Montreal is the largest city in Quebec province, and is named after the mountain at its heart: Mount Royal.
However it isn’t all roses: Montreal is notoriously difficult for running a small business, due in part to the high tax rates and reams of red tape complicating an already challenging pursuit. And in 2016 it was ranked as the least entrepreneurial urban centre in the country by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.
Why exhibit in Montreal
But having said all that, you shouldn’t let that put you off exhibiting here, Montreal is fast growing a reputation as being a green city and was the first city in North America, this year, to ban plastic bags. Montreal has been certified as an eco-responsible destination for meetings and conferences by experts at iCompli Sustainability.
Getting there
Once you fly into Montréal-Trudeau Airport, getting downtown, 25 minutes away, is relatively easy - you can take a taxi or use public transport. The Society in Motion is Montreal's public transportation service and operates the 747 bus line, which provides 24/7 service between YUL and the central bus station (Gare d'autocars de Montréal – Berri-UQAM métro station). Travel time varies, but takes between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Restrictions on what you can bring into the country
There are no unusual restrictions as to what you can bring into the country, just the usual: no food, drugs, weapons.
Top hotels
Main exhibition centres
- Palais des congrès de Montréal
- Montreal convention centre
- Renaissance centre des congrès
- Place Bonaventure
Exhibitions we have supported
Services we provide
- Booth Host/Hostess
- Lead Generator
- Crowd Gatherer
- Product Demonstrator
- EMCEE
- Hospitality Staff
- Brand Ambassador
- Engager
- Interpreter/Translator
- Team Leaders
- Event Managers
Expo Star of the Month
- Andreana and Alice
- https://www.expostars.com/expostar-of-the-month/aliceandreane-montreal-expo-stars-month-may-2017
Key tourist hotspots
Montréal is the second largest French-speaking city in the world.
- Trek up Mont-Royal which rises 233 meters above the city and is the green space near the city centre.
- Wander around Vieux-Montreal (Old Montreal) and take in its many historic sites, streets, and landmarks, of which are best explored on foot.
Where to eat
- Restaurant Su - expect grilled meats, garlicky yogurts, and tangy mezzes.
- Café Bazin - french cuisine such as spinach quiche and savoury Paris-Brest with pâté; be sure to save room for a tartlet or cake from one of the city’s top dessert makers.
Bonus round
- Local currency is the Canadian Dollar.
- Language is French.
- Most nationals need an ETA for entering Canada, but check the list before you travel.
- Plug sockets same as America - the two pin plug.
- Cultural sensitivities are few and far between in Canada, however it is worth noting:
- In business meetings, a handshake is the appropriate greeting. It should be accompanied by strong eye-contact.
- Eye-contact is important during business meetings in Canada.