Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile

There have only been a couple of times in my travels when I’ve felt unnecessarily targeted by someone in a position of authority. Strangely, both happened at international borders.

The first was at Charles de Gaulle Airport. I was simply trying to find my Uber pickup when a border agent standing nearby motioned me over. What followed felt less like routine procedure and more like an exercise in power. My bags were searched, I was asked a string of trivial questions, and the delay ultimately caused me to miss my ride and get charged a no-show fee. It felt needless and frustrating.

The second experience happened while entering Quebec from Vermont. The line was unusually slow, and I had a sense something was off long before I reached the booth. By the time I realized how long it was taking each car, it was too late to switch lanes. When it was my turn, the questioning quickly shifted from standard to sarcastic and provocative. I stayed calm and answered everything directly, but I was still selected for an additional vehicle search.

Afterward, once my car and passport were cleared, I spoke respectfully with another agent about the interaction. There’s a way to enforce rules without belittling people and being unnecessarily aggressive to show off your ego. Professionalism and basic decency are not optional with me – they are demanded.

One of the agents then gave me a recommendation for his favorite poutine spot in Montreal: La Banquise, and I took note.

As I drove to Montreal, I tried to put the issues behind me. Maybe, visiting French speaking countries was just not for me for a few years. But, when I got to the Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile, all that faded away.

Check In

There is something to be said about service, care and the sigh of relief that comes from the luxury of being heard and taken care of.  The moment that I dropped my car off at valet, I was welcomed to the Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile with a smile and a warm “Welcome to Montreal.”

The difference between my first introduction to Quebec vs my first introduction to Montreal was night and day.

I explained as such to my incredibly warm and kind check in host, who assured me that all of my trouble would be forgotten once I entered the room he selected for me.

And honestly, he was correct.

Room and Stay

My Signature 1 King Bed, High Floor City view was exactly – and I mean absolutely exactly – what I needed.

Just like my day pass experience in Tahiti (Kayaking, Dining and Relaxing: The Day Pass Experience at Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort) there is something about the Sofitel hotel brand that give me a different level of relaxed refinement than I’ve experienced elsewhere.

I also greatly appreciated the design of the spacious bathroom.

It was easy to plan out my night of adventure, with recommendations from the friendly staff at Foam Brewers in Burlington, Vermont. I even ordered Uber Eats and dined on poutine from La Banquise in my room as a late night treat.

Additionally, I absolutely loved how technologically forward the room was. The wireless charging stations next to the bed was perfect for overnight charging.

Overall

Overall, my overnight stay at Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile was exactly what I wished for: an exceptionally comfortable bed, warm and inviting staff, and perfect location within downtown Montreal.

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