I have a close friend, originally from Casablanca, who has also lived in Lyon and Paris. He's also traveled extensively and has lived in Montreal for over 20 years. Me? I grew up in New York, lived in Boston, and have also traveled extensively. While he's never hobbied, he's been spending regular time with a woman he met on Seeking a couple of years ago. On the other hand, I've hobbied extensively, though I pretty much gave it up three and a half years ago when I met a younger woman on Seeking with whom I've been spending considerable time, including travel to quite a few of the world's great city. I've been basically living here for the last 10.
This thread seems to be concentrating on the economic benefits or liabilities of living in Montreal. My Moroccan and I have on more than one occasion remarked to each other that Montreal, for many reasons, is the best city in the world. And, really, that's all that matters.