Sep 26, 2018, 8:22 am
W Montreal, Quebec 2007 on [Master Thread]
Aug 4, 2010, 10:45 am
#121
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: SFO
Programs: UAL SPG Hyatt
Posts: 570
Oct would likely be a beautiful time in Montreal. Darn ... I miss my frequent trips there.
Aug 7, 2010, 5:01 am
#122
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: YVR SFO
Programs: UA G
Posts: 4,866
How much is a cab ride to the W from YUL? I don't mind sitting in public transit for an hour if it's a $5 train ride vs. a $40 cab.
Aug 18, 2010, 8:37 pm
#125
Join Date: Aug 2010
Programs: MR LT Titanium, SPG LT Plat & Plat 100, SWA A+ & CP
Posts: 1,093
I have been going up to Montreal yearly with my wife and friends since 2002. Every year I have stayed at Le Centre Sheraton simply because it's in the middle of all the action (St Catherines, Underground Mall, people-watching central).
I just got back from my yearly trip a few days ago and before we left, I went over to the W and the Westin to check them out... as we may switch-it-up next year.
Let me tell you... we walked in the W and they gave me a tour of several jaw dropping rooms which they said that I could be upgraded to as a Plat guest. I think I may try it next year to get a different perspective of the City (Sheraton and the W/Westin are about 1/2 mile apart).
My concerns with the W are...
- do they have free b-fast for Plat members (there's a great continental b-fast at the sheraton)?
- Whats the parking situation?
- Is there a place in the hotel where you can bring a few beers from your room down and sit on a couch and people watch (without being forced to dump your beer and order a $10 beer from the bar)?
- No pool or hottub is a minor thing.
PS... looked at the Westin too. That was nice as well but more traditional than the W. Did not like the Valet service as I go in-and-out a few times a day and like the freedom of movement. I also dont want to be giving out $30 in tips a day for getting my car.
JB
I just got back from my yearly trip a few days ago and before we left, I went over to the W and the Westin to check them out... as we may switch-it-up next year.
Let me tell you... we walked in the W and they gave me a tour of several jaw dropping rooms which they said that I could be upgraded to as a Plat guest. I think I may try it next year to get a different perspective of the City (Sheraton and the W/Westin are about 1/2 mile apart).
My concerns with the W are...
- do they have free b-fast for Plat members (there's a great continental b-fast at the sheraton)?
- Whats the parking situation?
- Is there a place in the hotel where you can bring a few beers from your room down and sit on a couch and people watch (without being forced to dump your beer and order a $10 beer from the bar)?
- No pool or hottub is a minor thing.
PS... looked at the Westin too. That was nice as well but more traditional than the W. Did not like the Valet service as I go in-and-out a few times a day and like the freedom of movement. I also dont want to be giving out $30 in tips a day for getting my car.
JB
Aug 19, 2010, 2:56 pm
#127
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Pasadena,Ca.,US.
Programs: AA, Delta, United, SPG plat, Hyatt dia
Posts: 7,140
I have been going up to Montreal yearly with my wife and friends since 2002. Every year I have stayed at Le Centre Sheraton simply because it's in the middle of all the action (St Catherines, Underground Mall, people-watching central).
I just got back from my yearly trip a few days ago and before we left, I went over to the W and the Westin to check them out... as we may switch-it-up next year.
Let me tell you... we walked in the W and they gave me a tour of several jaw dropping rooms which they said that I could be upgraded to as a Plat guest. I think I may try it next year to get a different perspective of the City (Sheraton and the W/Westin are about 1/2 mile apart).
My concerns with the W are...
- do they have free b-fast for Plat members (there's a great continental b-fast at the sheraton)?
- Whats the parking situation?
- Is there a place in the hotel where you can bring a few beers from your room down and sit on a couch and people watch (without being forced to dump your beer and order a $10 beer from the bar)?
- No pool or hottub is a minor thing.
