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fructuyeux · 3 years

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CANADA-20 (xxx) COVID-19

3/13/2020 - 3/22/2020

By: Rayce R. Rayos

This undertaking was planned as a daringly creative escape from mounting internally & externally placed workloads, & was slated to take place during the UNLV 2020 Spring Break. In concurrence with the vacation was the ever-increasing, ever-diversifying socioeconomic fallout, mandates, & obstacles associated with the first global pandemic that I have experienced in my lifetime. I’d be remiss to not admit that the cheapened airline, lodging, & transportation prices were viewed as a silver lining in an otherwise hysteric & strange time in human history. The following account of the trip is intended to recount the experiences & knowledge gained (from what is remembered), and aid in the recollection of the associated photo-documentation conducted during.

DAY 1 - 3/14 - 7.5 miles

The outgoing flight 1224 from McCarran International Airport to the eventual destination of Niagara Falls, New York was delayed, unbeknownst to me, & so the trip began with a frantic drive to the airport with a hastened goodbye to my roommate & lovely daughter (who wanted dearly to join her father in Canada). The flight was delayed by an hour, & I made it on the plane.

A quick stop in Denver, CO was followed by a landing in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Upon landing, the Spirit Airlines attendant notified me that my flight to Niagara Falls had already left (to the complete fault of their flight coordination), & that I’d have to spend the night & following day in Broward County, 15 miles North of Miami. I was frazzled & upset to have started my trip with such a complication, but after the airline was able to change my ticket free of charge, I decided to extend my trip an extra day. So, I asked them to book my returning flight for a day later (3/20 → 3/21), to which they agreed to do for free, utilizing a COVID-19 flight disruption program. I booked a room at the Vacation Inn in the middle of the night, & recalibrated my trip schedule.

The following morning was a beautiful sunny day in South Florida, & after resting my luggage at the motel for the day (for a fee), I skateboarded to SE 17th Street, hung a right, & breezed through a few miles of million-dollar homes & yachts, over the Causeway Bridge, to what would eventually become Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. Full of families & largely free of fear, the beach was warm, sunlit, & vivacious. The locals were out in near-full effect, & I spent the entire day with the rays on my back, the water at my waist, & a respite of relaxation before ensuing madness. I even struck up a conversation with some fellow beachgoers as a result of my Kobe Bryant tattoo, & learned a good deal about quotidian life down there. I got a workout in on the beach equipment, & some peaceful serenity as I stared down the horizon beyond the Atlantic. I returned to my motel to acquire my bags & make my way to the airport en route to New York… Little did I know that a bar, Bimini Bay to be exact, neighbored my motel. I found myself entrenched in an environment eerily similar to that of the Huntridge Tavern, although this spot was half the size with raunchy anal porn playing on multiple screens throughout all of the 5 walls. Throwing brews back & chain-smoking with the locals to country music was a familiar feeling, & instilled in me further the universal nature of letting loose. That being said, I lost track of time & had to hightail it out of there via a gentleman’s Uber to the airport. Another flight ran after & barely boarded in the nick of time… My time in South Florida was as serendipitous as flight disruptions can be. The most lingering aspect of my time spent there was, indubitably, the sunburn that would come to stick with/on me for the remainder of the vacation. Perhaps the worst case of the sun’s kiss I’ve come to bare. Before fully coming to this realization, I’m on a plane to New York.

DAY 2 - 3/15 - 10.47 miles

Upon being alive on arrival in New York state at 2 AM in the morning, I resolved to sleep in the IAG airport for the night, especially considering my phone charger at the time had been severely out of whack. There I lay, curled on an airport bench in Niagara Falls for the night with blistering skin & a scent of fresh tobacco smoke (& ass). I distinctly recall wrestling with the time I should render myself awake, eventually settling upon 9:30 AM. It was at this time that I found myself the only visible individual in the airport terminal; no staff, no bags, no patrons, nothing. The unexpected isolation harkened memories of the film 28 Days Later. Once the drool was free from my chin, I hailed a Lyft to the American-Canadian border, specifically the entrance to the Rainbow Bridge; it was along this ride that my driver informed me that the American dollar was fairly strong against the Canadian dollar to the tune of 1 USD = 1.33 CAD (roughly). This would come to be an extremely welcomed caveat to the remainder of the trip, as most every purchase converted to about 75% of all prices quoted in Canada.

When the border was reached, there I stood as a man with his spirit & belongings intact, & began my trek over the bridge to a foreign land. With frequent pause, the majesty of the falling water on a brisk Spring day will play in my mind for years to come. Pictures were taken, deep thought was attempted, & it was a stark moment of gratefulness for the life I have been given. Next was passing through Canadian Customs at the north end of the bridge, & after being grilled for a moment as to my intentions for entering, the officer pointed me in the direction of the bus stop from which my Greyhound was leaving in less than an hour. From the Rainbow Bridge to the Whistleblower bridge 2.5 miles north, I was blessed with a walk of forced clarity as I hugged Niagara’s riverway with 75+ pounds of much needed possessions. I found myself doubting my ability to invite others with me on trips in the future out of a fear for unintentionally inflicting similar tasks upon them. Nevertheless, I made it to my Greyhound in time and rested on the ride to Toronto.

The recuperation was much needed. When I awoke I found myself in Canada’s largest city (& the 9th-largest in North America), Toronto, Ontario. Excitement coursed through my capillaries & once departing from the bus on foot, it was straight to my ‘Chinatown Guest House’ to set down my things & get on the go… this was not the case. A whole fiasco followed where I was unable to contact the host, thereby unable to access the place I had paid to stay for the night (& the night before, despite Spirit having different plans on DAY 1). The first two Torontonian hours were spent in a Chinatown chicken spot (Gdou’s) where I struggled to gain the cellular abilities necessary to overcome this debacle; I bought a new charger & charger port at the market center across Spadina. I grappled with frustration in a very real sense, but was utterly appeased to find that I had been sent an email containing the entry instructions from Booking.com. Relief rushed over me. I grabbed my bags, & hunkered down in a room with a wooden balcony & stunning view of Downtown Toronto to boot. I showered, shat, & escaped into the city heading South on Spadina. A brief stop at the famed ‘Graffiti Alley’ along with a trip to the marijuana grocer located me in the heart of the Fashion District, a sector largely reminiscent of Williamsburg, BK (as hip, although much smaller). After a lovely skate to the harbourfront I was able to catch the sun set behind a vast array of monolithic condos & headquarters. The sun was able to get quite low, however, after having nestled between two skyscrapers, & that shared scene on the pier between myself & just a handful of individuals was quite a sight. Heading south afterwards, I rolled by the Toronto Music Gardens, through Coronation Park, & through a series of railway tracks amidst arenas (BMO Arena), Centennial Park, Lakeshore Boulevard, & an array educational campuses. Once Dufferin Street was reached, I headed toward Little Portugal. On the way there I stopped short (per the advice of a local) & turned north up King Street. Halfway home I stopped at the restaurant Thai Place Too & enjoyed some steaming seafood Tom Yum fit with stimulating conversation from the waitress. I paid my bill, thanked those there, & pushed onward on King Street traversing a barrage of tunnels, city folk, & shopping centers. At this juncture I recall being bummed by the lack of nighttime activities, & decided to stop at a bar near my place for the night called Wide Open.

