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Want to be a real Montrealer? Here are 5 tips on how to blend in

Montrealers are a distinct breed. From standing in line for the bus, to switching to English when an anglophone enters a conversation, they have their own way of doing things.

Husband and wife duo Laurent Turcot and Stéphanie Neveu set out to document these Montreal-specific social norms in their new book, Vivre et survivre à Montréal au 21e siècle.

Filled with tips for how to act in all sorts of circumstances, the book prepares anyone to navigate this city with ease.

The idea for the book came when Turcot, a historian who studies leisure, co-authored Une histoire de la politesse au Québec Normes et déviances du XVIIe au XXe siècles.

In many of the interviews that followed it the discussion veered into how Quebecers behave today.

Turcot, who is originally from Quebec City, had noticed social practices distinct to Montreal.

Turcot and Neveu began to document social codes, exchanging texts daily about Montreal-specific norms they thought should be included in the book. They also gathered suggestions from friends, colleagues and anyone who would listen to their ideas.

Neveu sees the book as an opportunity for Montrealers to laugh about their particularities. But her goals extend beyond that.

"We don't usually stand proud of who we are. We want to put Montreal out there," she told CBC Montreal's Daybreak. "We're distinct, we're special ... and that's what we wanted to show with this book."

Line up to take the bus

According to Turcot and Neveu, Montrealers are strict about lining up for the bus, and mounting in order. If you do happen to cut the line, onlookers will not likely loudly protest, although they may timidly speak out. You can expect glares in your direction once on the bus though, say Turcot and Neveu.

"When you're in Quebec City, you don't wait in line. Everyone just goes in no matter who comes first," said Neveu.

Never arrive early

Turcot and Neveu write that Montrealers are on time, or a bit late — 15 to 20 minutes late is appropriate, anything more borders on rude. But being early risks catching your host off guard. If you do arrive early, take a walk around the block to kill time.

Coffee breaks are a must

Turcot and Neveu write, "The coffee break is sacred."

Employees usually take breaks together. Turcot and Neveu emphasize that your colleagues will notice your absence if you happen to skip out.

Never send a meal back

When a waiter or chef asks how your meal is, Turcot and Neveu recommend you speak positively. Expressing dissatisfaction — or worse, sending a meal back — can make a table, or the entire restaurant, uncomfortable.

But once you've left the restaurant, you can be honest.

"Once we're outside, then we will say, 'That was the worst meal I have had in my entire life, I will never come back here,'" said Neveu.

Stay away from political discussions in social settings

Turcot and Neveu say that for Montrealers, and Quebecers, attacking political opinions tends to translate to attacking the person who holds them. For that reason, staying far from the subject of politics unless, Turcot and Neveu add, alcohol is involved.