Bienvenue Vers Montréal!

Metropolitan, Old Montreal
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Friday, June 23, 2006

I have never travelled long-distance by train within Canada until now, but if you aren't planning to drive to Montreal, VIA1 Rail is definitely the way to go!  The last-minute boarding option, first-class seats, and full-service dining make the ticket upgrade for $75 worth it, and then there's the sceneic view that you get no matter what class you take.

If you aren't planning to drive to Montreal, VIA1 Rail is definitely the way to go!

Chestnut Street, Montreal
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I really appreciated the service, especially since I was travelling after a long day at work and desperately in need of a comfortable journey, rest, and dinner. Slipping into my reserved seat, I was promptly served snacks and drinks.. followed by a fine dinner with red wine.. and there was no shortage of Baileys on the rocks which helped make my journey relaxing.

The passenger next to me was a young Italian girl on her way up to Montreal to meet her husband and watch the F1 Race.. she was really nice so we yapped all the way up there and shared travel stories and experiences. A mere four hours later, I ended up in downtown Montreal without the hassle of airport check-outs.

Turquoise B&B, Montreal
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A quick cab-ride away got me to the conveniently located Turquoise Bed & Breakfast in boys-town that I got last minute by referral thanks to my friend Glen. I was greeted by Giles, who took me upstairs to an extremely comfortable, clean, room with a gorgeous view of his backyard that was packed with flowers and a pond. The entire B&B was painted with extremely funky modern vibrant colours accompanyed by modern decor, but it felt warm, looked charming, and was extremely comfortable that I immediately made myself at home.

Wanting to get out and enjoy the warm weather, my evening ended perfectly with a stroll around old Montreal.. it is very beautiful, charming, and quaint at night.

As I trekked over to Peel and Chestnut Street where all the race weekend festivities were being held, my excitement and anticipation of the F1 Canadian GP race began to build... my girlfriends think I'm nuts, but I'm an Formula One fanatic and this is my first time I'm attending a live race. Ferrari row was fun to walk down as proud drivers displayed their new and vintage cars, as onlooking race-fans gawked in admiration surely dreaming they could own one!

Apparently there's the huge street party on Chestnut Street tomorrow, and jugding by tonight it's bound to be lively. Anyone who knows me will tell you I like to be where the centre of the party is, so it won't be difficult to guess where I will be spending my Saturday night!