What was to begin & end as a night of the all-evasive ‘one brew’ quickly accelerated into a merry time of mutual drunkenness & fun. A couple dental hygienists befriended me at the bar, & not far to follow were a West Indian techy working for Google & an Irishwoman on her way out of town. My memories of what exactly transpired are quite shaky, but an unflinching enjoyment of that particular night at the bar lasts. I got home at an ungodly hour & crash-land in my bed.

DAY 3 - 3/16 - 7.53 miles

Similar to popping out of bed due to a frightening nightmare, “Where’s my fucking board?!” was the thought & simultaneous phrase that opened my eyes that morning. I was still drunk, so a hangover wasn’t an issue, but discovered a damn large lump on my right posterior parietal bone & a pool of blood in the sheets where I slumbered. I racked what was left of my brain as to where/how/why this injury came to be sustained, but to no avail. In hindsight, it’s consistent with braceless backwards fall, & vaguely recall attempting to ride my skateboard back home equipped with a BAC of full-blown ‘no bueno’. Nevertheless, the pain wasn’t of serious concern (although I had plenty of time to reflect on the very real possibility of me now having to operate in a concussed state). What was of concern was my skateboard, my iPod, & my eighth of weed that I had yet to dip into. I began retracing my steps and was welcomed with open arms by my beautiful black, four-wheeled bride waiting for me at the front doorstep- Check 1. I scooped up my board, got dressed & readied for the (likely music-less) day ahead, had a solid conversation with my father, & cleared my stuff from the house just in time to be 4 hours late for checkout.

In one of the more daring tactics employed on the trip, I stashed my big purple duffle bag (containing clothes & other non-essentials) & my backpack (containing my laptop, passport & other very-essentials) in the empty garbage bin to the side of the front door. This was a huge gamble, & one that would weigh somewhat on my conscience for the coming hours, despite heavy medication- re-upped on weed, Check 2. During my second trip to Graffiti Alley I encountered a bum in mid-tweak repeatedly pulling his pants up & down amidst a backdrop of beautiful art, & naturally this struck me as microcosmic of the whole of Toronto. The bar I had chanced upon the night prior didn’t resume service until 4 in the evening, & so I had a few hours to kill which were spent speaking with various loved ones & contemplating last night’s events as I bobbed & weaved a hangover. 4 o’clock rolls around & I walk into the bar greeted by a smiling bartender with an unclaimed red iPod. THIS WAS A PERSONAL WIN OF GREAT PROPORTIONS, & solidified my successful navigation through mindless debauchery abroad- Check 3. I felt the proverbial wind was once again behind my back, & opted to knock out the city’s landmarks North of Spadina Avenue, largely via Adelaide & King Streets until Yonge.

Post-modern magnificence a la architecture kept my chin up as I managed to dodge pedestrian after pothole after Porsche. Sundown was not far off & the gleaming beams reflected softly off the mirrored panels some seventy-five plus stories on all sides. A real embodiment of the term ‘hustle & bustle’ was laid out in front of me, complete with a citizenry whose diversity mimicked that of my own home a world away. The gritty attitude that I’ve come to associate with East coast cities (specifically the colder ones) was alive & well here, evidenced in reluctance to help guide tourists or even tell the time of day. I loved it, & judged it as genuine more so than anything else. It should also be noted that the music playing in my ears throughout my time in the ‘Six’ was exclusive to the stylings of Drake, a rapper native of the city with references to its contents (streets, sides of town where the pretty girls sleep, subpopulations, parks, etc.) found abundantly in his lyrics.

When Yonge was reached, I peered west to a ton of things going on, but elected to go east. This turned out to be a wise decision. After a few blocks I was greeted by the area of town most closely associated with the Toronto skyline & its historical foundations on the illustrious Front Street. Here is where I stood mouth agape with the enormity & incomprehensible complexity of the city on full view. I touched the base of the CN tower & spent a good amount of time in awe as it registered (despite the Stratosphere being superior in my eyes), traversed the Railway museum set just outside of Olympic Park, gazed upon the Rogers Center where the Blue Jays come to bat, & ended at the water of Lake Ontario at the sandy Harbour Square Park where some solid skating took place. After some time, the thought of my possessions having lasted (or not) in the trash receptacle all this time prompted me to retrieve them, & so back to Chinatown I booked it. The moment of truth arrived when I got off my board at 83 W. Sullivan Street, & lo & behold, my stuff was nestled just as I had left it some 5 hours before. Feeling giddy from the travel-savvy risks taken, I was on to grab dinner with an old colleague of mine who happened to be doing her post-baccalaureate studies there. T. & I, a former classmate at Valley High, met at what we would come to find as nothing more than another closed restaurant with a COVID-19 newsletter plastered on the door. We deliberated playfully on what we should now do, & after having happened upon the ‘T O R O N T O’ sign & all of its illuminated glory, a 6-pack of Stella Artois from the rather hidden LCBO in the mega-commercial Eaton Center became the night’s main entree. Polite exchanges with exceedingly conversational locals made for a nice segue as we awaited our second Lyft ride to the Harbourfront.

The Harbourfront Centre was largely uncrowded as temperatures dipped below zero (Celsius, of course), & after a brew-cigarette combo, it was in an instance that snow began falling from the blackened sky & onto everything in sight… including our unsheltered selves. It was as surprising as it was splendid (at least for a desert cactus like me) to have been outdoors somewhere prior to snowfall & then to behold its beginning. A few days prior, I had been notified that the ski lift an hour North of Ottawa whose mountain I intended to shred had been closed, & so, I found myself with a decision to make: stay in the Toronto area an extra night or board the bus I had booked & crashing in a twin-sized bus seat for the night & do who knows what in Ottawa… Motivated by the phrase, “What the hell are you going to do in Ottawa?” I chose the former & began searching for a nearby hotel room. My homegirl, sitting beside me, of course overheard, & more-than-kindly offered a guest room in her condo as a suitable place to rest my head for the evening. I accepted, & we whisked ourselves out of the snow to a 12th-story condo in the 95+% Chinese suburb of Markham, ON. An once-schoolmate was changed into a dear friend after having exhibited flawless hospitality in the form of whiskey, toast, toothpaste, a bed & sublime conversation. We jabbed & joked in Francais (with hers being superior to my own), & this was a much-needed introduction to everyday dialogue in the different tongue of the Quebecois whom I would spend most of the days to follow with.

