[sleeping_beast]

Hi MrKJBlue,

I lived in the Montreal area and found it awesome. That city is so alive, especially in summer. In winter, be ready with your shovel. And be ready to garage your 911.

I lived in California for some years, in the high-tech industry. I found that the high-tech industry was somewhat more dynamic than in Montreal. Wages were very good. Overall, however, I think that the quality of life is better in Montreal than in California, mostly for the low cost of living (inexpensive houses) and the proximity and beauty of nature. I know you were not asking about California but that's the comparison point I have.

I recently moved in the region of Ottawa. Since Ottawa is the national capitale, the area is clean, well-maintained and offers substantial tourism opportunities. From where I live, I can easily go to Toronto (about 4 to 5 hours drive), Montreal for great night life, restaurants, festivals (about 2.5 hours drive), Eastern Townships for good ski, hiking and mountain bike (about 3.5 hours drive) or even Quebec City (about 4.5 hours drive) for a weekend in the most European city in America. And I noticed, by the accent, that lots of people seem to be from UK in the Ottawa region.

Good luck with your move,

Alain