Since its arrival on Netflix in December, the Spanish-language French film Emilia Pérez has been a nesting doll of controversies. The musical, directed by Jacques Audiard, has been slammed by critics and on social media for its regressive portrayal of trans identity. The film has also been critiqued for its “Eurocentric” depiction of Mexico — […]

Get ready to pack your bags Montreal, because a brand-new budget airline is about to land in the city.

On Wednesday, January 29, a French airline promising affordable long-haul flights without skimping on comfort announced that it would be touching down in Quebec later this year.

Low-cost carrier French bee is officially launching a new Montreal-to-Paris route on April 30, 2025. Flights will take off directly from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and land at Paris-Orly, one of the most conveniently located airports for accessing the French capital.

The new route is part of the company’s wider plans to extend its presence across North America. According to a recent press release, the airline is “expanding its offer in Canada to meet the growing demand from North American customers for long-haul travel at competitive fares.”

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With round-trip tickets between Montreal airport and Paris starting at just $449, Montrealers can head to Europe to munch on croissants and explore Avenue des Champs-Élysées for under $500.

And, if you’re dreaming of exploring more of France, French bee has you covered with a number of train and air combos available via their website. You can snag a ticket that lets you hop on the TGV straight from Paris to dreamy destinations like Bordeaux or Angers—perfect for those wine-tasting or countryside adventures.

Despite the affordable airfare, French bee’s budget-friendly approach doesn’t necessarily mean cutting corners on comfort.

The airline says it’ll be flying state-of-the-art Airbus A350s, which are not only fuel-efficient but also designed with passenger comfort in mind. The French carrier is promising Canadian travellers wider seats, quieter cabins, and a smoother ride.

Like many low-cost airlines, the cheapest fares come without any bells and whistles, although upgrades are available.

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Want to stretch out more? You can upgrade to a “maxi leg seat” starting at $70 extra. Need to check that massive suitcase full of outfits you couldn’t decide between? Add a checked bag for $90. You can also pre-order meals—some of which are crafted by a Michelin-starred chef—or treat yourself to a travel kit for extra in-flight coziness.

For those who like to skip lines and speed through the airport, French bee also offers an Express Pack, which lets you skip queues and board like a VIP.

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This news comes as other low-cost airlines move to pull out of Canada.

Icelandic carrier Play Airlines is set to end its Canadian operations on April 22, 2025, leaving travellers wondering what it means for their plans. Last year, Lynx Airlines filed for creditor protection, and in 2023, WestJet folded Swoop Airlines into its main operations.

McGill University aviation expert John Gradek told CTV News in January that Canada hasn’t exactly been welcoming to ultra low-cost carriers. He said these airlines are struggling with rising costs, inflation, and tough competition from bigger players.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.

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If you thought January’s frigid weather was rough, think again — February isn’t looking any easier for Quebec.

The province is expected to receive intense snowstorms and a chaotic mix of weather in the coming weeks, bringing tricky road conditions and a serious test of patience.

At the end of last year, meteorologists at MétéoMédia warned that we were in for “a winter full of storms.” Well, it looks like that forecast is about to hit full force.

According to meteorologist Réjean Ouimet, an arctic air mass over western Quebec is about to collide with a surge of warmer air —setting the stage for some turbulent weather. “So far, the misalignment of air masses has kept major storms away, but that’s about to change,” he explains.

If this pattern holds, we can expect major snowfall and unpredictable conditions across the province.

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“Snowfalls of 15 or even 25 cm or more are likely to become commonplace. Another possibility is that a succession of intense systems will develop, as our winters sometimes do,” Ouimet added.

Southern Quebec, in particular, is in for a messy mix of snow, rain and freezing rain, making for treacherous commutes.

Meanwhile, northern regions like Abitibi could see massive snow accumulations in the coming weeks.

No matter where you are, one thing is certain: winter storms are coming.

With that in mind, many folks have circled the first spring day on their calendars. But even when terrasse season arrives, we shouldn’t pull out our shorts and sandals just yet.

Looking ahead, the Farmers’ Almanac is predicting a colder-than-usual spring across much of southern Quebec, with frequent rain in April — and even a few late-season snowfalls. But don’t worry, those last flurries should quickly turn to rain as temperatures rise. Meanwhile, areas in northern Quebec are set to experience “warmer-than-normal weather” as winter comes to an end.

Translation? Winter isn’t going anywhere just yet.

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Canadians are internationally recognized for their friendliness, but apparently, there’s something to be said about Quebec hospitality in particular.

In fact, a handful of cities within the province recently gained some attention thanks to Booking.com’s 13th annual Traveller Review Awards, which are based on over 360 million verified customer reviews.

These awards celebrate travel partners who provide exceptional hospitality and service. Among the honorees, Canada’s “Most Welcoming Places” were determined by the number of accommodation providers in each destination that received a 2025 Traveller Review Award — and three Quebec towns secured a spot in the top 10.

According to the 2025 rankings, the three Quebec destinations recognized for their exceptional hospitality are:

Quebec City

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A city known for its rich history and European charm, the province’s capital boasts award-winning accommodations such as Les Lofts Dorchester – Par Les Lofts Vieux-Québec and the Monastère des Augustines.

While it’s a breathtaking summer stop, the old Ville, which ranked second on the list of Canada’s “Most Welcoming Places,” also comes alive for the annual winter carnival every February.

Mont-Tremblant

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A year-round outdoor paradise, Mont-Tremblant placed seventh on the list of friendly spots.

Well-loved for its skiing, hiking, and vibrant resort village, top-rated stays in this hotspot nestled in the Laurentian Mountains include Le Westin Tremblant and Le 900 Tremblant Inn Café and Bistro.

La Malbaie

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Located in the stunning Charlevoix region, La Malbaie offers breathtaking views and cozy inns like Auberge La Châtelaine and Auberge La Marmite.

The area also offers easy access to stunning countryside, the Saguenay Fjord, and top attractions like Parc des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie and whale watching in Tadoussac.

These three destinations join other Canadian hotspots such as Toronto, Halifax, and Victoria in earning recognition for their warm welcomes and top-tier hospitality. Here’s how the entire top 10 rounded out:

1. Toronto, Ontario
2. Québec City, Québec
3. Halifax, Nova Scotia
4. Victoria, British Columbia
5. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
6. Vancouver, British Columbia
7. Mont-Tremblant, Québec
8. Ucluelet, British Columbia
9. Canmore, Alberta
10. La Malbaie, Québec

So, if you’re planning a trip in 2025 and looking for a place that will make you feel right at home, you may not have to look much further than “la belle province.”

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AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of MTL Blog’s Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.

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