CHECKING IN WITH MANUELA GOYA

Vice President, Destination Development and Public Affairs, Tourisme Montréal

Are any COVID-19 restrictions still in place for residents and visitors to Montréal?

The province of Québec prides itself on being one of the safest destinations anywhere in the world. The city’s vibrant array of hotels, restaurants, bars, boutiques and malls, museums, theaters, concert and sports venues, popular attractions and more are open at full capacity and ready to serve all comers in a manner that is mindful of safety and security.

What major cultural revitalization projects are taking place in Montréal?

Le Théâtre St-denis is set to begin a new chapter in its history by becoming part of Espace St-denis, a new cultural and gastronomic destination in the heart of the Latin Quarter. This new entertainment offering includes the storied theater, a studio-cabaret with a 180-degree virtual environment, a French brasserie-style restaurant, a terrace and grill and more.

The Centre d’histoire de Montréal begins its transition; the space will become the MEM – Centre des mémoires montréalaises. Located in the heart of Montréal’s Quartier des Spectacles, at the corner of Saint-laurent Boulevard and Saintcatherine Street, MEM will be a museum and citizen space that will be both inclusive and innovative. Citizen voices of yesterday and today will be honored as we reveal the identities and history that make up the city’s world famous “showmanship.” Opening planned for 2023.

Recreational boating and cruising are nice attractions for many visiting the city. What water options would you suggest to visitors?

Hop aboard and get ready to cast off on a pleasure cruise to remember with Le Petit Navire, an ultra-quiet, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat (carbon-neutral certified) designed for ultimate touring. Offering 45-minute or two-hour guided cruises along Old Port or Lachine Canal, a trip aboard Le Petit Navire has been a must-do Montréal experience for more than 15 years.

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy river surfing by standup paddleboard and kayaking, just minutes from downtown. In Montréal the rapids of the St. Lawrence River provide a couple of options for stationary surfing. While using a similar technique to catching waves in the ocean, river surfing is its own unique experience, largely because the wave just doesn’t end. Founded in 1995, KSF offers a selection of river-based excursions, and surf lessons are one of the most popular activities.