9 Ways To Feel Like Royalty In Montreal
Ah, the Royal family, their glamour and class intrigue us, making us wonder what it must feel like to be loaded, famous, beautiful and, well, royal! While one would think that this outdated institution would be less interesting to us in today's world, there is no denying we still love to consume anything that has to do with the royal family. We cried and mourned the tragic loss of Princess Diana. We swooned over Harry's military bod and envied his girlfriends. But perhaps most unanimously, we watched and cheered on Kate and William as they got married on live television. A whopping 72 MILLION people tuned in for this historic moment! And of course, we celebrated with the couple when they welcomed their son George, and recently, their daughter Charlotte, to the world! To say we are obsessed with the royal family is an understatement!
While unfortunately none of us can call Buckingham Palace home, there are so many ways we can experience the prestige of being royal. Montreal has tons of options when it comes to luxury and pampering, so you don't have to go too far to feel majestic . Likely none of us will ever truly know what it feels like to be royal, but pretending is just as fun! However, I don't see a ring on Harry's finger so you never know, anything is possible! Treat yourself to these elite Montreal establishments and let your inner prince or princess get the lavish treatment he or she deserves!
Photo cred- Real High Tea
1. Afternoon Tea at the Ritz -Carlton
Afternoon tea has been a Ritz tradition since opening in 1912. With first class service, delicious refreshments and of course, soothing tea, this well-known Montreal establishment will make you feel like a million dollars. They offer a variety of finger sandwiches, as well as pastries and scones. The Ritz is also known to host the rich and famous, so you never know who you might bump into!
Photo cred- Ryerson
2. Shop (or window-shop) at Holt Renfrew or Ogilvy
1300 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest or 1307 Rue Sainte Catherine Ouest
If you're looking for some chic outfits, Holt Renfrew or Ogilvy are your one-stop shops for fashion and elegance. Their boutiques include Chanel, Hermes, David Yurman and Louis Vuitton, just to name a few, and they carry brands like Rebecca Minkoff, Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade. For those of us who can't afford such luxuries, window shopping is the best way to pretend we can! Both stores have a café/restaurant where you can re-energize before or after you shop 'til you drop!
Photo cred- Ulysse
3. Spa day at Bota Bota
There's no better way to feel like a prince or princess than getting pampered at the city's top spa! Bota Bota has a great view of the city and is right on the St. Lawrence river. Their services include mani-pedis, water circuit, massage therapy, and yoga-pilates. They are opening their brand new Bota Bota Gardens this week, giving clients even more beauty to revel in!
4. Brunch at Birks Café By Europea
Enjoy a delicious, quality meal in a beautiful setting. Birks Café opens at 2:30 pm daily, and has some seriously yummy options, such as salmon tartar, foie gras and leek and gruyere cheese quiche. They have a vast selection of teas and wines, and a brunch menu that includes mimosas, suzette crepes and sliced smoked salmon. If your mouth is watering as much as mine, make your reservation now either via phone or online!
Photo cred- Chateau Vieux Montreal
5. Rent a room for the day/night at Chateau Vieux Montreal
Spending some time at this luxury castle turned hotel will make you feel like the fanciest b*tch around. With limousine services, a private chef, live music, and beauty/massage treatments, this hotel's elegance is undeniable. The best way to experience this gorgeous hotel would be by booking one of their castle suites. Their 600 square foot suite sleeps 8-10 people, so you can split the fees and crash here after a night on the town in the old port!
Photo cred- Conde Nast Traveler
6. Have a Glass (or a Few Glasses) of Wine at Pullman Wine Bar
Spoil yourself with some of the finest wines at Pullman. This downtown high end bar is fully stocked with over 400 wines and plenty of cocktail options. You won't have to drink on an empty stomach; their menu includes charcuterie and cheese platters as well as tapas style meals. Oh, and they also have a mesmerizingly beautiful chandelier made of wine glasses!
Photo cred- vBulletin
7. Get Cultured at the Museum of Fine Arts
If you're looking to check out some beautiful art then look no further! The Museum of Fine Arts is one of Montreal's greatest institutions. The museum has hosted some of the finest exhibits, including the works of artists like Andy Warhol, Chihuly, Yves Saint Laurent and Tom Wesselmann. This museum is not just for art connoisseurs, anyone who can appreciate art in general is bound to enjoy what this museum has to offer!
Photo cred- Canadian Music Blog
8. Spend an Evening at the Montreal Symphony
Give your ears a treat by attending the symphony: a magical place where music comes alive. The symphony is the best way to class it up and enjoy the beauty of good old instruments and a composer. The symphony hall is spacious and as refined as they come. With concerts throughout the summer, the symphony is welcoming to all, even accommodating parents with a children's section.
Photo cred- Visa Infinite
9. Fine Dining With a View at Hotel Nelligan
Have dinner with drinks on the gorgeous terrace of this luxury hotel. It's a great place to bring a date if you're trying to impress them. The ambiance is classy and the delicious French-inspired cuisine will make her or him feel incredibly special. Watching the sun set on the roof of this hotel is an absolutely breathtaking sight and should not be missed!