When they say that Montreal is like the brash new-world cousin of Paris, it could also be said for the collection of luxury and boutique hotels that dot the old town and downtown. Le St. James, however is the exception. The discriminating hotel of choice for visiting pop stars from Britney Spears to Madonna and Mick Jagger, an exaggerated 19th Century façade of arched windows and plaster detailing that once housed Merchant's Bank is the picture of upscale Montreal. Its location at the edge of Old Town is walking distance to Holt Renfrew which makes up for the fact that its on one of the busiest intersections in the city albeit guarded by fortified security and showpiece doorman.
 
Inside, na inlaid wood paneled foyers leads to a grand 50-ft. two-story reception surrounded in Grecian columns with even more lacquered woodwork and crystal crowd of two gigantic chandeliers. Rococo mirrors and updated décor of bold strips and rich red fabrics are stylish without being trendy – a lesson not often heeded in Montreal's design hotels. The sleek design aesthetic extends into XO Restaurant that one of the most awarded in Montreal where Chef Michele Mercuri creates a locally sourced Quebecois menu in the former Banker's Hall of the building. 

The Room:

A bespoke lobby of well-selected upgrades made us feel like a really great room, favored by businessmen and rock stars alike, was just a card-swipe away. Period hallways in ornate carpeting lead to heavy cherry-wood doors that open to ornate guest rooms with wood paneling, royal red upholstered chairs and sofa with ornamental spire detailing and bold gold mirrors that feel equal parts Paris boudoir and ritzy Montreal luxury hotel. The details definitely live up to the reputation with perfect dark-wood floors, heavy drapery concealing well-insulated soundproof windows and ornamental décor that usually includes some type of bronze cherub or Grecian god. While the sophisticated design eye won’t be making any mental notes on takeaway decorating tips, a basement level spa is a Montreal favorite in the old bank vault with small gym and rooms surrounded in century-old brick for treatments like a Rain Shower Massage where all inhibitions are lost.