What to do in Montreal while you’re visiting for RAPS Convergence 2023
RAPS Convergence is headed to Montreal this October, where regulatory professionals from around the globe will gather for three days of professional development, discussion, and relationship-building.
While attendees are in town, they’ll get an expansive, interactive education on all aspects of regulatory, develop soft skills, discover the latest industry innovation and more at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal. But once the day’s events are over, Montreal offers world-class entertainment and attractions for attendees to explore.
We got in touch with local regulatory professionals to get their tips on how Convergence 2023 attendees should spend their time in Montreal.
Visit Montreal’s Old Port for a “taste of historic Montreal”
Just about every member we contacted mentioned Old Port as a must-see if you are visiting for RAPS Convergence 2023.
“Old Montreal and the Old Port area will give you a taste of historic Montreal and our French/European culture, with great architecture, cobblestone streets, and trendy stores and restaurants," says RAPS member David Kovac.
“There are many small shops and restaurants, a ferris wheel, science center and underground city and shopping,” says RAPS member Stephanie Jamain.
Plus, it is located a short walk from the site of RAPS Convergence 2023.
Stop by the Notre-Dame Basilica to witness some “breathtaking art”
While you are in the neighborhood, pay a visit to the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.
“Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal is Montréal's mother church and was the first Gothic Revival style church in Canada,” says RAPS member Wande Obadipe. “It is an iconic heritage site and gives a perfect illustration of exquisite and breathtaking art!"
Visit the Mount-Royal neighborhood for views and more
The Parc du Mont-Royal is known as "the mountain" and has an amazing view of the city, says RAPS member Mariana Cologna.
“Nearby Mount-Royal is a beautiful place to walk around the mountain in the middle of the city, with a man-made lake at the top of the hill (Beaver Lake),” says Kovac.
Two food musts
Bagels: Montreal is famous for its bagels, with a history going back more than 100 years. You can read more about that here. Fairmount and St-Viateur were easily the two establishments most-recommended by RAPS members.
Poutine: “Poutine in Quebec is on another level than poutine found in the rest of Canada,” says RAPS member Despina Vasiliou. “Please eat it a Poutinerie, not at a random restaurant.”
“La Banquise is one of the most famous spots to try this dish,” adds Nadine Adia, "though many local spots have their own unique twist on it.”
Museums
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Biodome, the Redpath Museum, the Biosphere and Pointe-a-Calliere (a museum about the history of Montreal) all come highly recommended from RAPS members.
RAPS member Mario Vaillancourt was particularly emphatic about the Biodome:
“With five ecosystems of the Americas under one roof, the Biodome is like a walk in nature. A place of wonder, learning and environmental commitment for young and old alike, it's one of Montréal’s must-see tourist attractions.”
Some advice on acquiring souvenirs
“I prefer to stay on Saint-Catherine Street, it's more reasonably priced,” says Vasiliou. “Get little maple candies. They are really good, cheap and easy to bring back with you. Plus, maple syrup is a must.”
Exercise (with a view)
Go for a run or cycle along the Lachine Canal, says RAPS member Priyanka Ramjagsing.
A few final tips and recommendations
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Jean Talon Market
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Atwater Market
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Smoked meats at Schwartz’s
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St. Joseph Oratory
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Mont Tremblant
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The Wilensky Special at Wilensky’s (cash only)
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Great orange juice at Orange Julep
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Montreal Bontanical Garden
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St. Laurence River cruise
See something we missed? Tag us on social media using the #RAPSConvergence hashtag.
Thanks to Sumatha Kondabolu, Hina Saini, Mario Vaillancourt, Mri-ePier Benoit, Stephanie Jamain, Rugia Malik, David Kovac, Despina Vasiliou, Nikhitha Kotakadira, Wande Obadipe, Melinda Ayvazian, Seleena Aloisi, Evelyn Deros, Eric Parent, Nadine Adia, Priyanka Ramjagsingh, Med Amine Guerfali, Jennifer Ng Ain Kin, Yulia Vasianovich, Mariana Cologna, and Carl Dourambeis for their suggestions.