Canada - YYZ (the city) questions

It has been a while since the last time I traveled to YYZ, so hoping to get some updates for a potential trip. How's the weather in early Nov (1st 2 weeks)? I remember visiting YYZ when I was a kid during Thanksgiving (US) and it had started snowing already. Does it usually start in early or late Nov?

Also, any suggestions where toddlers may be interested? Lastly, where to go for good (& preferably cheap) Chinese foods? TIA.

LAX

Early Nov should be around 10C during the day and freezing point overnight.

Recommendation for toddler? I will leave this to others until I have my grandkids.

Good and Cheap Chinese food? Now this is where I can be of assistance being ethnic Chinese and YYZ is home base for 40+yrs. Where are you staying? Will you have a car? What region of Chinese food are you interested in?

The weather isn't too bad.. Not winter temperatures yet.. Chilly throughout the day, cold at night. Light jackets should be ok.

Can't help you out with the toddler activities unfortunately

Pearl Harbourfront has really good Chinese food. Located right in downtown at the Harbourfront.

Enjoy your trip

Trip Planner Weather

Historical Summary for November 01 - November 14

Temperature:
The Average High Temperature is 9 C with a historical range of 0 C to 17 C
The Average Low Temperature is 4 C with a historical range of -5 C to 11 C

There is a 0% chance of a Hot Day (temperature over 90°F / 32°C).
(0 days out of 210 in historical record)

Most consecutive days found in historic record: 0

There is a 4% chance of a Warm Day (temperature over 60°F / 16°C).
(8 days out of 210 in historical record)

Most consecutive days found in historic record: 2
There is a 8% chance of a Freezing Day (temperature below 32°F / 0°C).
(17 days out of 210 in historical record)

Most consecutive days found in historic record: 4

Cold
Cloud Cover:
Average Cloud Cover is partly cloudy
There is a 32% chance of a Cloudy Day.
(68 days out of 210 in historical record)

Most consecutive days found in historic record: 5

Wow, that's pretty neat. What website did you get that weather almanac from?

Not sure if it is toddler friendly, but the Royal Winter Agricultural fair (http://www.royalfair.org/) has a petting zoo. This year it takes place Nov 4-13.


The zoo may be a bit too cold to stay outdoors all day, but it is one of the biggest zoos in the world (in terms of size and # of animals).

Chinese food is aplenty in Toronto.
If you are downtown, head to Chinatown around Dundas and Spadina - technically the second one after a smaller Chinatown around Dundas and Bay (no longer there).

Dim sum is a great option - there is a place on Spadina Ave -- look for Rol San or Bright Pearl.

There are many fine dining dim sum places also - Lee Wah Heen and Dynasty.

Pearl restaurant in Harbourfront is also nice.

In the suburbs, there are many excellent Chinese restaurants (often better than the central locales) - a location of where you will be will help for restaurant suggestions.

... Chinese food is aplenty in Toronto.
If you are downtown, head to Chinatown around Dundas and Spadina - technically the second one after a smaller Chinatown around Dundas and Bay (no longer there).

Spadina and Dundas is Toronto's third Chinatown. The first was north side of Queen west of Bay. It was expropriated for New City Hall and Nathan Philips Square. The second one was Dundas west of Bay.

Dim sum is a great option - there is a place on Spadina Ave -- look for Rol San or Bright Pearl.

As a two to four time weekly consumer of dim sum in Toronto, there is no good dim sum place around Spadina/Dundas.

There are many fine dining dim sum places also - Lee Wah Heen and Dynasty.

Pearl restaurant in Harbourfront is also nice.

All three places are a bit premium price but it I would lunch there when I need dim sum in the downtown core.

In the suburbs, there are many excellent Chinese restaurants (often better than the central locales) - a location of where you will be will help for restaurant suggestions.

Yes, most of the eating in Chinese restaurant disposable income has suburbanized. The better chefs and their crew has followed this migration.

As a two to four time weekly consumer of dim sum in Toronto, there is no good dim sum place around Spadina/Dundas.


As most people are likely to stay in the centre of the city, I focused on the existing Chinatown (but not the Broadview/Gerrard one which is even lower in the culinary scale).

As for Spadina/Dundas -- I will admit there are better ones (incl LWH and Dynasty, which I did say was FINE dining and you correctly noted is more expensive), but its still a lot better than most US fare.

As most people are likely to stay in the centre of the city, I focused on the existing Chinatown (but not the Broadview/Gerrard one which is even lower in the culinary scale).

As for Spadina/Dundas -- I will admit there are better ones (incl LWH and Dynasty, which I did say was FINE dining and you correctly noted is more expensive), but its still a lot better than most US fare.

It is the same for all cities with large Chinese population in North America. I had very good to excellent authentic Chinese cuisine in SFO LAX NYC YVR and surprisingly BOS. When away from major cities, rural Canadian Chinese food is probably similiar to rural US Chinese food.

