Himura357

So, I finally decided to go watch a F1 race. Bought the tickets at a discounted price. Got a section near the hairpin corner.

I figured with Honda coming back into the sport, and teaming up with McLaren once again, it was pretty special.

Also, I have never been to Montreal. Any tips for a first timer to both F1 and Montreal? Restaurants? Traveling tips? General advice?

Thanks

fernando.

I'm going too, so I'll take any advice I can get.

jvf1

I have been going to the Montreal F1 race since 1982. Damn, I'm old!

It is tons of fun. Just too bad for you guys that you don't get to hear and feel the old V8, V10, and V12 engines. They were truly an awesome thing to experience. With the new V6 turbo hybrids last year I didn't even need to wear ear plugs. The support races are louder! lol

Enough of that though, Montreal is a great City and great venue to watch a race and I really enjoy it. Atmosphere and crowds there are fantastic. We typically stay right downtown. Any decent hotel chain close to a Metro stop so you park your car for the weekend and leave it. You need to take the Metro to the island anyway.

jvf1

Lots of good bars and restaurants all within walking distance downtown.

Hairpin is a decent place to watch from, but the Jumbotron TV screens let you see the whole circuit anyway.

We sit down at the Senna S curve for the race now, but over the years I think I have been in every stand.

Any specific info you need let me know.

If you haven't booked a room yet, start looking now because they do fill up and yes they will gouge you for the rates and most make you pay in full up front non - refundable. Merci!

C63AMG

Crescent Street... err Rue Crescent if you wan't to be politically correct lol.

That's all you really need to know

EDIT: Oh and last time I went, the parking garage at Complexe Desjardins was dirt cheap.

jvf1

^ True dat!!!

afzan

Seems like there aren't many half decent hotels left at reasonable prices.

Did you guys book yours already?

LDubz735

AirBNB is your friend. I've been using it for the last few years and have been happier with that than hotels.

LDubz735

There are tons of cool spots in MTL, but here's a short list to start:

TRIED AND TRUE
-Schwartz's for the smoked meat (though I prefer Main Street Diner to avoid the lines)
-St. Viateur bagels - get it fresh at 5am!
-Club Supersex

BARS
-Dieu de Ciel - one of my favourite microbrews
-Big Bar Japan - Sake bar
-Le Lab - really nice cocktail bar

(SPLURGE) RESTOS
-La Salle a Manger
-Pied du Cochon - a bit heavy for my tastes, but it's well known
-Pamika Brasserie Thai

jvf1

Exactly. Pricey!
We stayed at the Embassy Suites near Old Town last year and are doing the same this year. Breakfast and Happy Hour drinks / munchies included.

Airbnb may be a good option too. I haven't used that service before but a friend of mine has.