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hi guys
little info about Toronto, found it on one of the website thought might be helpful
TORONTO Practical Info
This section covers all the pre-travel basics to help you plan your trip - and how to get around once you've arrived. This is where to find out what paperwork you'll need, what to do about currency, food, avoiding cultural faux pas, web access, public transport, car rental, what plug to use – everything you need to feel informed, confident and ready to travel.
• Planning Your Trip
o When to Go
May through October is Toronto’s peak tourist season, but the city is a year-round tourist destination. If you like mild, warm weather, visit in spring or early fall. Summer, especially August, is usually hot and humid. In late fall, the temperature drops as the days shorten. Winter months are cold and snowy, suitable for outdoor activities such as skating and indoor pleasures such as theater and shopping. Accommodation rates are lower at this time.
o What to Pack
Pack a warm sweater and a light jacket in late spring and early fall. In late fall and early spring, pack a heavier jacket or coat and two warm sweaters. In summer, bring a light sweater or blazer, cotton or linen dresses and slacks, and shorts and T-shirts. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must, as is an umbrella. In winter, pack a hat, scarf, gloves, and warm coat and waterproof boots.
o Health Insurance
Unless your health insurance covers medical costs while traveling, buying comprehensive health and dental insurance is strongly recommended: Canada does not provide medical services to visitors free of charge. Many credit card companies provide some degree of insurance; it is worthwhile to check this out before your trip.
o Passports & Visa
A valid travel document, usually a passport, combined with a visa when needed, must be presented by visitors upon entry to Canada. Residents of many countries, such as the US, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and the majority of European countries, including Britain, do not need a visa to visit Canada. Visitors may remain in Canada for up to six months.
o Customs
Canada’s rules governing what can be brought into the country are complex. In general, do not bring live animals, fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy products, plants, or firearms into Canada without first obtaining authorization. Limited amounts of alcohol and tobacco may be imported duty-free by visitors who are of age (19 and 18 years old, respectively). Upon entry into Canada, you must declare any cash amount equal to or over Can$10,000.
o Driver’s License
A driver’s license valid in your own country is valid in Ontario for 60 days after you arrive. If you plan to stay longer, an International Driving Permit (obtained in your home country), combined with your license, will allow you to drive in Ontario for up to a year.
o Car Insurance
Insurance coverage for drivers is mandatory in Ontario; before leaving home, check your own policy to see if you are covered in a rental car. Most rental agencies offer damage and liability insurance; it is a good idea to have both.
o Electricity
Canada uses a 110-volt, 60-cycle electrical system. Electrical sockets accept two- or three-pronged plugs. Bring a plug adapter and a voltage transformer to run appliances and cell-phone chargers that are not manufactured in North America or that don’t have an optional voltage switch.
o Time Zone
Toronto is in the Eastern Standard Time zone (five hours behind Greenwich Mean Time). Daylight Savings Time begins in early April (clocks are turned forward one hour) and ends in late October (clocks are turned back one hour).
o Discounts
Most movie theaters, major attractions, and public transit offer reduced rates for people over age 65. Students are eligible for many discounts with ID. Hotels also offer discounts (see Rack Rates).
• Arriving in Toronto
o Pearson International Airport
Terminal 1 services Air Canada and Air Canada Jazz domestic and international flights, and most Star Alliance airlines operating non-US international flights. Most other long-haul flights use Terminal 3, as do charter airlines. Terminal 2, which will be phased out by 2007, services flights to the US, Air New Zealand, and WestJet. In early 2006, a train will connect terminals 1, 3, and a long-stay parking lot.
o Immigration
Cards to be filled out for immigration and customs are distributed during international flights. Only one card need be filled out per family. The immigration officer will ask to see your passport or identification papers and may pose additional questions.
o Connections from Pearson Airport
The airport is 16 mi (27 km) northwest of downtown Toronto. The trip takes between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis (meter) and limousines (flat rate) at the airport are plentiful. An Airport Express bus leaves for the downtown bus station and several major downtown hotels from the arrivals level of all terminals. If renting a car at the airport and driving downtown, take Hwy 427 south to the Gardiner Expressway, then drive east toward the city center, or take Hwy 409 east to Hwy 27 southbound, which leads to Hwy 427.
o Toronto City Centre Airport
This small airport located by Toronto Harbour and close to downtown services short-haul commuter flights to Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa, and Georgian Bay, among other destinations.
o Car Rental
Most car rental companies have booths at Pearson Airport in addition to locations downtown. National, Alamo, and Hertz have booths at Union Station. For the best rates, book your car in advance. Your hotel can also arrange car rental. To rent a car you will need a valid credit card and driver’s license.
o Public Transit
TTC’s (Toronto Transit Commission) Airport Rocket (route no. 192) services all Pearson Airport terminals. For downtown destinations, ask the driver for a transfer when boarding. Switch at Kipling Station to the Bloor-Danforth subway.
o Long-Distance Buses
Buses arrive from US and Canada locales at the central bus terminal at 610 Bay St, just north of Dundas.
o By Train
Union Station is where Amtrak trains arrive from the US and VIA Rail trains pull in from other points in Canada. The train station connects to the Union station stop on the north-south subway line; taxis are readily available outside the station. Several major hotels are nearby.
o By Boat or Ferry
Several marinas with excellent facilities provide berth space for practically every type of sea-faring vessel. A new international ferry terminal is being built off Cherry Street, from where passenger and car ferries will head to Rochester, New York.
o By Car
Highways leading into Toronto are the 401, just north of the city and bringing traffic in from the west and east; the Don Valley Parkway and Hwy 427, running north-south; and the Gardiner Expressway and the Queensway, along Lake Ontario to the south of the city, bringing traffic in from the southwest.
