Monaco Fun Facts

Monaco might be the second smallest country in the world, but it certainly does not get overlooked. This small independent state personifies extravagance with places like Monte Carlo and it’s famous casino, the Monaco Grand Prix. At any given time, you will see billions of dollars worth of magnificent yachts down in Port Hercules. With sunny weather all year round, you can enjoy sunbathing on white sandy beaches or strolling around the palace grounds for a look into the country's history. 

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Nice Cathedral

Located in Nice's old town, the Sainte Reparate Cathedral is a Baroque-style church that dates back to the 15th century. The cathedral is home to the relics Saint Reparata, a 15-year-old Palestinian martyr who was killed in the 3rd century. The cathedral took over 50-years to build and is now one of the oldest and most ornate buildings in the city. It has also been the religious heart of the city for over 400-years.

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Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais in Nice is one of France's best known and iconic seafronts. Stretching the length of the town, all the way out to the airport, this walkway gets its name from the English who started to vacation in Nice in the 18th century. Walking along the coastline was a popular pastime, much like it is today. Nowadays, along the promenade, you will find artists, skaters, buskers, ramblers, as well as everyone enjoying the beaches and restaurants. 

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Getting Between Towns

There are train rides and drives that are more scenic than the ones in the French Riviera. Winding roads overlooking the sea, taking you from one small town to the next, make traveling the French Riviera part of the experience. It is surprisingly simple to travel from Cannes to Monaco and everything in between. Hop on the train for a quick trip along the coastline or rent a car and travel at your own pace as you go from one town to the next. 

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Interesting Facts About Cote d'Azur

The French Riviera has one of the most beautiful coastlines along the Mediterranean Sea. Nicknamed Cote d’Azur in 1887, this coastal region was one of the first modern resort towns in Europe. Known for its picturesque beaches, brilliant blue water, and quaint towns, the French Riviera has become a playground for the wealthy. Popular with artists and royals, this 550-mile stretch of coastline is nothing short of the perfect vacation destination. 

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Try a Variety of Cheese, Dips, Spreads, Pastries, and Wines

There is a reason the French are the culinary masters of the world. From pasties to cheeses, meats, and wine, France has a reputation for good food and good fun. One of the best ways to sample some of France’s best foods is a simple charcuterie tray. Stop by the local markets in the French Riviera and pick up an assortment of meats, cheeses, and wine to enjoy with friends. 

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Why There are so Many Soap Stores in the Region. Good for Gift Giving and Souvenirs

Soap is as iconic to Provence as the baguette is to the country of France. You cannot help but see it everywhere while visiting Provence. It’s in the markets, small boutiques, and on the shelves at local grocery stores. Like so many aspects of Provence life, the history of soap goes back hundreds of years, and the tradition still lives on today. While you are visiting, tour some of the oldest soap factories still in use today and be sure to pick up some great souvenirs for home.

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Visit a Lavender Field

Few places in the world can ignite your sense in the way the lavender fields of Provence can. Rows of vibrant lavender as far as the eye can see, coupled with the soft aroma from the flower lingering in the air, capture the essence of Provence. Apart from gazing at lavender fields, you can also visit lavender farms and distilleries, attend lavender festivals at Sault and Valreas, and buy lavender products like oil, essences, perfumes, soap, etc. 

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Fun Facts about Cannes

One of the most famous places in the French Riviera is Cannes. Best known for hosting the iconic Cannes Film Festival, this town has also been host to some of history’s most glamorous people. What started as a sleepy seaside town quickly became a vacation destination for people looking to escape the cold weather. While in Cannes, be sure to stop in the famous Carlton Hotel for a drink and visit the Marche Forville and shop through the authentic French market. 

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Start Ordering an Aperitif Before each Meal

One of the most fantastic French rituals is apéritif. Traditionally enjoyed before dinner, apéritif is a chance for friends and family to come together before dinner and enjoy a cocktail or any other beverage. The very definition of apéritif describes both the drink and the moment before a meal. Usually served with light snacks, this friendly ritual can be enjoyed on the beach or in a corner café. 

