Arts & Culture

What to Know Before Traveling to Toronto

What to Know Before Traveling to Toronto

It might seem the same as visiting a city in the US, but Toronto has some quirks that you should know about before going.

Toronto is the largest city in Canada, as well as one of the largest in the whole of North America. And if you’re planning a visit to Toronto, you might think it’s no different from a US city given its close proximity to upstate New York. While in some aspects it shares similarities with its closest US neighbor, it still is a different city that’s a class of its own.

That’s why it’s useful to know what unique quirks await you in Toronto. From general information to details about money, alcohol, and public transport, here are the essential things to know before your visit to Toronto.

1. The City’s Huge

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Many people don’t know exactly how large Toronto is, so it’s possible you’ll be surprised. There are only three bigger North American cities compared to it – Mexico City, New York, and Los Angeles.

Toronto has doubled in size in the past 50 years. It’s even surprising to know that it started with just almost three million residents back in the 70s. Today, it has all of the traits of a metropolis, from impressive skyscrapers, immigrants from around the world, and heavy street traffic.

Expect a crowded environment and longer travel times when getting to various points in the city and its over 140 neighborhoods.

2. Get Around the Right Way

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Traffic in Toronto can be horrendous, and renting a car could prove a mistake unless you don’t mind getting stuck in slow-moving traffic. This is especially true on Fridays and the weekends. So if you want to drive around the city, plan your routes accordingly.

Public transit is a more reliable option, although you could encounter delays. The metro is a bit limited, so it’s best to rely on the streetcars and buses. The Toronto Transit Commission, or TTC, covers various transport options for every major street and it would be wise to get familiar with their schedule.

The system relies on electronic cards called Presto. The cards are a bit pricey, initially at $6 each, and you’ll need to load it with a minimum of $5 on a vending machine. This goes up to a minimum of $10 if you’re loading the card online. Once you’re in transit, tapping the card will activate it and it covers your fare for two hours.

The price of one fare for adults is $3.20. There are also other pricing options that could prove cheaper, depending on how much you intend to get around.

3. Financial Matters

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If you need to exchange currency when you arrive in the city, you’ll want to find the most favorable rates. It’s best not to use the banks for this purpose because they charge higher fees for the service. Instead, find a specialized currency exchange agency.

Naturally, this won’t be an issue if you use credit cards instead of cash. But you have to be aware of possible foreign transaction fees.

Toronto isn’t a cheap city by any means, and most prices will likely be higher than anywhere in the US. This is because almost all services and goods have a federal and a sales tax attached. But the upside to this is that the taxes are already calculated into the price, unlike sales tax in the United States.

When it comes to tipping, the usual 15% is expected. Do take note that it’s not unusual for tips to go as high as 20%, and there are venues that will automatically include them in the bill. Not including a tip would be considered rude, even when the service is less than perfect. Of course, if you’re not satisfied with the service, you can tip less.

4. Don’t Miss the Attractions

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Anyone with a passing knowledge of Toronto has probably heard of the famous CN Tower. The view from the top is quite memorable, although the ride to the observation level is a bit pricey.

Some of the lesser-known main attractions in Toronto are also a must, and there’s just so much to see in the city that it can be hard to choose.

But if you have the time, make sure to visit the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and take a walk through the transparent hallway where various species of fishes and sharks can be found swimming above.

The Art Gallery of Ontario is housed in a gorgeous building and is worth checking out. It’s filled with artwork from Canadian, European, and world-renowned artists.

A stroll through St. Lawrence Market in Toronto will take you on a journey surrounded by fresh, delicious food. The market is very lively and filled with all kinds of produce – from meats and cheeses to seafood. You can even buy ready meals and try the local specialties on the spot.

The Distillery District is historic and full of venues of different kinds, including those converted and repurposed from the distilleries that borrow the name to this part of Toronto. Today, they house galleries and art studios, as well as shops and eateries.

5. Prepare for the Climate

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Toronto experiences four seasons that are quite distinct. Of course, it is Canada, so expect harsh temperatures in the winter, especially in January. These are contrasted by the heat and humidity of late summer.

Early summer and autumn are the most pleasant, so the best time to visit would be either May or September. You likely won’t be exposed to the biting cold or experience the summer sweat-fest during these months.