• Getting Around Toronto
o Subway
Toronto’s clean and efficient subways are a good way to get around the city. Free route maps are available at all stations. If you are changing subway lines or to a bus or streetcar, take a transfer from one of the red dispensers after paying the fare. Transfers are valid for a one-way continuous trip.
o Buses & Streetcars
Bus and streetcar routes crisscross the city and are well-serviced. Make sure to take a transfer from the driver. You will need it to switch to another route or to the subway, and to provide proof of payment if asked.
o TTC Fares
A ticket or token (coin-like tickets), available in quantities of 5 or 10 at TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) stations and shops displaying a “Ticket Agent” sign, is cheaper than a cash fare. Bus and streetcar drivers don’t sell tickets or provide change. It may be worth buying a day pass, sold at subway stations.
o Wheel-Trans
The TTC operates a door-to-door transit service within the City of Toronto for customers in wheelchairs.
o Taxis
Flagging a cab on main downtown streets or at the airport is easy – taxis are plentiful in Toronto. Rates are set by the city. You can also order a cab over the telephone.
o Ferries
Ferries to the Toronto Islands depart regularly from the foot of Bay Street, just behind Westin Harbour Castle Hotel. The trip is about 10 minutes. Off-season, all ferries carry bicycles for a small extra fee. In summer, the Centre Island ferry doesn’t (see Ferry).
o Walking
By foot is the best way to explore Toronto neighborhoods. Central downtown Toronto streets are fairly safe, even at night, but if in doubt check with your concierge. In winter, escape the cold by going underground to the PATH system (see PATH).
o Cycling
Cyclists must follow the same rules of the road as drivers. Some streets have cycling lanes but most don’t. Maps of cycling lanes and paths are available online or at City Hall. The Martin Goodman Trail is a good alternative to busy streets. Bike theft is a concern in the city; lock up your bike securely when not in use. In general, bikes may not be ridden on sidewalks, and while wearing a helmet is not mandatory, it is always a good idea to do so: streetcar tracks in particular are a hazard to cyclists. Bikes are allowed on most TTC buses and subways during non-peak hours.
o Driving
The grid system of Toronto’s streets makes driving easy, but a good map is still essential: many streets are one-way. Most major two-way streets forbid left-hand turns during rush hours. Highways are busy during rush hours – especially Hwy 401, Hwy 427, and the Gardiner Expressway – and are best avoided. It is illegal to pass a streetcar on the right-hand side when it is stopped to let passengers on or off. Wait 6.5 ft (2 m) behind the rear doors until all the doors have closed. Before opening the car door or making a right-hand turn, double-check for cyclists.
o Boat Tours
Several companies offer hour-long tours of Toronto Harbour. You can also book a day tour on a three-masted schooner. All depart from Queen’s Quay docks (seeQueen’s Quay Terminal).
• Toronto on a Budget
o Free Entertainment
Free entertainment is to be had year-round in Toronto. From Winterfest to Pride Week to dragon boat races, there’s an event for everyone (seeFamily Events). Throughout the summer, a multitude of free events are held at Harbourfront (see Queen’s Quay Terminal), and in late June and early July, jazz festivals keep the fans busy downtown and in The Beach (see Beaches International Jazz Festival). There are free celebratory concerts and fireworks on July 1 (Canada Day) and New Year’s Eve. In January, bands perform at Nathan Phillips Square during WinterCity (see Toronto WinterCity Festival).
o Parks and Beaches
Whether your taste leans toward roller-blading, walking, playing ball, or simply sunning yourself on the sand, Toronto’s parks and beaches (see Greenspaces) offer many great ways to relax. Several have excellent sports facilities, as well as grills and picnic tables.
o Cheap Eats
While you can eat fairly cheaply at fast-food chains such as the home-grown Tim Hortons, ethnic restaurants are an excellent alternative. The range of cuisines is astonishing, the prices reasonable (see Ethnic Eats).
o Free Art
Clustered in Yorkville (see Yorkville) around Hazelton Lane and Cumberland Street, on West Queen Street West (see West Queen West Art & Design District), and at 25 Morrow Avenue near the Roncesvallesneighborhood are galleries selling works by local and international artists. Entry to some public and corporate galleries (see Museums & Art Galleries) is free. The outdoor public art is also worth checking out (seeTop 10 Public Art Sites).
o Free Tours
Heritage Toronto gives free walking tours in summer, covering such diverse topics as the city’s railroad history or its water supply. Book ahead or just show up.
o Package Deals
The City of Toronto offers packages for short stays by US and Canadian visitors throughout the year to promote hotels, restaurants, and attractions. A package typically includes a one-night hotel stay, three-course meal, show, and breakfast, but there are several options, varying from month to month.
o CityPass
This pass is available online and payable in US dollars or in Canadian funds at the ticket booth of the attractions featured: Casa Loma, CN Tower (see CN Tower & Its Views), AArt Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, and Toronto Zoo. CityPass offers substantial discounts on admission – amounting to 50 percent if you visit all participating sights. It is valid for nine days from your first sight visit.
o Transit Savings
Single day passes, valid weekdays, are available at all subway stations; group passes for two or more are valid Sundays and public holidays. Both offer real savings. Monthly passes and passes for convention visitors are also available.
o Free Admission Days
Some city attractions, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and Art Gallery of Ontario, offer one free day or evening per week. Bear in mind that although cheaper, the crowds can be greater.
o Hotel Savings
Many hotels offer discounts when booked online. If booking directly or through an agent, ask about discounts. Members of auto clubs and AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) often qualify for discounts.
