UNDERGROUND CITY
Montreal's underground is one of the largest in the world. There are 20 miles of pedestrian walkways, accessible from 178 entries. The underground links 10 subway stations, 62 buildings, 8 major hotels, 1,615 apartments, 200 restaurants, 1,700 boutiques, 40 movie theatres and exhibition halls, 2 bus stations, 2 train stations, 2 universities and 1 college. I thought the underground city would be dark and dreary -- something out of a futuristic movie like "Blade Runner." But it was nothing like I pictured. At times I needed sunglasses, because half of the underground city is at ground level. It really could be referred to as the "indoor city," but "underground" has so much more appeal. However, that name is starting to fade away. In 2004 the city started re-branding the underground as R�SO. R�SO comes from the French word r�seau. It means "network," as in a network of tunnels.

HOW IT BEGAN
The tunnels come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Some are modern, some pleasing to the eye, some cold. In many tunnels there are musicians. Over 400 perform. They operate on a gentleman's agreement: They book their time slot for each day on a piece of paper that sits behind the signs that mark where performers can work. As a first timer, I found making my way around the underground a bit confusing. I felt like I was in a maze with no direction. Fortunately, the city is planning better signage. But the underground really makes this city worth visiting in the winter. It has transformed Montreal -- and even Canada. The underground began back in the 1950s, when it was planned by renowned architect I.M. Pei. The first building actually constructed, in 1962, was Place Ville Marie (PVM); it remains the heart and soul of the underground. This famous building paved the way for urban development in Canada.

GOING OUTSIDE
Kerry was right. I did not need a coat, even though it was �2 degrees F outside. However, I do recommend wearing a sweater, because while passing through some tunnels it gets a bit chilly. During my three days in the city, I went outside only twice. Once was to take a picture of this Metro sign that was given to Montreal by the city of Paris in 1966. The other time was to light a candle for my mom at Marie-Reine-du-Monde. This amazing cathedral, designed as a 1/3-size replica of St. Peter's in Rome, was only two blocks from my hotel. Montreal is filled with many other beautiful churches and cathedrals (link to the most impressive Churches). For more click HERE.