Warm Welcome . Thank you for visiting my profile . You will find one-minute introduction videos for each of the bespoke experiences and tours I offer. The Original Montreal Expert I am licensed and certified to guide in Montreal, I also offer tours in the surrounding areas as well as the nation's capital, Ottawa.
Travel is all about creating unforgettable moments. I meticulously craft each experience to ensure it's unique for every guest. With over 3 decades expertise, knowledge and connection which I will have the pleasure of sharing with you . A native English-speaking local guide in Montreal I am also fluent in several other languages, I can effortlessly navigate nearly any conversation. As Montreal's most experienced career local expert guide, earning my income from the profession, I am most passionate for. I am a proud graduate of the prestigious McGill University and continue to be involved with the university. I have the honour of being one of the recipients of the Kings Charles II Coronation Medal, presented to me by the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau Prime Minister of Canada.
My tours of Montreal are immersive journeys filled with local insights, anecdotes, and humour. Specialising in food, neighbourhood exploration, photography, film, fashion, design, art, street art, cultural heritage, music, and more, I offer a diverse range of experiences tailored to your interests. The stories behind architecture fascinate me. I am an expert in the period between 1920 to 1950s. Montreal has an abundance in Art Deco and I am involved the with Art Deco organisations globally.
Whether you prefer helicopter rides, walking tours, driving excursions, or exploring via public transportation, I have options to suit every preference. My clientele includes luxury travellers seeking bespoke experiences, public figures, diplomats, corporate travellers, and even political leaders. I've collaborated with media professionals, film crews, and event planners, ensuring each encounter is unforgettable. Many of my guests are solo , BIOPOC, couples, friends, families.
With a background spanning concierge services, airlines, destination management, event planning, media, tourism consulting, training, and public speaking, I bring a wealth of industry experience to every interaction. As a former media relations manager for Tourism offices , I've played a pivotal role in promoting the city internationally and creating a vast majority of the tours offered by local guides today. I am Canada's first culinary food guide and the only guide certified for food safety (though not required).
Beyond guiding, I'm also a photographer, video content creator, singer, dance teacher, and amateur stand-up comic. My passion for adventure has led me to explore 151 countries, immersing myself in diverse cultures and cuisines along the way, including living in over 30 countries.
As President Emeritus of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, as well as our local professional guides guild, I'm deeply committed to elevating the standards of guiding worldwide. I volunteered for both organisations for 25+ years. My expertise has been featured in various media outlets, including National Geographic Traveller and the BBC.
Recognised for my contributions to empowering young women in politics and pioneering various initiatives, I'm dedicated to making a positive impact in my community both locally and globally. I continue to volunteer locally, nationally, and on the world stage to help make our world better.
My motto, tag line part of my personal branding is Excellence in Motion. It reminds me to keep myself challenged, moving forward. The travel, tourism, event planning , media relations industries which is constantly evolving as I evolve with the changes.
I believe in diversity, inclusiveness for all, encouraging all questions and discussion ensuring my guests receive the most authentic enjoyable experience.
I'm looking forward to welcome you and share my vibrant and unique city of Montreal with you. Let's create unforgettable memories together with me in Montreal. Warm wishes Ruby
President Emeritus World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations & Certificates 1992- 2022
1. City of Montreal Professional Guide license ( municipal bylaw G-2)
2. Certified Business Etiquette Protocol Training for work ( NKC)
3. Training, Certification from ITHQ- Montreal 1992 . Qualifications for guide city of Montreal guide license
5.Bike Safety Certification by Velo Quebec
6. St John's Ambulance. First Aid Training
7.BA, McGill University, Montreal Modern Languages, History, Political Science and Art History Certificate in Marketing & IATA Training
8. DEC, Vanier, College Montreal Russian, Italian, Spanish& photo Social Media/Photography/ Film/ Media
9. International Language Institute
10. Professional Vocal coaching . Singer and speaker
11. International recognised food safety certification
12. Training for mobility reduced travellers
13. Motor coach safety training
14. Trained and trainer Cultural Awareness & Diversity
15. Photography, Film & Editing studies
16. Culinary Arts Training
* I am not licensed to guide in Québec City.
* Montreal Guides are not permitted to guide in museums
* I do not have tour operator, travel agent permits or insurances to book transportation with a driver
