Posted on: 15-10-10 13:03:41
Quote:
Originally posted by manserwadekar
Quote:
Originally posted by GoldFinger
The only problem with Montreal is that one needs to know french to survive and the job market is extremely tight.
Like the best Biryani in the world just that it is without salt and raita
Appreciate the comments smilefortune, "Grass is always greener on other side"
Speaking of Biryani, we did make a visit to Gerrard St. Had dinner at Lahore Tikka House. It was like stepping into another world. A must do for anyone visiting.
talking of biryani any idea where u get good hyderabadi biryani?
Quote:
Originally posted by smilefortune
Recent business trip to Toronto blew me away. I have to say you guys truly enjoy living in a world class city. I’m from Vancouver and have called it home for a decade. This was my first time visiting Toronto. Two weeks ago I would have swore by Vancouver and that nothing compares to it. But Toronto was a welcome surprise. I’ll summarize in the following points:
1. Toronto is a true multicultural city. Unlike Vancouver, where the only prominent ethnic minorities are Chinese and Desis (that too mostly Sikhs/Punjabis), I was surprised to see so many other groups integrated so beautifully making it a very diverse society. South Asians, in particular, somehow seemed more educated and not trying “too hard” to look Canadian as some of our brothers/sisters in Vancouver do. Being desi, I felt I fit right in.
2. For a city of that size, Toronto is very clean. Those little forklifty vehicles with vacuum hoses could be seen cleaning everywhere in downtown area.
3. Where are the bums?? Do you send all of them to Vancouver or what? No panhandlers/prostitutes/druggies? Simply amazing. I’m sure there are areas like that, every city does, but it wasn’t so in your face like back in Vancouver.
4. Transportation and infrastructure is second to none. A plethora of choices when it comes to public transport. A highway running straight from Int’l airport to downtown core!
5. Nightlife is pretty happening in the downtown area, well, the pub scene is definitely way up there, and the best part; beer from around the world! Also, a restaurant at every corner, it’s all about choices in Toronto.
6. Freezing outside? How about taking a stroll in the underground city!
The only caveat here is I stayed in downtown during my visit. But I’m sure; the suburbs are no different than Vancouver. If anything, I’d imagine it’d be more diverse and accepting.
I couldn’t help but feeling Toronto was a huge city minus the problems that accompany a big city (cleanliness, crime, drugs etc. I mean look at American counterparts; New York, LA etc.). There were a lot of misconceptions in my mind about Toronto before I visited. But I stand corrected.
I have exactly the same views about Toronto. When I moved to Vancouver(from Toronto), I got a biggest cultural shock.
I still miss the city and it's suburbia.
Quote:
Originally posted by smilefortune
2. For a city of that size, Toronto is very clean. Those little forklifty vehicles with vacuum hoses could be seen cleaning everywhere in downtown area.
3. Where are the bums?? Do you send all of them to Vancouver or what? No panhandlers/prostitutes/druggies? Simply amazing. I’m sure there are areas like that, every city does, but it wasn’t so in your face like back in Vancouver.
4. Transportation and infrastructure is second to none. A plethora of choices when it comes to public transport. A highway running straight from Int’l airport to downtown core!
I couldn’t help but feeling Toronto was a huge city minus the problems that accompany a big city (cleanliness, crime, drugs etc. I mean look at American counterparts; New York, LA etc.). There were a lot of misconceptions in my mind about Toronto before I visited. But I stand corrected.
Strictly IMO, you are showering more praise than TO deserves. There is always a room for improvement, and Toronto can surely aim to fill in that void. However, I don't think it will come without increasing taxes at provincial/municipal level
- I see quite a litter - cigarette butts, coffee cups, used food containers littering on sidewalks in downtown core or on subway stops. Civic sense still needs to be instilled in certain demographics.
- Tourism - Nothing except CN tower. Toronto needs to take its cue from Chicago. I have been there only 3 days and was amazed at its "tourist friendliness".
- Transportation - Direct rail link from airport to downtown is still a pipe dream. New York, Chicago, Boston has it. Also, try driving during rush hour on 401 or Gardiner. Subways also are very dirty in the evening.
- Public transport - Could use some more imagination than just east-west or north-south subway lines. Using public transportation to commute between 905 is not easy.
Suburbs tend to be cleanlier than downtown core, but then again, you hardly see any pedestrians in 905.
The best part about living in Toronto is that I can take subway at midnight without any fear of being mugged (touch wood!)
Quote:
Originally posted by GoldFinger
According to me, Montreal is the most beautiful and friendliest city in Canada.
I find Montreal too French and too cold, weather-wise and attitude-wise. Having visited once, I doubt I will ever visit Montreal again.
Their Metro doesn't even have English maps.
