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A strong exchange rate makes luxury lodging a steal in Montreal

A view from one of the rooms at Hotel Gault in Montreal.Courtesy Tourisme Montreal

MONTREAL — I’m an expert at drumming up velum-thin excuses to visit Montreal. Poutine Festival? Time to pack a suitcase and hit the road. A new cat cafe? Well, I don’t mind if I do. But last month I found a slightly more compelling reason to visit: A very favorable exchange rate. Spending $100 Canadian at the hip new restaurant Maison Sociale was like spending $82 US. Bargain lovers rejoice. It’s time to head north.

With the dollar strong and my appetite for luxury high, I opted for a new hotel that was a bit more posh than my usual digs. The Hotel Gault in old Montreal was a 19th-century cotton importer’s house that was given a contemporary makeover. Behind the classic stone facade are 30 guest rooms. The Gault’s lobby is sophisticated and inviting with massive windows looking out onto Rue Sainte-Hélène’s imposing architecture. The yellow Francesco Binfaré sectional may not be the most comfortable spot in the lobby, but you’ll certainly look good perched on it.

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I recommend finding a seat at the bar, which is an extension of the reception desk, and spending a lazy evening sipping wine before dinner. The rooms feel modern and romantic, with reproductions of Eames, Bertoia, and Paulin furniture serving as a contrast to the brick walls. The modern style is warmed by blond-wood fixtures and shutters. It’s verboten and cliche to compare Montreal to Paris, but I’ll do it anyway. The view from my window at Gault felt quite French.

The sprawling bathroom featured a freestanding tub, glass shower, and plenty of Molton Brown toiletries. It’s one of my favorite brands to stuff in my Dopp kit. The bed felt luxurious in Frette linens. Rates vary based on season and demand, but I’ll point out that if you book a room at $300 Canadian, you’re only paying $246 US. Enjoy this discounted luxury while you can.

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HOTEL GAULT 449 Rue Sainte-Hélène, Montreal. 514-904-1616, www.hotelgault.com


Christopher Muther can be reached at muther@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @Chris_Muther