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It's all about Toronto...
ChristineAlthough I've lived in Toronto for most of my life, I sometimes think I'm a small-town girl at heart. I rarely get out of the city because, frankly, I can't afford it. But when I feel the need to get away, there's no closer, better place than Niagara-on-the-Lake. Besides housing a big chunk of Canadian wineries, the small town also boasts tons of bed and breakfasts, which are perfect for a romantic getaway.
The first time I truly had a chance to explore the town was on their annual Taste of the Season, a special weekend event in November that offers a wine-tasting extravaganza for its sixteen participating wineries (and proceeds to Second Harvest). It became a scavenger hunt of sorts, with Bee and me trying to squeeze in as many wineries as we could in one day, and getting comfortably tipsy in the mean time. It was probably the most fun I've ever had in a town with a population less than my neighbourhood. Afterwards, we had a lovely dinner and carriage ride through their modest downtown lakeshore front. At times, I truly felt as if I had stepped back in time, or at least like I was on the set of the "Gilmore Girls." But that's the allure of Niagara-on-the-Lake - it's a small part of Ontario that has not weathered with time. Even their Christmas store (all year round!) got me intrigued, and I am not a holidays type of person. For a day, overnight, or even weekend getaway on a budget, check out Niagara-on-the-Lake. ¤ C.Ho.
Michelle
I live for summertime in Toronto. The sky is that beautiful shade of blue (...sometimes), the weather is hot (well, not this summer, but usually) and there is a plethora of places to visit.
One of my favourite spots to hit is the Harbourfront Centre. It sits by the waterfront; which provides a picturesque backdrop. The centre operates all year long, but for me, it seems to come alive as soon as the sun starts to peek through.
Harbourfront Centre is a non-profit cultural organization that proudly produces events and activities for the general public. It features concerts, dance performances, book readings, films and kids' shows. Each event mirrors the diverse people and cultures that make up Toronto. One day you can munch on goodies at the Hot and Spicy Festival, and the next you can enjoy a festival on the history of Native Indian art.
Their dedication to exposing art from artists who wouldn't normally have a venue to showcase their art, is what I love the most.
On your next visit to Toronto, don't forget to check out Harbourfront. ¤ Michelle
Phan
One place that I rarely get to is the Lakeshore. But I recently did get a chance to take my rollerblades one Sunday afternoon. Rollerblading is one of my favourite hobbies, and since the warm weather doesn't last too long in Toronto, I get out when I can. It's relaxing and a great form of exercise.
The Humber Line is a good place to start. Some friends and I started out from the west end to Ontario Place and back. It's a good distance for blading and biking where you are safe from traffic.
When the weather is beautiful, the view is even more pleasant. The water is calm and the white sails are up as the boats just float along the horizon. There's never a dull moment as the beach is populated with families having picnics, kids playing in the sand and park areas, teams competing in volley-ball tournaments, and people trying to soak it all up.
I recommend the Lakeshore for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Whether rollerblading, biking, or strolling, it's a beautiful place to get some sun and fresh air. ¤ Phan