Enjoy Your Visit to Toronto

The Canadian metropolis is open, engaging, and welcoming. The city’s vast and interesting, with colorful, diverse communities to explore.

If you come prepared, a visit to Toronto is bound to be memorable and filled with exciting sights and experiences.

Related Topics:weather cn tower attractions transportation winter ontario tips food & drinks museums architecture art galleries shopping canada

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15 Very Best Places In Cabo San Lucas To Visit

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Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and pristine beaches. Beyond these attractions, this Baja California gem offers a captivating depth that caters to a wider range of travelers.

This guide explores 15 unique experiences, crafting your Cabo San Lucas itinerary to be as diverse and enriching as it is relaxing.

1. El Arco de Cabo San Lucas (Land’s End): This iconic rock formation is the undisputed symbol of Cabo. Witness its majesty from a boat tour, kayak through the surrounding waters, or snap a photo from a scenic viewpoint.

2. Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor): Cuddle up with your special someone on this secluded beach, a natural paradise framed by dramatic rock formations. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun-kissed atmosphere.

3. Medano Beach (Playa Médano): Cabo’s liveliest beach pulsates with energy. Hit the waves on a jet ski, parasail for breathtaking views, or people-watch from a beachside bar with a refreshing margarita in hand.

4. Santa Maria Beach (Playa Santa María): Escape the crowds and find serenity at this beautiful beach about 30 minutes from Cabo. The waves can be rough, making it ideal for sunbathing and long walks along the scenic shore.

5. San Jose del Cabo: This cool little town feels like a time capsule. Wander artsy streets filled with galleries, grab unique souvenirs at local shops, and refuel with yummy Mexican food in the main square – it’s the perfect chill afternoon adventure.

6. Cabo Pulmo Marine Preserve: Dive into an underwater wonderland teeming with colorful fish, majestic manta rays, and even playful dolphins. This world-renowned marine preserve is a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers.

7. Wild Canyon Adventures: Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling adventure at this park. Soar through the air on a zipline, race across rugged terrain in an off-road vehicle, or embark on a unique camel ride through the desert landscape.

8. Chileno Beach (Playa Chileno): Seclusion seekers, this one’s for you! Tranquil Chileno Beach offers crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding with a good book.

9. Marina Cabo San Lucas: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the marina. Browse through an array of shops, savor delectable seafood at a waterfront restaurant, or hop on a boat tour for a closer look at the coastline.

10. Mount Solmar: Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Mount Solmar, or take a relaxing cable car ride. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Cabo San Lucas and the surrounding beauty.

11. San Jose Estuary (Estero San José): Paddle through this tranquil estuary teeming with birdlife and diverse flora. Enjoy a guided kayak tour or simply relax and soak in the serenity of this natural wonder.

12. Isla Espiritu Santo: Escape to this remote island for a day of snorkeling, diving, or camping under the stars. Explore abandoned buildings steeped in history and discover the island’s hidden coves.

13. Sierra de la Laguna: Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! This mountain range offers a playground for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Conquer challenging trails and be rewarded with breathtaking views that will leave you speechless.

14. Todos Santos: Experience authentic Mexican culture in this charming town. Stroll through art galleries showcasing local talent, indulge in delectable cuisine, and explore the town’s beautiful historic center.

15. Balandra Beach (Playa Balandra): Often ranked among Mexico’s most beautiful, Balandra boasts calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Adventurous souls can explore the surrounding beauty via the many hiking trails.

Ready to answer the call of Cabo San Lucas? This Baja California caters to every kind of traveler, from romantic couples to families and adventurous friends. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore hidden beaches teeming with life, and encounter fascinating wildlife. Cabo San Lucas promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish forever. Don’t miss out! pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the magic of Cabo San Lucas!

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14 Best Scenic Drives in New Orleans: An Expert’s Secret Guide

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This guide, crafted by your local expert, will unveil some of the best drives around NOLA, offering a respite from the urban buzz and a chance to soak up the charm of Louisiana’s landscapes.

1. Rollin’ with the River (Great River Road)

Cruise alongside the Mississippi on this epic route. Spot fancy plantations, wildlife refuges, and cool towns.

Hit up Oak Alley Plantation for some serious mansion envy, or get swampy at Jean Lafitte National Park.

