Why Toronto? - Here's Why
They say first impressions last and how true – arriving at Toronto airport which was spotless and efficient we were then whisked off to our hotel Le Royal Meridien King Edward. Steeped in Britishness but with a very friendly North American level of service, the rooms were spacious and the beds so comfortable. The lobby was elegant and functional (IT) and the breakfast room charming.
We lunched out at Marche, which is a unique experience in itself and definitely a must for anyone visiting, so many culinary options to choose from all the stalls set out like a marketplace. Whatever your taste they had it covered - très bon, as they say!
After lunch we walked over to the CN Tower to get an aerial perspective of this great city which did not disappoint as the views were contrasting as you stroll around the top - skyscrapers to beach! That evening our gracious and very knowledgeable host Brian took us to the Distillery district which was set up by the man who built our hotel. Its function now however, is to delight our taste buds with the local fayre on offer especially fresh oysters from all over Canada flown in daily. It was also used a film set for Chicago! Toronto is used extensively by Hollywood movie makers with hits such as my big fat Greek Wedding and Good Will Hunting so you just never know who you may bump into.
After a sumptuous breakfast our guided tour of Toronto took us all round the many districts where Brian pointed out all the sights (they have 4 China Towns!) We then made our way to the Delta Hotel which boasts to be the largest hotel in Canada with 1590 rooms where we had lunch (I had some delicious fresh mussels), after which a guided tour of some of the rooms and facilities was on offer. This is a great option for families and couples alike with an indoor pool with waterslide and children’s activity centre. Also ideally positioned in a central location, you are in walking distance of the many great places to see - with its own theatre district, high end shopping up Bloor Street West plus Yorkville’s restaurant area as well as 28km of underground shopping (ideal in the sub zero temperatures). You will never be bored in Toronto with the Art gallery of Ontario where they are displaying not only Canadian artists work but also famous artists such as Rueben’s (Massacre of the innocents $117million Canadian Dollars). The Inuit art is a must see crafted by the original inhabitants they display a sense of humour through their art which is refreshing.
The name Toronto means meeting place, which is quite apt as 49% of the population were born outside Canada and if you get a little time to people watch you can see the blend of so many different cultures all living together very harmoniously, which is more evident when you hear the low crime statistics.
Our time here was limited to a day and a half which was a shame but has left me pondering when will I be back to spend some more time exploring what the city has to offer at a more leisurely pace.
C'est Magnifique!