Hi setof3.
sorry, don't have experience with either, but, I just wanted to say, don't worry so much about what they are, go and spend some time at both and go with your gut feeling.
Ask lots of questions about what they would do in this situation, what their routine is, and look at other things too, like what food they offer etc.
I have heard many good things about Montessori but also some people who didnt like it. I think it depends more on the centre than the policies iykwim?
I'm fighting my daughter off the computer at the moment because she wants to watch the piggy running accross the screen (medibank add) so good luck with finding a good place.