About Toronto
Originally, there were Indians living on the southern shore of Lake Ontario and then came French trader-explorers in the 1600's, settling where the Toronto Exhibition Grounds are today. Later came the British who called their trading post York. In 1834, with over 9000 residents, it became the City of Toronto, based on a Huron word meaning 'meeting place'. Locals now call it 'Tranna' and it is Canada's main urban center. Here immigrants first establish themselves. Commercial life, entertainment, finance, tourism and cultural life thrive in this multicultural setting. |
Over 8 million people, nearly a quarter of Canada's total population, live in the Greater Toronto Area. All cope with the harsh climate, heavy snows during the long months of winter followed by sunshine mixed with rain and brief weeks of summer heat and humidity. As the leaves fall, brilliant colours of autumn do appear. Yet despite the weather, Torontonians remain friendly and helpful. An efficient network of subways runs until 2 a.m. (starting again at 6 a.m.) and it's safe. Crime rates are low. On livability surveys, Toronto ranks high. |
| Not only does it have a real castle – Casa Loma- built on a hill by a businessman who went bankrupt before he could move in but also a lively Asian outdoor market, Kensington (once Jewish). Toronto Island has wonderful parks and cottages. The Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Gallery of Art, Ontario Science Centre and both a ceramics and a shoe museum are open daily. Dozens of public libraries dot the city. Four higher education institutions include the University of Toronto, York University, Ryerson College and George Brown College. The elegant shopping district Yorkdale is the venue for Toronto's September film festival. Areas of beautiful homes include Rosedale, Forest Hill Village and the Beaches. Restaurants abound for every price – numerous 24-hour Tim Horton's with excellent, inexpensive coffee and fresh bagels; plus a large selection of gourmet dining. |
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