DAY 4 - 3/17 - 4.38 miles

I awoke early in the morning after not being able to sleep too much due to my skin’s incessant irritation, as well as a pseudo-insomnia I’ve come to expect from myself when on vacation. To fill the time between my awakening & my host’s, I read as much of The Four Agreements, by Don Miguel Ruiz as I could retain, ending with the last chapter left unread. As a result, the mantras prompted by the book that one is to agree with from within his/herself resonated with me. They are ‘be impeccable with your word,’ ‘don’t take anything personally,’ ‘don’t make any assumptions,’ & ‘always do your best.’ Fondly, I looked to these statements as a source of my second wind around this time, as the physical toll of my endeavors began somewhat to present themselves.

When T awoke, we engaged in parley for another hour or so before trudging to the neighborhood bus/rail station where she purchased my ticket & we ran goofily to make the train before the doors swiftly shut. During the train ride back to Downtown Toronto I was able to sit quietly in my thoughts, as well as get some business dealings out of the way via phone. The walls flanking the tracks were riddled in graffiti of both very high- & very low-quality pieces on fleeting displays. We were headed to Union Station, the hub for all non-automobile commutes in the metropolitan area, & second-largest transportation facility in North America, servicing some seventy-two million humans yearly. A stunning structure of Greco-Roman design with pristine pillars, it was a treat to walk the halls of such an obviously integral establishment. Soon we said our brief farewell & parted ways so that she could go to school & I could purchase a rail ticket to Ottawa, ON- set to leave later in the day.

I purchased my rail ticket to Ottawa for 6:30 PM & stashed my luggage at the bagging station inside the terminal, leaving me with 3 ½ hours to get the last of my rocks off in a city unique to itself. I went straight for Yonge-Dundas square after having caught a glimpse of the scene days prior, & once in the center I felt a likening to Times Square, both personally & perceivably. There was no better wayward idea at the time than to bust off some skate tricks in the center of such commotion, & was able to have a solid 15-20 minutes on the board before security (much like their American counterparts) gave me the good ol’ boot. Onto St. Lawrence Market I dashed, the bayside market most closely associated with Canadian grub. Here I tried peameal for the first time, & was left affirmed of Canadian courtesy, although the meal itself wasn’t anything to write home about. Yet another stop at Tim Horton’s for some pastries seemed in order before heading back to Union Station. Back at the staging port for my bus it was revealed to passengers that there was a 50-minute delay- just the break I needed to step out & smoke a potent bowl. When I did finally step outside after a few lefts & maybe a right, there in front of me stood the Scotiabank Arena where the Toronto Raptors (reigning NBA Champions) play their home games. To be frank, I was at the rear of the practice court, but nevertheless, happy to happen to be there. The train boards, takes off, & a long list of Canadian towns were slept through & bypassed in the dead of night. I hailed a lift from the Ottawa Train Station to my hostel for the night. The place served as the first jail in city, & had since been neatly converted into a hostel with guests sleeping in tight-fitting ‘jail cells.’ I was on floor 6 in cell number 613, the quarters of a long-gone inmate by the name of Angelo Villamino. I relished this opportunity to mix the excitement of historicism with the usually lull nature of lodging. The rest itself was subpar as my skin had begun peeling profusely during the day, & remained red hot during the night.

DAY 5 - 3/18 - 16.24 miles

Morning comes quickly & I am tasked to clear my cell of my things in a playful return to freedom. Breakfast was held in the dining hall of the jailhouse, aptly ascribed the ‘oldest dining hall in Ottawa.’ After replenishing my body, I held my bags at the front desk, & hurled myself into the city; I had a little over one hour to squeeze as much of the country’s capital into my memory banks as possible. I began by searching for the Parliament building (more like a castle) where the bulk of legislation for the world’s second-largest country (in landmass) largely transpires. No Prime Minister Trudeau or politicians in sight, as the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic amplified by the day. I believe this is the day that the Prime Minister of Canada closed the southern border to incoming Americans, followed swiftly by our President’s mutual refusal of incoming foreign travelers at the border. Admittedly, this was not of concern to me, as I figured (& thankfully was later proven correct) that a U.S. citizen would be permitted to come home. In hindsight, I perhaps predicted such measures being taken & allowed them to expedite my plans of getting to Canada before being unable to enter as an American.

Anyway… by Parliament I glided taking whatever pauses necessary to piece together how things came to be as they are up there from an academic perspective, but carefully preserving the right to take the utmost tourist-y photos (much like others do at 1600 Pennsylvania). A breathtaking building it was indeed, & that was just the view from the street! I continued along my path, circumnavigating the center of the city which took me to Victoria Island & into the province of Quebec for a brief moment (although I was not aware of the provincial border at the time). Like my time in Niagara, I elected to skate from a southern bridge to a northern one, the latter being Alexandra bridge over the Ottawa River. What a special moment this turned out to be as my wheels clanked over the wooden boards of the bridge, seemingly to the dismay of the townspeople. I was not the least bit concerned for this harmless transgression, as I had been otherwise captivated by my backside view of Parliament sitting atop its hill. It felt as if I had been transported to Transylvania, & the Victorian edifice gave me a sense of passion for human ingenuity. I made it back to the HI Ottawa Jail Hostel, aligned my belongings, & requested a ride to the Ottawa Greyhound terminal to catch my bus to Montreal. Here is precisely where Francais surpassed English as the primary mode of communication for the foreseeable future. The beloved Quebecois are very proud of their Francophone heritage, as it is the written language on road signs & nearly all signage everywhere (with a distinctive lower regard for English).

