Vacation in Gay-Friendly Montreal, Canada

Montreal is a hot vacation destination for many in the gay community for several reasons. First of all, it's like a trip to Europe only much cheaper since you get to stay on the North American continent. Because of its proximity to the US, it's an easy and inexpensive place to get away to. Another perk is that Canada recognizes same-sex marriages and you can even get married while vacationing in Montreal! (Try the gorgeous Rue St. Catherine Church if marriage is on your mind!).

Montreal has a gay-scene that is quite unlike any gay-friendly area in the United States. The legalized same-sex marriage and the hard-to-miss sexy French-Canadian accents make this historic and progressive city a place to have great fun! Montreal boasts one of the largest gay neighborhoods in the entire world and as a result offers a plethora of gay-friendly bars, nightclubs, hotels, hostels, restaurants and stores.

The following is a list of destinations in Montreal to look into:

The Village (sometimes called "le Village")

Catherine Street

This is the epicenter of Montreal's gay scene. Home to countless cafes, bars, nightclubs, etc., this is one place you cannot afford to leave off your "to-go" list. Its atmosphere is wicked fun and full of flair. Take a casual stroll down St. Catherine Street in le Village and enjoy the rainbow streamers. Check out "The Sky Pup and Club" located at 1474 St. Catherine Est, "le Drugstore" - a multi-leveled bar/dance club - located at 1366 St. Catherine Est, and "Taverne Normandie" - a laid back gay karaoke bar - at 1295 Rue Amherst. Oh, and don't forget "Cabaret Mado" located at 1115 St. Catherine Est. They're known for their fierce drag shows and bustling crowd!

Joy Toyz

4200 Boul. St.-Laurent, Suite 415

This is a fun place to go, especially for women. With its sex-positive vibe and gay-friendly atmosphere, Joy Toyz is a sex-toy store that sells both romantic and novelty gifts and is owned by women. You can also check out their frequently occurring workshops and learn about everything from striptease, massage techniques and how to please your girl in bed!

Absolument Montreal Bed and Breakfast

1790 Rue Amherst

This is a beautiful bed and breakfast that has recently been renovated. Enjoy luxurious bedrooms that you can melt away in. Perks of this gay-friendly stop are: jacuzzi, gourmet breakfast, Bollywood-themed rooms and it's only minutes away from The Village.

Alexandrie Youth Hostel

1750 Amherst

This hostel makes great sense for budget-minded consumers. It's located just minutes from The Village and with it's cheap nightly fee a great place to go if you want to save moolah. According to their website, "Alexandrie's loft space is reorganized in a variety of rooms and dormitory with access to a large common room with TV and music."

Le Planete Restaurant

1451 Rue Ste-catherine

This eatery boasts eclectic dishes from around the world! Try exotic fruits, pastas, sauces, herbs and meats. Definitely a do for your the sake of your taste buds!

For more great locations, go to www.go-montreal.com!