Just like Toronto the old centre of city Chinatown no longer have the best food due to the Chinese population with spending power moving out to suburbia.

PM me when you are expected in Toronto.

Not exactly sure where we are exactly going to end up, but most likely not near downtown. Where in the suburbs should I consider staying? We will likely go as long as the weather doesn't get too cold (I spend a good amount of the year based in LAX:D). Thanks.

LAX

Not exactly sure where we are exactly going to end up, but most likely not near downtown. Where in the suburbs should I consider staying? We will likely go as long as the weather doesn't get too cold (I spend a good amount of the year based in LAX:D). Thanks.

LAX

Well when you come, please bring some of that LAX weather with you :)

In the suburbs, you can stay in North York - there's a nice Westin hotel close to the York Mills/Don Mills intersection, its a decent area-

There's also some hotels by the Yorkdale mall which seems to be quite a popular area with American tourists..

Not really familiar with the suburbs because I actually live a bit north of Toronto.

Well when you come, please bring some of that LAX weather with you :)

In the suburbs, you can stay in North York - there's a nice Westin hotel close to the York Mills/Don Mills intersection, its a decent area-

There's also some hotels by the Yorkdale mall which seems to be quite a popular area with American tourists..

Not really familiar with the suburbs because I actually live a bit north of Toronto.

Westin Prince, lots of eateries nearby and parkland; on York Mills road is a good choice if you have a car.

I would not stay near Yorkdale.

There is also a cluster of hotels near Leslie and Hwy 7, base on the signs there seems to be a good selection.

If you do not plan on driving Novotel at North York Centre is a good choice, semi-suburbia but walk to subway.

If you have a toddler, you should look up renting a business/longer stay suite. These have been popping up like crazy. It will give you the room and amenities to handle the toddler. Many are not affiliated with the chains but you can locate them by googling.

If you stay near transit and is flexible with your time to avoid rush hour the city is doable with transit.

Makes me want to ask. Do the trains or trolleys run to Lester B Pearson airport?

Makes me want to ask. Do the trains or trolleys run to Lester B Pearson airport?

No, there is an express bus (192 I believe is the number) that takes you to the Kipling subway station.

Not exactly sure where we are exactly going to end up, but most likely not near downtown.

Presumably this means you'll have a car at your disposal. That said, stuff to do that's toddler-friendly include:

Toronto Zoo (http://www.torontozoo.com/)
Ontario Science Centre (http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/)
ROM (http://www.rom.on.ca/families.php)
Riverdale Farm (http://www.friendsofriverdalefarm.com/tips.htm)

And there are lots of parks for just generally running around.

Just outside of Toronto:

Apple Picking (http://www.chudleighs.com/index.php/farm-events/pick-your-own/) <- But the season might be over already
African Lion Safari (http://www.lionsafari.com/planyourtrip/location) <- VERY LOUD sound when you click the home page to this site
Various sites around Niagara Falls


Chinese Food:

Pretty much anywhere in Pacific Mall (http://www.pacificmalltoronto.com/#!__home-page). I typically go to the food court upstairs (south side of building - take escalator up then pull a U-turn and keep going).

Ambassador (http://www.ambassadorcc.com/reviews.html) is a nice place north of the city but it can get expensive depending on what you order. There's a Sheraton up in that neighbourhood too if you're looking for a place to stay.

Downtown I like King's Noodles or House of Gourmet, both @ Dundas & Spadina.

A very good Chinese restaurant in a very unlikely place is the Grand which is located in the Double Tree Hilton (http://doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/dt/hotel/YYZIPDT-DoubleTree-by-Hilton-Hotel-Toronto-Airport-Ontario/dining.do) out by the airport. They also have 2 other locations (http://www.grandchinesecuisine.com/) which I haven't tried yet but will when I can get around to it.

For very high-end Chinese cuisine check out Lai Wah Heen (http://www.laiwahheen.com/) which again is in a somewhat unlikely location. It's certainly one of the better restaurants I've been to in the world though. They won't get any Michelin stars any time soon, but the food is good and the presentation & service is typically top notch.


Lastly, a good site to check the weather (http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/on-128_metric_e.html).

Enjoy your time in YYZ! ^

While there are some good eateries in P-Mall but IMHO the not worth eating at places out numbers the worth while places. YMMV.

Wow, that's pretty neat. What website did you get that weather almanac from?

http://www.wunderground.com/tripplanner/index.asp

Presumably this means you'll have a car at your disposal. That said, stuff to do that's toddler-friendly include:

Toronto Zoo (http://www.torontozoo.com/)
Ontario Science Centre (http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/)
ROM (http://www.rom.on.ca/families.php)
Riverdale Farm (http://www.friendsofriverdalefarm.com/tips.htm)

And there are lots of parks for just generally running around.

