Postcard from Toronto

2006-11-02T10:01:00.000-08:00

Toronto is arguably Canada’s most famous city, everyone has heard of it, some people think it’s the capital, it’s not tho - Ottawa is! Mind you that’s not really surprising because Toronto is Canada’s biggest city with a population of around 2.5 million folks, which is a lot of people. In fact, did you know that Toronto is the fourth largest city in North America? Only New York, LA and Mexico come before this fantastic place!

I guess one of the first things you notice about Toronto is just how big, how clean and how vibrant the place is, especially the busy downtown area. There is always something going on and despite it’s size, Toronto is still a safe place to visit, with a relatively low crime rate. Ok, so yeah there are a few pockets of badness, deprived areas and rough places, but these are all way out of the centre and you’re not likely to come across them on a typical short break or holiday! I suppose, you may notice a few beggars on the streets, as you’d see in any major city. And, if you’re driving, you also come across a number of window washes, trying to clean ya screen, but on the whole it’s pretty hassle free.

I guess the CN Tower is probably Toronto’s most famous landmark, as the World’s largest free-standing structure, the thing stands at just over 533m tall. It’s got two viewing areas and a nice restaurant and a bar! On a clear day you can see for miles and miles – well according to their facts – you can see for approx 165kms! On a hazy or cloudy day your hard pushed to see the ground!! There is a glass lift, or elevator that wisks you up to the top, on the outside and if you’re feeling brave you can stand on a glass floor up the top, which is a pretty scary sensation! But, if you can combat the tat vertigo feeling, it’s a great experience. It gets well busy during the summer months and apparently there are queues of up to 2 hours to just get up. Luckily for me each timeI’ve been, it’s not been that busy and hardly any waiting at all. The restaurant is probably best at night, as you’ll see the city lights and it’s really quite romantic. The cost isn’t top bad really, I paid about $30 for a good feed. Entry to the observation decks is around $16 per person.

If you want a great view but don’t want to shell out the wonga, then head over to the The Park Hyatt on the corner of Bloor Street and Avenue Road. It’s rooftop bar is some 18 floors above street level. Another place for a high altitude tipple is Panorama which is on 51st floor of the Manulife building down Bloor street. It’s not a bad place, has a kinda younger crowd and far fewer tourists.

The Skydome is another popular tourist haunts, it’s right next door to the CN Tower, so you can’t exactly miss it! And you know what, it’s a sport’s stadium with a domed roof – bet ya would never have guessed that now would you? Most locals call it just the ‘Dome’ it’s open everyday and they do do tours, providing there isn’t any big events on. If you like ya sports then it’s a must, if you don’t it’s still worth a look. There is a hotel next to it, which has rooms overlooking the playing field area, but it’s pretty pricey!

Want a bit of history and culture? Ok, well head off up to Casa Loma which is a pretty freaky looking castle(ish) medieval style house. Built between 1911 and 1914 it’s one of the oldest buildings in Toronto and for around $10 you can look around the 98 rooms.

The Ontario Science Centre on the corner of Dom Mills Road and Eglinton Avenue will educate and amuse (providing of course you’re not suffering from a huge hang-over, like I was!) Loads of things to see like the Living Earth thing, which has a proper rain forest in it! There is also an IMAX cinema which is pretty big.

Other daytime touristy things to see and do would be things like Toronto Zoo – not my kinda thing, I prefer my animals free! Paramount Wonderland – it’s a theme park come play ground for kids and families, although they do have a pretty good ‘coaster’ that bombs it down at 90km/h! It’s open from around 10am till late in the evening, but it’s pretty pricey. The best way to get there is by bus from York Mills Station. Oh, the food on sale is - ermmm expensive crap! City Hall, The Police Museum, Toronto Dominion Gallery, Royal Ontario Museum are all on the main tourists see and do list and if you have the time and the inclination, worth doing. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, no tourist visit to Toronto is complete without a gander down Ontario Place, if you pop down to this man-made theme park cum-info cultural centre, then make sure you go into Cinesphere, a 6 story circular cinema screen – no blockbusters, just documentaries, but it’s one hell of a sight!

