Toronto is one of my favourite cities in the world. Despite being the largest city in Canada, it somehow manages to remain pleasant to the eye, probably due to its location on the shores of Lake Ontario.
Toronto has many hotels, but if you want to splash out I highly recommend the Fairmont Royal York – originally know as the Canadian Pacific Royal York. The hotel was opened in 1929 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, opposite the Union station. At the time it was the tallest building in the British Empire. This spectacular, luxurious and historic hotel is built in a chateau style and spread over 28 floors. It even has a rooftop terrace garden complete with beehives supplying its restaurants with fresh produce and honey!
Toronto has the unique Path Walkway, linking 28km of underground shopping and entertainment. With access points throughout the city you can shop in comfort whatever the weather. Above ground there is plenty to do and see. The Royal Ontario Museum is fascinating and is just $15 per adult – under £10 for a day out!
For those who are not afraid of heights, the CN Tower is a must see. Standing over 1800 ft it was the world’s tallest building for 30 years. The view from the observation deck is amazing and you can actually stand on a glass floor and look down (I was terrified!). There is now also “Edgewalk” where you are tethered to a rail and walk around the outside! The tower also boasts a 360 degree revolving restaurant, rotating fully every 72mins.
No trip to Toronto would be complete without a visit to Niagara Falls. All the hotels offer daytrips and I promise you will not be disappointed. To truly appreciate their splendour, take a trip on the Maid of the Mist to the bottom of the falls. The sound and vibration of the water thunders through you, plus you get to wear a snazzy plastic raincoat! On the way I would recommend stopping in the historic town of Niagara on the Lake. It is beautiful and if you have ever fancied the French Quarter in New Orleans you will be in your element.
The attractions in Toronto are seemingly endless, but the best thing for me about the city is the people. I found them to be very friendly, so it’s not surprising the city has a reputation as one of the safest in North America with an exceptionally low crime rate.