss: Reduced Costs: You skip airfare, accommodation fees,…

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Skydiving no longer on my bucket list

Posted on by Roberta Hill

Sometimes, the best travel experiences are practically in your own backyard. That’s probably why I write so much about Montreal or local day trips. Stories about Montreal Unless you’re a full-time nomad, there are many opportunities to visit things closer to home. I’ve had this strange sense of urgency this year. It’s made me want to plan and schedule everything I want to do before I pass on. We did South America this spring, And I booked our trip to South Africa for next October. But it’s not all about travel. It’s also about certain things that I wanted to…

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Monsieur Rose in Quebec and Montreal

Posted on by Roberta Hill

Philippe Katerine is a French singer, songwriter, actor, and director known for his eccentric and playful style. Born Philippe Blanchard on December 8, 1968, in Thouars, France, he gained fame in French pop music for his quirky and avant-garde approach to music and performance. In 2022, he founded the artistic movement Le Mignonisme, represented by the mascot named Monsieur Rose. Monsieur Rose is an inflatable sculpture that has been featured in temporary exhibitions across various cities around the world. Monsieur Rose is one of Philippe Katerine’s famous personas or alter egos. This character aligns with his penchant for playful absurdity and vibrant…

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Mont Royal pedestrian-only Streets

Magnificent Montreal’s Pedestrian-Only Streets Update

Posted on by Roberta Hill

Walking in Montreal Montreal is a city filled with history and charm, and one of the best ways to explore it is on foot. If you visit Montreal this year, walk or stroll uninterrupted by cars! You’ll be able to explore Montreal’s pedestrian-only streets and learn about the city’s unique charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular Montrealer, this walk is a great way to get to know the city! Montreal has several streets that transform into pedestrian-only zones during the summer, creating lively and bustling spaces for locals and visitors to enjoy. 9 pedestrian-only streets in Montreal…

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Quebec City in winter

Wonderful Quebec City in Winter

Posted on by Roberta Hill

I am working on two new books at the moment. One is on Old Montreal and the other is Old Quebec City.  Below is an except from Quebec City in Winter. A Winter Wonderland of Timeless Elegance When winter descends upon Old Quebec, the city undergoes a magical transformation, enveloping visitors in a world of timeless elegance and enchanting beauty. The glistening snow blankets the historic architecture, casting a serene and ethereal ambiance over the cobblestone streets and towering ramparts. The iconic Château Frontenac, a symbol of grandeur and history, stands majestically amidst the winter wonderland, evoking a sense of…

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Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Remarkable Notre-Dame Basilica

Posted on by Gregory Hill

We walked by Notre-Dame Basilica all the time, living so close by, but due to recent renovations, we haven’t had the opportunity to go inside that often lately. So, it was a joy for us to attend Handel’s Messiah. It’s just an excellent piece of music, regardless of its religious context. To hear it in the cathedral is particularly outstanding. Handel began working on Messiah in the summer of 1741 and completed the composition in just 24 days. The music was specifically written for an Easter performance, and its original context was rooted in Christian theology. The libretto, compiled by…

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Iconic Exterior Staircases of Montreal

Posted on by Roberta Hill

Montreal’s signature exterior staircases are not just architectural elements; they are woven into the city’s cultural and historical fabric. These staircases, primarily found in neighbourhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End, have become emblematic of Montreal’s unique architectural identity. Origins: Practical Design Choices The origins of these staircases are rooted in practicality and efficient use of space. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Montreal experienced rapid urbanization, there was a need to maximize living spaces within the constraints of narrow lots. Placing staircases outside allowed for more interior living space and helped reduce construction costs. Influence of Climate…

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