13 Hours in Toronto - Canada
Diversity. That is the first word that popped up in my head when Luis and I arrived at the Pearson International Airport, Toronto, Canada.
My eyes found numerous nations around and people talking in various English accents. I felt that I am not a stranger here. I am one of them. I could easily feel that this is a country for immigrants, where you can find a blond girl walking next to a girl wearing a hijab, and no one judges them.
Based on what we felt at the airport, our first impression was nice. All organized, clean, and most of the people were direct and easy-going.
Outside, we welcomed by the fresh air of a summer day. I think Luís and I were lucky because Medeiros' family said the day before was gloomy in Toronto.
Medeiros Family
So, Medeiros' family is a Portuguese family that has been living in Canada since the '60s. Monique Medeiros has been following the World Sketching Tour project since the beginning, and Luís became her friend over the internet ever since. Once she knew that we would transit through Toronto on our way to Colombia for our bicycle tour and sketch in South America, she offered us to stayed with her family. Monique is an artist. I love her works, especially with the crayon ones. They are lovely!
Go check her Instagram! You'll love it!
On that same night, Jorge and Maria (Monique's Parents) took us to Marine Parade - where we enjoyed the sunset with Ontario Lake and Downtown as the view. This area was quite lively in the afternoon. People were cycling, jogging, or just hanging around. I can't argue why... Simply beautiful!
If you happen in town, this place is a must to visit!
After we had dinner, they drove us to Downtown. I can say that even if it was a weekday, the city was quite busy. It was difficult to find a parking lot. In the end, Jorge dropped us in the center so we could enjoy a little bit of downtown vibe and take some pictures before he picks us up.
Toronto is well known as the city of neighborhoods
On the way back home, Jorge drove us through to Chinatown, Little Portugal, Little Japan, Little Tibet, and so on... We noticed that every street had its character and how it helps to integrate an immigrant in Canada.
For example, we saw Mandarin signs in Chinatown instead of English/France signs. Or when we passed Little Portugal, all the names were in Portuguese, or at least they were easy for a Portuguese to understand - not me. And of course, the Portuguese's mascot - Barcelos Rooster was a must along with the country flag.
What is Canadian food look like?
The fact that there are so many cultures brought by the immigrants, we recognized it was quite difficult to determine what is a typical Canadian food. As you can imagine, there are lots of communities from various countries. Naturally, there are multiple dishes that you can easily find in various neighborhoods in this city.
However, our question got the answer when we went to the city hall. We saw food trucks selling local food. At that moment, we found out - with Monique's help - that one of the typical Canadian food is poutine.
Poutine is a Quebecois dish made with french fries and cheese curd, topped with light brown gravy. We didn't try because we were full, but it sounds yummy!
On the next morning, on our way to the airport, Jorge said that the days are going to be great. It was a pity that we couldn't stay one more day so he could drive us to Niagara Falls. What a shame!
But, who knows that we will come again one day. Canada is one of the favorite places where Luís and I want to live for good.
Next, I will start to share my adventure with Luís through South America by bicycle. If you like my post, please do share it with your friends! Cheers!
