10 Things I Love About Toronto, Canada

Everyone’s home town is special to them for different reasons. Toronto will always hold a special place in my heart as one of my favourite cities for these 10 reasons.

1. Kensington Market

This was my home while I lived in Toronto and for a vegan it’s heaven! For all you non-vegans, don’t worry, it’s heaven for you to, but then again… so are most areas ;) Fresh fruits and veggies, amazing restaurants, lots of vintage shops and a unique vibe that I’ve never felt anywhere else. Friendly and unique.

2. Multiculturalism

No, it’s not just a catch word that Toronto tourism uses, according to statistics Canada’s 2006 reports, 49.9% of people living in Toronto were born someplace other than Canada. So what does that mean really? Authentic food from around the world, lots of different opinions and ideas, cultural festivals of all flavours and basically a place where everyone belongs no matter what color their skin, their native language or their political views.

3. The Festivals

Film, arts, pride, cultural festivals and even unique local celebrations like the Kensington Market Pedestrian Sundays and Lighting of the Lights.

4. Easy, Reliable Public Transportation

After living in some places that made it near to impossible to get from point A to B I really learned to appreciate the TTC, despite their strikes.

5. The Parks

While Toronto isn’t world famous for it’s parks and public spaces it does have some of the nicest one’s I’ve seen.

6. The CN Tower

Not for the reason’s you’re guessing I bet, although I did finally go up it shortly before I left and have to admit the view is breathtaking… but for the simple fact that being able to see the tower no matter where I was in most areas served as a very handy reference point to which direction I was going.

7. The People

Overall Torontonians are very friendly and considerate, sure there’s some more stressful areas and other peoples experiences may vary, but over all I found that if I stopped to ask someone for help (the time, directions to the nearest subway line etc.) they were friendly and helpful.

8. The shopping

No matter what you want, it can be found somewhere within this city. From the latest designer clothes and Tech gadgets to Vintage shops to unique cultural stores from all over the world.

9. Museums

The ROM, AGO, The Shoe museum and all little ones scattered throughout the city mean a never ending supply of stuff to go do.

10. Knowing that it will still be there when (if) I’m finished being a nomad.

While knowing that while a lot will change when I’m gone (shops will close, new ones will open, people will leave and new ones will arrive) it makes me feel safe knowing that there will always be a home for me when / if I want to go back. That to me is priceless!