Montreal is a charismatic and vibrant city. European charm and North American spirit come together to give Montreal its unique look and character. The largest city in Quebec and the second-largest in Canada, Montreal is a cultural powerhouse.
The city is named after Mount Royal, a triple-peaked hill located at the heart of the city. Montreal also has waterfront areas that make it a picturesque destination. Plus, there are museums and marketplaces to explore, too.
Add a warm and welcoming crowd to that, and you know you are in for a great experience in Montreal. But before you leave, be sure to purchase travel insurance as protection against unexpected accidents, injuries, illnesses, or travel mishaps.
Montreal Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
A canceled trip means missed fun and lost money. Trip cancellation insurance could save you from misery by offering financial compensation for the expenses of a canceled trip.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Montreal?
Planning a Montreal vacation involves a lot of time and money. When you have to cancel the trip after having planned a complete itinerary, it can be heavy on both your heart and wallet. Nothing can compensate for the fun and experience that you'll miss, but Montreal trip cancellation insurance can at least compensate for the prepaid, non-refundable expenses like travel and accommodation bookings. You can be reimbursed for these kinds of expenses if you have to cancel your trip for a reason covered in the policy. A list of covered reasons is available in your policy's certificate wording. Review this fine print carefully for a full understanding of what situations would (and wouldn't) be covered.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Montreal?
Your Montreal trip cancellation insurance will reimburse prepaid expenses for the trip (flight, accommodation, and tour bookings). This is when your trip is canceled due to any of the listed reasons in the policy.
Most plans list third-party reasons for cancellations, but you can also find plans that offer coverage for cancellations from your end, too, for reasons like getting sick before your trip, a work-related emergency, or the illness or death of a close family member.
Things to Do for Travelers in Montreal
Montreal is home to at least 50 sites of historical importance, 40 museums, and many more sites showcasing natural beauty. It can get overwhelming to decide what to include on your Montreal itinerary. Here are our top picks that you shouldn't miss:
Explore the Historical Glory at Old Montreal
Established in 1642 by French colonizers, Old Montreal is the area located right next to the Saint Lawrence River. This is where you can walk around the cobblestone paths, discover amazing buildings, and enjoy mouthwatering dishes at the many local restaurants.
See Stellar Sights of the City from Mount Royal
Mount Royal is located in the middle of the city but offers a perfect escape from the city buzz. Adventure-lovers can go ice skating or cross-country skiing. You can also take a stroll along the paved path, if you just want to spend some leisure time.
Have Mouthwatering Delicacies
While you don't need a reminder to get a bottle or two of maple syrup as souvenirs, don't forget to try some of the local delicacies while you are in Montreal. Poutine (chips with cheese and gravy), a Fairmount bagel (hand-formed and baked in a wood-fired oven), and the creamy salt-beef sandwich are must-tries.
Explore the Unseen Underground City
Below the city of Montreal is an underground city spanning 20 miles (about 32 kilometers). This underground city is home to shops, cinemas, restaurants, and even a university. Air-conditioned in summers and heated in winters, it is the perfect place to experience something new.
Hop Across the Many Museums
Montreal has many museums that cater to different interests. If you are traveling with family and kids, visit the Redpath Museum and enjoy your time learning about dinosaurs and Egyptian mummies. Art enthusiasts can visit the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Pointe-à-Calière is perfect for history and archeology lovers.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Montreal
Montreal is among the safest cities in not just Quebec and Canada, but also in North America. Don't let skewed media coverage and biased traveler accounts give you second thoughts about the trip. All you need is common sense and general caution to have a safe trip. If you are street smart, your trip to Montreal is likely to conclude without trouble. Here are a few things to know that will keep you better prepared:
Opportunistic Crime
When you are out in public, touring the city, keep your possessions close. Don't lose sight of your valuables, and avoid flashing anything of value.
Car-Related Crimes
Montreal is known for auto crimes. It is nothing as major as carjacking, but still, leaving valuables on display in your car is not recommended. If you want to park for longer durations (like overnight), it is best to go for indoor parking.
Weather Worries
The Canadian cold warrants you staying prepared. If your Montreal vacation is planned during the winter months (especially January and February), make sure you have packed enough warm clothes. Stay cautious if you drive, and stick to public transport if you aren't accustomed to driving in snow.
Card Scams
Though not common, card scams aren't impossible when in Montreal. Swipe your card only at reliable shops. It is best to use cash for smaller payments.
Before You Travel to Montreal - Do This
Before you start exploring Montreal, also known as the Paris of Canada, here's what you should do:
Learn a little French. Montreal is a bilingual city. Quebec's official language is French, which means any knowledge of French will come in handy. English is also widely used in Montreal, but it is better to know at least the basics of French.
Know the directions. Montreal has a confusing way of referring to directions. "North" in Montreal usually means northwest or even west sometimes. This is why Montreal is also referred to as the only city where the Sun sets in the north. Make sure you keep this local quirk in mind when asking for directions.
Buy travel insurance. Medical emergencies and trip cancellations can ruin your trip. Insurance makes sure they don't become a financial burden too. Enter some basic information about your trip, compare a wide variety of applicable plans, and select the one that best meets your own personal needs.