According to a new study put out by the EasyPark Group, Montreal is among the top 20 smartest cities in the world, coming in at number 17 among cities with a metro area population of over 3 million people.
EasyPark's Smart & Sustainable Cities Index ranks cities around the world based on data that factors in "digital life, mobility innovation, business tech infrastructure, and sustainability."
With an overall ranking of 82.24 out of 100, Montreal ranked just under cities like Chicago, Tokyo, Paris, and our mortal frenemies, Toronto, which came in 12th place.
First up, in the "digital life" category, Montreal got scores above 80 for "citizen adoption" and "health care innovation." Where we lagged behind was in the "government adoption" and "tech education" subcategories.
Next, in "mobility innovation," our city got big scores for "traffic management" and for our "clean transport" infrastructure. Meanwhile, "parking innovation" got a relatively low score of 73.41 out of 100.
For "business tech infrastructure," Montreal lost a lot of points in the "business innovation" subcategory, claiming only 57.92. It was also held back by its "internet connectivity" score but gained ground with a cool 86.08 out of 100 on the "e-payments" subcategory.
Finally, Montreal was also unfortunately held back by its low-70s scores for its "climate response," "waste management" and "green buildings." Our city made up for these low marks with its performance in the "green energy" subcategory, with a score of 85.62 out of 100.
If you enjoy the escapism that Netflix's hit series Emily in Paris provides, you'll be happy to know there's more where that came from. No, we're not talking about a second season — although Netflix has announced that there is going to be one. Rather, Montreal is the closest thing to Paris in Canada.
By simply exploring our enchanting city, and with the help of a little imagination, you can instantly transport yourself to France, Emily-style.
Some activities will have to wait until lockdown lifts. But it really only takes a walk around to feel like you've travelled to one of Europe's most romantic, fashionable and delicious destinations.
It's also a Roman Catholic minor basilica just like the famous Sacré-Coeur in Paris, which boasts its own domes and which is also the highest point in town.
Why It Feels Like Paris: Owner Lysanne Pepin told MTL Blog the idea for the alleyway setup came from visits to European markets. The magical and elegant vibes have Paris written all over them. It's also right in the heart of Old Montreal, which has that historical Parisian charm to it.
Why It Feels Like Paris: You can't think of Paris without thinking of the Eiffel Tower. The Montreal Tower may not look much like it, but both architectural marvels are emblematic of their home cities. And, in both cities, locals have been known to roll their eyes as they complain about these "eyesores" — so we at least have that in common.
Why It Feels Like Paris:Fountains are a thing in Parisian parks, and Montreal's Parc La Fontaine puts its fountain in its name, not to mention that it's a beautiful 40-hectare green space with two linked ponds and waterfalls.
Plus, it's in the Plateau, home to French immigrants and architecture, making it the perfect place to bring a charcuterie board, as you enjoy a picnic on the grass while wearing a beret.
Why It Feels Like Paris: What trip to Paris would be complete without macarons? Sweet, light colourful little bursts of meringue and icing sugar.
Christian Faure, the chef, was actually born in France and trained in France, having worked in multiple Paris patisseries. This location of Maison Christian Faure is in the Old Port, which will make the experience all the more Parisian.
Why It Feels Like Paris: This Parisian-style bistro on Rue Saint-Denis is a Montreal classic, having been in business since 1980. Reviewers rave about the food, the service and the French ambiance. It's a little taste of Paris.
Why It Feels Like Paris: This Outremont restaurant and café is an ideal spot to people-watch as you sip on a café au lait, just as you might in Paris. The website says it "will give you the impression of being in a pretty little 'coin perdu de Paris'" and reviewers agree.
"Beautiful terrasse and the inside feels like a Paris café. Croissants are die for, especially the almond cream or paste ones," wrote G V on Foursquare.
Why It Feels Like Paris: The Project for Public Spaces called this square in the Plateau "the closest thing to a European neighbourhood square you'll find this side of the Atlantic." We can't help but agree!
Why It Feels Like Paris: To be "in Paris," you need traditional French bread, and you need it to be fresh.
"After living in Paris, I learned what great bread should taste like so I'm a bit of bread snob now [...]. I have been hunting everywhere and I can say that Guillaume is my little bakery heaven in Montreal," wrote Min C., a reviewer on Yelp.
