Montreal is in the midst of a transformative infrastructure project, the first of its kind since Expo 67. The Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM), a brand-new light rail system promises to revolutionize transportation in Greater Montreal. I had the chance to ride the first section between downtown Montreal and Brossard just days after its July 2023 opening, and I'm excited to share my experience with you.

The P'tit Train du Nord, a popular bicycle trail north of Montreal, has been on my bucket list for over five years. As a train enthusiast and avid cross-country cyclist, this trail held a special allure for me, combining my two passions. In July 2024, I finally had the opportunity to fulfill this dream, tackling the most popular section of the trail between Mont-Tremblant and Mont-Ronald alongside my close friends. In this article, I'd like to share the fascinating story of the P'tit Train du Nord, a railway that offers a rich history, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality for those who take it. Let's pedal through time and celebrate the rebirth of this iconic railway, now a vibrant driver of tourism in the Laurentides!

This is the second part of a story about my backpacking adventure to the Eastern Townships in late May 2023. In the previous article, I talked about some logistical challenges to travel without a car in Canada as well as my experience in the town of Sherbrooke. In this article, I'll cover the rest of my trip including the town of Magog, Mont-Orford National Park, and some places between them.

I’m continuing my experiments with car-free backpacking travel in North America to prove that not only is it possible, but it can actually be quite an enjoyable experience. Backpacking travel presents two key benefits over traditional car-centric travel: a focus on sustainability and a deeper connection to nature and local cultures. After all, if this form of travel has successfully thrived in numerous European, Asian, and Latin American countries, it is only logical to question why it would be any different in Canada and the United States. Right?

Montreal has a special place in my heart. My two-year-long immigration project revolved around this great city. Before I set foot in Canada, I already had a pretty good idea of where I would live, work, send my kids to daycare and school, shop for groceries, spend weekends and so forth. And while I was seriously planning to settle in Montreal, I secretly envied those who could afford to live in Vancouver. So far, neither city ended up being my home. This did not prevent me from exploring Montreal though where I have spent quite a bit of time over the past 10 years. And you know what I like the most about this city? Not bagels, not smoked meat, not even poutine. Its métro! Here are my reasons why.

As the April days are getting longer and warmer, you must spend more time outside. Especially when you can still enjoy it mosquito-free! I don't know about you, but I become very excited when I get a chance to explore a new place. And, by the way, a new place does not mean going far. Even if it's your own city or town, I guarantee there will always be something new yet to be discovered. That has been the case for me in Montreal where I happen to spend quite a bit of my time over the past two years. I've walked pretty much everywhere in the 5 km / 3-mile radius of the central train station. Mostly after work though when it's already dark outside. But longer spring days let me see more in daylight, that's why I'm always up for a nice walk after work. Continue reading to learn about an itinerary that I really enjoyed. It's strenuous due to its length and slightly off-the-beaten path, but I'm sure you'll like it too.

Vieux Port de Montréal (or Old Port of Montreal in English) draws about six million visitors a year.  For most Americans and Canadians from English-speaking provinces and territories, the Old Port of Montreal is a quintessential piece of Europe carefully preserved by the Québécois over the years. If you're up to cobble streets with old stone buildings, cozy cafés, delicious crêperies, bakeries selling fresh French croissants and baguettes, and sharp gothic spires, look no further - Old Port has it all. But to have the best experience, try to visit it after dark on a weekday in May or June, and you'll be amazed at how intimate and lovely this place can be.