It was not the city itself that disappointed me... It was the people - their attitude and demeanor to visitors was appalling! Although Montreal is part of Canada, this city speaks French and if managed, French only!!! All written communication is in French - including directions, menus, notices and everything else you can think of! Fine, that would be acceptable, IF WE WERE IN FRANCE!!!!! For the love of God, we are in CANADA and last time I checked, Canada's first language is still English!!!
Let's leave behind written communication. I am so obviously not French - I don't act French, or look French in any way.... So why communicate with me in French even after I look bewildered after the first few words? And the worst part is, these people act as though tourism is an interruption and not a source of income! No one was good enough to be patient to listen to us, either on the bus or the train. I actually missed a couple of stops on the bus, because the lady driver pretended not to understand my question in english!!!! But, all was not lost - Deep's high school French helped us tremendously to get around and find places! But, I shudder to think what would have happened, had I gone there on my own!!!
Apart from the rude reception and conceit and arrogance of the "French" people, the city itself was marvelous! Montreal is a haven for lovers of architecture and beauty! The Notre Dame Basilica is a beautiful example of the Gothic architecture that you can find all over Montreal! Mont Royal is a great picnic area - with a great park and a great view of the city of Montreal! The Oratoire of St. Joseph is a must see as well! Another fine example of splendid architecture!
Overall, the trip was a mix of good and bad - I am glad I went because of the beautiful architecture and scenery and am hoping that I know what to expect if I ever went to France - which, at this point, I am not so inclined to do!
