I am a very proud Canadian, and will wax nostalgia with anyone who will listen about my love for my home country. I may originally be from the mid-west, but spent many happy years living in my favorite of the Canadian cities, Toronto.

Whenever I am back for a visit I of course love to visit old haunts, but am always eager to see how much more this enigmatic city has to offer. It never disappoints. A city known for its gastronomy scene, impressive array of vintage fashion shops, vibrant cultural festivals and a thriving music scene, there is literally something for everybody, and every sense. 

| image courtesy of Good Neighbour |

Toronto is said to be the most multi-cultural city in the world, and it doesn't take long to see the beautiful fabric of cultures woven throughout this thriving metropolis. The biggest perk is eating the most delicious food from any cuisine you can think of, simultaneously hearing every language possible, all mixed together with that famous Canadian charm and brand of politeness. Indeed it is a mosaic of customs and culture.

A leader in design, education, museums, fashion, art, theatre, food, and architecture, Toronto is always ready to show you a good time with its certain special cosmopolitan brand of sophistication. Green urban spaces mix in harmony with historic home districts, the Beaches along Lake Ontario, the eclecticism of areas like The Annex, Danforth, Kensington Market and Parkdale, the charm of the Distillery District, the renaissance of Leslieville, and the high-rises of downtown. And once the spring thaw has worked its magic, the sidewalk patio culture is alive and very well.

There is so much life, so many sounds, so much motion, and so much vibrancy to capture. Inspiration around every corner. Toronto is a study in contrasts, and will certainly keep you guessing.

The comparisons between Toronto and New York City are always noted, but it has to be said: Toronto is very much its own city.

 Keep reading for a selection of our top places to eat, sleep and shop in The Queen City.

Places to Sleep

Gladstone House

 Places to Eat

Mahjong Bar

Places to Caffeinate 

Dineen Coffee Co

Places to See

Peruse the biggest collections of art in Canada at the AGO and the ROM
Spend a sunny day in the Toronto Music Garden designed by Yo Yo Ma in which every section of the garden is a movement in Bach's Suite No. 1 in G Major
Search out the urban outdoor art gallery that is Graffiti Alley
Sit under the pink umbrellas at Sugar Beach
Eat, shop and get lost in the historic Distillery District
You can't go to Toronto and not go to bohemian Kensington Market

Be inspired by the Muslim world's many contributions to art, history, science and beauty at the  Aga Khan Museum.

 | image courtesy of Good Neighbour |

Places to Shop

For more travel tips and tricks from the Elsie Green team >

 

Sarah Guenter
Tagged: travel journal