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MONTREAL-VISITS


Claudia's MONTREAL is Charm...Culture...Character.
She lures you in and embraces you all at once.
Customized, private visits for the curious and food enthusiast.


Soak up some of Montreal's local food and artistic culture, eclectic design and architectural landmarks.

From busier hubs to quaint corners, some of Montreal's most charming sectors...
will uncover gems of the past and pearls of the present.

Some of the city's best kept secrets will be shared to fully welcome you into an embracing experience.

Looking to avoid large groups of food related city tours?
Would you like to choose from suggested food options and stops that attract you?
Do you want to avoid going only to places where there are authorized tastings for bigger groups?
Do you prefer personal attention when considering being escorted around Montreal etc?

Corner bistro in the Villeray district...center of the local action.

Hosting very private and unique signature visits.
Immerse yourself in neighborhoods that you would want to call yours.
Montreal's allure drives food and shopping aficionados through paths of...
charming eateries and shops amidst eclectic architectural design and decor.


Only when you choose to, several desirable grazing or sit down stops can be enjoyed.
There are no selected food offerings...only suggestions will be shared with you.

 The best Montreal BAGEL battle is fierce.

Happen to notice an intriguing shop along our visit...
some allotted time is planned in order to give leeway to satisfy curiosities.

Knick-knacks to be discovered among tiny shops who sell the new and some already loved items.
Whether snacking while walking, sitting at the corner counter or simply having a more...
laid back moment for a longer tasting, this type of visit has been created for you.

 Dedicated cappuccino making at a corner sidewalk cafe in the Villeray quartier.



Your dedicated travel bug, food blogger and former Bed and Breakfast host has personally created several Signature visits for you to experience.

The Bed and Breakfast experience ultimately helped me realize how I one day would be itching to create unusual visits of Montreal to share with others.

During the nine years of hosting these accommodations, I got the opportunity to share what was great and distinctive about Montreal. My background in Interior design enhanced the experience by highlighting the interesting architecture which Montreal is blessed with.

On several occasions, I was fortunate to have requests to personally accompany my guests.  Many visits were then created without much fuss...especially when I showed off our unique 'quartiers' beaming with charm, culture and tons of character.




Let me guide you through informal and...
leisurely visits in some of Montreal's vibrant quartiers.

 Much personality from Montreal's open-air, European style Jean-Talon Market.


Several JUNE to OCTOBER visits are offered.

During your visit, there are carefully selected routes along food and shop stops for you to discover.
Many eateries will have several choices for you to pick from and devour to your heart's content.
You'll be guided from one delectable snack to another, allowing yourself to graze as you choose.
In order to leave you liberties of your choosing, the visits are based on a pick and pay as you go.
Certainly, when possible, special requests can be taken into consideration and worked into the visits. 

Let me offer you some shared visits of my favourite quartiers:


Request reservation info for this VISIT - 1

Le Petit Laurier to Le Plateau
. Within the vastness of 'Plateau Mont-Royal' lies a unique 'quartier' with charisma not matched by others.
. Diverse architecture and design is reflective of the successful efforts made to blend the old and new.
. The quartier's lifestyle will attract the curious and keep them coming back to discover their hidden gems.

Highlights en route:
. Narrow tree-lined street off-shoots where iconic staircases and colorful doors add to the appeal.
. The Sir Wilfred Laurier park has become the animated community unifying aspect to everyday life.
. Unique shops are mostly hosted by the owners themselves and local hangouts thrive with few tourists.
. Fine charcuteries and bistros serve food tastings that will entice the palate at every turn.

Heritage architecture to be appreciated from near or far:
. National Theatre School of Canada [1929]...on Saint-Denis
. Saint-Denis church [1931]...almost in front of Laurier metro.
. Sir Wilfred Laurier building [1930]...within its vast park Park.

Some featured FOOD and SHOPPING stops:
. French style pastry and local bakeries along with mouth-watering ice-cream will cuddle you.
. Asian, Oriental and Middle Eastern cuisine will tantalize the palate with discovery at every bite.
. Aromas will lure you into gourmet style shops dedicated to artisanal chocolate and other treats.
. Parisian style bistro will invite you into its charming atmosphere to enjoy the delicacies of the day.
. Quebecois Poutine as well as a nostalgic grilled cheese sandwich will offer a mouthful of pleasure.
. Many possibilities will be offered to you as to where to stop or go ahead to the next treasure.

