An irresistible blend of European charm and North American vibrancy awaits travelers flying to Montreal, Canada’s cultural hub.
Montreal
Nestled between the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, the island of Montreal emerges as a beacon of festivity. One that gets imbued with an even greater sense of joy and delight as the days get longer. Imagine the streets coming alive with buskers and festivals as residents and tourists alike flock to terrasses and quaint cafes for al fresco dining and a chance to catch some much-needed summer sun. In this North American metropolis, there is something for everyone, from strolling down the cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal to dancing the night away in the Quartier Latin or shopping on the Rue Sainte-Catherine.
Hotel Birks
Known as the headquarters of the renowned Cirque du Soleil and as a favorite among celebrities – Jennifer Lawrence, Tom Cruise, and Céline Dion have all called the city home at some point – it is no surprise that Montreal is the cultural hub of Canada. One must visit the numerous festivals and shows taking place this summer to understand the celebration that is characteristic of this city. In the old port of Montreal, Cirque du Soleil is taking its audience on an inspiring journey with Echo, a show combining poetry, stagecraft, daring acrobatics, and technology as it explores the delicate balance between people, animals, and the world we all share. Elsewhere, for 10 days in July, the city moves to the rhythm of circus arts with the Montréal Complétement Cirque – venues, streets, parks, and sidewalks become the stage to showcase vibrant performances from around the world.
Crew Collective & Cafe
Then there is the music, a tempo that is woven inexplicably into the tapestry of this pulsating city. From massive outdoor festivals to intimate venues, there is nothing quite like getting lost to the beat of Montreal. Whether you are getting up close and personal with artists at live music bars such as Foufones Electriques on St. Catherine Boulevard or singing along to Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Saint Levant, and more at Osheaga Music and Arts Festival, you are bound to fall in love with Montreal summers. For more discerning travelers, there is the world’s largest and most iconic jazz festival, Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, bringing artists such as Diana Krall, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Melody Gardot, and many more for its 43rd edition.
Michelin-starred restaurant Joe Beef
Any conversation about Montreal is incomplete without discussing its innovative and diverse culinary scene. For well-informed gourmands, a chance to dine at Joe Beef might just be the reason to visit Montreal. Helmed by chef Fred Morin, the Michelin-starred restaurant has garnered international acclaim and was a favorite of the late Anthony Bourdain for its take on French Canadian cuisine. Hearty servings of Québécois delicacies such as Canadian sturgeon caviar, steak au poivre, and pieuvre en bouillabaisse will mark an experience that you are unlikely to forget. For something a little closer to the Arab world, there’s Michelin-starred venue Damas. Chef and owner Fuad Alneirabeie transports diners to Syria with a menu that includes everything from hand-rolled stuffed vine leaves and fattet mozat to homemade baklava.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Cuisine is not the only Arab influence you will find in Montreal, as the city is home to the largest Lebanese diaspora in Canada. The French-speaking region is an ideal representation of how Canada has welcomed refugees and immigrants from around the world with open arms. Subsequently, summer in Montreal is also marked by the immense joy of familial reunions. A visit to the city’s numerous galleries is an invitation to discover Arab artists such as Najat El-Khairy, a Palestinian-Canadian who prides herself on propagating Palestinian art and heritage, while Lebanese-Egyptian artist Zeina represents her community in Montreal through the song “Whatever”; there is also the rapidly rising Iraqi singer-songwriter Ali Gatie.
Whether you are traveling to Montreal to get closer to your community or to experience everything the city has to offer, it is worthwhile to immerse yourself into the allure of greater Quebec. Less than two hours away, Mont Tremblant Village presents a fantastic outdoor escape with scenic hikes and hidden waterfalls. Or explore the panoramic shoreline trails at Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre for the chance to spot small white whales. If your visit to Montreal is marked by an appreciation for its quaint European charm and history, make your way towards the cradle of French America, Quebec City, and get lost exploring the fortified old city, a Unesco World Heritage Site. At the end of a tiring but fruitful day return to your luxurious and historic accommodation, the Hotel Birks. A Montreal treasure since Henry Birks opened his first jewelry store in 1879, the property encapsulates everything that is unique about the city; from its illustrious history to its contemporary vibrancy.
Photo: Courtesy of Emirates
Getting there
Embark upon your journey to the cultural center of Canada from Dubai with a newly launched 13-hour flight from Emirates. The lengthy trip to Montreal is no longer a deterrent now that Emirates is ready to provide its award-winning in-flight services to the destination, allowing travelers to arrive at the airport ready to dive into the quintessential charm of Montreal or the tearful embrace of a loved one.
The daily flights between Dubai and Montreal on a Boeing 777- 300ER aircraft provide travelers with the chance to choose from three class configurations. The luxurious first-class cabin on the plane offers the pinnacle of comfort and privacy with amenities such as personal lighting, fully reclinable seats, and gourmet dining in eight fully enclosed suites. Not to mention that the premium first class lounge is the ideal place to prepare and rejuvenate before you board this long-haul flight – make sure to indulge is some well-deserved relaxation at the Timeless Spa. With other premium in-flight services being offered in the remaining two class configurations, regardless of where your seat is situated on an Emirates flight, you will land ready to embrace some big adventures.
Originally published in the July/August 2023 issue of Vogue Arabia
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