10 Toronto Highlights

_{A moment when taking a stroll between Sugar Beach & Medical Faculty of UofT}

If I should describe Toronto as a person, I would imagine that Toronto is a successful person with a humble personality enriched with an international background, but still very much a proud Canadian. Toronto is packed, vibrant, but also still approachable. Unlike New York, where one is constantly squeezed between the skyscrapers, in Toronto one could still enjoy the sky, greeneries, and water element, besides walking beside the tall giants. There were no dull moments during my Toronto days.

I truly enjoyed my days here while exploring these places:

St. Lawrence Market

More than your traditional market, it is a place where the communities since generations meet. I generally enjoyed exploring something new about Canada, which is trying the ice wine for the first time! It is apparently a special thing for Canadians as well since ice wine was made from naturally pressed frozen grapes, -80°C, resulting in a sweeter taste.

_{Try your ice wine tasting for 10.00CA$}

Sugar Beach

Not your ordinary beach since it is manmade and situated just near to the port and the university neighborhood. It is quite unusual for me to see white stacked sand with beach chairs along with people just sunbathing in the middle of the city. But I guess, this is the way in Toronto.

_{POV – During chilling there}

Centre Island

This is my favorite activity! I loved my time there. Going to centre island requires more effort, but it is imho minimum and going to be worth it! You see, the centre island is divided by water from Toronto, so the only way to reach it is only by ferries or water taxis. I personally would choose the ferry since it is a reliable public transportation that operates regularly with the best price. But do take your pick! On the island, I would choose to rent a bike, since the island itself is not so small and one will need a long time to explore by foot.

_{View of Toronto’s Skyline from the island}

_{Pride Walk of Centre Island}

Chinatown

Is my favorite place in the term of culinary. I love eating and as an Asian, Asian food will always be a yes for me. As always, being in Chinatown is a memorable experience. This place has the power to transport you to Asia somehow 😂 I mean, unlike the other places in Toronto, the seller there would prefer you to pay for things via cash. And if you want to eat at a restaurant there, but you are cashless, somehow they will have an ATM in the restaurant.

_{Soybean paste noodle with mince meat and fresh carrot, cucumber, and cilantro for 15.99CA$ without tax since one paid by cash – taste is 10/10 from Dumpling House}

Kensington Market

Arguably the most colorful neighborhood in Toronto since it has the flairs and influences of immigrant varieties dating from hundred years ago. Therefore, you will find any international food here. But, not just that, if you are fond of thrift stores and streetarts, this is definitely your place to go!

_{One of the street arts}

_{Not far away from the market, grab the famous & delicious Fresca Pizza for 5.00CA$ cash only – be prepared to stay in the line though}

Harborfront

A part of Toronto is surrounded by water, and it is beautiful to walk by. If you are looking for a chill walk one afternoon with a new view, do walk along the harborfront. Imho it is personal, but there is tranquility by walking along the water.

_{During a pause at Harbourfront}

Toronto Music Garden

The weather was sunny when I was there. At some point, it was even hot. During the walk at harbourfront, we accidentally found this garden. It is located just in the middle of the city and offers you a perfect spot to hide from the sun while enjoying the skylines of Toronto, including the CN Tower.

_{View from Music Garden – can you spot the CN Tower?}

CN Tower

I didn’t go up to enjoy Toronto’s skyline since I enjoyed it for free from a spot at Centre Island. But if you are a fan of panoramic views, climb to CN Tower. I’m not sure about buying the tickets on the spot, but I would rather do it online since one can get the best price offered by different online operators.

_{Passing by CN Tower from my Niagara Falls Flixbus Trip}

University of Toronto

This university striked me from my first view since it looks just like a castle. Castles are my favorite when I travel, so when I spotted one just like that, it would intrigue my interest. Plus, the usage of the building also brings a plus point for me. I mean, a castle that is used for the youngsters to learn? It’s definitely a way to go!

_{Pic. Source}

Downtown

Probably the most packed area in Toronto. But I love it! Since it offers you a lot of gastronomy choices and small stores to be explored. Unlike the shopping malls, the stores scream individuality. And about the gastronomy, ooh boy never have I ever seen plenty of choices being available like that.