An Urban Travelling Experiment

I've decided to take an impromptu trip to Montreal. I think it's my way of fitting in one last adventure before my return to work. Although I'd been mulling it over for several months, it was truly a last-minute decision. I booked my train tickets and accommodations last night and at 6:23 this morning, I was chugging East to Montreal.

A few things inspired me to do it:

• D. suggesting that I counter my "I don't wanna go back!" outburst by planning something fun this week,
• a few interesting temporary exhibits at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Montreal Botanical Garden, and
• an Auberge I've been wanting to visit for at least 3 years.

So I write to you from the Auberge's lobby, sitting at a weathered wooden table. Techno beats play in the background. The colours give the place an urban bistro feel: lime green, blue and tangerine orange walls; wall-sized artwork with deep shades of red; a white marble hearth. The ornate ironwork, rich woods and cacti insert a flair more akin to that of a hacienda.

My suite is warm and energetic with brightly-coloured walls, a working fireplace (for sub-zero temperatures only) and oodles of natural light. Did I mention the jacuzzi? The extras make this place special too: two PCs offering free high-speed Internet access, a shared kitchenette in each housing unit - the Auberge owns several on the street - complete with microwave, kettle and fridge, and a cookie jar full of cookies that melt in your mouth.

The Auberge is close to René Levesque Blvd, Peel and Sainte-Catherine streets and central to major métro routes. My only complaint is that the street connecting this one to the main drags is a little shady for my taste. I wouldn't feel comfortable walking it at night - but I've always preferred erring on the side of caution when it comes to those things.

For tonight, I'll be content curling up on the couch catching up on a little HGTV, sipping on a complimentary hot chocolate and eating a few more cookies that melt in your mouth. And did I mention I have a jacuzzi? :)