<p>folks, there are so many questions being asked here for different things, you can always create a new topic.</p>
<p>Let me try to answer a few of these questions-- my daughter lived in Solin last year and is now off campus, so I have some experience. Solin is in an area of Montreal called Little Burgandy. While it is not the best area of town, it is safe by large city US standards. For many years, it has been a poorer area with public housing and run-down shopping areas on St. Jacques. The area is slowly gentrifying, but more along the River area. The main shopping street is active--but definitely working class oriented (Dollarama, bars with
paper over the front, less expensive restaurants). The Atwater Market is of course a wonderful place.</p>
<p>The metro stop at Lionel-Greux is about 2 minutes walk away down a lighted path. My d. never had any trouble--but didnt come back to Solin alone after 9 pm to be sure. All in all, I would say it is safe with the same precautions you would take in any area of any city. I know my d. loved living in Solin, having her own apartment and cooking, and its benefits off-set any negatives. The area is bi-lingual in nature--certain places French will help.</p>
<p>Finding a small apartment for a reasonable price is much easier in MTL these days.
Especially compared to NE US prices, and cheaper than dorms. The prices get cheaper outside the McGill Ghetto, you pay for convenience. My d. has a small 1 and 1/2, very clean and nice, on Lorne St. (one block from McGill) for $595 Cdn all inclusive, except internet. The best source of info is the listing in the McGill student housing office:
<a href="http://www.mcgill.ca/classified/housing/%5B/url%5D">http://www.mcgill.ca/classified/housing/</a> Craig's List is also good.</p>
<p>I echo McGill Dad, I was frantic when my son had to move off campus after his 1st year at McGill but he is more than fine. His first apt with 4 others leased during his 2nd year worked out well and now he will be moving into a new apt this July. Montreal seems to be more of a University town than I had ever imagined. Apartments are there for the students and the landlords seem to be very trustworthy.</p>