Arrival in Montreal occurred after the couple-hour bus ride. Immediately I was made aware of the foothold in normalcy that the French language commanded there, mainly because everything was in French (& not always in English). Outside the bus station, during my coordination with my Airbnb host, multiple homeless individuals approached me in search of loose change or a cigarette. This would be otherwise unworthy of mention had it not been for their guttural requests being in a language outside of English; I remember finding it striking to conceive a natively French-speaking bum whose domain I was now a guest in. My stuff & I made yet another march to the place I would come to call a temporary home- the apartment of Alix & Marion. I was mid-toke when my host, Alix, motioned to me to come to the stairs at the foot of the door & take my entry. A simple ‘bonjour,’ we greeted each other with, & I demonstrated to her that I would prefer to speak in her primary language in an effort to sharpen my own ear & mouth, to which she gladly agreed. The remainder of our exchanges over roughly the next 48 hours took place in Francais, with varying degrees of contextual & vernacular depth. The common Montrealaise person is a French-speaker with a veritable accent when they switch to English. As the old addage goes, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. I met this challenge to navigate a new cityscape & probe its peoples in an embracing way with occasional angst, constant excitement, & most profoundly with a thirst for knowledge.

My goods were locked away in my room, I had just showered, so I grabbed my board & set sail in search of the city’s lifebloods. Beginning in Chinatown (which usually tends to be either exactly or nearby places I stay in cities), I opted to head west in search of Le Plateau & Mile’s End, sections of the town celebrated for the globality & execution of their cuisinieres. Some poutine boeuf hache from Main Deli on Rue Ste. Laurent seemed the right call, & turned out better than my imagination had guessed. From Mile’s End southward I was bound, seeking to lay eyes upon L’Universite de Montreal. Little did I know it was set atop one of the many tiers of Mt. Royal at the city’s center. Getting there was rather trying, but the views of Quebec’s largest city at night from the campus, coupled with the exhilaration of board-bombing down the occasional hill, left little to be desired & much to be remembered. Further south of the University lied L’Oratoire de St. Joseph (St. Joseph’s Oratory), a Catholic-driven destination featuring towering stained-glass windows, a gathering hall for services that rivaled the most Mormon of Tabernacles, along with a balcony’s viewpoint all its own. After struggling to find the exit from the Oratory, I found it in my best interest to begin the journey back to my bed. A complete encircling of Mt. Royal park was supposed to cap the day’s adventure as night had already befallen hours before. Perhaps fate had other plans in mind.

My phone had been rendered useless at this point, & I had little more than my intelligence to rely on to get me back home. Unfortunately, my mental capacity had waned significantly over the course of the day’s doings, & over the next 2 or 3 hours I could be plainly seen wandering somewhat aimlessly from roadside map to roadside map. The outcome of being well off-track was spectacular, however. I cannot help but feel I got to experience the city in a different & daring light. Half of me wanted to return home, & the other half wanted to investigate each eye-catching facet; more often than not, I let the need to investigate prevail & tacked some formidable mileage onto the invisible odometer of my skateboard throughout the night. After some much-needed guidance from a man walking & a bus driver, I was able to piece together just enough of my surroundings to locate 1223 Rue Ste. Elisabeth. Before heading home, I stopped into an Indian restaurant called SpiceBoys, where I requested tandoori chicken with curry rolled into naan bread. The only problem was that their card terminal was unable to accept any of my debit or credit cards, & so, with one stroke of effortless Indian-Canadian kindness, I was gifted a hearty dinner for the night free of charge. With the help of daylight, the next day I uncovered that I had thoroughly explored Downtown Montreal (via Rue Ste. Catherine), the Red-Light District, the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter), & the Quartier des Spectacles (Entertainment District). I crept back into the apartment, which creaked with every floorboard, into my room & resigned to fatigue.

DAY 6 - 3/19 - 8.64 miles

I remained asleep in my quarters for the morning’s entirety, having groveled thirteen hours through the mandatory regeneration of my body & mind. Near this time I had an extended conversation with my hostess in which I requested to place my bags there after check-out the following day & attached reasoning to the request… completely in Francais! She was more than accommodating. Awakened & thoughts of the night prior still scrambling my brain, I showered (peeling skin off myself for the vast majority of time in the water), clothed myself in some hot shit, & set out to cross the St. Lawrence River. The cartographic struggles that were now in the past (plus a charged phone) helped me immensely in getting to my desired destinations in the coming days. I set out southward on Boulevard Rene-Levesque seeking to hit Griffintown & St. Henri before taking the Wellington Street bridge over to the L’isle de Ste. Helene (St. Helen Island). The riverfront at Sq. St. Patrick was an intoxicating mixture of sights & sounds; inlaid with a frozen stream, industrious (sometimes abandoned) infrastructure, & graffiti/street art that seamlessly colorized a scene already full of vibrance made for a quite memorable portion. At the point where most individuals had turned back due to the icy paths & an increasingly disinviting ambience, I progressed under Highway 10. On a route I was positive few or none had taken before, I stood roadside at dusk having to think intensely upon my next move & if it was the correct one. Wrong ones were made, gloves were dropped, but in time & effort I was able to find Avenue Pierre-Dupuy.

For a handful of kilometers, I skated along the shipyard gazing upon the city that I had been so immersed in & with. I was trying to practice kicking & pushing in the ‘goofy’ stance, so that I could face the spectacles & not apartment complexes (to mild avail). Before I knew it, I reached Parc Dieppe (Dieppe Park), a park on the north tip of the Cite du Havre & the starting point of the Pont de la Concorde (Concord Bridge). I would begin crossing without giving myself the time to let fear fester. Cars sped by at a half-meter’s length as my wheels rolled over tidbits of gravel, & more present in my mind, over a large body of water. I recall taking a few moments of pause at the bridge’s midpoint to survey my surroundings, & beautifully dominating they were. Humbled I felt, truly. As if my existence equated to a ripple in the river below, & with my individual ripple I can become a hurricane, or mud. The end of the bridge was a comforting sight.

To reach L’isle de Ste. Helene was the goal for the day & having gotten off the east end of the Pont de la Concorde, I was finally there. A long walk up the eastern coast of the island awaited me & was met with a heart teeming with adventure. Here I had time alone. With no other humans nearby, I let my mind run wild with thoughts of the trip to this point & how, in the grand scheme of things, I felt I was at where I should be; perhaps not geographically as one’s physical station is usually inconsequential. But in my mental state I was home, & home alone at that. Onward & northward I strode through the Parc Jean-Drapeau, laying eyes upon the ‘Biosphere’- a spherical structure on the island meant to champion ecology. Trees & ice accompanied me on the brisk walk to the north end of the island. There, Pont Jacques-Cartier (Jacques Cartier Bridge) awaited me in all of its steel beam splendor. Thankfully, the lanes of traffic & the pedestrian walkway had a divider between them, as well as a protective gate on the side where one might otherwise go overboard. This was all I needed to hop back on my board & skate my weathered boots over the St. Lawrence for the last time. On the bridge there were workers toiling away & the dazzling light sequence of the bridge itself made for a surreal experience. In the distance I could see the bridge, lit in rainbow colors, that I had crossed merely an hour or two before this new bridge that served as my current vantage point. Thoughts on the ephemerality of my existence at large (exemplified by having been way over yonder ‘then’ & here ‘now’) & the absolute need for self-belief against a vacuum of chance pervaded my tiny brain. The Pont Jacques-Cartier provided a special moment in my life that I can attest to having been rarely duplicated before. For reasons beyond me, I shed a tear & smoked a bowl before getting off.

