Saturday, October 4, 2008
Casa Loma: The Amazing Historical Sight
Only when you step into the lavish Casa Loma can you really witness the true beauty of this castle. Constructed in 1911, the Casa Loma is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Canada.
Highlighted by a vast hall featuring a 60' ceiling, Casa Loma will not only teach you but show you what royal life was like in the early 20th century. I am certain that you will be awe-struck when you see the washrooms, the kitchen and the old furniture, many of them totally original and un refurbished.
An elegant library, an intriguing billiard room and even a few secret doorways reside on the main floor.
On the second floor rest several bedrooms that will really open your eyes to the magnificent architecture in this structure. Specifically, take a look at the sophisticated designs on all of the fabrics; just another small thing that makes Casa Loma such a wonderous place.
Going up one level is an unbelievable showcase of original rifles and a display of a servant's lifestyle with their room. Of course, what is a castle without towers? There are two towers available to you in Casa Loma, the Scottish Tower and the Norman Tower. Both of these provide breathtaking views of enormous chunks of Toronto.
But one place you must visit are the always entertaining basement. These dark, mysterious rooms include a huge never-finished swimming pool, what was to be a shooting range as well as unmade bowling alleys. And if you think your wine collection is large, then take a look at this part: Casa Loma also includes a wine cellar that held a whopping 1800 bottles of wine and champagne.
This majestic castle is the one-stop shop for sightseeing in Toronto. So if Casa Loma sounds like an attraction that you'd like here's some more info:
Hours of Operation
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM everyday
Admission Prices
Children (4-13): $9.25
Youth (14-17): $11.00
Seniors (60+): $11.00
Adults (19-59): $17.00
Contact Information/Address
Casa Loma
1 Austin Terrace
Toronto, ON
Canada
M5R 1X8
Telephone: (416) 923 - 1171
Fax: (416) 923 - 5734
Email: info@casaloma.org
Labels:
Attractions,
casa loma,
castle,
elegant,
family,
historical,
toronto,
tourism,
tourism toronto,
travel
Impressive is the Word: The Vibo Restaurant
In the great city of Toronto, there are many restaurants. However, almost none can top the mouthwatering authentic Italian dishes in a casual, more "hip" environment of the Vibo. This Toronto restaurant's executive chef, David D'Aprile, masterfully takes you back to little Italy with succulent steaks, fresh seafood and very flavourful pastas. These creations are all topped with the finest sauces and each have their own little flairs.
Personally, I ordered a signature Veal Milanese, which was a portion of tender veal with a bit of Fontina cheese and covered with Tomato ragu. This elegant dish can without doubt, compare to the rest of them.
Another unbeatable part of this five-star Toronto restaurant is its "great wine list" as described by toronto.com.
All in all, this five-star fine dining spot is great for young people who are looking for a trendy, sophisticated or romantic place to have a meal. Its live entertainment and dazzling atmosphere make the Vibo perfect for any occasion.
2995 Bloor Street West
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M8X 1C1
Phone: 416.239.1286
Email: info@vibo.ca
Labels:
5 star toronto restaurant,
delicious,
Dining,
fine dining,
italian,
modern,
restaurant,
toronto,
toronto fine dining,
tourism,
travel,
vibo
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Toronto Zoo: Think Twice Before You Go
When the Toronto Zoo opened its gates in 1974, it was a state-of-the-art facility, that left visitors in amazement. Now, after over thirty years of lame expansions, this zoo has really made a non-name for itself. Although, it is the third largest zoo in the world, the atmosphere simply doesn't give you the same feeling as other Torononian attractions.
And there are 5,000 animals to see and the animals are usually impressive, but everything else- the buildings, cages, paths, plants- just seems a bit shoddy and unmaintained.
Another thing is that numerous animals aren't even brought out some days. If you went just for that animal, it gets really annoying when it isn't there. Even if they are all there, you'll have walk quite a while too see a group of animals.
In my mind, I would pay 20 bucks to walk all day.
All in all, I would never recommend spending a day here if you've only got six other ones. Toronto just isn't about zoos. I'd much rather spend some time in the nightlife of urban Toronto.
Labels:
animals,
Attractions,
bad,
metro toronto zoo,
no,
poor,
toronto,
toronto zoo,
tourism,
urban toronto,
zoo
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Back-To-School History Lesson: The Royal Ontario Museum
With a dedication to showcasing world culture and natural history, the Royal Ontario Museum or ROM as most call it, attracts over 1 million visitors each year. Almost all of these people come out throughly impressed by the 6 million items in more than 40 different galleries, many of them featuring interactive activities: The kids will be exhilirated, the moment they step into the darkness of the bat cave, which is surprisingly realistic. The ever-popular CIBC Discovery Area is equipped with a costume area, mock archaeological digs and even a native tipi.