Just outside of Toronto:

Apple Picking (http://www.chudleighs.com/index.php/farm-events/pick-your-own/) <- But the season might be over already
African Lion Safari (http://www.lionsafari.com/planyourtrip/location) <- VERY LOUD sound when you click the home page to this site
Various sites around Niagara Falls


Enjoy your time in YYZ! ^


Good suggestion on the Riverdale Farm - I heard there was a deal to save it. Hopefully that deal comes through.

The animals are much more fun in that setting than the Royal Winter fair (which I love, regardless of the smell!)

I think the African Lion safari closes before Canadian T-giving (in Oct), but I may be wrong. I always caution people to take the bus and not your own car or a rental (unless you have loaded up on insurance! :eek:)

Good suggestion on the Riverdale Farm - I heard there was a deal to save it. Hopefully that deal comes through.

The animals are much more fun in that setting than the Royal Winter fair (which I love, regardless of the smell!)

The fate of Riverdale farm is in discussion at the present time.

I think the African Lion safari closes before Canadian T-giving (in Oct), but I may be wrong. I always caution people to take the bus and not your own car or a rental (unless you have loaded up on insurance! :eek:)

I remember going to African Lion Safari in the winter but that was quite a while ago. Check the web site. Definitely do not drive a rental unless you have full insurance without any deductible.

Good suggestion on the Riverdale Farm - I heard there was a deal to save it. Hopefully that deal comes through.

The animals are much more fun in that setting than the Royal Winter fair (which I love, regardless of the smell!)

I think the African Lion safari closes before Canadian T-giving (in Oct), but I may be wrong. I always caution people to take the bus and not your own car or a rental (unless you have loaded up on insurance! :eek:)

The Royal Winter Fair is certainly fun for a toddler - have been dragged round it for the last two years by one! Feeding the animals is a highlight, but also just wandering around the farm animal areas too. The dog and horse shows are good depending on which are on (carriage processionals not really thrill a minute, showjumping much more so!) There are also a lot of activities that relate to food 9complete with samples!) and conservation (so they can have some quite time (ok, we can have some quiet time!) while they colour in, look at wormeries etc. And it is indoors, so a good 'bad weather day' activity.

Didn't know there was show jumping there. Would have seen it if I did.

Is downtown the most fun area when it comes to pubs/bars, or do most people head elsewhere?

Is downtown the most fun area when it comes to pubs/bars, or do most people head elsewhere?

Like most cities with a winter we only have bar pub downtown and some midtown sections that are walking distance apart, other suburbs we just meet at a place and cocoon up for the night.

Many thanks, Tentseller. ^

What about the summer-time, are there any particular streets that are packed with pubs, or parts of town that people flock to for some good beers?

Also, how would you compare Toronto to Vancouver in terms of pubs/bars, restaurants, or living there in general? I spent 9 days in Vancouver recently just as a holiday trip (and to meet up with our close friends from Seattle) but can't say I would want to move there from Singapore if such an opportunity arose.

Many thanks, Tentseller. ^

What about the summer-time, are there any particular streets that are packed with pubs, or parts of town that people flock to for some good beers?

Also, how would you compare Toronto to Vancouver in terms of pubs/bars, restaurants, or living there in general? I spent 9 days in Vancouver recently just as a holiday trip (and to meet up with our close friends from Seattle) but can't say I would want to move there from Singapore if such an opportunity arose.

You are 30+ yrs too late in asking me that question.

Vancouver has more of an outdoor scene due to the milder climate, but there is no year round installation like Clarkie.

For anyone from SG Canada is just too cold lah!

If you have any chance to stay downtown, choose it. I recommend bidding on Priceline 3.5* and getting the Delta Chelsea. It has lots of facilities, convenient parking and a central location. The Prince is really in the middle of a suburban area that requires a lot of driving as there is no convenient transit. You won't need a car if you stay downtown. You'll be able to deal with any kind of weather and walk everywhere. The PWT Airport Express gives excellent transportation from YYZ to downtown hotels. Chinese food in Toronto is usually competent and has mass appeal. The National Post's critic gave Susur Lee's restaurant "Lee" the highest accolades and dumped on all others as pretentious and boring. If you want a decent meal, the Asian Legend chain has reasonable atmosphere. For a decent meal that is popular among the Chinese community, look for a restaurant whose name begins with "Congee". There are many variants and all have congee, barbecue and many other dishes beyond congee.

Is downtown the most fun area when it comes to pubs/bars, or do most people head elsewhere?

Like any large city, we have certain downtown areas for certain tastes.

College Street west of Bathurst is a pretty good strip for pubs and eateries.

Danforth Avenue a.k.a. "The Danforth", between Broadview Ave and Pape is not a bad place for pubs and is particularly good if you want Greek food.

