canadian destination 19 Spring/Summer 2019 CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS Undeniably stylish, this dynamic, cosmopolitan city has a dual personality. It is a city where old-world charm meets high-tech innovation, and French meets English seamlessly. Although Montréal is the second-largest primarily French-speaking city in the world – next to Paris, France – it is also one of most bilingual cities in the province of Quebec, with over 59 per cent of the population able to speak both official languages. “We see language as a bridge and not a barrier,” Laferrière said. “In fact, many Montréalers speak a third language or more, which also opens up markets for us in many countries around the world, and adds to the city’s exotic flavour.” NO FRENCH? NO PROBLEM Montreal is the most bilingual city in Quebec, with 59 per cent of the population able to communicate in both official languages. Montreal’s strategic location, openness to new cultures and reputation for excellence attracts a unique blend of professionals, academics, entrepreneurs and artists. Montréal is a city of neighbourhoods, with each offering something unique and special. Ville-Marie is the heart of Montréal’s downtown core. Named after Fort Ville-Marie, the French settlement that would become modern-day Montréal, the city is home to a host of fine dining establishments, shops, luxury hotels, museums and business headquarters. It is also home to the third largest Chinatown in all of Canada. Plateau Mont-Royal, located west of Ville-Marie, is best known for its picturesque architecture, NEIGHBOURHOODS multiple park areas, theatres, restaurants, music venues and summer festivals. For shopping, eating and drinking spots, St-Denis and Mont-Royal come highly recommended. Mile End is a sub-district of Mont- Royal and is best known for bagel shops such as Fairmount and St. Viateaur, as well as antique shops, cafés, bookstores and the Rialto Theatre, and St. Michael’s and St. Andrew’s Church. Vieux Montréal (Old Montréal) is where the city was born in 1642. Here visitors will find many bistros with café tables to sit and enjoy the street performers. Further south is the Vieux Port (Old Port) where a spacious waterfront path makes an ideal route for pedestrians, cyclists and skaters alike.