HOTEL MONTREAL
RUBY FOO'S BLOG

Want to escape into a romantic bubble with your sweetheart on this day of lovers? Here are a few suggestions to switch up your routine and celebrate your love with style.
 
Who doesn’t love getting pampered during a hotel getaway? You may not have time for an exotic vacation, but don’t let that stop you! Why not splurge on a memorable night at a hotel? You two don’t need to leave the city for a change of scenery. Dress up, turn off your phones, and don’t forget to hang the “Do not disturb” sign on your door. What’s more, you won’t even have to make the bed in the morning.
 
Now is the perfect time for lovers with fine palates to treat themselves to a gourmet meal and a fine bottle of wine. Tonight is not the night for slaving over a hot stove and drowning in dishes! You’ll be too busy whispering sweet nothings in each other’s ears. For a wonderfully romantic evening, head over to L’Auberge St-Gabriel and savour its excellent cuisine. After enjoying their special Valentine’s menu, you can even go for a horse-drawn carriage ride in Old Montréal!
 
Escape your hectic lives with a romantic weekend at a cottage, far away from it all. Find a babysitter and go wherever you want—just the two of you. Go skiing, snowshoeing, enjoy the fresh air, then snuggle up next to the fire. And don’t forget to bring supplies: oysters, champagne, chocolate … whatever you desire.
 
Here’s an idea for you playful types: organize a treasure hunt for your sweetie. Leave hints and surprises at all of his or her favourite spots. Want to earn brownie points? Go back to where it all began and visit the places where you met and first dated. Enjoy the memories!
 
Finally—there’s no escaping it! It’s not Valentine’s Day without chocolate. Don’t settle for some mediocre box from the drugstore; anything worth doing is worth doing well. Why don’t the two of you take a trip to chocolate heaven? A decadent dessert at Juliette & Chocolat, rich, spiced hot chocolate at Suite 88 Chocolatier, chocolates from Les chocolats de Chloé to enjoy at home… Sweet kisses are on the horizon!
 
Treat yourselves, darlings. Whatever your heart’s desire may be! ♥

Spring break is almost here. So let’s make the most of it and have some family fun outside! These five awesome activities are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults:
 
Curling en lumière
February 23 to March 11, 2017
Place des Festivals, Quartier des spectacles
 
Curling may seem a little… old-fashioned. But Curling en lumière brings a modern twist to this time-honoured sport! Discover a unique new version that’s a bit wild and a whole lot of fun at Les Hivernales. Slide your stones in the midst of a spectacular sound and light show. Curling has never been so magical! Announcers will be on hand to give a running commentary on your performance—all for free!
 
Zookeeper for a day
March 6 to 10, 2017
Zoo Ecomuseum
 
Are your kids wild about animals? Then give them the chance to be zookeepers for a day at the only outdoor zoo on the Island of Montréal. They will enjoy an unforgettable experience full of surprises with a zoologist who will teach them 1001 things about Quebec’s species. Young zookeepers get to see the animals up close and prepare their meals!
 
Ice skating in the Old Port
Until March 12, 2017
Bonsecours Basin
 
The Natrel skating rink in the Old Port, just a quick glide from downtown, offers a spectacular view of the snowy St. Lawrence River and Montréal’s stunning heritage buildings. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, the rink has special theme nights: Workout on Ice, Comfort on Ice and DJ on Ice. You’ll find everything you need for a magical family outing: sports, music, outdoor fireplaces and, of course, hot chocolate!
 
Cross-country skiing at the Botanical Garden
Until March 12, 2017
 
No time to head out to the country but need to reconnect with nature? Not to worry! Just put on your cross-country skis and explore the snowy trails of the Botanical Garden’s Arboretum. Access to the outdoor gardens is free all season long; come enjoy this outdoor sport—right in the city! If you want to prolong your excursion, you can continue skiing on the trails of the Parc Maisonneuve, or take advantage of the indoor activities at the Botanical Garden.
 
Ti-Gus refait son numéro
Théâtre de Guignol, for the entire family
Saturdays and Sundays from January 14 to March 12, 2017
Espace La Fontaine
 
We often go play outside at Parc La Fontaine, so why not enjoy a cultural activity while we’re there? Ti-Gus has prepared a wonderful show—all that’s missing is you! The entire family is sure to enjoy this (puppet) theatre outing.
 
Have a great spring break!