The rectangle bounded by University Ave on the East, Spadina Ave on the West, King St on the South and Queen St on the North is where all the major clubs are located. These places are loud and expensive and generally only open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. There is a general trend to push these clubs out of the downtown area.

One thing I learned on my most recent trip to Toronto is that it probably has more students than any other city in North America. Huge numbers. Which finally made sense out of the crowds of youth I saw in the streets.

One thing I learned on my most recent trip to Toronto is that it probably has more students than any other city in North America. Huge numbers. Which finally made sense out of the crowds of youth I saw in the streets.

Interesting. Are they visible just in university areas or generally in the city centre?

One thing I found strange about Vancouver is that the youthful crowd there was somewhat missing.

Interesting. Are they visible just in university areas or generally in the city centre?

...
Based on last year's numbers, The University of Toronto had some 77,000 students of which approximately 55,000 were in the main downtown campus. I assume the numbers are similar this year.

Based on last year's numbers, The University of Toronto had some 77,000 students of which approximately 55,000 were in the main downtown campus. I assume the numbers are similar this year.

Then there is Ryerson, George Brown College downtown, further North York U and Seneca College, West side there is Humber.
Then there are smaller career specific colleges and all the ESL schools.

Not sure if it is toddler friendly, but the Royal Winter Agricultural fair (http://www.royalfair.org/) has a petting zoo. This year it takes place Nov 4-13.


The zoo may be a bit too cold to stay outdoors all day, but it is one of the biggest zoos in the world (in terms of size and # of animals).

Chinese food is aplenty in Toronto.
If you are downtown, head to Chinatown around Dundas and Spadina - technically the second one after a smaller Chinatown around Dundas and Bay (no longer there).

Dim sum is a great option - there is a place on Spadina Ave -- look for Rol San or Bright Pearl.

There are many fine dining dim sum places also - Lee Wah Heen and Dynasty.

Pearl restaurant in Harbourfront is also nice.

In the suburbs, there are many excellent Chinese restaurants (often better than the central locales) - a location of where you will be will help for restaurant suggestions.

Checked out the website for the Winter Fair, it looks like it's indoor (petting zoo as well), correct? I am concerned about staying outdoor most of the day in early November. TIA.

LAX

Checked out the website for the Winter Fair, it looks like it's indoor (petting zoo as well), correct? I am concerned about staying outdoor most of the day in early November. TIA.

LAX

Correct, the Winter Fair is indoors - world's largest indoor agricultural fair and equestrian show. IIRC temps are spring-like inside, just a bit below room temperature.

That's just one school. My memory for numbers is poor, but I concluded the total was something like 250k or 500k. Whatever it is, I found it staggering. I remember walking the downtown streets and wondering where the H*** all the gorgeous young girls came from. Besides being a college town, Toronto is also a movie town and a fashion center. Add it all up, and the girlwatching matches anything else I know. And my IMPRESSION is that they all like to party. I yield to anyone who has spent more time than I have t here, but after 4 or 5 trips, that's the impression I have. Plus, I have a particular weakness for South Asians, and it has the biggest South Asian population of anywhere in America.

It's shaping up to be a "go" for us. Hence, more questions. I was looking at Google map and it shows an "Express Toll route", it's 407. I would imagine it accepts cash or transponder only, right?

LAX

It's shaping up to be a "go" for us. Hence, more questions. I was looking at Google map and it shows an "Express Toll route", it's 407. I would imagine it accepts cash or transponder only, right?

LAX

Yes, it is transponder or they bill you in the mail. If you are using a rental car, you may wish to check what the rental company charge in addition to what 407ETR charges (http://www.407etr.com/highway/map.html).

There was a thread on FT re: the 407 use here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/toronto/716340-using-407-yyz-rental-car.html).

It's shaping up to be a "go" for us. Hence, more questions. I was looking at Google map and it shows an "Express Toll route", it's 407. I would imagine it accepts cash or transponder only, right?

LAX

Yes, it is transponder or they bill you in the mail. If you are using a rental car, you may wish to check what the rental company charge in addition to what 407ETR charges (http://www.407etr.com/highway/map.html).

There was a thread on FT re: the 407 use here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/toronto/716340-using-407-yyz-rental-car.html).

407 with add on charges are very expensive for a rental. It does help getting around especially if you are staying in Richmond Hill but if you plan your driving/sightseeing around rush hour you should be OK.

The only time that you would absolutely need it is from airport to Richmond Hill during rush hour. Our 401 will give your 405 a run for your money anyday.

Use of the 407 will also depend on where you are staying. If it is downtown, the QEW/Gardiner will be fine, on the weekends Don Valley Parkway is manageable.

Generally, I would not use the 407 if I have a rental as I think they will levy a charge on a per use basis.

407 with add on charges are very expensive for a rental. It does help getting around especially if you are staying in Richmond Hill but if you plan your driving/sightseeing around rush hour you should be OK.