• Useful Information
o Drinking
The legal drinking age in Ontario is 19. Ontario has strict laws about drinking in public: open bottles of alcohol are not allowed in public places. Fenced-off areas are set aside for selling and consuming alcohol at large events.
o Media
The two largest Canadian newspapers are produced in Toronto: TheGlobe and Mail and the Toronto Star , along with a daily tabloid,Toronto Sun . Popular radio stations include CBC Radio One (FM 99.1) for news, CBC Radio Two (FM 92.1) for classical music, Jazz Channel Plus (FM 91.1) for jazz, CHFI (FM 98.1) for easy-listening music, CHUM (FM 104.5) and CILQ (FM 107.5) for rock music. The most popular Canadian TV stations are CBC, CTV, GLOBAL, BRAVO and CityTV, and, in Ontario, TVO.
o Entertainment Listings
Toronto weeklies Now and Eye are available free at cafés, bars, bookshops, libraries, and street boxes throughout the city and are the best sources for checking the happenings in the local music and art scene. The monthly magazine Toronto Life is also helpful. These listings are also online.
o Currency
The Canadian unit of currency is the dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 cents, and 1 and 2 dollars. Bank notes (bills) come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, and $500. Plan to arrive with at least $50 to $100 in local currency and acquire change as soon as you can for tipping and transit.
o Taxes
In Canada, taxes are not included in the listed price unless specified, so when making a purchase reckon with a further 8 percent for PST (provincial sales tax) and 7 percent for GST (goods and services tax). Some taxes are refundable when you leave Canada (see Tax Refunds).
o Websites
Extensive information on the city of Toronto and the province of Ontario is available on the internet.
o Telephones
Public telephones are often both coin and card operated. Local calls cost $0.25; directory assistance (411) is free. Post offices, most convenience stores, and specially marked Bell machines sell phone cards. Within Toronto you must prefix the local telephone number with the area code 416, or with 905 for calls to Greater Toronto. For a long-distance number in North America, dial the prefix 1 and then the city code. To dial abroad, dial 011 + country code + city code (dropping any 0).
o Public Holidays
New Year’s Day (Jan 1), Good Friday and Easter Monday (Mar or Apr), Victoria Day (usually 3rd Mon in May), Canada Day (Jul 1), civic holiday (1st Mon in Aug), Labour Day (1st Mon in Sep), Thanksgiving (2nd Mon in Oct), Christmas Day (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26). Remembrance Day (Nov 11) is a holiday for banks and government offices.
o Consulates
In emergencies, your consulate may give assistance.
• Security & Health
o Theft Prevention
Pickpockets are present in all large cities, especially in crowded places. Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid being distracted, especially if someone bumps into you. Don’t carry more cash with you than you need and don’t carry your wallet in a back pocket. If you have a purse, ensure it closes tightly. Always watch your luggage carefully at airports, at bus and train stations, and when checking in and out of your hotel. Leave valuables in the hotel’s safe.
o Hotel Room Safety
When you’ve checked into your room, look on the back of the entrance door for a map showing the escape route to take in case of fire. Always leave the security latch in place when in your room and don’t admit strangers. Some hotels have floors for women-only – ask when booking, if you are a woman traveling alone.
o Food Safety
Any establishment in Toronto that serves food, including pubs and delicatessens, are inspected regularly by city health officials. The green, yellow, or red card hanging in the window reflects the overall mark given on conditions such as cleanliness. Green denotes a full pass, yellow a conditional pass, red a failure.
o Telephone Helplines
Various helplines are available to call in a crisis.
o Public Transit
Always look to your right to make sure no cars are coming before exiting a streetcar. Subway platforms provide designated waiting areas; these are recommended at night. Available on TTC buses, Request Stop allows a woman to get off a bus at locations between regular TTC stops. Tell the driver at least one stop ahead of where you want to get off and leave the bus by the front doors. The rear doors will remain closed so that no one can follow you off.
o Knowing Your Surroundings
Avoid dark places at night, especially if you are on your own. Carry a good map with you and check out the route to and from your destination before starting out. If you plan on returning late, make sure you have enough change and cash to call for and pay for a taxi.
o Hospital Emergency Rooms
Emergency treatment is available 24 hours a day.
o Dental Emergencies
An emergency referral service, the Academy of Dentistry, links you with a nearby dentist after regular office hours. After midnight, go to a hospital emergency room.
o Smoking
Toronto is a smoke-free city except in designated smoking rooms at some bars, clubs, restaurants, and in some workplaces. All public spaces are smoke-free.
o Pharmacies
There are hundreds of pharmacies in Toronto. The majority are open from 9am to 9 or 10pm and many are open until later. Five 24-hour Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacies serve the city. The most central is on Bay Street.