Once off, I felt my way through Gay Village & back down into the Quartier Latin where I stopped for dinner at a quaint, but busy, Napoli Pizzeria. The owner was Italian. The waiter too. Both spoke Italian, English, & French, but after a while a Mexican family of 6 on vacation from Monterrey was seated, & the working duo displayed their aptitude in the Spanish language as well, going so far as to tell jokes anecdotally. I grinned & shared in the aura of the exchange, although I likely resembled a dirty drifter in the corner. Coming from such worldly humans, naturally the smoked salmon pizza topped with capers & onions was not lacking in the least bit. So, I ordered a large box for take-out after munching away the smaller portion & took my leave. On the way home, I stopped at a Second Cup Coffee Co. location & had a brief verbal volley with the barista in request of a cheesecake. He complimented my accent when speaking French, & even likened it to that of a French person (maybe meaning not Quebecois), despite glaring difficulties in my comprehension & rebuttals. Riding an emotional (& literal) high during the descent of a simply remarkable day of jam-packed novelty & sensation in all forms (sights, sounds, smells, tastes, touches, introspection), I returned to the apartment for my last full night in the region.

DAY 7 - 3/20 - 2.42 miles

My time in Montreal was now nearing an end, & I began to hold thoughts of coming home in high regard. When the sluggishness of sleep washed away in the shower (insert skin peeling of the largest proportions here), I readied my luggage & cleaned my temporary room as best as I could to eliminate all signs of a horrific sunburn & accompanying cranial gash. With the green light from my hostesses to store my luggage in the apartment until the night’s 10:50 bus ride to Plattsburgh, NY, I was intent upon checking off the last few Montreal-bound goals that remained. This came chiefly in the form of a desire to reach the Mt. Royal lookout in order to take in the city-sphere from its namesake mountain. Originally, I had intended to skateboard there from the apartment, but after a few blocks of dousing rain, I called an Uber to scoop me up (after finding out that Lyft doesn’t yet operate in Quebec) & take me. The friendly Uber driver, Vincent, let me out at the drivable point closest to the Chateau Mont Royal, & didn’t hesitate to call me crazy for being there in such ferocious conditions. He pointed me in the proper direction which was aided by a fellow human headed toward the same spot as myself. Precipitation worsened as the half-mile March was underway, but it was worth every goosebump & raindrop once I reached the outlook.

A dreary backdrop of low-hanging, gray clouds & the smell of rain caressed the skyline’s perimeter in a way that rang true & imprinted upon me a stunningly naked Montreal. An intimate version of the city it was, gripped by the unknown like the rest of the world, yet resilient enough for entrepreneurialism to survive in pockets. Having already been to many of the places now set in my sight made the moment all the more fulfilling & full circle. A naive feeling of having ‘conquered’ the city laid bare before me was soon supplanted by the revelation of the realer self-conquest. Half-frozen water panging my face & wind gusts pulling & pushing without cease proved no match for the firmness I had found, in feet & fortitude. This was the quintessential culmination of the week I endured, & one one-hundred percent befitting of such a voyage.

I made my escape of Mount Royal with haste before my inadequate (but stylish) clothing proved a fatal error. Originally, I had the notion to return to Main Deli because my last meal there was so damn good, but in the moment I opted for Schwartz’s Deli across the street in the name of variety. A heaping steak sandwich slatted between two tiny slices of wheat with mustard proved to be the house specialty, & was served less than a minute after being ordered… It was alright. Homeward bound with a full stomach, I decided to walk into a store that I had held in the back of my mind after passing by my first day there, Cul-de-Sac. This place was happening! The owner of the store was gracious in her conversation as I browsed. I eventually confessed my inspiration(s) gained from her shop (& plans to recreate in a respectful, homage-paying manner). We spoke at length about various topics, from our being of parents, to our being of owners of similar retail operations, to her allegiance to Quebec & not the whole of Canada. In fact, she was the foremost messenger of the separatist mentality that the people of the Quebec province displayed, on their countenance & in their conduct. I purchased a few of the items in her shop, she threw me some good stuff for free, & we wished well upon each other at my exit. That was the last recreational stop in Montreal, & soon thereafter I retreated to the Quartier des Spectacles to acquire my things. I was graced with the time to charge my phone & rest my bones for about 45 minutes. It was during this time that a cherished exchange between myself, Alix, & Marion (a hostess with whom I’d only spoken with via Airbnb messaging up to this point) occurred. It had become expected that I was asked what I did with my day, & that is how the chat began. I explained the day’s travels, thanked the duo for being a source of comfort & ease at the beginnings & ends of trying days. I also thanked them for putting up with my butchering of their language (as each inhabitant of the apartment was from France) for the sake of practice, which they met befuddled & were quick to praise my ability to communicate/intonate in their complicated speech. They even went so far as to say that my speaking has a native’s accent & were super appreciative of my having taught myself over the last couple years. A mutual encounter I cannot help but feel it was, & I remain grateful for their pleasant & inviting demeanors. I climbed down the long stairwell of 1223 Rue Ste. Elisabeth once & for all & signaled for Uber to take me to the Longueil Metro.

I had arrived at the bus station with plenty of time to spare, having somewhat learned the errors of my ways. I was serious about not wanting to cut anything close with such little time left for my returning flight home. I waited patiently at my gate for my bus to arrive & whisk me away back to the states for my 2:59 AM flight out of Plattsburgh, New York (Upstate). Sadly, the bus’s arrival time came & went, & at the mention of the ticketing booth agent, I waited another 45 minutes for it. Having received no notification of cancellation from the bussing company, no accurate updates on the whereabouts of the bus, & minute after minute shaving away from takeoff time, I was forced to call an Uber to pick me up from the metro station & take me to the border- this cost one-hundred Canadian dollars. We stopped at an ATM, grabbed some snacks, & finally Ridaha & I were on our way. A fruitful & insightful chat aided us along the drive, & I was able to disentangle much French from this nice Tunisian man. An hour passed & we arrived at the U.S. border.

