Martin St-Louis Shares His Mother’s Warning About the Dangers of Visiting Montreal

Martin St-Louis, head coach of the Montreal Canadiens, has begun his fourth year in this prominent role. In a recent interview on the program Salut Bonjour, he revealed how he is still discovering the city of Montreal, despite having distanced himself from it during his youth.

St-Louis’ Childhood Perspective of Montreal

Hailing from Laval, St-Louis had limited opportunities to explore Montreal. His career, particularly in its early stages, did not bring him into the city often. This led to a lack of familiarity with Canada’s largest market.

A Mother’s Warning

St-Louis shared a significant anecdote from his childhood regarding his mother’s perception of the city. He recalled, “When I was young, my mother convinced me that Montreal was dangerous. I stayed in Laval and she said, ‘Don’t go to Montreal, it’s dangerous.’”

This fear shaped his teenage years as he refrained from visiting the city, particularly around the age of 16 or 17, when many start venturing out with friends. He admitted to being a “suburban guy” who found cities intimidating.

Exploring a New City

However, St-Louis has recently begun to explore Montreal more. “I go out for dinner, I walk a lot, and I don’t stay far from Saint Catherine Street,” he mentioned. His experiences have transformed his view of the city, leading him to realize that it’s not as dangerous as he once believed.

A Growing Affection for Montreal

Now entrenched in his role as a coach, St-Louis has developed a fondness for Montreal. “Yes, I love Montreal,” he expressed, highlighting that he is often recognized in public places.

This revelation not only sheds light on St-Louis’s personal journey but also fosters a broader understanding of the perceptions surrounding urban safety. His transformation from fear to appreciation serves as encouragement for others to explore the diverse experiences Montreal has to offer.