Often called ‘the Paris of North America’, Montreal is the perfect destination for a sophisticated Valentine’s Day Weekend. Why not surprise your loved one with the perfect trip for two?

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First, book a limo or town car so that when you arrive at Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport there’s a smart-looking gentleman with a sign with your names on it! To really make a great impression, ask them to have two chilled glasses ready and some champagne on ice.

Check into the elegant Hotel St. Paul, where the first thing you see is a huge fireplace. Ask the staff to take your luggage up to the room, while you sip on some more bubbly on their comfy couches. (You are also graciously giving the staff time to ‘’draw the bath’’ – as we used to say in England – and put the rose petals and candles out. PS- Ask the concierge to do this when you book your room.)

If you’re not yet ready for “The Ring”, it is still the mark of a gentleman (and you are one, of course) to treat your sophisticated lady to a little gift – non? Montreal’s newest jeweler, Laura Aline, specializes in pearls of all colours. Or, opt for a girl’s best friend: diamonds! A freshwater pearl chain with a diamond heart would work wonders. And even better yet- buy it in advance and give it to her during a romantic calèche (horse and carriage) ride. Snuggle together to the clip-clop of the horse carrying you through the cobbledstone streets of the Old Port on your way to dinner at Le Garde-Manger (again, book immediately. This is the resto choice for celebs and fashionistas). Enjoy your dinner together, then stay and dance the night away.

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The next morning, wander down to the Vauvert-Lounge. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast, or if you rise late, try the bountiful brunch. Lounge on soft, inviting cushions as you peruse the papers. Then take your loved one to the once-in-a-lifetime exhibit of Chinese terracotta warriors at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, stroll down stately Sherbrooke Street to Drummond Street and, depending on how your wallet is feeling, try m:brgr‘s $100 Kobe beef hamburg. Or continue on to Peel Street, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at the trendy bistro Alexandre. Stomachs satiated, it’s time for some shopping: some cigars for you and some Jimmy Choos or Louboutins for her at Rosenstein.

If you have one more night to spend in Montreal, then stay in the Old Port for your final dinner- the Bonaparte is walking distance from the St. Paul Hotel. This little hideaway is deliciously romantic, with little alcoves, low lighting (everyone looks fabulous!), old stone walls, and, of course, great food created by chef Gérard Fort, who hails from France. Then it’s time to head home. But with memories like these, maybe it’s time to start planning your next trip: a wedding in Montreal next summer?

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DETAILS

Hotel le St. Paul (Check their website for the Valentine’s Week-end Special)
355 McGill Street, Toll free 1-866-380-2202

Le Garde-Manger
408 François-Xavier, Old Montreal
514-678-5044

Bonaparte
443 François-Xavier, Old Montreal
514-844-4368

Laura Aline
2017 Mountain Street
514-507-6118

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Travellers arriving, or leaving, from Montreal’s international Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport can enjoy a sophisticated stay at the new Marriott Montréal Airport.  You don’t even have to go outside to get there.  It is right above the U.S. Departures.  Superbly designed  – I love the Wallpaper*/ international style! -  the hotel is bathed in light. Let the sun shine in! Architects were Provencher Roy and design was Moureaux Hauspy. The lighting reminds me of a witty cross between a chandelier and….a cloud!  In winter – relax by a double-sided fireplace.  Montrealers and travelers alike will love the lounge.  Low seating, sexy pull-closer stools and sink-into chairs float on luxe carpets or gleaming wood floors.   Try out the 24-hour fitness centre, as well as spa treatments.  Good-bye jet lag! The hotel’s Bijou Resto-Bar will be a go-to destination in a nano-second.

www.montrealairportmarriott.com.  1-866-580-6279

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