Visiting Canada is something that many Americans do during their lifetimes. If you are considering a trip to visit our northern neighbors, you might not know which city to plan on seeing. Toronto, capital city of the province of Ontario, is an easy destination to get to if you live in the northeastern United States. Also, the majority of natives speak English (Chinese dialects and Italian come in second and third, respectively), making this international destination simple as far as language goes. It’s a large city, boasting a population of about six million residents, and there is plenty to do to keep you occupied. If you’re planning a trip, here are some tips on where to stay, where to eat, and what to see while you’re there:
Places to Stay
Staying downtown is going to be your best bet if you want to be where the action is. The downtown area of Toronto is safe and walkable, plus there are public transportation options, making this an ideal location to have your home-away-from-home. There are several budget-friendly hotels that are in good areas; these include Courtyard Toronto Downtown, Bond Place Hotel and Cromwell Suites. If you can spend a bit more, consider the Drake Hotel Toronto. Recent visitors have described the rooms as having high-end European ambiance, and the staff as attentive. If you’d like to splurge on your accommodations, some possibilities include the luxurious Hazelton Hotel and the Trump International Hotel & Tower Toronto.
Where to Eat
Like any major city, Toronto is teeming with delicious eateries! It can be difficult to pick a place to grab a bite to eat, but chances are that you’ll find something excellent if you ask around. Bistro and Bakery Thuet is a great place to visit if you are looking for French cuisine. It has been touted as one of the best European eateries in the city. If you find yourself on Ossington Avenue, try to get into Foxley, a hip bistro that is usually packed but that doesn’t accept reservations. Mediterranean food can be enjoyed at Joso’s, and Italian fare is served up at Il Gatto Nero. If you’re hoping to rub elbows with some celebrities, consider checking out Sassafraz, located at the Museum subway station.
What to See and Do
A visit to Toronto wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t see the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. It’s located an hour and a half’s drive out of the city, but completely worth the trip. You might want to strap on some ice skates and take a spin at one of the 50+ skating rinks in the area. Take a stroll or drive through Cabbagetown, the area of the city that was once home to poor Irish immigrants, but which now boasts lovely farmers’ markets along with its Irish charm. Then head to the hill of Casa Loma to see how the other half lived; some great sights are the Spadina Historic House & Gardens and the Le Meridien King Edward Hotel. Don’t forget to catch a comedy show at one of the comedy venues or a production at one of the theaters in the area.
Toronto is a great vacation destination for those hoping to do something different this year. There’s something for everyone in “T.O.”, and plenty to keep you occupied for a long weekend, a week or longer.
