"What’s the vibe at this place? There are two volumes of conversation allowed at Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal's Old Port: "quiet" and "silence." And since opening in 2010, it has become a major attraction for locals and tourists. You can soak in a mineral-rich hot tub—and perhaps conquer that jet lag—while gazing upon the Downtown core, Mount Royal, and the historic Old Port, all from the river. What sorts of treatments do they offer—and, more importantly, which should we choose? There's a full menu of spa services, but most guests come for the hydrotherapy circuit. The staff is relaxed, inviting, and quiet. Nice. How's the after-treatment? Before, during, and after the hydrotherapy circuit, walk through the indoor and outdoor spaces, which are filled with lounge chairs, hammocks, steam rooms, and saunas. How can we get the most out of our spa visit? Come on weekday before 11 a.m., and a three-hour pass costs $35; however, many visitors end up extending that time, choosing to spend the better part of a day luxuriating and recharging here. It's impossible to leave feeling anything less than relaxed." - Todd Plummer
