My jet-set gal pal was zooming in for the weekend and I had exactly 48 hours to show her that Montréal hasn’t earned its avant-garde reputation for nothing. “Let the adventure begin!”

Only in Montréal does a simple stroll seem like time travel: you go back in time or leap into the future with every step.

Overwhelmed by the candlelight, the music, and the romance of the moment, I screamed “YES!” from every pore.

Here’s a typical night on the town à la Montréal.

As the first urban centre and the seventh global destination to sign the National Geographic Geotourism Charter, you might say that we take the outdoors seriously.

I’ve got three days, two kids and a whole lot of energy to burn in Montréal. Let’s roll.

If we were a populace of fashionistas, we’d be following the trends. Truth is, we’re just too busy setting the styles to notice.

Whether you’re ready to get out there and play, join a crowd of raving fans, or meet up with the gang to watch the big game –Montréal’s got it going on!