DURATION ... RATE ... MEET:
Note: the visit will only take place with a minimum of 2 persons
. To maximize the experience, this visit will last 3 hours.
 . Visit takes place mostly on Laurier Avenue, East and its quaint side streets.
. Visit can end within a more touristic Avenue le Mont-Royal, also much loved by locals. 
*
. Depending on your private group: RATE starts at $35 to $75 CAD./person.
 . Meet up: 10:00 a.m. (flexible requests can be accommodated, just ask).
. Location meet: METRO (subway) LAURIER station (exit: North, Laurier East)...on the Orange line.
Request reservation info for this VISIT - 1
 ***


 Request reservation info for this VISIT - 2

Trendy Mile End...and beyond
. Eclectic personalities within an animated pool of bubbles waiting to burst for your curious pleasures.
. Located one mile from city limits, lies a varied ethnic mix who have shown examples of unity like no other.
. Its vibe will attract mostly for the iconic landmarks, which serve to lead foot steps into newer discoveries.

Highlights en route:
. The Lahaie park with its stunning anchored church serves as a magnet to lure you into the Mile End sector.
. Although some stretches seem economically depressed, there are certainly the gems in the hidden rough.
. Narrow streets group together some of the more appealing iconic magnets that lead to newer openings.
. Traditionally, Multi-Ethnic where garment industries were in force is today flourishing with other creativity.
. Inventive and dedicated food shops alongside some kitschy vintage stores are there to  rummage through.
. Iconic as well as trendier food tastings will render the experience exciting and surprising at every pit stop.

Heritage architecture to be appreciated from near or far:
. National Theatre School of Canada [1929] ...on Saint-Denis.
. Saint-Enfant-Jésus du Mile End church [1858]...Saint Dominique street...off Lahaie park.
. Fire station #30 [1905]...Saint-Laurent blvd. / Laurier...served as Mile End's town Hall for a few years.
. ST-Micheal Church (aka St. Micheal the Archangel)... [1915] on Saint-Urbain and Saint-Viator street.
. Rialto Theater [1910]...on Parc Avenue...re-opened for entertainment shows.

Some featured FOOD and SHOPPING stops:
 . French pastries and breads found not far from a dedicated Portugeuse 'Pasteis de Nata creation.
. Mostly Italian cafes will serve as gathering spot as you get your caffeine kick to keep going on this visit.
. Fresh ingredients and tantalizing flavours will be enjoyed at artisanal ice-cream and chocolate shops.
. Jewish culinary staples: Bagel, breads and smoked meat can be enjoyed to understand their 'raison d'etre'.
. A classic French bistro will invite you into its charming, flowery terrace to relish in their sought after menu.
. Many possibilities will be offered to you as to where to stop or go ahead to the next treasure.

DURATION ... RATE ... MEET:
Note: the visit will only take place with a minimum of 2 persons
. To maximize the experience, this visit will last 3 hours.
 . Visit takes place mostly in hipster Mile End touching within the sector of Outremont.
. Visit can end at the 'petit Laurier East' metro or close to the confines of le Plateau Mont-Royal. 

*
. Depending on your private group: RATE starts at $35 to $75 CAD./person.
 . Meet up: 10:00 a.m. (flexible requests can be accommodated, just ask).
. Location meet: METRO (subway) LAURIER station (exit: North, Laurier East)...on the Orange line.
Request reservation info for this VISIT - 2
***


 Request reservation info for this VISIT - 3

Villeray nearby to Piccola Italia
 . Within the vast area near Little Italy, lies an up-and-coming friendly neighborhood for the young at heart.  
. Once mostly an Italian community has now especially welcomed other multi-ethnic talents in the area.
. Appreciate a moment of enjoyment as the locals take in the simplicity of the real "Joie de vivre".

Highlights en route:
. Impressive roster of newly created eateries and cafes alongside iconic establishments.
. A section of Villeray closest to the popular Jarry Park has established several admirable spots.
. An incredibly emerging community of Quebec fashion designers having their 'ateliers' on place.
. Both the old and new have successfully bonded in a blissful union.  A trend setter in its own right.

Heritage architecture to be appreciated from near or far:
. Le Castelnau [1921]...Saint-Laurent Boulevard near Jarry Park.
. Staturesque and beautiful Sainte-Cecile church [1926]...on Henri-Julien.
. Ancient 'Caisse Populaire' Sainte-Cécile credit union [1918]...on de Castelnau.
. Sainte-Cécile school [1926]...on Avenue de Gaspé.

