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Old World France Meets New World North America: Travel Montreal

This charming Québécois city combines old-world French sensibility with a modern North American metropolis. Whether hiking on Mount Royal, or perusing through Arcade Fire’s stomping grounds in Mile End, it has a little bit of something for everybody. Here are The Manual’s suggestions for all your Montreal travel needs. Merci!

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The Ritz-Carlton Montreal
Constructed in 1912, there is some debate over whether this or the New York location was the first Ritz-Carlton in North America. Either way, it may be the most luxurious hotel in Montreal. With a Daniel Boulud restaurant attached and state-of-the-art amenities, how could it not be?
1228 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
Montreal
514-842-4212

EAT

Da Emma
Although it’s a little bit hard to find and located in a former women’s prison, there’s no need to worry. This place certainly isn’t anything like Orange Is the New Black. Brimming with old-world Italian charm, Da Emma brings the freshest Roman cuisine right to your table. We had the burrata and the veal-filled agnolotti with a bottle of Barolo, and everything was amazing! We even had a chance to meet the famous Emma. Still feeling a bit hesitant? Just check out her wall of fame, where everybody from Jake Gyllenhaal to Dev Patel to Brian Grazer has taken a photo with Emma while dining here.
777 Rue de la Commune Ouest
Montreal
514-392-1568

Maison Publique

Maison Publique means “Public House” or “pub” in English and the pub-like nature of this Montreal does not go unnoticed. With wood paneling, antique wallpaper, and a black alter-like bar, you’d be forgiven if you find yourself forgetting you’re in Quebec. Maison Publique’s hand-written menu is rife with all-Canadian ingredients and dishes including the delectable welsh rarebit, a rousing parfait de foie gras, and a sweet-closer in the form of a Meyer lemon tart.  Chef and owner Derek Dammann continues to keep it Canadian beyond his gastropub duties with his recent book, True North that profiles Canadian cooking from coast to coast.

4720 Rue Marquette
Montreal
514-507-0555

DRINK
Bar Le Confessionnal
This red-lit bar must be one of the most coolest places in the city for checking out with the slick locals hang out. We went on a Wednesday night, when hip-hop filled the room as everyone bobbed their bodies to the music.
431 Rue McGill
Montreal
514-927-4111

Big in Japan Bar
Hidden behind a red door, this little speakeasy serves up a giant punch bowl with 22 servings for a mere $65. What a great way to celebrate a night out with a group of friends!
4175 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Montreal
438-380-5658

GO
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Spread amongst four different pavilions, this museum carries everything from a vast Canadian art collection to one of Napoleon’s hats. If you’re looking for ideas for decorating your home, it also has one of the best museum design collections, with a Memphis Movement shelf, Eames chairs and even a Dyson vacuum.
380 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
Montreal
514-285-2000

Originally published on 05/31/2014 and updated on 07/25/2016 by Chase McPeak

Ann Binlot
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Ann Binlot is a New York-based freelance writer who contributes to publications like The Economist, Wallpaper*, Monocle…
10 must-know solo travel tips for a stress-free adventure
How to make the most of your solo travel experience
person rolling luggage through airport

I’ll never forget my first solo trip. I couldn’t help but wonder, would I get lonely? Would I feel safe? But as soon as I stepped out into the world on my own, I realized how freeing solo travel could be. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, embrace spontaneity, and fully immerse yourself in new experiences. That said, traveling by yourself also comes with its challenges. There’s a learning curve, but it’s worth it. If you’re planning your next vacation, here are the solo travel tips I wish someone had shared with me before I packed my bags.
Solo travel tips

Solo travel doesn't have to be a daunting prospect, just follow this advice to make your trip the best it can be.
Research your destination thoroughly
Before you set off, do your homework. Dive into the culture, customs, and quirks of your destination. Learn phrases in the local language like "hello," "thank you," and "help" – mastering the local slang might just earn you a few smiles! You should also check travel advisories and scour reviews from other travelers. You’ll want to know which areas are safe, the best ways to get around, and if you’re traveling internationally, where your country’s embassy is (just in case).
Plan, but not too much
Have a bucket list of fun experiences you want to do? Great – but don’t pack your schedule tighter than your suitcase. Leave space for the unexpected, like a random street fair, a hidden cafe, or a spontaneous invite to explore a local spot. Flexibility can be where the magic happens in solo travel.
Pack light and smart
When packing, stick to versatile clothing, bring only the essentials, and use packing cubes to keep things organized. And don’t forget the essentials – a power bank, universal adapter, first aid kit, and digital and physical copies of your important documents.
Stay connected
Before you go, ensure you have a reliable way to stay connected. This might mean purchasing a local SIM card, renting a portable Wi-Fi device, or arranging for an international data plan. Staying connected helps you navigate unfamiliar areas, keep in touch with loved ones, and access important information on the go. Apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and currency converters can be lifesavers during your travels. Don’t forget to download offline maps and guides in case you lose internet access.
Share your itinerary with someone you trust
While solo travel is about independence, it’s always smart to let someone know your plans. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information with someone you trust. A quick “I’m safe and having a blast!” text can ease your loved ones’ nerves. Apps like Find My or WhatsApp location sharing can add an extra layer of safety.
Choose accommodations wisely
Your accommodation can make or break your trip. Look for highly rated places (especially those recommended by other solo travelers). Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for meeting people, while private Airbnb spots can offer quiet comfort.
Own the solo dining experience 
Eating alone? Bring a book, journal, or your phone to keep busy, or sit at the bar and strike up a chat. Joining food tours or cooking classes is another fun way to combine good eats with good company.
Stay safe
If you’re going to listen to one of these solo travel tips, pick this one! Safety should always be a top priority when you're on your own. Keep your head on a swivel, be mindful of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it might just be. Consider keeping a photocopy of your passport in a separate bag and storing emergency cash in multiple locations. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for local emergency services saved on your phone.
Make friends (but set boundaries)
Traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone 24/7. Join group tours, attend events, or use apps like Meetup to connect with locals and other travelers. Remember, always trust your gut when meeting new people, and don’t feel pressured to share personal details if you’re uncomfortable. 

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After years of waiting, these European cities will finally be connected by train
Dreaming of visiting both Paris and Milan this year?
Inside of a building with brown walls, Milan, Italy

Are you planning a trip to both Milan and Paris this year? Your travel plans just got a major boost. Trenitalia France has announced the long-awaited return of its Paris-Milan train service, which will resume operations on April 1, 2025. The direct route, which passes through Turin, will once again connect the French and Italian cities, making it easier than ever to experience both iconic cities in one trip.

The service was suspended after a landslide near Maurienne in the French Alps on August 27, 2023, caused significant damage to the route. Now, after extensive repairs and months of anticipation, bookings are officially open, signaling the long-awaited revival of this beloved connection.
The details of the Paris-Milan train

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Qantas made these changes to its frequent flyer program
Qantas makes changes to Frequent Flyer program
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Qantas has announced multiple changes to its Frequent Flyer program, with enhanced benefits across the board. Members can soon access additional premium cabin reward seats and accrue even more reward points on each flight. As part of the update, Qantas will raise the price of Classic Reward seats, which haven’t changed in six years.
Qantas will introduce the changes over the next 12 months

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