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Most Popular Desserts in France

There are many reasons to plan a trip to France, and the chance to try an authentic French pastry is at the top of that list. France is known for its delectable pastries that look almost too good to eat. Just thinking about soft, flaky pastries, savory creme fillings, and delicious fruit tarts are enough to make your mouth water. In Villefranche, you will discover several pâtisseries making everything from macarons and madeleines to mille-feuille to pair with your afternoon coffee. 

Don’t miss your chance to indulge in the world’s most delicate desserts. DM or email me today to plan your next trip to Villefranche. 

Explore the Coastline by Sailboat

Picture yourself relaxing on the back of a boat after swimming in clear blue water and drying off in the sun. This is what you can experience for yourself when you visit Villefranche. Situated in the middle of the storied Cote d’Azur, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get out on the water. Rent a boat for the day and sail along the French Riviera from Cannes to Nice and discover this beautiful part of France. 

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France has some of the Best Coffee in Europe

French cafés are known to serve some of the world's best coffee. Whether you are in a Parisian café or by the beach in the French Riviera, sipping on a coffee at a local café is the blissful ritual you never knew you needed. In Villefranche, there are dozens of quaint cafés where you can pick up a coffee to start your day or come back in the afternoon for a quick pick me up. Be sure to pair your coffee with a fresh, warm croissant for the ultimate French experience.  

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French Wines from the Region

It’s no secret that French wine is some of the best in the world. All over the country, you can find delicious regional wines, and the South of France is no exception. The most well-known wine in the area is rosé, which is produced in the nearby region on Provence. After a day of hiking through the town or swimming at the beach, a refreshing glass of rosé is the perfect way to unwind. Sit back and relax as you partake in one of Villefrache’s best past times, the afternoon apéritif. 

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Put on your Walking Shoes, hit the Stairs to take on the Views of the Villages

Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most charming fishing villages along the French Riviera. Nestled in the heart of the Cote d’Azur, this little village is known for its old-world charm. The village itself is perched on the side of a hill with the winding streets cascading down to the sea. For the most spectacular views, climb to the top of the town where you will be treated to a panoramic view of the Riviera. 

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8 of the Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in the Southeast of France

 

8 of the Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in the Southeast of France

Have you been?

Is it on your bucket list? Why?

With Mediterranean sunsets, fishing villages, cliff embedded towns, and a beautiful coastline that you just can’t take your eyes off of, there’s all the reason to book your flight to Southeast France. But before you take off to the majestic nation, continue reading for a little more knowledge regarding some of the region’s most amazing places to visit.

1. Cannes

This elegant resort city may look modernized, but it holds a ton of historical value. In fact, hundreds of years of history were made between this city’s walls. Aside from strolling along the coast of the mile-long La Croisette, dine at one of the many fabulous French restaurants and hike the Massif de l'Esterel, a coastal Mediterranean mountain range. 

2. Cotignac

Nestled between cliffs and two 12th-century towers, Cotignac is full of stunning Provencal villages and vineyards. Not much further than the commune, you will find the famous Gorge du Verdon. 

3. Menton

Near the border of Italy, the half-moon bay on the French Riviera is one of Menton’s most enjoyable sites. It is also one of the warmest resorts in the winter. As you wander through town, you may notice all of the citrus trees and giant sculptures. If you happen to be in town for it, don’t miss out on the annual Lemon Festival (Fête du citron). 

4. Nice

The first thing you must do in this seaport city is head to the Cours Saleya flower market to smell and view all of the gorgeous flowers. Once you’ve had your fill of freshly picked flowers, make your way to view the Roman ruins on Colline du Château. Before you leave Nice, make sure you head to the Promenade for some shopping. 

5. Peillon

This barricaded village sits right in the mountains of the Alpes-Maritimes. Walking through the narrow passageways might get tricky, but it’s worth it to see all of the medieval houses, vaulted alleys, and last but not least, the painted wall at Chapelle des Penitents Blancs. 