Why It Feels Like Paris: You know the scene when Emily basically has an orgasm in her mouth from trying a pastry? We dare you not to have the same reaction at Pâtisserie Au Kouign Amann.
They're best known for Kouign-amann, a classic cake from Brittany, France, but Yelp reviewers say their croissants are some of the best in the city.
Why It Feels Like Paris: Writers are drawn to Paris. Great American novelists, including Hemingway and Fitzgerald, flocked there in the 1920s. And we can't forget the French natives... Do names like Voltaire, Balzac, Victor Hugo and Proust ring a bell?
Take in some of that literary culture at French-language indie bookstore Gallimard.
Why It Feels Like Paris: Who goes to Paris without seeing a cabaret? This venue offers a wide variety of shows, including burlesque. But whichever act you see, it'll feel like a Paris cabaret.
Why It Feels Like Paris: City Hall has been called "one of the best examples of the Second Empire style in Canada," a style of architecture also known as Napoleon III style.
According to Canada's Historic Places website, it was likely "modelled on some of the great public buildings built in Paris in the previous two decades."
It's one of those deals that will only be available for a limited time, but if you hurry, you can get a round trip flight from Montreal to Paris for a fraction of the price of a regular ticket.
Normally a round trip flight can run you up to $1,100. But right now you can get the same deal for only $375!
Now you'll be able to spend all that extra cash on things that actually matter, like visiting the city, EATING ALL THE FOODS, and drinking all the wine your heart desires.
Last night, the province of Quebec was shocked when a shooting took place in a mosque in Sainte-Foy
So far, we know there were 6 people killed and 8 injured. The suspected shooter named Alexandre Bissonnette has been arrested and may appear in court to face charges later today.
And now, France will be holding it's own vigil. The Eiffel Tower will exceptionally remain unlit tonight in order to show its support to Quebec and Canada.
Okay, raise your hand if your goal in life is to get yourself TF to Paris. Is your hand raised? Good. It should be, because honestly, Paris is above and beyond awesome.
If you've always wanted to get yourself to this hub of culture, but are constantly travelblocked by the price, have I got some good news for you: you can now fly to Paris from Montreal for $250.
WOW Air is offering a $250 flight to Paris on certain days in January until at least March, according to the calendar on their website, so if you can't just pack up and go, you've still got some time to plan yourself a trip.
This isn't a round trip, though: a ticket from Paris back to Montreal will cost you about $275 depending on when you choose to leave. Both the trips to and from include a stopover in Iceland.
Which makes tickets to Paris a grand total of about $524... pretty awesome, considering Paris is everyone's travel goals and typically way more expensive to get to.
If you're in the same boat as me, graduation is fast-approaching and, although you're thrilled to be completing school forever, you're also a little freaked out about what you'll be doing after you graduate. It's pretty scary to think about your future, especially since all you've been doing for your entire life is school.
But your possibilities are endless. If you're someone who wants to jump right into the workforce and start grinding right away, do it! If you're someone who isn't quite finished with school yet and wants to continue with a graduate program or a shorter college program, do it! But if wanderlust has been calling your name and you just can't wait to get out there and explore all the amazing, endless beauties of the world, then you've got to go travelling.
I've been dreaming about travelling after graduation for as long as I can remember and I have quite the list of dream destinations built up already. Of course, you won't be able to hit all of these places in the same trip. You'll have to choose between the three main post-grad trips: Southeast Asia, South America or Europe. Once you decide, get ready for the time of your life!
Thailand is my number one dream destination right now for when I graduate. My absolute favourite kind of food is Thai food and I've been dreaming about travelling there and getting to try some actually authentic Thai food. Thailand is amazing for many other reasons other than the food though. They have an abundance of tropical islands to explore, hop from one to another until you discover them all!
If you'd like to save money while you're here, skip the islands in Southern Thailand, because this might be the most expensive area to visit, and head up to Northern Thailand instead. Here you'll find colourful temples and tons of culture!
Amsterdam is the definition of a backpacker's European paradise. Amsterdam is full of amazing sights to see and activities to enjoy, but it also turns into a crazy party city every night. You can't miss some of the best sights that Amsterdam is known for such as visiting the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and biking along their famous canal in the middle of the city. At night, take a walk over to the Red Light District and enjoy some of the crazy clubs they have there. I can't forget to mention that 'soft' drugs are legal there, such as marijuana and magic mushrooms so get ready for a party on this trip.
