Hi,
we are a German couple visiting Montreal from 1. - 5.4.. We like to experience local life as well as culture. We are french speaking, too. We would like to get recommendations for special places to eat, special bars and clubs, life acts, exhibitions, theatre and to know about where the in-crowd is flocking in.

Answered by Gregory B. Gallagher , Montreal, Canada

For a truly local experience in Montreal; base yourself centrally either in the districts called Le Plateau, or in the old port area called Vieux-Montreal. Tourism Montreal's website can present the various levels of accommodation, and once you are at Ground Zero, please don't forget to take a city bus tour in order to feel like you have the lay of the island, and spend some good time on top of Mount Royal, walking our heavenly trails, and stop for great cuisine at Le Pavilion at Beaver Lake, or Café Maison Smith which is quite near the Lookout and Le Chalet.