6. Villefranche-sur-Mer

This alluring 14th-century Niçoise fishing village on the French Riviera is talked about for its deep harbor, charming old town, and excellent seaport overlooking the gentle Mediterranean waters. Walk down the cobblestone roads until you reach the Citadel St. Elmo and Port de la Darse.

7. Antibes

As another harbor town, Antibes has one of the most impressive coastlines. It is also home to the Absinthe Museum, the Exflora Museum, and the Grimaldi château, which is now a museum that contains the works of Pablo Picasso.  

8. Vence

Vence is a medieval village that definitely showcases its past. As you’re here, visit the Cathedral of Nativity of Saint Mary, The Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs, and take a walk through the old town. 

Are you ready to explore in the beautiful coastal lands of Southeast France? Allow me to help you plan so that you can get the most out of your trip!

Contact me to book your South of France vacation today!

Toronto Bridges

The Humber Bay Arch Bridge is one of Toronto's most iconic structures. No matter which angle you approach from, this magnificent arch at the mouth of the Humber River is easily one of the most photogenic spots in the city. This 456-foot-long footbridge was built in 1994 as part of the Martin Goodman Trail and is always bustling with pedestrian traffic, cyclists, and rollerbladers.

The size and design of the bridge are equally as impressive as the views it provides. The Humber Bay Arch Bridge is in keeping with many of Toronto's other architectural landmarks around the city. That is because the bridge was co-designed by the same architecture firm that designed the Toronto Botanical Gardens and Tommy Thompson Park.

A walk along the trail and over the bridge is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon in Toronto. Be sure to stop and take a picture or simply enjoy the design and views that the bridge provides.

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Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls are a stunning display of mother nature's beauty and force. The falls are actually comprised of three waterfalls, the America Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three, with a vertical drop over 165-ft. Together, the three waterfalls produce the highest flow rate of any waterfall on earth. Nearly 700,000-gallons of water travel down Niagra Falls every second! For this reason, Niagara falls is also an important source of hydroelectricity.

The falls are just a short drive from Toronto and straddle the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA, but don't think you can cross the border so easily! You'll still need to present a valid passport and go through customs. In fact, in 2012, when Nik Wallenda crossed the Niagara Falls by tightrope, he was required to carry his passport and present it on entry to the Canadian side of the falls!

The Niagara Falls are truly magnificent, and their majestic beauty is a sight you won't soon forget. Viewing platforms and a ferry offer spectacular views of the falls at a safe distance. Cross the Niagara Falls off your bucket list during your next trip to Canada. DM or email me today to start planning!

 

Toronto Zoo

Since 1974, the Toronto Zoo has been home to over 16,000 animals of approximately 500 different species. It is the largest Zoo in Canada, stretching over 710-acres of land. A trip around the zoo is like taking a trip around the world. The zoo features seven geographical regions, including Indo-Malaya, Africa, Americas, Tundra Trek, Australasia, Eurasia, and the Canadian Domain, to accommodate its diverse inhabitants.

In one day, you can see precious penguins and polar bears in their arctic habitats before making your way to the African planes to see elephants, giraffes, and lions. A trip to the zoo is fun for all ages and a great way to spend the day in Toronto. You can take guided tours of the zoo to learn more about each animal and their habitat or simply stroll along at your own pace.

Have you ever been to the Toronto Zoo, or is it on your bucket list? DM or email me today to learn more about booking a trip! 

Plan Your Visit to Toronto around some Big Events

Toronto is a dynamic, multi-cultural city with no shortage of things to see and do all year long. The city plays host to multiple events and festivals that bring in people from all over the world. From sporting events to concerts and local holiday celebrations, you're almost guaranteed to find something fun happening during your stay.

One of the glitziest events on the city’s calendar is the Toronto Film Festival hosted in September. Hollywood’s biggest names and brightest stars all descend upon Toronto to debut their latest films. In late August, the Canadian National Exhibition takes over the Toronto waterfront with a showcase of crazy culinary creations and action-packed carnival rides and games.

You'll have a hard time deciding which events to attend during your stay in Toronto between the film festival, sporting events, concerts, and more. Let's start planning your next trip. DM or email me today!

