Canada is a bilingual country and most people speak both languages. That said, learning a few French phrases is a great idea because it will enhance your experience. In Montreal, a little French will take you a long way. I decided to study French before coming to Montreal because I love learning languages but it is not necessary to do so.
Once in Montreal, you can take Survival French or just survive without it. If you do decide to study in advance, the school has some great online resources. I especially like Mango languages. It has a course on Quebec French and a very laid-back approach.
You use your Champlain login to get free unlimited access to Mango. Montrealers are very laid back but they appreciate it when people make an effort to speak French. Even if you immediately switch to English, starting a conversation with a few french words will be well received. Saying Hi is a great way to start a conversation. Bonjour or Salut are standard greetings in Montreal.
Bonjour literally means good day. Bon means good and jour is day. Salut means hi. Use Bonjour when greeting workers in restaurants, people on the street, or just about anyone else.
You will often find the acronym SVP is often used on notices and signs when the writer wishes to be polite. If someone does something very nice for you say merci beaucoup Thank you very much. When you bump into someone on the subway or stop to ask directions say Pardon Excuse Me. Asking in French is more polite than simply assuming they will understand you. Often, after greeting someone with your flawless Bonjour they will assume you speak French.
