Roy Willis

My wife & I are flying in early September into Montrael for a couple of days and then by train to Quebec & Toronto for a couple of days at each place. <BR> <BR>What are some real special things to see/do that only a native would know? <BR> <BR>Also, what are the "Don't Miss" things to do in each city?

Bob Brown

In Quebec City, I have 3 suggestions: <BR>Chute Montmorency, the Plains of Abraham Museum, and Ile d'Orlean. Great waterfall that is setup for viewing, interesting story of a battle that changed the course of North American history, and a beautiful residential island that seems to reek of French Canadian culture. And oh yes, eat at least one meal at a very good restaurant. And you will be dissatisfied with a lot of restaurant meals forever. <BR>

Donna

I was all set to compose a long response, until I read the part "that only a native would know". Be advised that the "natives in the know" wouldn't think of directing you to their most favorite spots (why be over-inundated by "tourists") and the seasoned visitors, such as myself, would decline to offer suggestions.

Jody

I've been to these destinations many times. Your inquiry is perplexing, to say the least. With only a few days in each place, you'd be hard-pressed to visit all of the most appealing sights and attractions (sorry, they're all in the tour guides). In Montreal, for example, the interior of Notre Dame is indescribably breathtaking. And, not to be missed would be Rue St-Dennis, Rue St-Catherine and Place Jacques Cartier. But, these are also top destinations mentioned in all the tour guides. Come to think of it, I'd bet the authors of those tour guides have been all over and comprise their top sights and attractions and "must sees" accordingly. But, if you're the sort that would fly all the way to Paris and avoid the Tour Eiffel and the Louvre and the Champs Elysees, because they're "too touristy", perhaps you have better ideas. Do let us know on your return of any "undiscovered" "real special things to see/do".

Don

Roy, I'm a Montrealer and want to welcome you to our city, even for a brief stay. Since most of my travel is business-related, I rarely get to stay in any one place for very long. I fully understand your desire to get a local perspective prior to travel. In a few days, you'll really have to maximize your time and make sure you make all the 'right' decisions.<BR>If you wish, post or e-mail me with some of your personal interests and I'll be pleased to offer my recommendations. I have no qualms about sharing my opinions. That is, after all, what this forum is intended for. If you enjoy professional sports, music, theatre, the arts, nightclubbing, good food, and people-watching, then our interests are well-aligned. In the meantime, here's a few of my favourite centretown restaurants;<BR> <BR>Italian: Le Latini<BR> <BR>French: Bonaparte<BR> <BR>Oriental/Szechuan: Le Piment Rouge<BR> <BR>Steak: Gibby's<BR> <BR>Brunch: Eggspectations (de Maisonneuve) <BR>

Brian Kilgore

Good guide book editors learn what the natives like, when the natives are in tourist-mode, so you'll find Montrealers at the good tourist spots, and toruists at the good Montrealer spots. Possible exceptions; great hot dogs and french fries at any Costco; smoked meat sandwiches at Schwartz' Hebrew Deli on St. Laurent; coffee and pastries at the Second Cup on Greene Street in Westmount. <BR>BAK <BR>

Marie

Voila! Those top 25 things to see and do in the tour guides are really worth seeing and doing! A couple of days in each of your destinations can hardly cover all the "special" places. If you really want to avoid the most popular sights and attractions, contact the local "rooms for tourists" offices. Then, you'll be "living" in a "neighborhood". Just head out the door in a different direction every day and see what there is to discover...If you're really interested in the "Don't Miss things", read tour guides. And, it's MONTREAL.

Sue

Are you serious? Are you impaired? Should you choose to ignore the tour guides, you'll mis a LOT. What's the mater with you, anyway? Something wrong with the tried and true - to you? All the "real special" places are described beautifully in the numerous tour guide, but if you don't want to go to the most well-worth-visiting spots, do report back...if you discover others.. You're positively nuts if you think "natives" would "give up their secrets".. And, in a "couple of days" you can't posssibly even scratch the surface of these spectacular places. Buy and read a tour guide, for heavens sake, or explore on your own. As for "don't miss", be sure to report your discoveries...

HelenF

Sue, please, don't hold back, tell us how you really feel.

Kimberley

As someone who lived in Montreal for 20 years, I agree 100% with Don's restaurant picks. Especially Le Piment Rouge and Gibby's - both are landmarks with great meals! However, I moved away 6 years ago, and sometimes find myself missing the weirdest stuff when I get simple cravings that just can't be satisfied with substitutes. So, excuse me for being tacky, but if you're ever on the go and want a quick fast-food meal try steamed hotdogs and french fries at LaFleur's (a truck stop, I know, and I never thought I'd miss it, but...) or hamburgers at Harvey's. Also, if the steamed hotdog idea appeals to you but the truck stop doesn't, try the Montreal poolroom (if that place is still around!). KK

CafeBatavia

Good Lord, what a brutal reception this simple question got back in 1999. Poor Roy was kicked in the butt and sent fleeing for his life. I would not dare ask it again, but .....

mitchdesj

I just realized the original post was from 1999- I really don't think there are any sights that montrealers keep for themselves, Montreal is a pretty small city but it is filled with interesting areas that natives take pleasure in rediscovering time and time again- I know I do. The Plateau area is changing constantly and is filled with little cafes and restaurants- that might be an interesting area for a tourist to discover. I will be exploring little Italy soon to buy a new espresso machine, I have not been there in a few years. I find that montrealers in general are very generous with their advice on the city because we love living here so much. Our winters are so long and harsh that rediscovering the city in the summer is a renewed experience every year !!

Hopefully Roy enjoyed his trip 4 years ago !

Scarlett

Poor Roy!
I am thankful that when I was getting ready for my trips, everyone, Montrealer or not was kind about giving recommendations.