PS... looked at the Westin too. That was nice as well but more traditional than the W. Did not like the Valet service as I go in-and-out a few times a day and like the freedom of movement. I also dont want to be giving out $30 in tips a day for getting my car.
JB
I just got back from my yearly trip a few days ago and before we left, I went over to the W and the Westin to check them out... as we may switch-it-up next year.
Let me tell you... we walked in the W and they gave me a tour of several jaw dropping rooms which they said that I could be upgraded to as a Plat guest. I think I may try it next year to get a different perspective of the City (Sheraton and the W/Westin are about 1/2 mile apart).
My concerns with the W are...
- do they have free b-fast for Plat members (there's a great continental b-fast at the sheraton)?
- Whats the parking situation?
- Is there a place in the hotel where you can bring a few beers from your room down and sit on a couch and people watch (without being forced to dump your beer and order a $10 beer from the bar)?
- No pool or hottub is a minor thing.
PS... looked at the Westin too. That was nice as well but more traditional than the W. Did not like the Valet service as I go in-and-out a few times a day and like the freedom of movement. I also dont want to be giving out $30 in tips a day for getting my car.
JB
Parking is Valet
Self park lot a couple of blocks away(no in and out)indie lot=not billed to the room.
While you could bring your own beverages(discreetly I would not bring a six pack)and sit in the living room I would not fell comfortable doing that after dark when it all becomes a bit of a night club scene.
Aug 19, 2010, 3:01 pm
#128
Join Date: Aug 2000
Location: ZRH / YUL
Programs: UA, TK, Starwood > Marriott, Hilton, Accor
Posts: 7,295
My experience as a Plat says no free breakfast at the W (consistent with that brand's policy). On the other hand, I was given coupons to a decent breakfast buffet at the Westin lats year for a weekend stay when their lounge was closed.
Aug 19, 2010, 3:51 pm
#129
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: SFO
Programs: UAL SPG Hyatt
Posts: 570
JB3t, I've brought my own glass of wine down to the "living room" at night and chilled out there before. As someone pointed out, it can be one heck of a scene as it does turn into more like a thumping nightclub. People watching is good there. For the same reason, get a room on a high floor if you need quiet to sleep. Based on your original post, I suspect they showed you rooms 100x right? 
Aug 19, 2010, 5:55 pm
#130
Join Date: Aug 2010
Programs: MR LT Titanium, SPG LT Plat & Plat 100, SWA A+ & CP
Posts: 1,093
Yea... they showed me a typical room, a room that a plat would be upgraded to (cant remember if its a WOW or Fantastic), and then the big-... party suite.
The nice thing about the Sheraton is that they have sitting areas on the first 2 or 3 levels so you can come back from dinner, grab a 6 pack and some munchies and chill with your friends. Then head out at 11 or so to check on the action on St. Catherines.
I am definitely going to give the W or Westin a try next time. I've been to the Sheraton countless times and even the suites are a little drab (when available). That being said, they have good b-fast and in-and-out parking.
JB
The nice thing about the Sheraton is that they have sitting areas on the first 2 or 3 levels so you can come back from dinner, grab a 6 pack and some munchies and chill with your friends. Then head out at 11 or so to check on the action on St. Catherines.
I am definitely going to give the W or Westin a try next time. I've been to the Sheraton countless times and even the suites are a little drab (when available). That being said, they have good b-fast and in-and-out parking.
JB
Sep 18, 2010, 10:39 am
#131
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: BWI
Programs: AA Platinum, Starwood Gold, Fairmont Platinum
Posts: 84
Thanks to all for the information on rental car vs taxi from the Airport. Since it's the first time for me and the mrs (staying Oct 2-5) here at the W, what are the top 5 things to do that is within walking distance (1-2 miles) from the W Montreal? Thanks in advance.....
Sep 19, 2010, 9:26 am
#132
Join Date: Aug 2010
Programs: MR LT Titanium, SPG LT Plat & Plat 100, SWA A+ & CP
Posts: 1,093
Firstly, if you're at the W, you're closer to Old Montreal (.5 mi) than the heart of St Catherines Street (less than a mile). Here's some suggestions... and prepare to walk.