• Shopping Tips
o Store Hours
Most shops are open 10am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday (often later on Thursday). Department stores and shops in malls and commercial districts may keep longer hours, from 10am to 9pm, Monday to Saturday, and from noon to 5pm on Sunday. Widely observed retail holidays are Christmas, January 1, July 1, Labour Day, and Thanksgiving.
o Payment
MasterCard, American Express, and Visa credit cards are widely accepted, Diner’s Club and Discovery less so. Bank debit cards compatible with the Interac, Plus, or Cirrus systems are also widely accepted. You will need your PIN.
o Sales & Returns
Look for end-of-season savings on merchandise. Excellent savings are to be had on Boxing Day (December 26), when prices at many stores are reduced dramatically. Discounted items (and sometimes even those at full price) may not be returnable, or may be exchanged only, and within a certain time period. Be sure to ask about the return policy before making a purchase.
o Department Stores
Toronto’s two department store chains, The Bay and Sears, carry practically everything. The smaller Holt Renfrew sells high-end clothing and accessories.
o Shopping Malls
The largest downtown mall is Eaton Centre. Other malls are Queen’s Quay Terminal, Hazelton Lanes, Manulife Centre, College Park, and the network of malls on the PATH system.
o Music
Music giant HMV has a huge selection. For local flavor and good prices, visit Sam the Record Man. Classical and jazz lovers should head to L’Atelier Grigorian. For vinyl, try Kops Records.
o Books
Chapters, Indigo, and BookCity have good selections and many locations. Other excellent bookshops are Nicolas Hoare for architecture and art, Open Air Books & Maps for maps and travel guides, Pages Books & Magazines for contemporary literature, and Bakka-Phoenix Books for science fiction.
o Alcohol
Sales of alcohol are restricted to LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) outlets (wine, spirits, and beer), the Beer Store (beer and coolers), and the Wine Rack (selected Ontario wines).
o Convenience Stores
Small shops selling cigarettes, toiletry necessities, cold drinks, snacks and fresh produce, and lottery tickets are ubiquitous in Toronto. Many also sell transit tickets.
o Tax Refunds
Books and groceries are exempt from the 8 percent PST (provincial sales tax), but most other items are subject to up to 15 percent sales tax (see Taxes). International visitors who have spent over $200 are entitled to a refund of the 7 percent GST (goods and services tax) within 60 days of purchase, excluding GST levied on restaurant meals, drinks, tobacco, and transport. Save your receipts.
• Accommodation & Dining Tips
o Hotel Taxes
In Ontario, accommodation is taxed with a 5 percent accommodation tax and a 7 percent GST (goods and services tax). An additional 3 percent destination tax is also levied on hotel rooms in the City of Toronto. You are entitled to a refund of the GST for hotel accommodation for short stays.
o Rooms
In general, hotel rooms are well furnished and of a fairly good size. Most have two double beds or one queen- or king-sized bed; standard twin-bedded rooms may also be available. If you are sensitive to noise, ask for a room away from the elevator and the ice and dispensing machines; if sensitive to smoke, ask for a smoke-free room.
o Rack Rates
Hotel rates vary according to the hotel category, and the time of week and season. Peak rates are weekdays and from April to December. Rack rates, the basic room rates, are the ones used in this book to provide a guide price. It is almost always possible to get a better deal, especially if you book online. And too, discounts are often available to members of clubs such as automobile associations or the Elderhostel. When booking, ask what special rates apply and make sure to bring proof of membership with you (see Hotel Savings).
o Concierges
Mid- and large-size hotels have concierges on staff whose job it is to cater to the needs and whims of the guests. They will procure tickets to shows and sports games, make restaurant reservations, arrange transportation, and offer helpful tips.
o Extra Costs
Parking at downtown hotels is almost always extra, paid on a per-night basis. Telephone calls made from your in-room phone can be expensive, as can drinks and snacks consumed from the room’s minibar. Beware: These costs can add up quickly, and will appear on your final room bill.
o Restaurant Reservations
Most restaurants take reservations and it is a good idea to book a table at a popular dining spot well in advance of your trip. Mention if you have special needs or dietary requirements. It is considered good form to cancel your reservation if your plans change.
o Tipping
Tips and service charges are not usually added to dining bills. For service at restaurants, cafés, and clubs, plan on tipping about 15 percent of the pre-tax amount. An easy way of estimating the tip is to add up the taxes on the bill. At bars, leave a dollar or two for the bartender. Tip porters and bellhops at least $1 per bag or suitcase; cloakroom attendants, $1 per garment; and chambermaids, a minimum of $1 to $2 per day. A hotel doorman will also appreciate a dollar or two for his services.
o Dress Codes
Jacket and tie are almost never required in restaurants, though many diners opt to wear them on a special evening out, especially to an upscale place. Some clubs, however, may not allow you in if you are wearing sneakers or jeans.
o Cellphones
At most restaurants, it is considered uncourteous to leave your cell-phone turned on or to carry on cellphone conversations inside.
o Meal Times
Breakfast is usually served in diners and coffee shops from about 6am to 10am. Lunch is available from about 11:30am to 2pm, dinner between about 5pm and 10pm. Many restaurants and pubs offer a late-night menu. Brunches are often served on weekends only – and at some spots, on Sundays only – usually from 11am–2pm or later.