2. Maurepas Mystery Tour (LA 406)

Get your jungle on with a drive through the mysterious Maurepas Swamp. Keep your eyes peeled for gators, listen out for funky bird calls, and watch out for those crazy cypress knees poking out of the water!

3. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway (I-10)

Not for the wobbly-legged, but the views are CRAZY good. This bridge stretches on FOREVER (well, almost), giving you epic panoramas of Lake Pontchartrain. Just hold on tight and enjoy the ride!

4. Seashell Shuffle (Shell Beach Drive)

Craving some beach therapy? Shell Beach Drive leads you to a paradise for shell-combers. Chill on the white sand, hunt for treasures, and soak up those Gulf Coast vibes.

5. Grand Isle Getaway (LA 1)

Grand Isle Getaway Fishing — Outsideonline.com. (2024). Available at: https://cdn.outsideonline.com/ [Accessed 1 May 2024]

Feeling adventurous? Take a longer trip to Grand Isle, a barrier island famous for its epic fishing and untouched beauty. Hike or bike the beach, scope out some birds, or just relax and work on your tan.

6. River Road Ramble (LA 18)

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This scenic route winds through plantation country, like driving through a history book! See fancy old mansions dripping with Spanish moss, like Destrehan and Laura Plantations.

7. Houma to Avery Island Hootenanny (LA 1)

Cruise through cute towns and past historic plantations. Then swing by Avery Island to explore Jungle Gardens, a wacky botanical wonderland straight out of a dream.

8. Swamp Tour on the Bayou Teche (LA 308)

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bayou Teche on this watery adventure. Glide past moss-draped cypress trees, spot wildlife like egrets and alligators, and learn about the unique ecosystem of the bayou.

9. Atchafalaya Adventure (Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Byway)

Buckle up for a journey through the heart of the HUGE Atchafalaya Swamp, the biggest one in the US of A! Learn about the unique culture of the region and witness the wild swamp life.

10. City Park Chill Out

New Orleans City Park. (2023). About Us – New Orleans City Park. [online] Available at: https://neworleanscitypark.org/ [Accessed 2 May 2024]

Escape the craziness with a scenic loop through City Park. Cruise by peaceful lagoons, admire the ancient oak trees with their Spanish moss beards, and maybe even stop and smell the roses at the New Orleans Botanical Garden.

11. Metairie Cemetery Cruise (Self-guided)

Ok, this one’s a little spooky, but hear me out! Take a slow drive through the historic Metairie Cemetery, a sprawling arboretum with cool tombs and creepy-beautiful statues. Just don’t forget to be respectful!

12. NOLA to Baton Rouge Blitz (I-10)

Usnews.com. (2024). Louisiana’s Old State Capitol. [online] Available at: https://travel.usnews.com/ [Accessed 2 May 2024]

Not exactly scenic, but this drive takes you to the state capital, Baton Rouge. Check out its cool museums and the impressive Capitol building.

13. New Orleans to Lafayette Lafayette (I-10)

Louisiana Official Travel and Tourism Information. (2019). Louisiana’s Top Live Music Venues. [online] Available at: https://www.explorelouisiana.com/ [Accessed 2 May 2024]

Head west for a taste of Cajun and Acadian culture in Lafayette. Immerse yourself in the music scene, devour delicious food, and visit Vermilionville, a living history museum that’s like stepping back in time.

14. NOLA to Natchez, Mississippi (US 61)

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Feeling ambitious? This longer drive takes you to the historic town of Natchez, Mississippi. Explore its grand antebellum homes, learn about the city’s fascinating past, and enjoy epic views from the Mississippi bluffs.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic basket, some bug spray (trust me!), and your camera to capture all these unforgettable adventures. So buckle up, turn up the tunes, and get ready to see a whole new side of NOLA!

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3 Days in Nashville: The Ultimate Nashville Itinerary

Welcome to Nashville, Tennessee, affectionately known as Music City, where the spirit of country music thrives alongside the aroma of delectable Southern fare. Prepare for an immersive journey through the heart and soul of this vibrant city with our comprehensive 3-day itinerary designed to showcase the best Nashville has to offer.

This itinerary offers music, history, culture, and outdoor activities, providing a comprehensive experience of Nashville’s attractions. Enjoy your trip!