One of the major tourist destinations in this part of the world has to be 'The Falls!' Yeah Niagra Falls are just a couple of hours away and there are many tours to take you to watch the water fall. Some folks stay up there fore a few days, but to be honest with you, once you've had a gander at the falls, taken the Maid Of The Mist round the bottom and purchased some Raindear Poo there isnt a great deal to do. One day is enough for most people, take a wander up to Niagra On The Lake for a little less touristy action. Lovely old clap-board houses and a great little coffee shop!

Looking for a place to stay for the night at Niagra?

Holiday Inn - Niagara Falls ? By The Falls - Click Here

The tacky goods are pretty expensive in the gift shows up around Niagra, my advice is to save your cash their and buy your presents for loved ones back in Toronto - more variety and less cost!

Now, those of you that know me or regular viewers of my Sex And The Sea Front blog with know that I am partial to a little bit of retail therapeutic activities! Yeah, I love to shop, I can’t help it, I just do. I love the sugar-like endorphin rush as I hand over my hard earned cash for a wicked carrier bag stuffed full of new goodies for me to play with, wear, eat, enjoy or just look at! And some of the best places to spend your cash in this big ol’ city is The Eaton Centre, jam packed with shops of every kind to tempt you, in fact over 235 of them!. Remember, the prices over here are a fair bit less than you’d pay back home in the UK, so you’re sure to find a bargain!!!! Honestly it’s a must for any shopaholic! It’s on Yonge street, which is the main place to head for shopping and eating activities. Once inside the Toronto Eaton Centre you’ll find clothes shops like: Levi, Banana Republic, Roots, Jean Machine, Foot Locker, Benetton, Old Navy, H & M, The Gap, Urban Planet, Timberland and so so many others.

Also along Yonge Steet is the Hudson Bay Company, Canada's largest fashion department store offers visitors 1,000,000 square feet of world famous brand names in fashion and home decor, top cosmetic lines and classic fragrances, five unique restaurants and Canadian art gallery. Enjoy their complimentary shopping services such as personal shoppers, value-added coupons, special gift with purchases, exclusive invitations to in-store events and more.

If you really are after that bargain of the ear then Honest Ed’s Bargain Shopping Centre may just be the place for you. Canada's first original bargain store featuring 160,000 sq. ft. of bargains and the world's largest electric sign with 22,000 moving light bulbs... A Christmas Tradition ! On Nov 28, Honest Ed Mirvish's Annual Free Turkey Giveaway will take place on first come, first serve basis (while they last) at Honest Ed's."There's no place...like this place...anyplace!" Honest Ed’s is on Bloor Street, in the downtown area so not to far to trot for a bargain lot!

Toronto is also great city for eating out, some many places for all tastes and budgets, that to list them all here would take at least a week! So, here are just a few of my fav’s: 350 Fahrenheit - Where culinaire excellence begins with a strong nutrional foundation. They have a great wide choice for those who love delicious food, dining out and staying true to their diet regimes. For those with an appetite for healthy living. It’s at 467 Bloor Street, it’s a little pricey but worth it.

The 360! Critically acclaimed 360 Restaurant is located atop the CN Tower. Breath taking panoramic view, exquisite regional cuisine, superb service and award-winning wine list. Toronto's most spectacular dining experience. Open daily. Reservations recommended. As already mentioned, it’s nice during the day time, but even nicer at night!

Alice Fazooli’s Crabshack is a fine place for a terrific selection of authentic pastas, regional main courses, seafood, fresh fruit, steaks and salads, all served in the warm atmosphere of a turn-of-the century warehouse. Gorgeous seasonal patio, smoking bar, non-smoking dining room in the heart of the Entertainment & Sports District. Adelaide Street is where Alice sits. Not bad prices either.

For over 20 years, this fine establishment has modeled a reputation on serving authentic Thai Cuisine. Bangkok Garden's contemporary cooking focus offers up a cuisine as rich and diverse as Thailand itself. At Bangkok Garden experience authentic Thai dining with a modern progressive approach that can be found nowhere else in Canada. The Bangkok Garden is on Elm Street. Try it, it’s simply wonderful!Yonge Street itself has many eating places, although on my last visit, most of these had been turned into the fast food kinda eating places, which is great for a spot of lunch whilst shopping. But not that great for an evening nosh up!

