by Lisa Lagace
Toronto’s a city that somehow managed to stay under the radar in the international community for a long time, but lately even New Yorkers and Brits have been writing about just how incredible The Big Smoke is.
Well, we don’t need any convincing.
Here are 11 reasons why our city has taken the world by storm.
1. Our Indie Spirit
While many cities struggle to keep their local record shops, bookstores and fashion retailers alive, Torontonians take major pride in supporting local business. We don’t complain too much when HMV and Chapters start to disappear, so long as She Said Boom and Rotate This never succumb to such a fate.
2. Festivals
While the rest of the world might only think of Toronto as the place where TIFF happens, we know it also houses NXNE, Hot Docs, Inside Out, Fashion Week, Just For Laughs, Luminato, Nuit Blanche, Field Trip, TURF, Toronto Jazz Festival, Idea City, Open Roof Fest, CMW, OVO just to name a few. Seriously, that is just a few.
3. Pride
Speaking of festivals, Toronto goes all out for Pride every year and it’s the best representation of what this city is all about: diversity, inclusiveness, openness, and fun. If we had to stake our reputation on anything, it would be this.
4. Food Porn
You can tour the world without ever leaving the city. The WORLD. Seriously, from our five-star restaurants to our food trucks, events like The Stop’s Night Market and the Toronto Underground Market, we’re spoiled on a daily basis.
5. Our Sports Teams
While we may never actually win a title, who doesn’t love a city that continually roots for the underdog? We The North – forever.
6. The Island
What other major city has its own gorgeous island just a quick ferry ride away? This summer staple houses festivals, sandy beaches, nude beaches, bike paths, an amusement park, and the best view of Toronto’s skyline.
7. The CN Tower
Yes, it’s phallic, but there’s nothing that gives you that sense of home quite like driving up the Gardiner and gliding under that impossibly tall tower.
8. The Neighbourhoods
There’s no question that Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and our neighbourhoods highlight this fact. From Little Italy to Chinatown, Kensington Market to The Danforth, Leslieville to Little India – there is no better place to find a home in a home in a home.
9. Billy Bishop Airport
You can ride your bike to catch your plane. Heck, walk from the office and be on the runway in 15 minutes. That’s what we call a quick escape. We suggest booking a window seat.
10. High Park
The concrete jungle isn’t real. Well, it doesn’t have to be. Spend a few hours in High Park and you’ll know what we mean. A zoo, free summer theatre program, adventure playground, off-leash dog area, cherry blossoms, waterfront, restaurant, and picnic areas are just a few of the amenities you’ll find.
11. The Creativity
At its core, Toronto is a beacon of creativity. You’re simply not allowed to be bored here. Every day of the week, every night of your life, Toronto has something that will blow you away.
#NOTABLE
Images: samepageteam.com, flightcentre.ca
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