The only time that you would absolutely need it is from airport to Richmond Hill during rush hour. Our 401 will give your 405 a run for your money anyday.

One other place you may consider if you go to Niagara Falls (which RCyyz has mentioned), they have a child friendly Butterfly Conservatory. I have provided a link to Niagara Parks website (http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden-trail/butterfly-conservatory.html), where you will find info on that and other events around NF.

One other place you may consider if you go to Niagara Falls (which RCyyz has mentioned), they have a child friendly Butterfly Conservatory. I have provided a link to Niagara Parks website (http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden-trail/butterfly-conservatory.html), where you will find info on that and other events around NF.

^^^
My daughter loved it back when she was 5 and still loving it in last year of university. However she is now going there with another guy!:mad:

407 with add on charges are very expensive for a rental. It does help getting around especially if you are staying in Richmond Hill but if you plan your driving/sightseeing around rush hour you should be OK.

The only time that you would absolutely need it is from airport to Richmond Hill during rush hour. Our 401 will give your 405 a run for your money anyday.

I would like to avoid any toll charges if at all possible. If it's transponder or bill-via-mail only, then I will avoid it (it's a rental). I can certainly plan around rush hour traffic (when do they occur in Toronto?). The last thing I want is to be stuck in traffic for 2 hours while on vacation (not uncommon in LA, unfortunately:mad:)

BTW, what are the other toll roads I should avoid beside 407?? Thanks again, everyone.

LAX

I would like to avoid any toll charges if at all possible. If it's transponder or bill-via-mail only, then I will avoid it (it's a rental). I can certainly plan around rush hour traffic (when do they occur in Toronto?). The last thing I want is to be stuck in traffic for 2 hours while on vacation (not uncommon in LA, unfortunately:mad:)

BTW, what are the other toll roads I should avoid beside 407?? Thanks again, everyone.

LAX

The only one in Greater Toronto is 407ETR. All the entry ramp signage in in blue as opposed to green (standard).

Rush hour on 401, the only major east west hwy is 630-930pm and 3-7pm.

The only one in Greater Toronto is 407ETR. All the entry ramp signage in in blue as opposed to green (standard).

Rush hour on 401, the only major east west hwy is 630-930pm and 3-7pm.

Just to clarify, that should ahve read 6:30-9:30 AM

If travelling through Toronto by car on a weekday, I aim for the 11:00 - 1:00 window.

I think the 407 is the only toll road in all of Ontario.

Just to clarify, that should ahve read 6:30-9:30 AM

If travelling through Toronto by car on a weekday, I aim for the 11:00 - 1:00 window.

I think the 407 is the only toll road in all of Ontario.

Ooops thanks for the correction. I also like driving around Toronto 11pm to 1am. ;)

We have many last minute, rush to finish before winter or federal money runs out road construction around.

LAX:
One fair warning, Hwy 7 in Richmond Hill/Markham between Bayview and Leslie is undergoing boulevard beautification construction.

Ooops thanks for the correction. I also like driving around Toronto 11pm to 1am. ;)

We have many last minute, rush to finish before winter or federal money runs out road construction around.

LAX:
One fair warning, Hwy 7 in Richmond Hill/Markham between Bayview and Leslie is undergoing boulevard beautification construction.

Thanks for the warning! I can handle traffic, coming from LA, but just want to avoid as much as I can, especially when I am not bound by work schedules.

LAX

Thanks for the warning! I can handle traffic, coming from LA, but just want to avoid as much as I can, especially when I am not bound by work schedules.

LAX

^ Just like me around LAX. :)

BTW AM680 on the radio all news has 15 minute traffic reports and CP24 on TV is a new and info station with same information.

There is a (20 min duration) Go transit bus #40 service which runs between YYZ and Richmond Hill along the 407.

Schedule says every hour 15 or 45 past the hour depending on direction.

Observation suggests it's every 30 minutes.

There is a (20 min duration) Go transit bus #40 service which runs between YYZ and Richmond Hill along the 407.

Schedule says every hour 15 or 45 past the hour depending on direction.

Observation suggests it's every 30 minutes.

That stops at Yonge and Hwy at the Richmond Hill Go terminal which is a bit from the Richmond Hill hotel strip for someone traveling with a child and luggage.

That stops at Yonge and Hwy at the Richmond Hill Go terminal which is a bit from the Richmond Hill hotel strip for someone traveling with a child and luggage.

http://www.gotransit.com/publicroot/en/schedules/lstser.aspx?station=RHCT&new=

8700 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, ON
Hwy 7 & Yonge St.

http://www.gotransit.com/publicroot/en/schedules/lstser.aspx?station=RHGO&new=

6 Newkirk Road, Richmond Hill, ON
Newkirk Rd. @ Major Mackenzie Dr.

... Also, any suggestions where toddlers may be interested? ...

