Slightly Less Cold Montreal

Tom and I spent a lot of our time in Montreal bundled and layered from head to toe. We gave in on the coldest day, and spent most of our time at the Pointe-a-Calliere, the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History. The main permanent exhibit in the museum's basement was quite interesting-- it is built on top of the remains of the Royal Insurance Building (1861-1951). You can walk through the old foundation of the building, and take a look at a layout of the building. There was also a Greek exhibit that was packed to the gills that we took a quick pass through. Or, as quick as you can be, when you are elbow to elbow with a wall of sightseers.

On Monday, a slightly less cold day, Tom and I finally ventured out into the greater Montreal area. We took a walk through the McGill University campus, and made our way through downtown towards Mount Royal Park.

We made our way up the hill, which was covered in snow and ice. Surprisingly, there were a few dedicated health enthusiasts who were running up and down the icy staircases for a mid-afternoon run. We stopped at the Chateau at the top of the hill to warm a bit. We were marveling at what a nice venue the chateay would make for a wedding with it's giant open hall and soaring rafters. But then we used the washroom... And decided it was pretty sketchy for a bunch of wedding guests.

From the top of Mount Royal Park, we were able to take in some nice views of the city. It was not too windy at the top of the hill, so we were actually able to enjoy the sights.

Then we made our way back to Old Montreal so we could fill up on some Quebec poutine, before heading to the airport to catch our flight home. I had regular poutine (featured below), and Tom has "hot dog sausage" poutine. I think Tom had hopes that there would be some sort of fancy sausage in the poutine... But no, it was really just chopped up hot dogs.

All in all, a little chillier than we initially anticipated, but Montreal was a much needed getaway! We'd go back again...

But probably in the summer! :)