Bali is the perfect travel destination for graduates who want to get out of their comfort zones and discover something new about themselves. It's a magical place filled with beauty, nature, and relaxation that you won't be able to find anywhere else. Bali is definitely on my list for after I graduate. You can't miss taking a morning yoga class, getting a cheap massage on the beach, or watching the sunset every night. Take some time to explore the breathtaking islands off the coast of Bali as well!
Santorini is part of the Cyclades islands of Greece located right on the deep blue Aegean Sea. This city is made up of clean, white buildings and churches with deep blue roofs, all contrasting the bright blues of the water below. Explore the cultural castles and monasteries that are scattered throughout the towns and relax on the pebbly beaches! Who doesn't love Greek food, also? Here you can get the most authentic and delicious Greek food you'll ever find anywhere!
Italy is one of the tougher European cities to stick to a budget for a few different reasons. One is that you'll want to eat basically everything you see. It is the birthplace of Nutella, pizza, pasta, gelato and basically everything good in the world so it's going to be tough for you to hold back on having 6 meals a day here. Hostels here are also pretty expensive, they can range anywhere from 25-60 euros a night, which for Canadians can add up to quite a lot. Don't let this deter you from coming here though, Italy is one of the most amazing places you'll ever visit.
My favourite places when I travelled here were Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Florence, Venice and Rome. Even though Rome is very touristy if you're coming to Italy you can't miss the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevvi Fountain, and so much more!
South America is one of the cheapest destinations for tourists, especially recently graduated backpackers. If you're up for staying in hostels, then Peru will be a super cheap trip for you. The one thing you absolutely must do while you're in Peru is hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This hike is challenging and will take you a few days but it's totally worth it. You should also visit the cheap markets in Cusco, visit the Amazon Rainforest, and explore the historical cities!
Portugal is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe. The price of accommodation here isn't as expensive as most places, you can find hostels for around 10-15 euros easily. Portugal is also one of the most beautiful places to visit, with the breathtaking beaches on the Azores Islands, the religious monuments in Braga, and the historic buildings of Evora. You can also do some crazy partying in Lagos, which is known for their bars, clubs and beautiful beaches!
Another classic South American destination is Bolivia, and it's just as cheap as all the others. You won't be disappointed if you choose to travel here because there's so much to see and you're guaranteed to meet a bunch of new people doing the same thing as you are! Stay in the capital city of La Paz and take the teleferico to the top of Mount Illimani and explore the abundant markets. The main excursion you should make on this trip is to the Uyuni Salt Flats, which is Bolivia's most famous destination. Take the classic, creative pictures here, relax in some hot springs, and hike up volcanoes!
Laos is another dream destination for those hoping to travel to Southeast Asia once they graduate. The cities here are filled to the brim with cool things to see and do. Head over to Luang Prabang to swim in the famous Kuang Si Falls, just make sure you don't visit during rainy season because the colour of the water won't be as bright blue as usual! Next head over to Vang Vieng for a backpacker's favourite hub and find some great nightlife, caves and rivers to explore. Don't miss Vientane for the historical temples and rivers!
Like most European cities, Budapest can get expensive but the trick is to plan your travels right. Stay in a hostel, which you can find for the affordable price of around $10/night and the food here is very cheap, with lots of delicious options on the streets. You must visit Hungary's largest outdoor thermal bath, the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, explore Buda Castle, and walk across the famous Chain Bridge!
Clearly the most expensive destination on this list, but the Fiji islands are something that shouldn't be missed in your lifetime. So now that you're graduated why not treat yourself to this beautiful trip? Spend your days lounging on the whitest, smoothest beaches you'll find in the entire world, take a morning dip in the crystal clear water, and spend your evenings watching the most breathtaking sunset you'll ever see!
Morocco is one of the most amazing places to visit, you won't disappointed if you come here. Visit the blue city of Chefchaouen, wander through the small alley-like streets and enjoy the bright blues, light blues, and deep blues of the city walls surrounding you. You must visit the capital, Marrakesh for some unreal markets filled with jewelry, textiles, and pottery! Head out to the dessert and ride a camel, sleep under the stars and go sand boarding!
