✈️ New York → Montreal Weekend Getaway

——Empty airports + artsy strolls + free summer concerts guide 🛃 Customs Surprise 9:30am ghost town airport: Just you and your luggage, self-print customs slips (⚠️ don’t discard before second checkpoint) Global Entry hack: Nexus lane instant pass (though irrelevant when there’s no line) 🌿 Must-Visit Spots Old Montreal: Cobblestone streets + 18th-century charm Notre-Dame Basilica: Starry blue vault ceiling (light show is a must!) Saint Joseph’s Oratory: Largest church dome in NA Fine Arts Museum: Free Thursday nights Saint Louis Square: Rainbow townhouses Mount Royal Park: Skyline viewpoint Mont Royal Ave: Vintage vinyl shops + French bakeries La Fontaine Park: Free open-air concerts (7-9pm) 🍽️ Foodie Hits ☕ Japandi Breakfast OSMO X MARUSAN: Salmon egg sandwich + garden lounging La Fabrique: Cloud-like French pancakes 🍵 Matcha Fix Matcha Zanmai: Hand-whisked matcha soft serve 🍸 Nightcap: Soviet-themed cocktail bar Datcha in Mile End 🏨 Stay Smart ✅ My Pick: Omni Mont-Royal (business hotel, central) 🌟 Local’s Choice: Plateau: Artsy B&Bs Mile End: Designer lofts + walkable cafés 💡 Pro Tips Transport: $14 weekend metro pass, Bixi bikes everywhere Hidden Gem: Sunday picnic haul at Atwater Market Language: English works, but "Bonjour" first = instant friendliness #MontrealWeekend #ParisOfNA #SummerEscape