MTL Detours is the result of Lesley’s lifelong love affair with her hometown, the unique and absolutely fabulous city of Montréal, and decades spent working within its vibrant tourism industry.
Born and raised in Montreal, Lesley’s friends have nicknamed her “Miss Montreal”. As an avid walker and photography enthusiast, Lesley has always spent her free time exploring Montreal on foot and capturing the city through her lens.
Her studies in Tourism led her to a rich and varied career spanning three decades in Montréal’s tourism industry, including an extensive tenure at Tourisme Montréal. Throughout those years, an insatiable curiosity for history, architecture, urban planning, art, politics, culture, and all things Montréal led her to deepen her expertise by pursuing studies at the Hotel & Tourism Institute of Quebec (ITHQ), where she obtained her diploma, certification, and license as a professional Montréal Tourist Guide.
Combining her experiences, interests, and passion for Montreal, she made the big jump and created her own walking tour company specializing in small groups – MTL Detours – in 2019.
She loves showing visitors around town and sharing not only her knowledge, fave spots, and insights but also her contagious enthusiasm and passion for Montreal. Nothing beats being shown around by a true local expert who loves their city!
Lesley is featured in the book “How Canada Works: The People Who Make Our Nation Thrive” by #1 bestselling authors Peter Mansbridge and Mark Bulgutch.
Read more about it here!