Summer has been passing by in the blink of an eye. It’s hard to believe that we are almost half way through! This summer, I have had the great fortune of being able to travel to and live in Montreal for five weeks while learning French at the Universite of Montreal. It was the first time I have experienced living away from home, and during my four weeks here already, I have experienced the freedom equally as much as the difficulties.
Surviving on instant ramen and buttered rye bread as my main staple, I have, along with my good friend and fellow blogger Lisa Bui, explored almost every corner of this lovely and lively city. When people said that Montreal was a party city, they really meant it. People flock to the many summer festivals every night, enjoying the abundance of performances, loud music, and, of course, the fireworks. No other city can match Montreal’s perfect blend of history and present. Party-goers hurry along its cobblestone streets under the watch of religious statues standing solemnly on magnificent churches, all accompanied by loud and lively contemporary music that one cannot help but dance to. Even at 1 a.m., the delicious aroma of crepes still fill the streets. Montrealers really know how to work hard and party harder!
During my time here, I have learned not only French, but experienced the culture and lifestyle of a city so different from Calgary. Sometimes, I have the illusion that I am in a beautiful European city. Travelling to a foreign city for a longer period of time is definitely something I would reccommend for anyone who has time. It is a wonderful experience that cannot be replaced and will not be forgotten.