 

Pancakes on the breakfast Menu to go with your Maple Syrup

Few things taste as good together as pancakes and maple syrup. A sweet, fluffy package topped with warm syrup is the type of food you crave and simply has no substitute. As far as maple syrup goes, no one makes it better than the Canadians. The time, technique, and process have been perfected over the years.

No trip to Toronto is complete without sampling the country's famous maple syrup. Visit any one of the city's breakfast joints, and you're likely to see pancakes and maple syrup right at the top of the menu. From the first bite, you'll notice the difference that authentic, homemade syrup makes. Once you've had the real deal, it'll be hard to go back to store-bought syrup, so be sure to pick up some Canadian Maple Syrup to take home with you at the end of your trip. And maybe pick up a few extras as souvenirs for your friends too!

Are you ready to start planning your trip to Toronto? DM or email me today!

 

Extreme Weather makes Toronto and Photographers Dream

Winter in Toronto is a magical time. The city lights glisten off the iced-over treetops as this bustling metropolis transforms into a winter wonderland. The Toronto Light Festival provides the perfect escape from the dark days of winter. Marvel at the brilliant outdoor light installations that are created by local artists. If you're visiting around the holidays, stroll through the holiday markets around the city, and pick up any last-minute gift items you may need!

The Bentway Skate Trail is an iconic part of Toronto winters. This urban skating rink is a hidden gem, located underneath the Gardiner Expressway. For a truly magical winter experience, take a trip to Niagara Falls to see the cascading falls frozen over. The gushing falls completely freeze over in the winter, creating a glistening attraction you have to see to believe.

Have you ever been to Toronto, or is it on your bucket list? DM or email me today to learn more about planning a trip this winter!

Toronto Islands is a way to get out of Town

The city of Toronto sits along the coast of Lake Ontario and has 26-miles of coastline. Just south of the mainland off the coast are 15 small islands known as the Toronto Islands. Easily accessible by ferry, these islands provide the perfect escape for an afternoon away from city life. Beautiful nature trails and boardwalks wind through the islands, making it easy for hikers and bikers to explore.

Canoes and kayaks are available for rent for anyone who wants to further explore the coastline with beautiful views of the city skyline across the water. For those who want a little extra challenge, you can even paddleboard around the lake in the summer. If you fall in, just pick a spot on the sandy beaches of Hanlan's Point to dry off in the warm sun.

A trip to the Toronto Islands is a great way to spend some time out of the city, stay active, and explore the Canadian coastline. DM or email me today to learn more about planning a trip to Toronto!

 

CN Tower

Standing perfectly erect in downtown Toronto is the CN Tower. It's one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and offers a central navigation point no matter where in Toronto you are. Completed in June 1976, the CN tower stands at 1,815-feet and 5-inches tall. For almost three decades, it was the tallest building in the world until the Burj Khalifa was completed in 2007. The tower defines the Toronto skyline and is used as a critical communication tower for the city.

At the top of the tower, visitors can take in panoramic views of Toronto and its surrounding area from 1,000-feet above the ground. If you want a truly unique dining experience, the tower’s 360 Restaurant makes a complete rotation every 72 minutes giving its patrons an ever-changing view.

Let’s begin planning your trip to Toronto! DM or email me today to get started!

There are so many Eateries and Breweries to have a Meal and a Drink

The Toronto brewery scene might be relatively new when compared to other cities, but it’s certainly made a name for itself. In what is unofficially known as the Ale Yards, this district of Toronto has become the home to dozens of micro-breweries who are coming up with unique brews served in industrial-chic warehouses and gardens.

In the summer, you'll find crowds of people hanging out, listening to live music, and enjoying a refreshing beer. Most of the breweries are within walking distance to one another, making bar-hopping fun and easy. Hang out in Toronto like a local and visit the breweries for an authentic taste of the town.

