Montreal is the cultural capital of Quebec and one of the leading cultural cities of Canada. It offers the excitement of one of North America’s oldest and most cosmopolitan cities with a unique mix of European and North American Influences. In addition to the large Francophone population, there is also a sizable Anglophone one and many cultural communities.
Located on an island in the St. Lawrence River, Montreal is home to a multiple and diverse attractions. Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets lined with buildings dating from the 17th through 19th centuries makes it a scenic and popular tourist attraction. Easier to explore by foot, it offers the Marché Bonsecours, Notre Dame Basilica and several museums (Marguerite-Bourgeoys, Pointe à Callière, George-Étienne Cartier). Place Jacques-Cartier is filled with street artists, musicians, numerous fine restaurants and private art galleries nearby. Every year, Montreal plays host to a large number of international festivals, cultural and sporting events.
Only one hour from New York City by air, and approximately 100 kilometers from the United States border, Montreal is renowned for the vitality of its economic life. From engineering to telecommunications, not to mention aerospace, IT and biotechnologies, it is home to the head offices of numerous cutting-edge companies, corporations and industries.
Climate
The weather in Montréal in June is very pleasant, but it can also rain. Average maximum June day temperature is approximately 20°C; low average temperature is 10°C.
Electricity
Electrical outlets in Canada provide the same as in the United States: 110 volts. If you are traveling from Europe or elsewhere, you will need an adapter to use (220/240V) small appliances.
Time zone
Montreal is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone. Eastern Daylight Savings Time begins on the first Sunday of April and ends on the last Sunday of October.
Tipping
Tipping is a custom in Canada for restaurant meals, taxis, and other services and varies from 10% to 15% (or more) depending on your satisfaction with the service you received. In Montreal, 10% is a good tip for a taxi while 15% is expected in a restaurant if the service was good. Tips are not normally added to your bills but be sure to check.
Currency
The official currency is the Canadian Dollar. We have 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 1000 dollar bills. The one and two dollar bills have been replaced by coins, sometimes referred to as ‘’Loonies’’ or ‘’Twonies’’. Smaller coins are 5, 10 and 25 cent pieces.
Current exchange rates can be found here.
Foreign currency and traveler’s cheques can be exchanged at the airport, any bank or at the exchange offices (bureau de change) which are common in the areas you’ll be visiting.. Most major credit cards are accepted in the majority of hotels, restaurants and shops.
Banking
Most banks are opened from 10:00 to 16:00 with some banks opened till 19:00 on Thursdays and Fridays. Some banks are opened on Saturdays and Sundays in the mornings.
ATM in those banks and hotels are available 24/7
Mobile telephone technology
CDMA, TDMA, GSM
Canadian Visas and invitation letters
Most of the visitors to Canada do not require entry visas. You can check if you need a visa here.
If you require an invitation letter please contact:
Rachid Aissaoui (rachid.aissaoui@etsmtl.ca)