As the car pulled up to the border, U.S. Customs agents ordered repeatedly for my driver’s documentation. A brief argument between an unsuspecting Ridaha & an extremely serious officer took place. The very odd circumstances were eventually explained, Ridaha was directed to make a U-turn & head home while I exited the vehicle, grabbed my bags, & headed to the border patrol substation. It was there that I was informed that I would need to call a cab (as Uber wasn’t functioning in this particular location), but to complicate matters drastically, the taxi services weren’t doing the ‘border run’ that night. My heart fell into my stomach, & I had entered a phase of worry that I had yet to reach at any point along the trip. Thankfully, one Officer Burdette walked me to the West Service Road behind the U.S. Border Patrol & Customs Champlain Station & pointed in the direction of the nearest place still open- a Peterbilt truck stop about a half mile down a pitch-black road. He also made it a point to mention that if I attempted to hitchhike on main Highway 87, I would be arrested. This oh so tangible road brought with it intangible emotion after emotion as I grappled with triumph & failure, each still hanging in the balance. It had become very important outside of my own ambitions for me to make the plane & get home, & I was purely keen to not have loved ones worry about my wellbeing any longer. A frantic mixture of skating & speed-walking got me to the Peterbilt stop, & by the grace of God, the taxi company agreed to send out a driver for me & get me to the airport from this largely equidistant pick-up point. While I waited in freezing temperatures in an Eddie Bauer peacoat on the side of the road at the smallest hour, another group of U.S. Customs agents spotted me & sought to question my being there. They asked for identification & reasoning to which I was forthcoming. They wished me well & left.

Thirty minutes later, a portly man of sound intelligence & world view taxied me to the Plattsburgh International Airport (after having stopped at an ATM for cash to pay him). I entered the empty airport at 2:30 AM for my 2:59 AM flight with the driver’s assurance that I’ll be able to get right through TSA & onto the plane. More than sadly, he was mistaken. The Spirit Airlines attendant had vacated his post thirty minutes before takeoff to aid the onboarding crew, as per policy, of course. I rushed up to the barren TSA line & inquired about my chances of getting on the plane. They responded that the flight door had already been closed, & that it was now an impossibility for me to board. Needless to say, it was now impossible for me to get home on time, too. I felt I had fallen just short of a buzzer-beating victory that I had already affirmed to those who had expressed concern. I had begun to list the many variables that could have gone differently to get me on to that flight: 1) why didn’t my bus in Longueil show up or even notify me of cancellation? 2) why didn’t I deem the bus ride a lost cause sooner & get an Uber sooner? 3) why did we have to stop at an ATM so off-route when leaving Montreal? 4) Couldn’t they have held me & my driver up a bit less at the border? 5) Why couldn’t the taxi agency send someone a half-mile further than where they would eventually come to pick me up? 6) Why did this portly man with a good view of the world have to drive the speed limit? Would he have driven faster if I didn’t entertain his subjects? 7) Why the fuck does the agent at the airline counter leave the counter thirty minutes before a flight is scheduled to take off?

When the airline attendant did return, he was sympathetic to my cause & willing to help find a solution. Employing a similar program to the one used at the beginning of the trip, he was able to book the exact flight for the following day free of charge. This eased me greatly. Questions & doubt lingered, but I soon picked my chin up & hopped in another cab headed for the America’s Best Value Inn. This would be my impromptu safe haven on this frigid Friday night, & I checked in at 3:30 AM.

DAY 8 - 3/21 - 0 miles

Today is my sister’s & my aunt’s shared birthday. I wished dearly to be home by now next to my daughter, & to begin decompressing the week’s peaks & valleys. Yet, here I sit in the lobby of the cheap motel I spent last night in. I’ve been in the same chair since 1:15 PM, & it is now 12:49 AM (with the exception of a few bathroom/water breaks & a brief standing up to accept ordered wings & garlic bread). This unexpected & obligation-less window in time was spent formulating this transcript of a vacation I can confidently say will come to prove formative as life presses on. One not soon to be forgotten, nor the lessons gained therein forsaken. My flight to Las Vegas via Fort Lauderdale, Florida & Dallas, Texas is due to leave in a couple hours. With my lack of punctuality deeply ingrained, I resolve to close this memoir in saying that the constant struggle with mortality across Earth & in minds amidst these troubling waters was on full display in every city & each individual’s expression. Death and Disease on the tongues of the media & man the world over, but life itself (outside of the biological & inside of the metaphorical sense) is to be explored & discovered lovingly… never to be shied away from or merely sustained. With our collectively restricted circumstances reaching a fever pitch in what people can & cannot, should & should not, will & will not do, I resolve to digress & remain profoundly thankful for love, safety, health & home.

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thebestintoronto · 4 years

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Where to Stay in Toronto: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Canada's largest and also most populous city, Toronto is the capital of Ontario as well as rests on the eponymous Lake Ontario itself-- all 24,000 square miles of it. With a European history returning to the 18th century, Toronto originally grew from a British colonial negotiation called York. Today, its far-flung granges and also wild areas make up part of the city itself, ending up being residential areas and also all-natural territories to explore.

Interestingly, Canada is one of the most multiculturally diverse city on Earth. There are over 160 languages spoken right here, and also greater than 50% of the residents of the city belong to a minority. Not just immigrants, yet also Canada's original native populace comprises the society of Toronto today.

Map of Toronto

A modern city with a great deal of creative thinking taking place-- as well as an industry as well as financial market-- Toronto is home to a great deal of superb design. This runs the range from good-looking Victorian mansions and old government structures to the site CN Tower-- once the tallest structure in the world (and still not far off).

Yearly, the city hosts over 25 million travelers, drawn below for the enigmatic mix of easygoing living, broad-minded society, and also lakeside lifestyle. Below are some of the best locations you can base yourself in throughout a journey to enticing Toronto.

Yonge-Dundas

The location of Yonge-Dundas is located in the heart of Toronto and is focused around the Yonge-Dundas Square-- which includes its very own city terminal. A new location, with the square just completed in 2002, it supplies a public area for the city. Lots of art shows and various other tasks are hosted in this square. Similar to the scramble going across in Tokyo's Shibuya, Yonge-Dundas includes one of the most significant crossing in Canada; 100,000 individuals go across daily.

Proclaimed as Toronto's Times Square, Yonge-Dundas is an amazing place to base on your own in the middle of downtown Toronto. Here there is an avalanche of restaurants and bars. There's additionally lots of history, like the skyrocketing St Michael's Basilica Basilica, built in the 1800s.