1. OLD MONTREAL - Stroll the streets of Old Montreal. Lots of people walking around, street vendors, good restaurants (I like Gallianos), and you could go on a tour of Notre Dame Cathedral. Lots of cute little shops and tons of people watching.
2. ST CATHERINES ST - I love strolling up-and-down St. Catherine's St. The heart of it is up near the intersection of St. Catherines and Peele (mabe .5 miles from you). Again, tons of shops and even more people watching. Lots of sidewalk bakeries and coffee shops. We especially like the "Second Cup". The Frozen Hot Chocolate is awesome.
3. UNDERGROUND CITY - Get down into the underground city. It runs under the city and is something like 20 miles of corridor. It's basically an underground mall/pedestrian corridor. All shops, food, and other things down there. Sounds cheesy but they have the best food courts down there. We go there for lunch and it's like gourmet food. Good stuff.
3. CASINO - I go to the Casino de Montreal which is a cab ride away. Slots, video poker, and table games.
4. MUSEUMS and CHURCH TOURS - There are tons of museums there with tours. The architecture is awesome. Check with the concierge.
5. Misc...
a) could go to the Olympic City/Stadium or Bio Dome (cab).
b) Mt Royal - Montreals version of Central Park or the Boston Common.
c) Dinner on St Laurent St (near W) or a walk to Crescent Street
d) China Town is right near you.
e) "The Village" is sort of near you... its the "alternative lifestyle" part of town.
f) Many Tours - Double Decker Bus, horse and carriage, boat (near old montreal), etc.
I guarantee you will not be bored. Be prepped to do some walking. You're not far from things but you tend to stroll around a lot while there. I go there every year and never get bored.
Side notes.
- If you drink, bring some booze with you. It's a little steep there.
- I usually exchange $$$ at Calforex or TD Bank. Do not exchange at the hotel. The exchange stinks now. You will get about $1.03 to the dollar. Be careful of the "fee" for exchanging $$$. Some are steep.
- you're going to see a fair amount of "adult entertainment" places there.
- Dont get caught looking at the women. 95% of them are hot.
1. OLD MONTREAL - Stroll the streets of Old Montreal. Lots of people walking around, street vendors, good restaurants (I like Gallianos), and you could go on a tour of Notre Dame Cathedral. Lots of cute little shops and tons of people watching.
2. ST CATHERINES ST - I love strolling up-and-down St. Catherine's St. The heart of it is up near the intersection of St. Catherines and Peele (mabe .5 miles from you). Again, tons of shops and even more people watching. Lots of sidewalk bakeries and coffee shops. We especially like the "Second Cup". The Frozen Hot Chocolate is awesome.
3. UNDERGROUND CITY - Get down into the underground city. It runs under the city and is something like 20 miles of corridor. It's basically an underground mall/pedestrian corridor. All shops, food, and other things down there. Sounds cheesy but they have the best food courts down there. We go there for lunch and it's like gourmet food. Good stuff.
3. CASINO - I go to the Casino de Montreal which is a cab ride away. Slots, video poker, and table games.
4. MUSEUMS and CHURCH TOURS - There are tons of museums there with tours. The architecture is awesome. Check with the concierge.
5. Misc...
a) could go to the Olympic City/Stadium or Bio Dome (cab).
b) Mt Royal - Montreals version of Central Park or the Boston Common.
c) Dinner on St Laurent St (near W) or a walk to Crescent Street
d) China Town is right near you.
e) "The Village" is sort of near you... its the "alternative lifestyle" part of town.
f) Many Tours - Double Decker Bus, horse and carriage, boat (near old montreal), etc.
I guarantee you will not be bored. Be prepped to do some walking. You're not far from things but you tend to stroll around a lot while there. I go there every year and never get bored.
Side notes.
- If you drink, bring some booze with you. It's a little steep there.