Green Mango, is a very cheap Thai eatery, with a good menu and tasty food, not as nice as Bangkok Garden, but it’s cheaper and the staff are friendly!Just off Yonge is Church Street and down here you’ll fin a cheap, popular little place called The Mango, it’s nice, although not that much for the veggies! Still it’s worth a visit.

Hard Rock Café is right by the ‘Dome’ and it’s a funky place to go for average nosh and a loud sporty-bar atmosphere. Some of the windows overlook the sports field in the dome which is a nice view. But when there is an event on, you’ll have to pay to sit there and it gets very crowded and ahem noisy! Still, it’s well cool to look and the young Canadian sporty kinda guys.

Gay and Toronto go together like hand and glove, or should I say KY and condoms! It’s a fruity old town, don’t ya know! On to the fun stuff. Church Street is home to Toronto's Gay Village. (You can't miss it - just look for the pride flags.) It encompasses 4 square blocks and is home to numerous Gay and Lesbian clubs, restaurants and shops. It also boasts more than its share of hot looking men and trendy women of every size, shape and ethnicity. From bears to the hip, slick and cool, Toronto has it all.

For fans of the Showtime series "Queer as Folk" you'll recognize Woody's as the setting for the entrance to "Babylon." At Fly, where the actual Babylon club scenes are filmed, you can live the fantasy of rubbing your hot, sweaty body against the likes (or likenesses) of Brian, Emmett and Justin. Woody's, Canada's largest Gay bar, is famous for its "Best Chest" contest where hot men compete for cash prizes. Fly is solid circuit boy action with more eye candy than you can likely consume. And, if you're still up, don't miss their Sunday Brunch. I hear it's almost as hot as a night at the Club, only a lot more filling.

Within stumbling distance you'll find Pegasus and Zipperz/Cell Block. Pegasus is popular with the locals and has plenty to keep you busy.Pool Tables, NTN Trivia, Darts, Video Games and great conversation will keep even the most active mind occupied. Zipperz/Cell Block is a piano bar and disco all in one place. You can shake your groove thang, or just relax and enjoy the sites and sounds. They also host some of the top drag artists weekly.

For the truly insane, no trip to Toronto would be complete without a visit to Zelda's Bar, Restaurant and Patio. Your host and Queen of the World, Zelda Angelfire, provides an unforgettable experience every time you visit. The wait staff is just plain HOT and you may just find yourself stroking the menu in anticipation. With a great mix of Gay and Lesbian staff and clientele, Zelda's is fun for everyone. With any luck you'll catch one of Zelda's legendary events - the Garbage Bag Fashion Show, Wet Underwear Contest or Leather Night to mention a few.

Remmington’s Toronto's premier all gay strip club. Go and take a peek at their Men of Steel as they reveal themselves to you. 7 days a week 3pm to 2am. It’s located on Yonge Street at number 377.

Sneakers is just down the street and is a popular place for boys who like to play…..pool, pinball and bingo!!!Other poofy places to see and be seen in include: Babylon, 533 Church Street, 3 floors of funkyness. 501 Church Street is the home to Bar 501, inspired choice of name me thinks!! It’s cool tho. Ciao Edie is a funky mixed bar with a distinct retro feel, it’s not too far away either at 489 College Street.

College Street Bar, at number 574, is good for live music and a mostly young crowd. Five is the hot dance club with some stunning men attending 5St Joseph Street. Just follow the hunky, sexy lads and you’ll almost certainly be led there! Slack Alice Bar & Grill on Church Street is nice, so to is The Red Spot, a little way down the road. Tantra is ok but not my kinda place.So, I think that’s just about it for the time being, I mean you’re spoilt for choice really. Toronto is such a vibrant city, with some much going on, there is just too much to mention for this little postcard of the city. But this should give you just a taster of what to do, where to go, what to eat and where to be seen.

Looking for a place to lay your head, well Toronto has many hotels for you to select your choice, from guest houses to 5 star abodes. Prices are pretty keen as well, so it's should break the bank - unless of course you want to really splash the cash! Just to give you an example, here is a tiny cross section of hotels that I reccomend!

Days Downtown, Toronto.