Holiday accommodation in this field consists of looming chain hotels-- modern-day, comfortable, and premium in regards to cost-- along with a handful of realistic budget plan choices.

Where to Remain in Yonge-Dundas

Chelsea Hotel Toronto-- A trendy economical resort in the heart of Toronto, Chelsea Hotel Toronto offers you a chance to exchange high-end living without excavating a hole in your pocket. Equipped with modern services, such as a sauna, two interior pools with easy chair, and an on-site dining establishment serving American specials, the resort gives you simple accessibility to vital sites around the location. Spaces below are designed in a minimal style with modern centers such as a job workdesk, a seating area, and complimentary Wi-fi.

Enjoyment & Financial Area

Symbolizing the ideals of striving and playing tough side by side, the Amusement and Financial Area are two areas simply to the south of Yonge-Dundas. The Financial Area is, basically, the residence of Old Toronto, bordering the grand Union Terminal and also real estate historic sights as well as modern marvels, like the gold-clad high-rise of the Royal Financial Institution Plaza. To the south, the 553 meters high symbol that is the CN Tower can be found.

The Enjoyment Area was initially referred to as the Garment District; by the 1970s, a lot of the historical manufacturing facilities had been deserted, and now residence clubs, music places, and theatres, providing the location its name. Staying in this dynamic area, you'll locate contemporary hotels ideal in the middle of the activity. Pick to remain in the bordering Financial Area for elegant accommodations embeded in heritage structures dating back to the very early 20th century.

Where to Stay in the Entertainment & Financial Area

high-end

Bisha Resort Toronto-- One of the most superior centers in this part of community, the trendy Bisha Hotel Toronto is just a couple of actions far from the impressive CN Tower. Boasting the spectacular works of Alessandro Munge of Workshop Munge as well as celebrity symbol Lenny Kravitz of Kravitz Layout Inc. throughout its insides, this 5-star hotel offers a series of upmarket amenities, like a roof infinity pool, a lobby bar, and also several dining facilities. Each solely crafted area is developed for your utmost comfort and high-end.

midrange

Fairmont Royal York Hotel-- Prepare yourself for some genuine royal therapy at the Fairmont Royal York Resort as this 4-star center spoils you with the most recent as well as the classiest services as well as services. A skylit interior swimming pool, a famous ballroom, on-site buying methods, and also five prize-winning dining establishments are several of the manner ins which you can invest your time below.

spending plan

Hilton Yard Inn Toronto Downtown-- A stone's throw away from the most prominent attractions in Toronto's Enjoyment District, this stylish 3-star hotel is excellent for leisure as well as company tourists. Facilities and solutions below include a large indoor swimming pool, a fitness center with progressive devices, an international dining establishment on-site, conference as well as seminar facilities, as well as far more. Spaces are made in soft beige tones as well as feature wood home furnishings with a seating area, job workdesk, and a well-appointed ensuite restroom.

Yorkville & The Annex

Located to the north of Yonge-Dundas and reachable through Yonge Roadway-- yet still with a couple of city stations linking it to the remainder of Toronto-- Yorkville is everything about the high-end. Boutiques as well as galleries scramble for area along Bloor Street, as do a wide variety of upscale restaurants, fancy cafes, as well as swish barroom.

Neighbouring Yorkville to the west is The Annex, a much more suburb residence to a big student populace because it borders the University of Toronto. This area includes verdant roads lined with some fantastic instances of Victorian and also Edwardian style. With the Spadina, Dupont, as well as Bathurst city stations offering the area, getting around is a breeze.

You can now stay in the Annex's old structures thanks to shop lodgings as well as bed-and-breakfasts, while Yorkville holds some splendid, high-end, international resort chains with solution to match.

Where to Stay in Yorkville & The Annex

luxury

The Hazelton Resort-- With its amazing interior Cinema Film Space and a world-class medical spa facility, The Hazelton Hotel creates rather the glamorous remain in the busy city of Toronto. The spaces below are spacious, with marble shower rooms as well as elegant robes. Amenities and services at this opulent 5-star hotel consist of a rejuvenating interior pool, an on-site restaurant offering French and Italian delicacies, and an outstanding gym. They also supply brushing centers for your precious four-legged good friend!

midrange

InterContinental Toronto Yorkville-- Set in the upscale Yorkville area, this stylish 4-star residential or commercial property is everything about hospitality and opulence. Known for its extensive centers and also services, InterContinental Toronto Yorkville boasts a large interior swimming pool, a well-equipped gym, and also an exterior terrace with easy chair. You can appreciate dining at the exceptional restaurant or delight in seasonal tapas and mixed drinks at the SkyLounge Patio area. Rooms here boast contemporary decorations, with centers such as safety deposit boxes, job desks. There are additionally outstanding sights of the city.

Kensington-Chinatown

Fixated the crossroads of Spadina Avenue as well as Dundas Street is Toronto's Chinatown; likewise bordering this is the area called Kensington. House to different cultures as well as ethnic cultures, you will certainly discover everything from vintage stores to Japanese corner store.

Kensington Market is a retail area with great deals of tiny stores. You'll find bakers, tea shops, tree-lined roads, and also plenty of international dining establishments. On Sundays (during the summer), the roads are closed to traffic, making it a pedestrian's desire.

Chinatown isn't almost the Chinese restaurants; there are also Oriental, Thai, and Japanese delights to uncover. Along Spadina Avenue, you'll locate fresh fruit, dumplings, and also even Chinese traditional medicines and also keepsakes. Obviously, this is the location ahead for Chinese New Year!

Affordable options, hostels, as well as comfortable guesthouses in red brick buildings make up the holiday accommodation in this part of community. There are no city stops, yet it's served by various streetcar and bus stops.

Where to Remain in Kensington-Chinatown & Roma

Hotel Ocho [Kensington-Chinatown-- Situated a rock's throw out from Chinatown, this historical 1902 factory-building-turned-hotel is among one of the most fascinating, budget-friendly properties in Toronto. Flaunting a wide variety of elegant solutions with a straightforward yet elegant decor, Resort Ocho provides trendy guestrooms fitted with modern commercial home furnishings as well as art work. Order a dish at the international restaurants on-site or take a fast walk to Kensington Market as well as be surrounded with countless shopping, eating, as well as home entertainment options.

Downtown East

This is the general area east of Toronto's Downtown district, going to the River Don. It contains the areas of Cabbagetown, Regent Park, Trefann Court, and Corktown. Mostly domestic, Corktown is house to Corktown Common, a wonderful green room to relax in on the banks of the river. Cabbagetown is a large neighborhood with yet even more greenery, such as the large Riverdale Park; an old farm, this is a prominent spot for ice skating and also sledding in the wintertime.