- I usually exchange $$$ at Calforex or TD Bank. Do not exchange at the hotel. The exchange stinks now. You will get about $1.03 to the dollar. Be careful of the "fee" for exchanging $$$. Some are steep.
- you're going to see a fair amount of "adult entertainment" places there.
- Dont get caught looking at the women. 95% of them are hot.
Sep 19, 2010, 9:21 pm
#133
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: BOS
Programs: UA 2K, BD Gold, DL/NW Gold, SPG Plat, MRW Silver, Hertz PC
Posts: 240
St. Catherine st is all torn up right now (or was two weekends ago) and kind of a mess so I avoided it.
There is a metro stop right outside the hotel, use it.
Get bagels at Fairmont or St Viateur.
Walk up to the top of Mount Royal.
Get dinner Drinks in the Latin Quarter.
Get a smoked meat sandwich. Brisket (5 min walk up the hill from the W) has a decent one if you don't want to make the trek to Schwartz's
There is a metro stop right outside the hotel, use it.
Get bagels at Fairmont or St Viateur.
Walk up to the top of Mount Royal.
Get dinner Drinks in the Latin Quarter.
Get a smoked meat sandwich. Brisket (5 min walk up the hill from the W) has a decent one if you don't want to make the trek to Schwartz's
Firstly, if you're at the W, you're closer to Old Montreal (.5 mi) than the heart of St Catherines Street (less than a mile). Here's some suggestions... and prepare to walk.
1. OLD MONTREAL - Stroll the streets of Old Montreal. Lots of people walking around, street vendors, good restaurants (I like Gallianos), and you could go on a tour of Notre Dame Cathedral. Lots of cute little shops and tons of people watching.
2. ST CATHERINES ST - I love strolling up-and-down St. Catherine's St. The heart of it is up near the intersection of St. Catherines and Peele (mabe .5 miles from you). Again, tons of shops and even more people watching. Lots of sidewalk bakeries and coffee shops. We especially like the "Second Cup". The Frozen Hot Chocolate is awesome.
3. UNDERGROUND CITY - Get down into the underground city. It runs under the city and is something like 20 miles of corridor. It's basically an underground mall/pedestrian corridor. All shops, food, and other things down there. Sounds cheesy but they have the best food courts down there. We go there for lunch and it's like gourmet food. Good stuff.
3. CASINO - I go to the Casino de Montreal which is a cab ride away. Slots, video poker, and table games.
4. MUSEUMS and CHURCH TOURS - There are tons of museums there with tours. The architecture is awesome. Check with the concierge.
5. Misc...
a) could go to the Olympic City/Stadium or Bio Dome (cab).
b) Mt Royal - Montreals version of Central Park or the Boston Common.
c) Dinner on St Laurent St (near W) or a walk to Crescent Street
d) China Town is right near you.
e) "The Village" is sort of near you... its the "alternative lifestyle" part of town.
f) Many Tours - Double Decker Bus, horse and carriage, boat (near old montreal), etc.
I guarantee you will not be bored. Be prepped to do some walking. You're not far from things but you tend to stroll around a lot while there. I go there every year and never get bored.
Side notes.
- If you drink, bring some booze with you. It's a little steep there.
- I usually exchange $$$ at Calforex or TD Bank. Do not exchange at the hotel. The exchange stinks now. You will get about $1.03 to the dollar. Be careful of the "fee" for exchanging $$$. Some are steep.
- you're going to see a fair amount of "adult entertainment" places there.
- Dont get caught looking at the women. 95% of them are hot.
1. OLD MONTREAL - Stroll the streets of Old Montreal. Lots of people walking around, street vendors, good restaurants (I like Gallianos), and you could go on a tour of Notre Dame Cathedral. Lots of cute little shops and tons of people watching.
2. ST CATHERINES ST - I love strolling up-and-down St. Catherine's St. The heart of it is up near the intersection of St. Catherines and Peele (mabe .5 miles from you). Again, tons of shops and even more people watching. Lots of sidewalk bakeries and coffee shops. We especially like the "Second Cup". The Frozen Hot Chocolate is awesome.