ALL THE BEST FOR THOSE WHO APPILED AND GONNA APPLY (LIKE ME STILL TO APPLY ON JULY) STUDY PERMIT VISA
AND THOSE WHO ARE ISSUED VISA ENJOY THE JOURNEY GUYS ;D ;D
little info about Toronto, found it on one of the website thought might be helpful
TORONTO Practical Info
This section covers all the pre-travel basics to help you plan your trip - and how to get around once you've arrived. This is where to find out what paperwork you'll need, what to do about currency, food, avoiding cultural faux pas, web access, public transport, car rental, what plug to use – everything you need to feel informed, confident and ready to travel.
• Planning Your Trip
o When to Go
May through October is Toronto’s peak tourist season, but the city is a year-round tourist destination. If you like mild, warm weather, visit in spring or early fall. Summer, especially August, is usually hot and humid. In late fall, the temperature drops as the days shorten. Winter months are cold and snowy, suitable for outdoor activities such as skating and indoor pleasures such as theater and shopping. Accommodation rates are lower at this time.
o What to Pack
Pack a warm sweater and a light jacket in late spring and early fall. In late fall and early spring, pack a heavier jacket or coat and two warm sweaters. In summer, bring a light sweater or blazer, cotton or linen dresses and slacks, and shorts and T-shirts. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must, as is an umbrella. In winter, pack a hat, scarf, gloves, and warm coat and waterproof boots.
o Health Insurance
Unless your health insurance covers medical costs while traveling, buying comprehensive health and dental insurance is strongly recommended: Canada does not provide medical services to visitors free of charge. Many credit card companies provide some degree of insurance; it is worthwhile to check this out before your trip.
o Passports & Visa
A valid travel document, usually a passport, combined with a visa when needed, must be presented by visitors upon entry to Canada. Residents of many countries, such as the US, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and the majority of European countries, including Britain, do not need a visa to visit Canada. Visitors may remain in Canada for up to six months.
o Customs
Canada’s rules governing what can be brought into the country are complex. In general, do not bring live animals, fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy products, plants, or firearms into Canada without first obtaining authorization. Limited amounts of alcohol and tobacco may be imported duty-free by visitors who are of age (19 and 18 years old, respectively). Upon entry into Canada, you must declare any cash amount equal to or over Can$10,000.
o Driver’s License
A driver’s license valid in your own country is valid in Ontario for 60 days after you arrive. If you plan to stay longer, an International Driving Permit (obtained in your home country), combined with your license, will allow you to drive in Ontario for up to a year.
o Car Insurance
Insurance coverage for drivers is mandatory in Ontario; before leaving home, check your own policy to see if you are covered in a rental car. Most rental agencies offer damage and liability insurance; it is a good idea to have both.
o Electricity
Canada uses a 110-volt, 60-cycle electrical system. Electrical sockets accept two- or three-pronged plugs. Bring a plug adapter and a voltage transformer to run appliances and cell-phone chargers that are not manufactured in North America or that don’t have an optional voltage switch.
o Time Zone
Toronto is in the Eastern Standard Time zone (five hours behind Greenwich Mean Time). Daylight Savings Time begins in early April (clocks are turned forward one hour) and ends in late October (clocks are turned back one hour).
o Discounts
Most movie theaters, major attractions, and public transit offer reduced rates for people over age 65. Students are eligible for many discounts with ID. Hotels also offer discounts (see Rack Rates).
• Arriving in Toronto
o Pearson International Airport
Terminal 1 services Air Canada and Air Canada Jazz domestic and international flights, and most Star Alliance airlines operating non-US international flights. Most other long-haul flights use Terminal 3, as do charter airlines. Terminal 2, which will be phased out by 2007, services flights to the US, Air New Zealand, and WestJet. In early 2006, a train will connect terminals 1, 3, and a long-stay parking lot.
o Immigration
Cards to be filled out for immigration and customs are distributed during international flights. Only one card need be filled out per family. The immigration officer will ask to see your passport or identification papers and may pose additional questions.
o Connections from Pearson Airport
The airport is 16 mi (27 km) northwest of downtown Toronto. The trip takes between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis (meter) and limousines (flat rate) at the airport are plentiful. An Airport Express bus leaves for the downtown bus station and several major downtown hotels from the arrivals level of all terminals. If renting a car at the airport and driving downtown, take Hwy 427 south to the Gardiner Expressway, then drive east toward the city center, or take Hwy 409 east to Hwy 27 southbound, which leads to Hwy 427.
o Toronto City Centre Airport
This small airport located by Toronto Harbour and close to downtown services short-haul commuter flights to Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa, and Georgian Bay, among other destinations.
o Car Rental
Most car rental companies have booths at Pearson Airport in addition to locations downtown. National, Alamo, and Hertz have booths at Union Station. For the best rates, book your car in advance. Your hotel can also arrange car rental. To rent a car you will need a valid credit card and driver’s license.
o Public Transit
TTC’s (Toronto Transit Commission) Airport Rocket (route no. 192) services all Pearson Airport terminals. For downtown destinations, ask the driver for a transfer when boarding. Switch at Kipling Station to the Bloor-Danforth subway.
o Long-Distance Buses
Buses arrive from US and Canada locales at the central bus terminal at 610 Bay St, just north of Dundas.
o By Train
Union Station is where Amtrak trains arrive from the US and VIA Rail trains pull in from other points in Canada. The train station connects to the Union station stop on the north-south subway line; taxis are readily available outside the station. Several major hotels are nearby.
o By Boat or Ferry
Several marinas with excellent facilities provide berth space for practically every type of sea-faring vessel. A new international ferry terminal is being built off Cherry Street, from where passenger and car ferries will head to Rochester, New York.
o By Car
Highways leading into Toronto are the 401, just north of the city and bringing traffic in from the west and east; the Don Valley Parkway and Hwy 427, running north-south; and the Gardiner Expressway and the Queensway, along Lake Ontario to the south of the city, bringing traffic in from the southwest.
