Toronto - Experience

A happy mix of over 80 ethnic groups, Toronto is passionate about the good things in life: food, fine art, music and partying. What it lacks in history it makes up for in world-class theatre, enthusiastic music festivals and Greek, Italian and other intriguing neighbourhoods.

Travel up the breathtaking outside elevator to the observation decks of the CN Tower (553m tall) to see as far as Buffalo in the US and Niagara Falls on the border. Visit the Air Canada Centre to see a pro basketball game (Apr-Sep) or the Rogers Centre for baseball (Oct-Apr). And be dazzled by the uncut gemstones, mined in the north of the province, at the Royal Ontario Museum.

If you're confident of getting it home, pick out a Muskoka chair for your back garden on Queen Street West. Muse over the sandstone Inuit sculptures at the Queens Quay, and wander through the India Bazaar on Gerrard Street East and take away some South Asian-style goods.

Travel the 15-minute ferry ride to the Toronto Islands. The outer edges of the islands offer sand dunes and beaches, including the clothing-optional Hanlan's Point. Back in Toronto proper, make for Ashbridges Bay for a stroll along the boardwalk to marvel at up to 100 beach volleyball games that go on simultaneously during summer evenings.

Toronto's theatre scene rivals those of London and New York. You can experience top shows on Victoria and King streets. Rock to new hip bands along Queen Street. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra often performs in the Roy Thompson Hall, which has powerful acoustics.

Think of an ethnic cuisine you want, and Toronto serves it. Enjoy simple and elegant Italian dishes on College Street, while Greek food dominates the Danforth area eateries. Sample speciality meats from bison to Canadian back bacon in the Distillery district.

The Royal Ontario Museum renovation features more galleries and a new entrance within a structure that is designed like a huge crystal. It's a nod to the 'wow' collection of massive uncut gem stones that are on display.