3. UNDERGROUND CITY - Get down into the underground city. It runs under the city and is something like 20 miles of corridor. It's basically an underground mall/pedestrian corridor. All shops, food, and other things down there. Sounds cheesy but they have the best food courts down there. We go there for lunch and it's like gourmet food. Good stuff.
3. CASINO - I go to the Casino de Montreal which is a cab ride away. Slots, video poker, and table games.
4. MUSEUMS and CHURCH TOURS - There are tons of museums there with tours. The architecture is awesome. Check with the concierge.
5. Misc...
a) could go to the Olympic City/Stadium or Bio Dome (cab).
b) Mt Royal - Montreals version of Central Park or the Boston Common.
c) Dinner on St Laurent St (near W) or a walk to Crescent Street
d) China Town is right near you.
e) "The Village" is sort of near you... its the "alternative lifestyle" part of town.
f) Many Tours - Double Decker Bus, horse and carriage, boat (near old montreal), etc.
I guarantee you will not be bored. Be prepped to do some walking. You're not far from things but you tend to stroll around a lot while there. I go there every year and never get bored.
Side notes.
- If you drink, bring some booze with you. It's a little steep there.
- I usually exchange $$$ at Calforex or TD Bank. Do not exchange at the hotel. The exchange stinks now. You will get about $1.03 to the dollar. Be careful of the "fee" for exchanging $$$. Some are steep.
- you're going to see a fair amount of "adult entertainment" places there.
- Dont get caught looking at the women. 95% of them are hot.
Oct 7, 2010, 4:27 am
#134
Join Date: Dec 2008
Programs: M&M FQT, BA G, Bonvoy LTT, WoH GLOB
Posts: 960
1 nighter this week, upgraded to Fantastic Suite, room available at 08h30 in the morning ^ I asked and they said they do not upgrade Plats to Wow suites...so seems like one must be very lucky. But Fantastic is pretty good.
There is now at least one free bottle of water in the room - a welcome improvement, not sure if for all or just for Plats.
Otto still serves very good food. Inquired whether I could get the CD as welcome amenity and was given without problem. Overall a pleasant experience.
There is now at least one free bottle of water in the room - a welcome improvement, not sure if for all or just for Plats.
Otto still serves very good food. Inquired whether I could get the CD as welcome amenity and was given without problem. Overall a pleasant experience.
Oct 18, 2010, 1:15 am
#135
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: YVR SFO
Programs: UA G
Posts: 4,866
I stayed here last week as an SPG Gold on a C&P award. 4000 SPG + $60 as a category 4 -- great value. I've stayed at a few *wood properties, mainly Sheratons and Westins, and have been happy, but nothing really blew me away.
The W Montreal blew me away. Whereas before I had an SPG Amex to get airline miles, I am now a believer in the *wood hotel chain.
I got upgraded to a "Wonderful" room with a view of Victoria Square. It's not a suite, but it was the promised "one class" upgrade. The amenities are all bliss stuff, and all really nice. The voyeur shower is a great touch -- I like it.
They have a free car service (through an Acura promotion) that will take you on a one-way trip wherever you need in the local area. This is perfect for getting a meal in the plateau. Go up-hill in the MDX and bike back downhill on a Bixi bike.
The only complaint is the limited number of English channels on TV, but I supposed that comes with being in Quebec...
The W Montreal blew me away. Whereas before I had an SPG Amex to get airline miles, I am now a believer in the *wood hotel chain.
I got upgraded to a "Wonderful" room with a view of Victoria Square. It's not a suite, but it was the promised "one class" upgrade. The amenities are all bliss stuff, and all really nice. The voyeur shower is a great touch -- I like it.
They have a free car service (through an Acura promotion) that will take you on a one-way trip wherever you need in the local area. This is perfect for getting a meal in the plateau. Go up-hill in the MDX and bike back downhill on a Bixi bike.
The only complaint is the limited number of English channels on TV, but I supposed that comes with being in Quebec...