• Getting Around Toronto
o Subway
Toronto’s clean and efficient subways are a good way to get around the city. Free route maps are available at all stations. If you are changing subway lines or to a bus or streetcar, take a transfer from one of the red dispensers after paying the fare. Transfers are valid for a one-way continuous trip.
o Buses & Streetcars
Bus and streetcar routes crisscross the city and are well-serviced. Make sure to take a transfer from the driver. You will need it to switch to another route or to the subway, and to provide proof of payment if asked.
o TTC Fares
A ticket or token (coin-like tickets), available in quantities of 5 or 10 at TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) stations and shops displaying a “Ticket Agent” sign, is cheaper than a cash fare. Bus and streetcar drivers don’t sell tickets or provide change. It may be worth buying a day pass, sold at subway stations.
o Wheel-Trans
The TTC operates a door-to-door transit service within the City of Toronto for customers in wheelchairs.
o Taxis
Flagging a cab on main downtown streets or at the airport is easy – taxis are plentiful in Toronto. Rates are set by the city. You can also order a cab over the telephone.
o Ferries
Ferries to the Toronto Islands depart regularly from the foot of Bay Street, just behind Westin Harbour Castle Hotel. The trip is about 10 minutes. Off-season, all ferries carry bicycles for a small extra fee. In summer, the Centre Island ferry doesn’t (see Ferry).
o Walking
By foot is the best way to explore Toronto neighborhoods. Central downtown Toronto streets are fairly safe, even at night, but if in doubt check with your concierge. In winter, escape the cold by going underground to the PATH system (see PATH).
o Cycling
Cyclists must follow the same rules of the road as drivers. Some streets have cycling lanes but most don’t. Maps of cycling lanes and paths are available online or at City Hall. The Martin Goodman Trail is a good alternative to busy streets. Bike theft is a concern in the city; lock up your bike securely when not in use. In general, bikes may not be ridden on sidewalks, and while wearing a helmet is not mandatory, it is always a good idea to do so: streetcar tracks in particular are a hazard to cyclists. Bikes are allowed on most TTC buses and subways during non-peak hours.
o Driving
The grid system of Toronto’s streets makes driving easy, but a good map is still essential: many streets are one-way. Most major two-way streets forbid left-hand turns during rush hours. Highways are busy during rush hours – especially Hwy 401, Hwy 427, and the Gardiner Expressway – and are best avoided. It is illegal to pass a streetcar on the right-hand side when it is stopped to let passengers on or off. Wait 6.5 ft (2 m) behind the rear doors until all the doors have closed. Before opening the car door or making a right-hand turn, double-check for cyclists.
o Boat Tours
Several companies offer hour-long tours of Toronto Harbour. You can also book a day tour on a three-masted schooner. All depart from Queen’s Quay docks (seeQueen’s Quay Terminal).
• Toronto on a Budget
o Free Entertainment
Free entertainment is to be had year-round in Toronto. From Winterfest to Pride Week to dragon boat races, there’s an event for everyone (seeFamily Events). Throughout the summer, a multitude of free events are held at Harbourfront (see Queen’s Quay Terminal), and in late June and early July, jazz festivals keep the fans busy downtown and in The Beach (see Beaches International Jazz Festival). There are free celebratory concerts and fireworks on July 1 (Canada Day) and New Year’s Eve. In January, bands perform at Nathan Phillips Square during WinterCity (see Toronto WinterCity Festival).
o Parks and Beaches
Whether your taste leans toward roller-blading, walking, playing ball, or simply sunning yourself on the sand, Toronto’s parks and beaches (see Greenspaces) offer many great ways to relax. Several have excellent sports facilities, as well as grills and picnic tables.
o Cheap Eats
While you can eat fairly cheaply at fast-food chains such as the home-grown Tim Hortons, ethnic restaurants are an excellent alternative. The range of cuisines is astonishing, the prices reasonable (see Ethnic Eats).
o Free Art
Clustered in Yorkville (see Yorkville) around Hazelton Lane and Cumberland Street, on West Queen Street West (see West Queen West Art & Design District), and at 25 Morrow Avenue near the Roncesvallesneighborhood are galleries selling works by local and international artists. Entry to some public and corporate galleries (see Museums & Art Galleries) is free. The outdoor public art is also worth checking out (seeTop 10 Public Art Sites).
o Free Tours
Heritage Toronto gives free walking tours in summer, covering such diverse topics as the city’s railroad history or its water supply. Book ahead or just show up.
o Package Deals
The City of Toronto offers packages for short stays by US and Canadian visitors throughout the year to promote hotels, restaurants, and attractions. A package typically includes a one-night hotel stay, three-course meal, show, and breakfast, but there are several options, varying from month to month.
o CityPass
This pass is available online and payable in US dollars or in Canadian funds at the ticket booth of the attractions featured: Casa Loma, CN Tower (see CN Tower & Its Views), AArt Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, and Toronto Zoo. CityPass offers substantial discounts on admission – amounting to 50 percent if you visit all participating sights. It is valid for nine days from your first sight visit.
o Transit Savings
Single day passes, valid weekdays, are available at all subway stations; group passes for two or more are valid Sundays and public holidays. Both offer real savings. Monthly passes and passes for convention visitors are also available.
o Free Admission Days
Some city attractions, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and Art Gallery of Ontario, offer one free day or evening per week. Bear in mind that although cheaper, the crowds can be greater.
o Hotel Savings
Many hotels offer discounts when booked online. If booking directly or through an agent, ask about discounts. Members of auto clubs and AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) often qualify for discounts.