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Interesting Facts about Maple Leafs, Maple Syrup

In Canada, the maple leaf is a symbol of the country’s independence and unity. It’s on the flag, in logos, a mascot for sports teams, and just about everywhere else you look. The history of the maple leaf as an important Canadian symbol which dates back to 1860, but it wasn’t adopted in the flag until 1964.

Aside from having a very symbolic meaning, the maple also has some very practical uses. Almost 80% of the world’s maple syrup comes from Canada, with Quebec producing 66% of that amount. Only three of the 13-species of maple trees native to Canada are used for syrup, and it takes approximately 40-years for a tree to mature enough to be tapped. Even then, it takes about 40 liters of tree sap to make one liter of syrup. While this might seem like a tedious process for a pancake topping, the final product is well worth it. Authentic Canadian maple syrup is unlike anything you’ll find on the shelves of your local grocery store and makes for a great souvenir to take home!

Have you ever been to Canada, or is it on your bucket list? DM or email me today to book a trip!

 

Fun Facts about Toronto

Alright, you sports fans, if you haven't been to Toronto, you need to move it to the top of your bucket list ASAP. Toronto is the only Canadian city that is home to seven major league sports, and the Rogers Centre is the first stadium in the world to have a fully retractable roof.

Toronto is also home to the largest zoo in Canada and third-largest in the world, housing over 16,000 animals of approximately 500 different species. That is convenient, considering that almost 25% of Canada's population lives within a 100-mile radius of Toronto. Luckily, Toronto has the largest public transit system in North America, which makes getting around fairly simple.

Once you visit Toronto, you'll probably notice a few familiar locations. No, you haven't been here before, but you likely have seen it on the silver screen. Around 25% of Hollywood movies are actually filmed in Toronto, thanks to the city's beautiful city and stunning landscape.

Ready to start planning a trip to Toronto? DM or email me today!

 

 

Blue Jays Baseball

I bet you didn't know Canada has an MLB team, did you? The Toronto Blue Jays competed as members of the MLB and were even world series champs back to back in 1992 and 1993. Baseball is not just America's favorite pastime. It's Canada's as well. The country is deeply rooted in MLB history. Babe Ruth made his first professional home run in Hanlan's Point Stadium on Centre Island.

The Blue Jays played their first game on April 7, 1977, against the Chicago White Sox, but the game is best remembered for the minor snowstorm, which began just before the first pitch was thrown. In the end, Toronto won on their home turf, snowstorm, and all!

A trip to the ballpark is a popular spring and summer activity in Toronto when hockey is out of season. Pro tip: At home games during the seventh-inning stretch, before singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game," Blue Jay fans sing and clap to "OK Blue Jays" by Keith Hampshire and The Bat Boys.

Have you ever been to Toronto, or is attending an MLB game on your bucket list? DM or email me and let’s start planning!

Weather in Toronto for Planning your Visit

When you think of Canada, you probably picture blankets of snow and cold winters. Depending on where you go, you're not entirely wrong. Toronto is located just across Lake Ontario from New York state, so it generally has four distinct seasons in a year. Cold winters melt into warm summers opening up the city to various activities year-round.

Depending on what type of vacation you're planning for, you'll want to check the weather first. If you want to hike and spend time on the lake, I'd recommend visiting Toronto from May to September. If you're wanting a winter wonderland and don't mind packing a parka or two, then the winter months are for you.

Have you thought about what you’d like to do in Toronto? DM or email me today to start planning!

 

 

Scarborough Bluff

Just a short drive outside of Toronto, you'll find beautiful natural landscapes that will make you feel far away from city life. Along the eastern banks of Lake Ontario are the stunning Scarborough Bluffs. White cliffs reach high above the lake with wide sandy beaches nestled below, creating plenty of activities for visitors.

This relaxing retreat is a popular spot in the summertime with city dwellers flocking to the beach to swim, sail, and fish. You can easily plan a day trip from Toronto to the bluffs to hike or cycle along the trials. Pack a picnic and take in the panoramic views of Canada’s dynamic landscape from atop the bluffs.

Getting to the Scarborough Bluffs from Toronto is easier than you think and well worth the trip.

