you LACK THE ESSENTIAL components french Canadians- oneillchris said.

What components?

The political uncertainty in Quebec has been around since the 70's; it's pretty much a given now... who cares ?
It doesn't stop Montreal from being charming and welcoming and fun....

Toronto is a great city also; more rigid and conservative, imo.... Nevertheless interesting to visit.

The original poster wanted opinions on both and got what she asked for.....and much more....

I live in Toronto. It is a great city. All of the aforementioned information is accurate and informative. That said, I would consider Montreal a more unique choice. Both offer great shopping, nightlife and restaurants. Both are very safe for females travelling. Both are close to unique attractions (Montreal to Quebec City - Toronto to Niagara Falls and Niagara on the Lake). Montreal offers you the chance to brush up on your French. While not mandatory, it is fun to make the attempt to speak and understand the language. It could add to the charm of your experience. Have a great time whatever your choice.

Definitely Montreal. Before I visited both cities last year, I thought I would prefer Toronto based on what a lot of people had said. However, after visiting both on the same trip, Montreal seemed to have a lot more to offer for a short stay. I can't compare the shopping but I found the nightlife, restaurants etc much more interesting in Montreal. The nightlife in Toronto seemed a bit more staid.

That's not to say I didn't like Toronto. I had a great time there too. I get the impression that all the things people champion Toronto for(theatres, museums, galleries,
shopping etc) are all much better in New York. I suppose this point relates to a lot of people saying that Toronto is similar to a number of other North American cities whereas Montreal has fewer comparable cities in North America.

I have lived in Toronto for 56 years and have raised 3 children..great cosmopolitan place here for that/have one daughter moving to England/Afrika..another to study in France.but you must visit Montreal/Quebec City as well as Toronto
Ciao ,Bonjour,Buongiorno

Hey Mitch, If you re-read the post you'll note I was supporting Montreal as an option, Normally were on the same side when Montreal is concerned, and I was refering to our Latin Flavor not our politics.
Secondly the individual poster who took the personal swipe, its one thing to critique a city, its another to critique an individual, fodors is not intended for that. As far as healthy rivalry between Montreal and Toronto its on and off the ice, but leave the personal crap back home.

Hey , but in the sake of the friendly , ongoing rivalry ..... I think Montreal is winning !!!!

ah yes, the old rivalry between TO and Mtl...

Yes I did read again and your observations were good. I guess I got hung up on your bringing up the uncertainties. I also got you confused with hogtown.

I agree in keeping the debate on the subject and not the individual...

As a born and bred Torontonian, I feel ashamed to say this, but I have to say Montreal, having lived there for 4 years in my early 20's... and since it is shopping, restaurants and nightlife you are looking for, Montreal has all that in spades. Nightlife in Montreal is absolutely hands-down wicked. (Trust me I've spent many a drunken night in Montreal bars and clubs). Cheers!