LAX

That stops at Yonge and Hwy at the Richmond Hill Go terminal which is a bit from the Richmond Hill hotel strip for someone traveling with a child and luggage.

http://www.gotransit.com/publicroot/en/schedules/lstser.aspx?station=RHCT&new=

8700 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, ON
Hwy 7 & Yonge St.

http://www.gotransit.com/publicroot/en/schedules/lstser.aspx?station=RHGO&new=

6 Newkirk Road, Richmond Hill, ON
Newkirk Rd. @ Major Mackenzie Dr.

Can we get some pointers on how to get to any hotel in Richmond Hill from the Go terminals with a toddler and all the related luggage?

Why would anyone recommend someone stay in Richmond Hill if they want to visit Toronto on vacation?:confused: Might as well stay out at the airport then. If you want to avoid traffic then stay downtown or in the Yorkville area (Yonge/Bloor). The traffic is actually worse in the endless sprawling suburbs of the 905 than in the city. I live in midtown and work out in Milton and believe me the driving in the city is far easier than the 401/427/DVP/404 corridors. Any of the attractions in the downtown/midtown core don't require a car anyway even with a toddler.

If you have a small one, better to stay downtown than deal with the insane commuter traffic from the suburbs. The Yorkville area has some very good hotels such as the Park Hyatt, the Four Seasons (but avoid the Windsor Arms as they have a busy club downstairs and the vibrations can be felt in the lower 5 floors). The Fairmont is historic but tired.

Staying downtown also gives one access to the PATH system, which is an underground mall that is made up of the underground levels of many downtown skyscrapers and stretches all the way from Union Station to Bay, through the Eaton Center to Dundas. As a kid I was fascinated that one could enter on one end and come out several blocks away :D

For Dim sum downtown, I agree with Pearl Harbourfront in the Harbourfront Centre. My family used to own one of the fancy condos upstairs and the service and dim sum is above average and they are very good at catering to tourists and dim sum newbees :) They also have a really good view of the Harbourfront. ^

Rol San just north of Dundas on Spadina has all day dim sum (dim sum is only traditionally served at brunch/lunch) that they cook to order ^. Many places reheat or re-fry which is nasty in so many ways :td:. The prices do change during the course of the day. For example, there is an early morning price, then a lunch price, an afternoon tea price and then a dinner price. The portions are the same but I think the prices are there to attract certain clientele: grandma and grandpa in the early morning, business people at lunch and tourists at tea time :)

There are many other decent dim sum places, but as dim sum encompasses a large variety of dishes, there are restaurants that specialise in (and are famous for) certain dishes but not others.

One of the most famous and most pricey restaurants is Lai Wah Heen (http://www.laiwahheen.com/) on Chestnut St in the Metropolitan hotel.

Feel free to PM me if anyone needs specifics :)

For Dim sum downtown, I agree with Pearl Harbourfront in the Harbourfront Centre. My family used to own one of the fancy condos upstairs and the service and dim sum is above average and they are very good at catering to tourists and dim sum newbees :) They also have a really good view of the Harbourfront. ^

Rol San just north of Dundas on Spadina has all day dim sum (dim sum is only traditionally served at brunch/lunch) that they cook to order ^.

One of the most famous and most pricey restaurants is Lai Wah Heen (http://www.laiwahheen.com/) on Chestnut St in the Metropolitan hotel.

Feel free to PM me if anyone needs specifics :)

HEY!!! :D



Chinese food is aplenty in Toronto.
If you are downtown, head to Chinatown around Dundas and Spadina - ....

Dim sum is a great option - there is a place on Spadina Ave -- look for Rol San or Bright Pearl.

There are many fine dining dim sum places also - Lee Wah Heen and Dynasty.

Pearl restaurant in Harbourfront is also nice.

In the suburbs, there are many excellent Chinese restaurants (often better than the central locales) - a location of where you will be will help for restaurant suggestions.

but tentseller may beg to differ!


As a two to four time weekly consumer of dim sum in Toronto, there is no good dim sum place around Spadina/Dundas.

All three places are a bit premium price but it I would lunch there when I need dim sum in the downtown core.

Yes, most of the eating in Chinese restaurant disposable income has suburbanized. The better chefs and their crew has followed this migration.

My recommendation would be to stay downtown, within walking distance of the subway system. This way, you won't need the use of a car and can use public transit. You can easily access the following:

Royal Winter Fair
Royal Ontario Museum
PATH system... indoor underground mall/walking route
Eaton Centre... large mall
C.N. Tower


The only reason for staying in the suburbs is if there was something specific you wanted to visit there.

Can we get some pointers on how to get to any hotel in Richmond Hill from the Go terminals with a toddler and all the related luggage?
Easy.

Take a taxi or arrange for (off airport) car rental company to meet you at bus terminal.

Complete rental paperwork in comfort and at hotel.

Also works in reverse.

