2011 was a record year for Montreal in terms of tourism numbers: the best it’s had in 30 years, to be precise.

According to Tourisme Montréal, 7.6 million tourists visited the city last year, spending $2.3 billion while here. The number of tourists increased by 2.5 percent from 2010.

The Journal de Montréal reports that the main reason behind this increase can be credited to one band: Arcade Fire.

“When the group that wins album of the year at the Grammy Awards makes a declaration of love to your city, it makes an impact: Montreal saw its best touristic year in 30 years, thanks in part to the praises of Arcade Fire in front of millions of Americans ... ‘Their presence in the charts partly explains the success in tourism in 2011,’ Pierre Bellerose, vice-president of Tourism Montreal, said. ‘There is a buzz.’”

Métro Montréal also reports that Montreal is ranked 18th of 100 cities in terms of good reputation. The Reputation Institute released the results for its annual study “that assesses public perceptions of 100 cities” in November.

From the institute (PDF): “The study measures the overall trust, esteem, admiration and good feelings the public holds towards these cities, as well as perceptions across 13 different attributes relating to economy, administration and general appeal”

Montreal earned a “city pulse score” of 67.4 compared to most reputable city London’s 71.9.

Some accolades Montreal received this year as reported by OpenFile Montreal

Champs de Mars is most beautiful subway station in the world: BootsnAll

Montreal the best gay destination in the world

Arcade Fire and its stellar year

Montreal restos earn most nods in enRoute top 10 list

Montreal is second best wine and food destination: Trip Advisor

Photo: Smudge 3000 via Flickr (http://opnfil.es/mONAU2)