Flying to Canada was actually not part of the plan for the year 2015. For several years, we have never been this far away from home, and it thrills me - a place that is unfamiliar to me. I've been visiting Asian Countries which I can somehow relate to, because....I am Asian. Asia, I believe, has rich cultural heritage and traditions, that until now are being practiced. This time I want to experience the "western" side of the Earth, and of course, the long haul going to Canada - nothing more is exciting than that! My mom and I was also to meet our own friends and relatives.
We went there May 2015, and the weather was just perfect to stroll around. It gets breezy and cold sometimes, especially during at night. It couldn't get any better wearing a jacket, jeans, and a pair of sneakers, walking in downtown streets of Toronto. One great thing about Canada is the smart road system especially for public transportations. Even if it is your first time in the country, you will not find it difficult to arrive at your destination. It is very very easy and convenient, and there are many bus stops on every corner. They have passes (daily or monthly passes) which you can use for buses or trains. I enjoyed commuting in the city, since it was super easy. Just show your pass to the driver and take a seat. I feel mayabang whenever I show the driver may monthly pass - feeling taga Canada. Haha.
PLACES WE VISITED IN TORONTO
1. NIAGARA FALLS (Southern Ontario)
When you talk about "Canada" it probably reminds you of the Niagara Falls. Well, it is really a magnificent falls, that is so captivating that I can't take a perfect shot to justify its beauty. There are also lots of locals and foreigns go here just to take photos. Niagara Falls serves as the boundary between USA and Canada. This falls consists of 3 different falls: The American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls in the USA, and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls in Canada. Aside from the Niagara falls, there are also Casino, shops, restaurants, and park in the area.
If you want to get a closer view and great experience, you can ride a cruise near the falls. During our stay, it was not available due to the weather.
Cruise information click here
2. CN TOWER
CN Tower is 6th tallest free standing structure in the world. You can see a wide view of Toronto from the main pod (observation deck) of the tower. You can also see how tall it is when you step on the glass floor - which is somewhat scary, we got scared at first but we just laughed it off and took heaps of pictures. To a person with acrophobia, just don't, it will freak you out. Aside from seeing the view, and taking pictures of the city while the sun sets, you can also dine at their 360 restaurant with your family, friends, or the love of your life. You have to make a reservation before dining in.
Tickets:
Adult $35
Senior $ 25
Child (4 -12) $ 25
3. NATHAN PHILIPS SQUARE, YONGE-DUNDAS SQUARE, & OLD CITY HALL
These 3 locations are located at the busy area of Toronto. Probably because of the Mall, shopping stores, restaurants, and bars on that area.
Nathan Philips Square and the Old City Hall is adjacent to one another. When winter, you can ice skate at Nathan Philips Square just like at the Rockefeller Center in New York City. We went there Spring time, so there was only wet floors everywhere. Concert, Art displays, weekly martyr, and other events are being held here in this plaza. We just walked around, took pictures, and watched some Canadians chillin' Hihi.
The Old City Hall, is I think the only old structure standing in the middle of modern concrete glass buildings. The architectural of the building is just beautiful, we actually just sat on the bench in front of it while eating sausage. Haha.
Yonge-Dundas Square is only a 9-min walk from Nathan Philips Square. My friend told me that this is like the "Times Square" of Toronto because of the big billboards surrounding the plaza. Concerts and other events usually held here. When we passed by the plaza, there was an event of famous youtube influentials.
4. TORONTO CENTRE ISLAND
From Union Station, we walked going to the Ferry Terminal Station between Bay St & Young Street. We paid $7.25 each for the ferry roundtrip ticket. It is a 15 minute boat ride going to the Centre Island. It was just freakin' cold there that my 2 layer of clothing weren't enough to make me feel warm. The Centre Island is big that is impossible to walk it all around just the whole day. You may rent a bike if you want to.
Of course, this is an island so there must be a beach! During summer, tourists and locals go here to beat the heat in the metro. Kids also will love the place here because of the vast area they could run on to. Aside from the beach, families, friends, and couples can go picnic, and can barbecue as well.
