It’s true that Montreal is quite cold in the winter (and, in fact, very hot in the summer), but the city is well adapted to winter climate conditions: Montreal’s snow removal is incredibly fast and efficient. You will need to get a good coat, hat, gloves, and boots, but most international students don’t find that they mind the cold too much, which compares to other cities like Boston or Toronto. Winter also has its advantages. You can go skating on the frozen lake of Mount Royal, go sledding in one of Montreal's many parks or take advantage of the nearby cross-country and downhill ski centres.