• Useful Information
o Drinking
The legal drinking age in Ontario is 19. Ontario has strict laws about drinking in public: open bottles of alcohol are not allowed in public places. Fenced-off areas are set aside for selling and consuming alcohol at large events.
o Media
The two largest Canadian newspapers are produced in Toronto: TheGlobe and Mail and the Toronto Star , along with a daily tabloid,Toronto Sun . Popular radio stations include CBC Radio One (FM 99.1) for news, CBC Radio Two (FM 92.1) for classical music, Jazz Channel Plus (FM 91.1) for jazz, CHFI (FM 98.1) for easy-listening music, CHUM (FM 104.5) and CILQ (FM 107.5) for rock music. The most popular Canadian TV stations are CBC, CTV, GLOBAL, BRAVO and CityTV, and, in Ontario, TVO.
o Entertainment Listings
Toronto weeklies Now and Eye are available free at cafés, bars, bookshops, libraries, and street boxes throughout the city and are the best sources for checking the happenings in the local music and art scene. The monthly magazine Toronto Life is also helpful. These listings are also online.
o Currency
The Canadian unit of currency is the dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 cents, and 1 and 2 dollars. Bank notes (bills) come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, and $500. Plan to arrive with at least $50 to $100 in local currency and acquire change as soon as you can for tipping and transit.
o Taxes
In Canada, taxes are not included in the listed price unless specified, so when making a purchase reckon with a further 8 percent for PST (provincial sales tax) and 7 percent for GST (goods and services tax). Some taxes are refundable when you leave Canada (see Tax Refunds).
o Websites
Extensive information on the city of Toronto and the province of Ontario is available on the internet.
o Telephones
Public telephones are often both coin and card operated. Local calls cost $0.25; directory assistance (411) is free. Post offices, most convenience stores, and specially marked Bell machines sell phone cards. Within Toronto you must prefix the local telephone number with the area code 416, or with 905 for calls to Greater Toronto. For a long-distance number in North America, dial the prefix 1 and then the city code. To dial abroad, dial 011 + country code + city code (dropping any 0).
o Public Holidays
New Year’s Day (Jan 1), Good Friday and Easter Monday (Mar or Apr), Victoria Day (usually 3rd Mon in May), Canada Day (Jul 1), civic holiday (1st Mon in Aug), Labour Day (1st Mon in Sep), Thanksgiving (2nd Mon in Oct), Christmas Day (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26). Remembrance Day (Nov 11) is a holiday for banks and government offices.
o Consulates
In emergencies, your consulate may give assistance.
• Security & Health
o Theft Prevention
Pickpockets are present in all large cities, especially in crowded places. Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid being distracted, especially if someone bumps into you. Don’t carry more cash with you than you need and don’t carry your wallet in a back pocket. If you have a purse, ensure it closes tightly. Always watch your luggage carefully at airports, at bus and train stations, and when checking in and out of your hotel. Leave valuables in the hotel’s safe.
o Hotel Room Safety
When you’ve checked into your room, look on the back of the entrance door for a map showing the escape route to take in case of fire. Always leave the security latch in place when in your room and don’t admit strangers. Some hotels have floors for women-only – ask when booking, if you are a woman traveling alone.
o Food Safety
Any establishment in Toronto that serves food, including pubs and delicatessens, are inspected regularly by city health officials. The green, yellow, or red card hanging in the window reflects the overall mark given on conditions such as cleanliness. Green denotes a full pass, yellow a conditional pass, red a failure.
o Telephone Helplines
Various helplines are available to call in a crisis.
o Public Transit
Always look to your right to make sure no cars are coming before exiting a streetcar. Subway platforms provide designated waiting areas; these are recommended at night. Available on TTC buses, Request Stop allows a woman to get off a bus at locations between regular TTC stops. Tell the driver at least one stop ahead of where you want to get off and leave the bus by the front doors. The rear doors will remain closed so that no one can follow you off.
o Knowing Your Surroundings
Avoid dark places at night, especially if you are on your own. Carry a good map with you and check out the route to and from your destination before starting out. If you plan on returning late, make sure you have enough change and cash to call for and pay for a taxi.
o Hospital Emergency Rooms
Emergency treatment is available 24 hours a day.
o Dental Emergencies
An emergency referral service, the Academy of Dentistry, links you with a nearby dentist after regular office hours. After midnight, go to a hospital emergency room.
o Smoking
Toronto is a smoke-free city except in designated smoking rooms at some bars, clubs, restaurants, and in some workplaces. All public spaces are smoke-free.
o Pharmacies
There are hundreds of pharmacies in Toronto. The majority are open from 9am to 9 or 10pm and many are open until later. Five 24-hour Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacies serve the city. The most central is on Bay Street.
