Former Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante is embracing a modern chapter focused on travel and personal discovery after stepping down from public life.
Plante, who served as mayor for eight years, recently embarked on trips to Brazil in November and Colombia from January to February, according to reports. The shift comes after a 12-year career in municipal politics, concluding with her departure from the city council in November 2025.
During her time in office, Plante acknowledged the challenges of the role, stating, “I quickly realized that I was a social lightning rod.” She reflected on the constant pressure and public scrutiny, but also expressed a commitment to addressing long-standing issues within the city. “If it weren’t for the future, I wouldn’t have done so many construction projects. It was the responsible thing to do for the evolution of this city,” she said.
Plante, the first woman elected mayor of Montreal in 2017, oversaw a period of significant infrastructure development. Whereas acknowledging the frustration caused by numerous construction projects, she maintained that these were necessary for the city’s progress. The extensive perform undertaken during her tenure is a key part of her legacy.
Looking ahead, Plante hopes her administration will be remembered for its transparency, and ambition. She also offered advice to her successor, urging them not to let public frustration hinder efforts to improve the city. This advice comes as she reconnects with her passion for exploration and new experiences, documenting her travels on Instagram.