The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Toronto, steps from the Yonge Street subway line, great shopping, theatres, museums, Skydome, CN Tower and other major attractions. Rooms are all newly renovated and tastefully furnished with brightly colored duvets and carpeting. All are spacious with large desks and ergonomic chairs. The bathrooms are either with full bath and/or shower. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar and a cafe with internet access. The restaurant offers a comfortable and friendly family style dining experience at a modest price. A good base!

Bond Place, Toronto.
This 3 star hotel is located in the heart of downtown Toronto and close to all major attractions. It is a five-minute walk to the Eaton Centre and backs onto the Pantages Theatre. The subway station is across the street. The rooms are medium to large in size and beautifully appointed with peach coloured carpeting, flower printed bedspreads and matching curtains. The medium-sized bathrooms are in good condition. The hotel features a restaurant serving American cuisine and a cocktail lounge. It's a nice hotel in a good location, and it's not too expensive either!

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown.
A really nice mid range hotel in the heart of the city offers you a great pleace to stay at affordable prices. Just moments away from all the major entertainment attractions, you couldn't want for a better location. There is a fitness center and outside pool high on the 17th floor along with a sauna. Over 400 comforable guest rooms will be your home from home in Canada's greatest city.

Holiday Inn - Toronto-On King (Downtown) - Click here
InterContinental Toronto
This Downtown Toronto hotel is located on Front Street, connected to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and moments away from the CN Tower, Rogers Ctr, Air Canada Ctr. and steps from the Financial and Entertainment Districts.

The InterContinental Toronto Centre is a luxury landmark for the city of Toronto, offering 586 exquisitely furnished, spacious guestrooms, state-of-the-art technology, meeting facilities, and the very best in customer service.

The outstanding facilities make InterContinental Toronto Centre the perfect choice for any business traveller or meeting planner. Two spectacular Next Generation Boardrooms anchor this Toronto hotels meeting rooms and feature every technological option to make your event a success.

Victoria Spa…A luxurious, full-service spa located in the hotel, featuring 12 treatment rooms, spa pool, whirlpool and saunas. Victoria Spa is an oasis of relaxation.

InterContinental - Toronto - Click here
Holiday Inn Toronto Midtown.
A good standard budget ish hotel.Holiday Inn Midtown Hotel is centrally located minutes to Downtown Toronto in the historic district of Yorkville.

This Toronto Hotspot is strictly upper crust. One of Toronto's more elegant shopping and dining areas, Yorkville's designer boutiques, antique shops and galleries are absolutely first-class. The area features a gallery of small courtyards and alleyways, including a contemporary park located in the very heart of the neighbourhood. !

Holiday Inn - Toronto-Midtown - Click here
Situated close to the CN Tower, Air Canada Center, Roger Center, Toronto Eaton Center the Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown is a great location for Group, Business and Leisure travel. Not far from the waterfront and/or many other attractions if sightseeing is on the agenda.

The Hotel offers 196 well appointed rooms and offers guest's with our Stay Smart Showerhead and curved shower rod, voice mail, coffee makers, full size ironing board/iron, hair dryer, pay TV and cable.

If traveling on business all our rooms are equipped with complimentary Wireless High Speed Internet in all rooms. Indoor parking also available for a small fee. For your early morning start you will enjoy our complimentary Express Start Breakfast Bar located in our lobby area, features a variety of delicious breakfast items including a special blend of 100% Arabica Bean Smart Roast Coffee.

Visit Toronto, ON and stay smart at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel.

Holiday Inn Express - Toronto-Downtown - Click here

Delta Chelsea, Toronto.
The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, just minutes away from top theatres, attractions, shopping and dining. The guestrooms are modern and spacious with all amenities, and some have balconies or kitchenettes. The lobby is large, modern and bright in decor with several check-in areas for different room types. The hotel offers many choices for different tastes. There is an upscale, self-service gourmet restaurant offering variety, quality and convenience. The garden style restaurant on the terrace features an outdoor grill, live music nightly and weekly drink specials. The lounge is a relaxing place to rendez-vous for the ultimate martini experience. For lunch, guests can enjoy a selection of a la carte menu items, an authentic curry buffet or a daily pasta special. The Delta Chelsea is just off Yonge Street and is a great 4 star hotel, with 1600 rooms it's Canada's largest hotel and offers great service and high standards!

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Jason Shaw's Postcard From Toronto

Postcard from Toronto