However, if you're not interested in these types of things, I recommend the massive ancient world exhibit full of artifacts including a wall of coins, several sculptures and unbelievable life-sized structure replicas. Don't forget to check out the fossil collections and well-stocked art galleries either; they're both are well-known parts of the museum.
But the one place you must see is the newly built Michael Lee-Chin crystal. This is one of the most unique and intriguing pieces of architecture you will ever have the privelege to see. In my mind, this wonderful design is comparable even to that of the Beijing Olympic venues. Although, it doesn't house many permanent items, you might be lucky enough to catch one of the temporary exhibitions. Generally, they explore contemporary aspects. You will see an amazing 7000 sq. ft. shop, filled with reproductions of ROM objects and ROM branded souvenirs though. And you will see five-star dining with numerous Toronto flavours in the C5 Lounge. And you will see an inviting market-style diner complete with fresh and healthy menu items.
One thing you should keep in mind when you're touring this museum; nature-related things are on the 2nd level, while cultural portions are on every other floor.
If you'd like to visit the Royal Ontario Museum, you can take the TTC Subway towards Downsview station, getting off at Museum Station. If you prefer to drive the address is:
100 Queen’s Park
Toronto, ON
M5S 2C6
So don't worry if your kids miss school; because they won't want to miss the real learning at the ROM.
(416) 586-8000
Monday, August 18, 2008
Where Hockey's Greatest Live: The Hockey Hall of Fame
Any hockey fan will marvel at the vast amount of information, well-stocked merchandise shop, interactive exhibits and innumerable items capturing the the legacies of hockey's elite, highlighted by the Stanley Cup itself.
As you walk through the ultimate hockey shrine, you'll be able to see into each individual inductee's unique experiences with a collection of photographs, jerseys pucks and more. As well, each small memento shares a story that is told by intriguing captions.
If you wish, you can stop at the theatre for a short documentary that is guaranteed to leave you awe-struck. But even if you don't catch one of these movies, be sure to enter into a replica Montreal Canadiens dressing room fully equipped with game-used gear.
I wouldn't stop there though; see if you have what it takes to be an NHL star. Try your hand at shooting and goaltending or even just commentating.
Although all of this is incredible, you can't leave the Hall without taking a look at the intricate designs engraved into the Stanley Cup. But don't just look, feel free to stand with it and grasp it like a pro (you might not want to kiss it though). Then, get your picture taken with the most prestigious award in hockey.
With all this it'd be worth your while to go down to the Hockey Hall of Fame. The greats are waiting.
Website:
www.hhof.com
Phone:
(416) 360-7765
Email:
info@hhof.com
Labels:
Attractions,
great,
hockey,
hockey hall of fame,
shrine,
toronto,
tourism
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Luxury in the Middle of it All: The Fairmont Royal York
When you drive into Downtown, Toronto, you're sure to notice the grand building that is just footsteps away from every major downtown attraction including the Royal Ontario Museum, CN Tower and Toronto Stock Exchange. This building is the Fairmont Royal York. This magnificent hotel combines elegance suitable for royalty, with the exhiliration of such a metropolis right outside your window.
Comfortable, elaborate decor is the theme of each room. The selection of accomodations ranges from the basic 250 sq. ft. room to a lavish 2500 sq. ft. suite; all of them dressed to impress. The list of common amenities is excellent with ironing materials, bathrobes, a mini-bar, a flat-panel television and much more. However, the view will be what's truly amazing: The views of the surrounding suburbs and Lake Ontario will reveal the real beauty of Toronto.
Furthermore, you won't have to leave for fabulous dining with five superior restaurants and four relaxing lounges. The fresh dutch pastries at York's Kitchen are sure to start your day off right. And a tender butter-roasted chicken breast from EPIC will keep your stomach happy throughout the afternoon. For dinner, why not try an 8 oz. filet mignon, prepared right at your table at Benihana. Finally, treat yourself to an award-winning martini, one thing you must try in Toronto.
If you're looking to do business, look no further with one of the seven top meeting venues in Canada, at the Royal York.
Labels:
Accomodations,
fairmont,
hotel,
luxury,
middle,
royal york,
toronto,
tourism
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)