• Shopping Tips
o Store Hours
Most shops are open 10am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday (often later on Thursday). Department stores and shops in malls and commercial districts may keep longer hours, from 10am to 9pm, Monday to Saturday, and from noon to 5pm on Sunday. Widely observed retail holidays are Christmas, January 1, July 1, Labour Day, and Thanksgiving.
o Payment
MasterCard, American Express, and Visa credit cards are widely accepted, Diner’s Club and Discovery less so. Bank debit cards compatible with the Interac, Plus, or Cirrus systems are also widely accepted. You will need your PIN.
o Sales & Returns
Look for end-of-season savings on merchandise. Excellent savings are to be had on Boxing Day (December 26), when prices at many stores are reduced dramatically. Discounted items (and sometimes even those at full price) may not be returnable, or may be exchanged only, and within a certain time period. Be sure to ask about the return policy before making a purchase.
o Department Stores
Toronto’s two department store chains, The Bay and Sears, carry practically everything. The smaller Holt Renfrew sells high-end clothing and accessories.
o Shopping Malls
The largest downtown mall is Eaton Centre. Other malls are Queen’s Quay Terminal, Hazelton Lanes, Manulife Centre, College Park, and the network of malls on the PATH system.
o Music
Music giant HMV has a huge selection. For local flavor and good prices, visit Sam the Record Man. Classical and jazz lovers should head to L’Atelier Grigorian. For vinyl, try Kops Records.
o Books
Chapters, Indigo, and BookCity have good selections and many locations. Other excellent bookshops are Nicolas Hoare for architecture and art, Open Air Books & Maps for maps and travel guides, Pages Books & Magazines for contemporary literature, and Bakka-Phoenix Books for science fiction.
o Alcohol
Sales of alcohol are restricted to LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) outlets (wine, spirits, and beer), the Beer Store (beer and coolers), and the Wine Rack (selected Ontario wines).
o Convenience Stores
Small shops selling cigarettes, toiletry necessities, cold drinks, snacks and fresh produce, and lottery tickets are ubiquitous in Toronto. Many also sell transit tickets.
o Tax Refunds
Books and groceries are exempt from the 8 percent PST (provincial sales tax), but most other items are subject to up to 15 percent sales tax (see Taxes). International visitors who have spent over $200 are entitled to a refund of the 7 percent GST (goods and services tax) within 60 days of purchase, excluding GST levied on restaurant meals, drinks, tobacco, and transport. Save your receipts.
• Accommodation & Dining Tips
o Hotel Taxes
In Ontario, accommodation is taxed with a 5 percent accommodation tax and a 7 percent GST (goods and services tax). An additional 3 percent destination tax is also levied on hotel rooms in the City of Toronto. You are entitled to a refund of the GST for hotel accommodation for short stays.
o Rooms
In general, hotel rooms are well furnished and of a fairly good size. Most have two double beds or one queen- or king-sized bed; standard twin-bedded rooms may also be available. If you are sensitive to noise, ask for a room away from the elevator and the ice and dispensing machines; if sensitive to smoke, ask for a smoke-free room.
o Rack Rates
Hotel rates vary according to the hotel category, and the time of week and season. Peak rates are weekdays and from April to December. Rack rates, the basic room rates, are the ones used in this book to provide a guide price. It is almost always possible to get a better deal, especially if you book online. And too, discounts are often available to members of clubs such as automobile associations or the Elderhostel. When booking, ask what special rates apply and make sure to bring proof of membership with you (see Hotel Savings).
o Concierges
Mid- and large-size hotels have concierges on staff whose job it is to cater to the needs and whims of the guests. They will procure tickets to shows and sports games, make restaurant reservations, arrange transportation, and offer helpful tips.
o Extra Costs
Parking at downtown hotels is almost always extra, paid on a per-night basis. Telephone calls made from your in-room phone can be expensive, as can drinks and snacks consumed from the room’s minibar. Beware: These costs can add up quickly, and will appear on your final room bill.
o Restaurant Reservations
Most restaurants take reservations and it is a good idea to book a table at a popular dining spot well in advance of your trip. Mention if you have special needs or dietary requirements. It is considered good form to cancel your reservation if your plans change.
o Tipping
Tips and service charges are not usually added to dining bills. For service at restaurants, cafés, and clubs, plan on tipping about 15 percent of the pre-tax amount. An easy way of estimating the tip is to add up the taxes on the bill. At bars, leave a dollar or two for the bartender. Tip porters and bellhops at least $1 per bag or suitcase; cloakroom attendants, $1 per garment; and chambermaids, a minimum of $1 to $2 per day. A hotel doorman will also appreciate a dollar or two for his services.
o Dress Codes
Jacket and tie are almost never required in restaurants, though many diners opt to wear them on a special evening out, especially to an upscale place. Some clubs, however, may not allow you in if you are wearing sneakers or jeans.
o Cellphones
At most restaurants, it is considered uncourteous to leave your cell-phone turned on or to carry on cellphone conversations inside.
o Meal Times
Breakfast is usually served in diners and coffee shops from about 6am to 10am. Lunch is available from about 11:30am to 2pm, dinner between about 5pm and 10pm. Many restaurants and pubs offer a late-night menu. Brunches are often served on weekends only – and at some spots, on Sundays only – usually from 11am–2pm or later.
ALL THE BEST FOR THOSE WHO APPILED AND GONNA APPLY (LIKE ME STILL TO APPLY ON JULY) STUDY PERMIT VISA
AND THOSE WHO ARE ISSUED VISA ENJOY THE JOURNEY GUYS ;D ;D