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Catch the Maple Leafs at an Ice Hockey Game

Ice hockey in Canada is practically a religion. The country is even considered to be the birthplace of the sport. Cold winters were never an excuse to stay inside, and with frozen lakes and ponds all over the country, the sport practically invented itself.

If you want to get a genuine, authentic Canadian experience in Toronto, make time to catch a hockey game. The Toronto Maple Leafs are the local professional team and part of the NHL.  If you've never been to a professional hockey game before, then the Maple Leafs will make for the perfect first game. The team has one of hockey's most-storied pasts, having won the Stanley Cup an astounding 13 times! Fun fact about the Stanley Cup, it is the oldest existing trophy to be awarded to a professional sports franchise in North America, dating back to 1893.

Have you ever been to Toronto, or is attending an NHL game on your bucket list? DM or email me and let’s start planning!

 

Ten Reasons To Check Toronto Off Your International Travel Bucket List

Add Toronto to your bucketlist!

Whether you’re traveling solo or planning a vacation with your favorite people, there’s always the issue of where to go. In some cases, international travel may come to mind, but planning a trip that isn’t going to hurt your wallet can quickly deter such plans. However, when it comes to international locales, there’s one that won’t leave you penniless while still allowing you to enjoy all the perks of a much-needed getaway: Toronto. 

Not only is Toronto the largest city in Canada, but it has quickly become known for its multicultural opportunities. Broken up into Old Toronto and New Toronto, each district has its unique sense of identity and cultural offerings. It truly is the perfect choice for those looking to reap the rewards of international travel without having to travel far or break the bank.

And to help get your Canadian adventure started, here are ten things to see and do in Toronto. 

1.  The CN Tower -  The CN Tower comes in at just over 550 meters tall and is the perfect opportunity for visitors to get a bird’s eye view of Toronto. It also has one of the highest glass floor elevators in the world.

2.  The Royal Ontario Museum - Looking to embark on a journey through Canada’s rich history? This is the place. With more than six million artifacts, this museum is packed with over 40 galleries of minerals, dinosaur bones, and paintings, and other fine arts. 

3.  Kensington Market - Kensington Market is the prime location to explore the arts within Toronto. This former Jewish market is filled with fresh food, clothing stores, and unusual cafes. This is also a prime location to find local street artists and musicians performing for a crowd. 

4.  Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada - Housing more than 13,000 exotic marine animals, the Ripley’s Aquarium holds more than 5.7-million-gallons of water. Split up into nine galleries, each section of the aquarium highlights a specific geographical location or species of marine life.

5.  Casa Loma - This once Gothic castle is now a museum with the revived architecture and towers on full display. Check out the suites, stables, and even wander the gardens on your own or with self-guided audio tours.

6.  Distillery District - Recently declared a National Historic Site of Canada, the district is full of residential and commercial buildings that serve as the most extensive collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture. The Distillery District also houses art galleries, jewelers, and once Christmas time comes, it transforms into a fantastic Christmas Market. 

7.  Hockey Hall of Fame -  Come face-to-face with the Stanley Cup as it sits in the center of the Great Hall, or simply explore any number of the 15 exhibits displaying various trophies and hockey memorabilia. 

8.  Art Gallery of Ontario - This is Canada’s largest art gallery. Housed inside is one of the largest collections of Henry Moore’s sculptures. You can also check out rotating exhibits as well as a spectacular collection of European paintings. 

9.  The Entertainment District - Toronto is home to many large entertainment venues and companies that have been entertaining the masses for ages. The Canadian Opera Company, the National Ballet of Canada, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra all call Toronto home. There are also numerous performing arts venues within walking distance of the district. 

10.   Toronto Zoo - With more than 5,000 animals living in both indoor and outside displays, the Toronto Zoo has many zones that are packed with rare sights such as the white rhinoceros, Western grey kangaroos, as well as spotted hyenas and wallabies.

 Are you ready to book a vacation to see our friends in the North? If so, give us a call, and we can start etching out the details on your Toronto trip! 

DM or email me to book your Toronto vacation today!