And also, hotel may have Limousine service.

HEY!!! :D



but tentseller may beg to differ!


Just agreeing with you :D I almost forgot about Dynasty on Bloor in the Yorkville area. Excellent place if you're in the area to shop :) but on Saturdays waits are long.

My recommendation would be to stay downtown, within walking distance of the subway system. This way, you won't need the use of a car and can use public transit. You can easily access the following:

Royal Winter Fair
Royal Ontario Museum
PATH system... indoor underground mall/walking route
Eaton Centre... large mall
C.N. Tower


The only reason for staying in the suburbs is if there was something specific you wanted to visit there.

On my first trip in 2004, I did stay downtown. For whatever reason, I got a room at a pretty good price (<$100/night). And it was incredibly convenient. I just can't count all the ways it made things easy for me.

Next TWO times I stayed in Scarborough on Kingston Road. Now, I won't say this was as blissfully simple as being in the center, a half block of Yonge. But I still went everywhere on TTC. Compared to places where I've lived, it was so stressless. Now years have gone by, so I can't say if another visit would work out as well, but in my limited experience, there wasn't enough to differentiate between the two options. I know I did save a few bucks being in Scarborough.

But that stay at the Comfort Hotel at 15 Charles St, about a block from an entrance to the subway, half block to Yonge, block to a really great all night grocery and Internet cafe, that was the perfect intro to TO for me!

Being from LA, I just gotta have a car!:D Besides, Richmond Hill does work best for us for other reasons. We are probably not going to spend too much time in downtown anyway (other than maybe to the Winter Fair & St. Lawrence Market). Thanks for everyone's suggestions, though.

BTW, what's the PATH system??

LAX

I think PATH is the underground level of Toronto that allows shoppers to treat several downtown blocks as a covered mall. I imagine in cold months, that must be very welcome to people. Downtown TO can seem like a complete city by itself.

PATH map can be found here (http://www.toronto.ca/path/index.htm).

Its the world's largest underground link to about 1200 shops and places and includes tourist spots like the Hockey Hall of Fame, Roy Thomson Hall, Air Canada Centre, Rogers Centre, and the CN Tower.

Can we get some pointers on how to get to any hotel in Richmond Hill from the Go terminals with a toddler and all the related luggage?

Usually there are cabs waiting by the bus station. If not, you can call the taxi company to arrange a taxi, the bus station has heated shelter so the wait is not that bad.

I think PATH is the underground level of Toronto that allows shoppers to treat several downtown blocks as a covered mall. I imagine in cold months, that must be very welcome to people. Downtown TO can seem like a complete city by itself.
More like several *miles*. Many people live and work downtown without ever having to step outside in the winter.

Cheers,

PATH will take you al the way from from the Atrium on Bay at Dundas, down to the Metro Convention Centre on Simcoe and Lakeshore.

I'm hoping it will be extended from my condo in Yorkville to C'est What, on Front and Church.

Yeh, I can see now that I didn't spend much time down there. I just took a few minutes to get some idea of what they were talking about. Not quite a mole person yet.

PATH will take you al the way from from the Atrium on Bay at Dundas, down to the Metro Convention Centre on Simcoe and Lakeshore.

I'm hoping it will be extended from my condo in Yorkville to C'est What, on Front and Church.

C'est What still there? They were one of the place I frequent when my business was at 65 Front ST E. 1987-92.

Thanks all! The trip was very nice. The kids loved the Winter Fair, especially the petting zoo. Plus, the weather turned out to be very nice.

LAX

Thanks all! The trip was very nice. The kids loved the Winter Fair, especially the petting zoo. Plus, the weather turned out to be very nice.

LAX

You have definitely lucked out weather wise. This is the warmest November in a long time.

Every time I went to Toronto, it got too warm. I think I'd like to be there in colder weather.

Every time I went to Toronto, it got too warm. I think I'd like to be there in colder weather.

We <3 to have LuvAirFrance move to Toronto permanently.

We <3 to have LuvAirFrance move to Toronto permanently.

I considered it once, but Canada doesn't just let anyone move in that wants to.

I considered it once, but Canada doesn't just let anyone move in that wants to.

In some respects Canada is much easier to move to than many countries as their point system for qualification.

Wonder why my brother didn't move to BC where his two daughters live after he retired. He got a place in Washington that was an easy commute. Well, maybe it was about pension and healthcare.

I considered it once, but Canada doesn't just let anyone move in that wants to.
I understand that there are boats being chartered in Indonesia for those who would like a direct entry - admission is based on the price you are willing to pay the tour operator.

I can get IN. Done it several times recently. Staying is a different question. Canada likes to harvest tourist money. But they don't necessarily want outsiders to settle down.

I can get IN. Done it several times recently. Staying is a different question. Canada likes to harvest tourist money. But they don't necessarily want outsiders to settle down.

