Discover these destination dupes near you
Travel quiz: How can you immerse yourself in the world-renowned sights, sounds, flavours and flair of such acclaimed global hubs as Paris, New York and L.A., but without ever setting foot in an airport or crossing a single international border? Answer: Head for one of Canada’s destination dupes: alternative or ‘duplicate’ destinations that offer similar attractions and appeal to other, more touristic ones. We’ve curated a 100% Canadian collection of spectacular substitutes that give these international hotspots a run for their high-exchange-rate money, and then some. Pack your bags, leave your passport at home, and prepare to explore the world’s most chic cities… Canada style!
Paris Dupe Destination: Montreal
Dreaming of picture-perfect streets steeped in the charm of old Europe, bustling coffee shops slinging café au laits and buttery croissants, and more dazzling dining options than you could discover in a lifetime? Open your eyes to the magic of Montreal, Quebec.
Start by strolling alongside the storied St. Lawrence River in Old Montreal. Duck into quaint side streets lined with eclectic shops and art galleries while soaking up the sense of history that seems to permeate the air.
Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without shopping, and the same holds true for Montreal! When it’s time to shop ‘til you drop, you’ll be spoiled for choice along the famed Ste-Catherine Street in the city centre.
Top off your day with an exquisite dinner at Le Boulevardier. With a French brasserie-inspired menu and an extensive wine list, this top Montreal dining destination will have you exclaiming, ‘Ooh la la!’
From there, simply take the elevator up to your ultra-comfortable room at Le Germain Hotel Montreal and doze off in classic style.
Catch the vibe of L.A., in The Six
Soak up all the star quality of Los Angeles, in the heart of Ontario.
Rub shoulders with the cosmopolitan crowd at the city’s trendy bars and cool clubs. Put the world on your plate with scores of international options ranging from fun food trucks to fine dining. Stumble upon a film set and watch as the magic unfolds. It’s all right at your doorstep in Ontario’s capital city.
But what about all the west coast sun, sand and sparkling water? No worries! With a bevy of beaches and a laid-back vibe, The Six in summer more than satisfies.
Continue exploring Toronto’s most vibrant neighbourhoods from the comfort of the conveniently located Le Germain Hotel Toronto Maple Leaf Square or Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer -- and don’t be surprised if you find yourself asking, ‘Holly-where?’
Montreal: The other city that never sleeps
If the big-city vibe and round-the-clock action of New York City is your speed, Montreal dares you to try to keep up!
Teeming with frenetic nightlife, renowned cultural venues, and festivals of every stripe, the bustling Canadian city is an easy pick for those looking to plug into the energy of The Big Apple.
For some down time, there’s even a leafy ‘central’ park complete with a pleasant lake.
When you’re feeling peckish, Montreal’s world-famous bagels are a must. We bet one perfectly chewy bite is all it will take to convince you that, in the age-old rivalry between the bagels of New York and Montreal, the clear winner is right in your hand!
If the night goes long, grab a midnight snack from Altcetera in the lobby of Alt Hotel Montreal on the way up to your cozy bed in your urban-chic room. Sweet dreams!
