A couple weeks ago, I flew to Toronto early in the morning, and in the evening of the same day, I flew to Montreal and checked into the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth. Every time I’m in Montreal for business, I can think of only one story from the early days of GT, and it makes me laugh out loud. It was one of the few times Fran Gallagher and I were in Montréal at the same time. We had a productive day of meetings and, as any good business traveler should, we decided to sample one of the many great restaurants in Old Montreal. In my opinion, Old Montreal offers the perfect balance of old and new. Cobblestones line the streets while sleek, modern restaurants offset the cobblestone. Many of the restaurants feature floor-to-ceiling windows that allow diners an optimal view of the streets. During this trip, it was a winter wonderland, and snow was piled waist high across the whole city. While walking to dinner, I experienced a new element of Global Traveler — the element of surprise. I was still dressed for business — in a suit and high heels — and while stepping outside of the hotel, I felt something hit my back. What could it be? I turned around to see another snowball headed straight for my forehead. With my slick NYC skills, I quickly ducked and found the culprit. None other than Fran Gallagher himself! I quickly took in my surroundings and did what I felt was the only professional thing to do in this situation . . . fire back! Even in high heels, I held my own, although Mr. Gallagher put up a good fight. I still claim victory, but I know he disagrees. Now, since the GT team has grown, perhaps we need to have a rematch — sales versus editorial. We shall see who prevails! What I learned that night, and throughout my career at GT, is that, even in stressful times, it is important to laugh. The diners in old Montreal that night may not agree with me, as some snowballs definitely hit those floor-to-ceiling windows! -Alex Young, vice president and associate publisher