There are a couple of routes to immigrating to Canada.
They do consider skilled workers as a primary category (http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/apply-who.asp) (outside of family) for immigration, or if you are an entrepreneur and are willing to invest $800K(Cdn) (http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/business/index.asp), the want your money, errr, and you!

Generally, Canada does not take many retirees unless they have family in Canada who are sponsoring them.

LuvAirFrance:

If you can guarantee warmer climate I am sure the $800K will be arranged.

I'd be willing to wager that the majority of folks who live in YYZ weren't born in YYZ.

And of these folks who migrated here (like me) I think a significant portion of them immigrated from other countries.

In general for Canada, I think the majority of Canadians are born in this country but there is clearly a significant portion of our population who come from outside our borders.

I'd be willing to wager that the majority of folks who live in YYZ weren't born in YYZ.

And of these folks who migrated here (like me) I think a significant portion of them immigrated from other countries.

In general for Canada, I think the majority of Canadians are born in this country but there is clearly a significant portion of our population who come from outside our borders.

With StatsCan data who would take you up on your wager?

Most centres outside Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver are still majority Canadian born. The trend in the three centres are Canadian born visible minorities looking at the change from the last two census.

Thanks all! The trip was very nice. The kids loved the Winter Fair, especially the petting zoo. Plus, the weather turned out to be very nice.

LAX

Not sure how I missed this, but glad the Winter Fair was a hit! I used to go as part of the school field trips and a couple of times with the family and loved it.

Also glad you had good weather, always makes for a more enjoyable trip. Should you get a chance to come again, I recommend the early summer as there is a lot more to do (including the aforementioned tourist spots, and not to forget the ferry ride to the Island.)

Thanks all! The trip was very nice. The kids loved the Winter Fair, especially the petting zoo. Plus, the weather turned out to be very nice.

LAX

Got to love llamas!

That said the biggest hit this year according to the 3 year old was milking the fake cow in the discovery / education bit!

Glad you had a good trip

bumping this thread

also first post here on FF, i've been lurking around a lot :p

anyway
I'm heading back to Toronto late february, 6 nights and living in north of sweden i actually look forward to have a bit nicer climate :) although we've got pretty much the same over here.

Last time i stayed at the westin harbour castle, just awesome (but that was a groupjourney and it was included in a package with hockeytickets, niagara falls etc.)
i just loved the downtown area, TO is probably one of my favourite cities ever, so i had to go back now that i got a ridicoulus good price with AC

This time i'm going back on my own and i'm trying to find a decent area to stay in, i'll spend a lot of time covering downtown or at least the things i didn't see last time.

let's just say that the westin hotels are way over budget
any good tips? (i'm not driving)

also, is there any lowcost airlines departing from yyz?
i've been looking at going to Buffalo just to find a cheap flight to somewhere - i have pretty much nothing planned. so i might take a trip to the u.s. or quebec..well as you might understand - i have a week in toronto with nothing planned!

This time i'm going back on my own and i'm trying to find a decent area to stay in, i'll spend a lot of time covering downtown or at least the things i didn't see last time.

let's just say that the westin hotels are way over budget
any good tips? (i'm not driving)

also, is there any lowcost airlines departing from yyz?
i've been looking at going to Buffalo just to find a cheap flight to somewherewell as you might understand - i have a week in toronto with nothing planned!

Winter is a very low season. You should try bidding on Priceline for 3.5* hotels in either the Downtown north or south districts. You can typically get the Delta Chelsea or Novotel for around $70 per night - excellent places or for a bit more you can get 4* places. As for travel, the cheapest way is by Megabus, with a current $10 seat sale to places like New York and Montreal. Porter Airlines has sales for 50% off the base fare (one just ended). They go to Boston, Chicago, NY, Montreal etc and Air Canada matches the sale fares. In general, flights to most US destintations are a lot cheaper from Buffalo. VIA Rail also has some decent sales if you want to go Montreal, Ottawa or Niagara Falls. The weather is getting colder so you could get some skating, skiing and snowshoeing in the districts north of Toronto but a car would be helpful unless you go with a group that organizes those trips.

What would be a good place to stay in terms of where people go out at night? Is downtown the place to be? Or do people head to the waterfront?

What would be a good place to stay in terms of where people go out at night? Is downtown the place to be? Or do people head to the waterfront?
Toronto waterfront's pretty chilly in the winter lol, so I'd say downtown. The club/theatre area is King Street/Queen Street west of University. Sheraton Centre or King Eddy would be your best bets. You can walk most of the way underground.

Cheers,

It depends on the season you are visiting. Waterfront is nice in the summer but cold and windy in the winter.

There is downtown between Queen and Front. Most of the core hotels/office building complex are connected by a walkway system call PATH. The west end of this is the entertainment district with more clubs then the east end.

Then there is the Bloor/Yorkville area which is the high end shopping.