This is the classic spot for everyone who wants to travel. If you're going to Europe you just have to go to Paris. It is the city of love after all! Since it's such a popular destination it can get pretty expensive here but, the same with Italy, it's not impossible to set a budget and stick to it. You must see the Eiffel Tower (obviously), visit the Arc de Triomphe, The Louvre, and Notre Dame de Paris. Enjoy the most amazing coffee, croissants and baguettes you'll have in the world! This is one trip you'll never forget.
Cambodia is such an amazing destination that you definitely can't miss on your Southeast Asian trip. The most popular place to visit here is Siem Reap, where you can find the historic and beautiful Angkor Wat ruins, abundant markets and so many temples it'll make you dizzy! (In a good way, of course) There's also a lot of magical beaches here as well, travel to Koh Rong Island for a relaxing few days on some white sandy beaches.
We all know that love is in the air of Montreal, and come on let's be real... Montreal is actually VERY romantic. So, if you want to impress that special someone, then you should for sure check out some of these ideas I have in store for you!
Not only does Montreal have great restaurants, they also have fabulous activities so you should really get started on planning this superb date for that special someone this summer. It's time to get fancy and classy in Montreal for a date your date wont forget!
Air plane watching in Montreal is actually very romantic on a cool summer night. I suggest heading to The Pitfield Circle with some chairs, candles, and chocolates for a sweet date that will fly high in the eyes of that special someone!
If your date has a sweet tooth, I suggest taking them out for cheesecake at Rockaberry! It's casual and has a cosy atmosphere. You and your date will both enjoy their delightful cheese cakes. I strongly suggest their Apple Crumble cheesecake since it melts in your mouth.
There is no better way to be romantic than to show your date the Montreal Botanical Gardens. They have gorgeous Lilac and Cherry Blossom trees that will blow your date's mind away! It's a perfect location to sit under the trees and enjoy a romantic and fruity picnic.
You will have your date saying Je t'aime in no time if you bring them to Cacao 70 for some amazing crepes! They are filled with chocolate and fresh fruit that no one would turn down. I promise that your date will be saying ou la la by the end of the night!
Play all the cards by bringing your date to lobster restaurant! I suggest Rib N Reef for some delicious Montreal lobsters. Splurge a little on your date and get some juicy lobsters and then some juicy kisses!
Show that special date some love by bringing them to a hot dumpling restaurant in Montreal! I recommend Le Cristal Chinois since it is classy and homey. It will show your date how much you care for them. You will sweep them off their feet!
Bring your date on a cute, but romantic, art adventure in Montreal! I suggest checking out the Montreal Museum Of Fine Arts or two of my favourites Paint The Nite and Le Ceramic Café! These two activities are things that you can enjoy together.
At Paint The Nite, you and your date drink up while sharing some good laughs and most importantly some gorgeous paintings (be sure to order tickets before hand)! At Le Ceramic Café, you and your date will enjoy yummy food while painting ceramic moulds and cups!
You will both have a blast and will be able to share something together! You can admire their beauty and the beauty of art!
If you know that your date is into health and Indian food, then check out one of Montreal's restaurants! I suggest Rumi since it's cosy, comfy, and delicious!
Enjoy some sweet sangria at one of Montreal's fancy restaurants! I suggest Terrasse Bonsecours, it's fancy, sweet, and you and your date will have a great tipsy night.
For a fancy, classy, and tasty date I strongly suggest Le Passé Composé. It's a superb brunch place and your date will fall in love with it and with you!
Why not show your date a romantic time over a nice cup of coffee! The Tommy Café is a perfect place for a romantic coffee. It's sweet, fun, and it will bring you and your date closer together. You will have a sweet cosy time to get to know that special someone a little better.
Be a romantic and take your date out to Saint Sushi Bar for a romantic dinner. Their food is presented in a classy way and you will for sure impress that special someone.
Bring your date on a trip to Asia by taking them out to Jatoba or Toyo in Montreal! These two restaurants are delicious and your date will be amazed by your taste!
Jatoba has fabulous food while Toyo makes the food right in front of your eyes! It's fun and romantic.
Now, if you really want to impress your date with some romance, I suggest taking them wine tasting! Take a little field trip to Vignoble Bouche Art located in Bouchard Island and impress your date with your wine knowledge!