Some featured FOOD and SHOPPING stops:
. Oriental pastries as well as Middle Eastern cuisine will tickle your taste buds.
. Delicately presented, artistic chocolates and other treats are waiting for your palate.
. Spanish tapas inventively created to bring you a little Spain sunshine on your plate.
. French style pastry and local bakeries along with tantalizing Italian ice-cream will uplift you.
. Local cafes making excellent Italian coffee act like community magnets for that caffeine kick.
. Parisian style bistro will invite you for a refreshment or small bite in its charming establishment.
. Artisanal products are displayed to showcase the character and personality which locals bring to retail.
. Window shopping or stepping into unique fashion boutiques meeting Quebec designers will please you.
. Many possibilities will be offered to you as to where to stop or go ahead to the next treasure.

 DURATION ... RATE ... MEET:
Note: the visit will only take place with a minimum of 2 persons
. To maximize the experience, this visit will last 3 hours.
. Visit takes place mostly within the Villeray district with its charming residential streets.
. Visit can end towards the 'Little Italy' market or further at Saint Hubert Plaza shopping promenade.

*
. Depending on your private group: RATE starts at $35 to $75 CAD./person.
 . Meet up: 10:00 a.m. (flexible requests can be accommodated, just ask).
. Location meet: METRO (subway) JEAN-TALON station (exit: North exit) ...on the Orange line.
Request reservation info for this VISIT - 3
***

Request reservation info for this VISIT - 4

Explore Piccola Italia and beyond
 . Within the vast area of Rosemont La Petite Patrie lies a vibrant centralized European style market.
. Although at present, barely run by Italians, the area's character is welcoming and invites hungry explorers.
. Colorful not only through many faceted food products, the people certainly lure you to the neighborhood.
.The incredibly vivacious center easily creates curiosity to continue discovery outside its invisible walls.
. Step off the beaten market path and spread your walking towards the hidden neighborhood gems.

Highlights en route:
. Multi-Ethnic and oldest [1933] market acting as an important enclave for merchants serving you with pride.
. The cultural diversity of its shopkeepers will make you realize how their locals are still serving there clients.
. Parc de la Petite-Italie acting as the embracing welcome to lounging, picnicking or enjoying special events.
. Exclusive to Quebec, trendy products as well as newer staples will bring a respectable appreciation.
. Authentic institutions blend well with smaller kiosks hoping to one day make it to the big leagues.

Heritage architecture to be appreciated from near or far:
. Merchant's Bank of Montreal [1914]...on Saint-Denis and Saint-Zotique.
. Ancient Royal Bank of Canada...on Saint-Laurent Blvd and Saint-Zotique.
. Our Lady of Defense Church [1919]...on Henri-Julien and Dante Park alongside.
. Saint-Jean de la Croix Church [1927]...on Saint-Laurent Blvd...fronting 'Parc de la Petite-Italie'.

Some featured FOOD and SHOPPING stops:
. Several incredibly traditional Italian cafes wait to offer you their very best caffeine fix.
. Unique to local, Quebec products: Le Marché des Saveurs will excite the curiousity in you.
. An iconic, Italian super grocer will be difficult to leave once you get taken in by all that's classic.
. Devour a no-frill, old school Neapolitan pizza at the very first landmark [1948] pizzeria in Montreal.
. New wave corner 'casse-croûte' serving old diner favorites re-vamped for today's discerning palate.
. A plethora of regional products: cheeses, spices, olives, meats and so much more will capture you.
. Bakeries compete to get your attention as do chocolate and pastries {cannoli} to grab your sweet tooth.
. Artisan products are displayed to showcase the character and personality which locals bring to retail.
. Kitchen accessory and equipment shop full of personality serves as an institution [1956] to Dante corner.
. Trendy gourmet boutiques serve as inspiration for the future culinary experiences we can get excited about.
. Many possibilities will be offered to you as to where to stop or go ahead to the next treasure.

  DURATION ... RATE ... MEET:
Note: the visit will only take place with a minimum of 2 persons
. To maximize the experience, this visit will last 3 hours.
. Visit takes place within Little Italy while sneaking out into the surrounding streets filled with character.
. Visit can end within the market area or further at Saint Hubert Plaza shopping promenade.

*
. Depending on your private group: RATE starts at $35 to $75 CAD./person.
 . Meet up: 10:00 a.m. (flexible requests can be accommodated, just ask).
. Location meet: METRO (subway) JEAN-TALON station (exit: North exit) ...on the Orange line.
 Request reservation info for this VISIT - 4
***








Montreal has a European style charm like no other.  Rich, cultural and architectural heritage shine within charming boulevards and side streets.

Here's to a wonderful few hours meandering through several known and some lesser beaten paths.
An informative, colorful and memorable experience in Montreal is awaiting your visit.



For questions on the visits or other requests please refer to the INFO-RESERVE page.


Looking forward to sharing parts of Montreal with you soon.








Other post of interest...where it all began:
Custom FOOD related MONTREAL VISITS by Claudia