15 Things To Explain To Out-Of-Towners About Montreal

What you need to know if you're new in town or visiting.

Photo cred - Khoa Tran

Being a tourist in Montreal can be a little difficult, and it's time we threw the visitors of Montreal a bone. Any Canadian, American, or anyone who lives outside the city may experience some intense culture shock when they visit Montreal, as there are a lot of strange things the city and its citizens do that isn't found elsewhere.

To prepare all travelers, and yourself as a host, here are 15 things you need to explain to tourists about Montreal.

1. When we say metro, we mean subway

Some 'merican cities call it the same thing, but most other nearby metropolises refer to the metro as subway.

2. North is not north

Montreal does its own thing, even when it comes to cardinal directions. Just go with it.

3. Smoking & drinking in public is totally fine

Feel free to light a joint or sip on a bottle without fear of getting in trouble, s'long as you're not an asshole about it.

4. Crescent street isn't the only place with bars & clubs in the city

Tourists come into the city with a Crescent state of mind, and honestly, the street is probably the worst (save a few spots) when it comes to going out.

5. Jaywalking is a way of life

Think of traffic lights as suggestions, not strict rules. No one listens to them anyway.

6. Dep = Convenience Store

Short for depanneur. Be familiar with the term, you'll hear it a lot.

7. There are English speakers in Montreal

They just tend to live in the West Island or McGill Ghetto

8. No one goes out before midnight

Don't expect any bar/club/party to be happening before the dawn of the new day, it's just how it works

9. You can't make a right on a red

On the island of Montreal, this is not a thing.

10. 5-à-7 is just another term for Happy Hour

Everyone should know when the best drink deals happen.

11. Our beer is stronger than yours

Quebec and Montreal made beer regularly rocks a +6% alcohol content, even going into the double digits. Just beware, and check the labels.

12. The Main can mean a few things

Generally people are referring to a section St. Laurent street, but it can also refer to the deli, which is on the aforementioned street.

13. It's not a patio, it's a terrasse

Just so you know when a server asks you where you'd like to sit.

14. We don't really eat that much poutine, smoked meat, or bagels

Of course we adore all of them, but its not everyone's diet. Go nuts and try them all, just know they're a special treat for us too.

15. Downtown technically isn't called Montreal

The city-center is officially named Ville-Marie, the original title of the city, a cool factoid for tourists and citizens alike.

What would you mention to tourists?

For more on all things Montreal, follow Michael on Twitter @MDAlimonte

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