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Source : Clarion Hotel & Suites Montreal
Greeting someone in Montreal Most people address each other by their first name and greet each other with a handshake. On some occasions, such as business meetings and formal functions, it is expected to use a person's title and last name.
Tipping advice Like North America, no automatic service charge is added to restaurant bills. Tipping is generally expected and can be problematic if one is used to having a service charge included in the bill. Service charges can only be added to the bill with your consent and normally amount to 10-20% of the total.
Montreal dress code Managers and executives are expected to dress conventionally; generally, men will be expected to wear a business suit and tie, and women a suit, pant suit or a conservative dress. Business dress may be less formal on Fridays. Outside the business environment, casual clothes are acceptable in most situations, with the exception of some restaurants and hotel lounges.
Montrealers have a great sense of fashion, from funky hats in winter to breezy sandals in summer, so you might want to pack something besides jeans and sneakers. This unique Montréal style also makes the city a great place to shop, so leave some room in your suitcase!
Spring / Summer: Montréal can be surprisingly hot and humid, so dress accordingly. On the warmest summer days, it doesn't really cool down at night. Early spring and late summer, though, be sure to bring along something extra to pull on if it cools down during the day or later in the evening. Comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must.
Fall / Winter: Montréal can be cold, but you'll be fine as long as you've got warm, dry feet, so pack your boots. Layered outerwear is the best way to go; wear something warm like wool, and something to cut the wind like nylon. Don't forget your scarf, gloves, and especially a hat - it can make a big difference.
Language The predominant language used locally is French. However, English is widely spoken. However, dozens of languages enjoy some representation within the city, .
Local Customs As with most Western countries, smoking is the subject of much debate in Canada. Most locations provide some form of rest area- however, many of these are designated as non-smoking and some companies and businesses have banned smoking on their premises completely. If you are a smoker, exercise discretion and sensitivity when selecting a place in which to smoke. The best advice would be not to smoke unless others around you do so.
Banks & Offices Most banks in Canada are open Monday through Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-5 or 6. Some banks are open longer hours and also on Saturday morning. All banks are closed on national holidays. Most banks (and some gas stations) have automated teller machines (ATMs) that are accessible around the clock.
Gas Stations Most highway and city gas stations in Canada are open daily (although there's rarely a mechanic on duty Sunday) and some are open around the clock. In small towns, gas stations are often closed on Sunday, although they may take turns staying open.
Museums & Sights Hours at museums vary, but most open at 10 or 11 and close in the evening. Some smaller museums close for lunch. Many museums are closed on Monday; some make up for it by staying open late on Wednesday, often waiving admission.
Shops Stores, shops, and supermarkets usually are open Monday through Saturday 9-6, although in major cities supermarkets are often open 7:30 AM-9 PM and some food stores are open around the clock. Most liquor stores are closed on Sundays, with a few exceptions. Shops often stay open Thursday and Friday evenings, most malls until 9 PM. Drugstores in major cities are often open until 11 PM, and convenience stores tend to be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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