BEST THINGS TO DO WITH 3 DAYS IN NASHVILLE

Here’s a compilation of destinations to explore during a three-day stay in Nashville, all featured in this itinerary.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Ryman Auditorium
Grand Ole Opry
Broadway
The Parthenon
Belle Meade Plantation
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Tennessee State Capitol
Frist Art Museum
Johnny Cash Museum
Germantown
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
Adventure Science Center
Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Nature Park
Nashville Farmer’s Market

3 DAYS IN NASHVILLE ITINERARY

Day 1: Music and History

Morning: Start your day at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to immerse yourself in the history and culture of country music.

Transportation: Depending on your location, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Adult tickets are around $30, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Mid-morning: Take a guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium, learning about its significance in the music industry.

Transportation: Conveniently located in downtown Nashville. The Ryman Auditorium is within walking distance of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Entrance Fee: Guided tours are approximately $35.80 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Lunch: Head to Broadway and grab lunch at one of the honky-tonks or restaurants offering live music.

Transportation: Broadway is centrally located downtown and easily accessible on foot.

Cost: Prices vary depending on the restaurant or honky-tonk.

Afternoon: Explore the historic RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley and other music legends recorded hit songs.

Transportation: Situated in the Music Row area of Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Studio B tours are around $50 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Evening: Attend a performance at the Grand Ole Opry for an unforgettable night of live country music.

Transportation: Located northeast of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the show and seating, ranging from $50 to $330 per person.

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning: Visit The Parthenon in Centennial Park to admire the architecture and explore the art museum.

Transportation: Located in Centennial Park, west of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Admission to the Parthenon is approximately $10 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Mid-morning: Tour Belle Meade Plantation to learn about its history as a prominent thoroughbred horse farm.

Transportation: Located southwest of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Mansion tour tickets are around $30 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant in Germantown, sampling some Southern cuisine.

Transportation: Located southwest of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Cost: Prices vary depending on the restaurant.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon wandering through Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, appreciating the beautiful botanical displays and art exhibitions.

Transportation: Situated southwest of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi or rideshare service.

Entrance Fee: Admission to Cheekwood is approximately $28 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Cumberland River at sunset — Tclf.org. (2024). Available at: https://www.tclf.org [Accessed 26 Apr. 2024]

Evening: Relax with a walk or bike ride along the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Nature Park, taking in the scenic views of the Cumberland River at sunset.

Transportation: Located east of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Cost: Free admission.

Day 3: Exploration and Entertainment

Morning: Take a guided tour of the Tennessee State Capitol to learn about the state’s political history and architectural significance.

Transportation: Located in downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Cost: Free guided tours are available.

Mid-morning: Visit the Frist Art Museum to browse its diverse collection of art exhibits.

Transportation: Situated in downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Admission to the Frist Art Museum is approximately $15 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Lunch: Grab lunch at the Nashville Farmer’s Market, sampling fresh produce and local delicacies from the food vendors.

Transportation: Located north of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Cost: Prices vary depending on what you choose to buy.

Afternoon: Explore the Johnny Cash Museum, paying homage to the iconic “Man in Black” and his contributions to music.

Transportation: Situated in downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Admission to the Johnny Cash Museum is approximately $23 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Evening: End your trip with some family fun at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, where you can see a variety of animals and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Transportation: Located south of downtown Nashville. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.

Entrance Fee: Admission to the Nashville Zoo is approximately $16-28 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Additional Notes:

Consider purchasing tickets online in advance for popular attractions to avoid waiting in line.
This schedule allows for flexibility throughout the day. You can spend more or less time at each location depending on your interests.
Be sure to factor in travel time between locations, especially during peak hours.
Check the opening and closing times for each attraction before you go, as they may vary.
This itinerary includes some iconic locations on Broadway, but there are other options depending on your musical taste. Research bars and pick one with a fitting vibe.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Nashville’s culture and charm as you reflect on the countless memories woven during your unforgettable sojourn in Music City. From its soul-stirring melodies echoing through its streets to the tantalizing aromas of Southern cuisine wafting through the air, Nashville invites you to experience a journey filled with endless delights and treasures waiting to be uncovered. So, why wait? Embark on your Nashville adventure today and prepare to be swept away by the symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that await your discovery.