|
Montreal is a fun place to visit |
|
|
North America »
Canada
|
|
By Jane Holt
|
|
 Montreal is a city of festivals and charming streets.
Festivals like Just For Laughs have helped restore tourist confidence in Quebec's largest city, which was the butt end of a lot of jokes during some trying economic and political times in the past. Now Montreal has plenty to smile about as hotels and restaurants and museums are full again as visitors soak up all the city has to offer.
Just For Laughs has been tickling funny bones for 25 years now and has been the launching pad for many comedic careers, including those of Howie Mandel, Bill Maher and Denis Leary.
 The city has hosted a world’s fair and the 1976 Olympics.
Equally important to Montreal tourism is the city's annual International Jazz Festival, also looked upon as the best in the world by such industry giants as JazzTimes magazine. In the past, the Montreal Jazz Festival has attracted such stars as Diana Krall, B.B. King, Tony Bennett, Charlie Haden and Prince.
Between performances of Just For Laughs and the jazz festival, visitors can explore the many other tourist jewels in Montreal's crown - like its brilliant botanical gardens, this year featuring a new Japanese tea garden, and the recently reopened and rejuvenated Lachine Canal, where boaters and walkers enjoy the historic waterway. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, home to some of the great works of our time as well as those of European masters, always offers something to please visitors.
For a real treat, stay at one of the city's new boutique hotels. One of the hottest properties right now is Hotel Le Saint Sulpice, located in the old town next to the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica.
|
