Dress "code" for Montreal
 

Hi,

My husband and I, both in our early 50s, will be in Montreal for eight days, arriving Sept. 20th. We're staying at the Hyatt Regency Montreal with breakfast included. For lunch and dinner we'll be venturing out and have already picked a few places (thanks for the earlier tips everyone!), also we're planning on shopping, sightseeing, and whatever else we may decide on.

I understand Montreal is a fairly "dressy" city, but what would you suggest for this time of the year, and for normal touristy activities, some walking, and mostly using public transportation? Are shorts too casual for the downtown scene, or would a skirt or dressy slacks be better choices? Or would business type clothing(suits?) fit in better? How about evening time, should we bring warmer jackets and coats, or is a cardigan warm enough, how about dressier clothes?

Please advise, I need to start packing this weekend.

Thanks,
Benita

Hi, finngirl56: Actually Montreal is not a "dressy" city! I go there all the time to visit my son who is @ McGill University. Sept 20 you probably won't be wearing shorts unless Montreal has "Indian Summer". You never know. If you have a nice wrap you can throw it over pants & a jacket ( there are some great jackets out for Fall!...Buy some in Montreal!) & you will look great!
I usually wear pants & a nice jacket or a suit. I wear black leather ankle boots b/c they are comfortable & look great w/ pants, jackets, suits. You don't need "dressier" clothes. For day, wear what you wld normally wear when doing "touristy" things. Be comfortable & have fun! Montreal is an amazing city.

Re: your other post; I always take a taxi downtown from the airport. About $30 + tip.

Are you golf fans? Are you going to The President's Cup when you are in Montreal? It is being held the last week in September.

Thanks for your responses "wow". I'm relieved it's not too awfully dressy, and I will plan accordingly.

The weather forecast for the 20th is 66F, 21st 70F, and 76F for the 22nd, although there is a chance of showers. The Hyatt was kind enough to mail us this info, and of course we're going to look it up ourselves, too, later in the week.

And no, we're not big golf fans, but you never know what we'll decide to do, as we really don't have any firm plans, but will take each day as it comes. The main purpose truly is to have fun, enjoy the area, relax and to try the local cuisine (our favorite "hobby":)

Sounds like taking a taxi will be the best choice, and of course faster and more comfortable. About how long would you say it takes from the airport (see my other post)?

Benita

About 20 minutes from the airport to downtown. But, if travelling b/t 4 & 6 a little more. What time does your flight arrive?

You will see people wearing all manner of clothing but on average I find Montrealers to be more stylish than people in other Canadian cities. I doubt that it will be warm enough for shorts in late September. I suggest not taking too much stuff so you have room to take back clothes you buy in Montreal.

A taxi to or from downtown was $35 + tip as of two weeks ago.

Thanks for the info.

Our flight gets in at 7.20 p.m. and by the time we do the passport check, get our luggage etc. it'll be kind of late to take the bus anyway, so I'm sure we'll go by taxi.

Our return flight leaves at 8.30 a.m. so we'll be heading to the airport around 6 o'clock, so a taxi will definitely be handier then as well.

You're probably right about it being too cold for shorts, as my husband heard this weekend they were expecting lows in the 39-40 F range. Days of course are warmer, but I guess it could be anything by next weekend.

Benita