There is no better way to be romantic than to take your special someone to a romantic Montreal terasse! My personal favourite that always works is Terasse Nelligan. It has a gorgeous view of the Basilica and trust me, it is as romantic as it gets!
Personally, I adore their fish tacos and delightful sangria! So head down to Old Montreal and make that date romantic!
Pamper that special someone and bring them to the Bonaventure Hotel for a gorgeous meal on their rooftop garden! It is absolutely to die for and it's SO romantic. Honestly, it's my favourite idea!
If you are looking for the perfect romantic and intimate date, then I suggest taking that special someone to watch the sunset on Mount Royal. The view is breath taking and why not make it extra special with some snacks and candles to romanticise the mood!
Mount Royal is a crowd favourite and I can assure you that your date won't be disappointed!
Well, I don't expect you to actually take your date to Paris, but dinner at Europea may feel like you are spending money on a trip there! It may be expensive but it is very sophisticated and romantic. So if you want to buy your dates heart with authentic food, then Europea is the place to be!
We all know how fancy and romantic wine is, but let's not forget about champagne! La Champagnerie is a perfect place to taste test some fancy wine with that special someone. It's romantic and a real show stopper!
Montreal has magical views especially from the waters that surround it, so why not take that special someone on a romantic boat ride! Personally, I find Le Bateau Mouche to be a very romantic place for a great brunch. You will impress your date and have a wonderful time for yourself.
Have a fun and sweet time with that special someone by taking them to a wonderful cooking class in Montreal. You will taste each other's creations and ultimately have a great time! I suggest tying Chef En Vous for a fun and tasty time.
23. Make Your Date A Candlelit Picnic And Go Stargazing
Montreal has multiple parks that are all perfect destinations for a candlelit dinner and to then lie down and go stargazing. I suggest setting your date up at Jarry Park. It's a magnificent park to set up a blanket and candles for that romantic dinner under the stars.
Head down to Montreal's only drive-in movie theatre located in Saint-Eustache for some old school romance. It's a great way to enjoy your date's company and to have some good old laughs! It's romantic especially if you set up your truck as a temporary bed.
Mmm mmm good! I would love to go on a romantic date that involves tasting chocolate and even making some! I mean chocolate is anybodies best friend and it is super romantic to have each other taste test chocolates by feeding them to one another.
I suggest hitting up Divine Chocolatier Inc. where you can make, learn, and eat chocolate! It's tasty for all and a great romantic destination for that special someone in Montreal. It's located right near the Montreal Museum Of Fine Arts so combine this idea with number 7!
Why not take your date on a magically horseback riding trip to the Saint Lazare Ranch. It is about 40 minutes from Montreal and it's a great place for a romantic start!
It's fun for everyone and you can even request to set of that classy candlelit picnic at the end of your ride, like I mentioned in number 23!
When all else fails, go the typical way and take that special someone out on a spa date at one of Montreal's luxurious spas! I suggest doing this typical idea but at a less typical place.
Instead, be more secluded and head down to Spa Le Finlandais! It is romantic and very modern. It is most romantic during a sunset and also at night with all the lights that turn on. So impress that special someone with relaxation and sophistication!
A surefire way to stay positive and have a smile on your face every day is to have a set path to wake up to and to aim for greatness. Below are 33 short motivational quotes by scholars, famous authors and many other acclaimed people in history. Give them all a read and see how you feel afterwards. Enjoy!
1. "What you do today can improve all your tomorrows." - Ralph Marston
2. "In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can." - Nikos Kazantzakis
3. "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." - C. S. Lewis
4. "Problems are not stop signs, they are guidelines." - Robert H. Schuller
5. "Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later." - Og Mandino
6. "You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else." - Albert Einstein
7. "Aim for the moon. If you miss, you may hit a star." - W. Clement Stone
8. "The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today." - H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
9. "Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'!" - Audrey Hepburn
10."Believe you can and you're halfway there." - Theodore Roosevelt
People around the world are dealing with the recent Paris attacks in their own way, remembering not only those who were lost in France, but also Beirut and Kenya to name a few. While we collectively try and figure out how to move forward from here, many cities have lit up their buildings with the colours of France as a sign of solidarity. Montreal showing its own support, has done the same. Check out our own landmarks lit up around the city below.