Regent Park and also Trefann Court are reduced rise suburbs established during the 1940s. One more district in this eastern Downtown area is Church and also Wellesley, called 'The Village' as well as home to a big part of Toronto's gay community. An enjoyable and friendly room, this is the place to opt for Toronto's Satisfaction events-- in addition to a remarkable Halloween.

Staying in this big location gives you the option of guesthouses, hostels, affordable chain resorts, and some shop offerings also.

Where to Stay in Downtown East

Frying Pan Pacific Toronto-- A best escape for those who take pleasure in being amidst nature, Pan Pacific Toronto is a lovely hotel swallowed up in 15 acres of lavish gardens. Amenities at this 4-star resort include a seasonal exterior swimming pool, multiple eating alternatives, a modern gym, outdoor yoga plans, as well as a properly maintained tennis court. Featuring a range of tastefully decorated guestrooms, the resort likewise provides a healthy and balanced and also luxurious breakfast daily.

Harbourfront

Just south of the Amusement District and also surrounded to the north by both the primary train line and the Gardiner Expressway, you'll locate Harbourfront This appropriately called location is set right on the coast of Lake Ontario; a stress-free location on the largest metropolitan lake worldwide!

The Harbourfront Centre hosts year-round neighborhood events such as markets, movie testings, and performances. In the summer season, you will see individuals enjoying exterior art events and also canoeing around the location. There are a ton of cafes along the pedestrian boardwalk where you can rest and also have a drink on the patio along the water's edge. Alternatively, you can hop on a watercraft as well as obtain a view of Toronto's horizon from the water. You can also take the ferryboat from here to the Toronto Islands.

Lodging in Harbourfront consists of a handful of hotels along the water. These are primarily high end, tall, as well as modern, with sights of the lake from up high.

Where to Stay in Harbourfront.

The Westin Harbour Castle-- Set right on the harbor on Lake Ontario, the Westin Harbour Castle most certainly includes some ornate as well as excellent rooms that are fitted with the signature Westin Heavenly beds and also use magnificent sights of the lake as well as the city's magnificent horizon. In addition to the host of lavish comforts, there's additionally a scrumptious breakfast spread on a daily basis, an indoor swimming pool and a rooftop tennis courts. What's even more, the 4-star hotel also welcomes your pooch!

Midtown

The sprawling Downtown location to the north of Toronto Old Town is a high end location that is formally among the city's main downtown. Here you will certainly find respected communities such as Woodland Hill, with its several mansions as well as private schools, as well as Deer Park, with tree-lined streets that connect with the bustling Yonge Street.

This area is a mix of relaxation as well as entertainment, with city amenities never also far yet plenty of eco-friendly rooms as well as park to discover as well. For instance, the Moore Park Abyss is an attractive leafed area to roam, with questionable Beltline Path bring about the forested Don Valley Block Works Park-- and additionally still to a lot more of the location's environment-friendly spaces.

If this upscale, country, and extremely all-natural location sounds like your kind of point, there are homestays in lovely houses, bed-and-breakfasts, and also mid-range hotels near to move.

Where to Remain in Midtown

The Parkway Place Guesthouse-- A couple of steps away from Eglinton Train Terminal, the Parkway Place Guesthouse provides one of the most comfortable as well as affordable lodging that appropriates for all types of visitors. Showing off a series of current, self-catering devices, this modern-day guesthouse likewise boasts on-site car parking centers, a common kitchen, typical eating area, as well as complimentary Wifi. Spaces here are sizable with wood flooring, as well as feature kitchen spaces as well as a seating location.

West End

Comprising a substantial portion of the location west of Old Toronto, with Lake Ontario to its south as well as the Humber River composing the western border, this is a multicultural, up and also coming area of the city. This neighborhood started to thrive around the turn of the 20th century, when migrants arrived to work on Canada's expanding railway, specifically in the location currently called Little Italy. There's likewise a Portuguese existence in Little Portugal, specifically along Rua dos Acores. There's also Little Malta, as well as the West End is house to Toronto's Koreatown, also.

The immigrant populace has lately been signed up with by young experts attracted to the area by a combination of reduced rental fee, great food, and exciting nightlife. Not an area full of a load of galleries, it's more of an area to find to see Toronto's multicultural make-up. Remain right here in renovated hotels from the 19th century and cool, unusual inns.

Where to Remain In West End

Gladstone Resort-- Tucked in a Victorian-style edifice, the distinguished Gladstone Resort is more than simply a resort-- it is among Toronto's most valued landmarks. Designed according to the innovative geniuses of the city's art and style area, this busy and stylish resort provides a handful of very carefully crafted designer rooms that show the imaginative impressions of the artists associated with developing this exceptional location. An on-site karaoke bar, the Gladstone coffee shop with bistro-style delicacies, and also three art galleries are some of the high end centers to be enjoyed right here.

East End

With East York to the north and East Downtown to the west, the East End of Toronto exists across the Don River and also is a city area with a great deal of parkland, along with farmer's markets. East End is home to yet even more of Toronto's multicultural landscape, with Little India, East Chinatown, and Greektown comprising just some of the sectors.

This suburban area likewise leaves the coasts of Lake Ontario as well as is home to The Beaches, an aptly called location that's more like a hotel; it's where city and also residential area occupants alike pertain to get away the heat, walk the boardwalk, or swim in the water. In neighboring Kew Gardens, there are jazz events and also art programs.

There is a handful of budget friendly holiday accommodation options, specifically near East Chinatown. But there are also lively and also sophisticated resorts in the southern Studio District, and also some places to hug The Beaches.

Where to Stay in East End

The Woodbine Coastline Residence-- Found really close to 3 popular beaches in Toronto, this simplified yet modern coastline home is excellent for long-term rentals as well as household holidays. Set far from the humming noises of the town hall, your house supplies a terrace as well as an on-site parking center. Areas below are furnished with all the most recent facilities that are needed to take pleasure in a relaxing vacation. Comfy bedrooms, a spacious kitchen area room, a living location, a separate dining location, and an ensuite shower room with laundry centers are some of the comforts you can discover below.

Etobicoke

The large area of Etobicoke lies west of the Humber River. With the worldwide airport terminal on its east, it runs completely from the coasts of Lake Ontario to the north, leafed suburban areas of Mount Oliver and also Clairville. Previously a city in its own right, Etobicoke includes broad blvds, going shopping malls to match, and plenty of housing developments.

An outstanding area to base on your own to be closer to Toronto's airport, this location is additionally full of a lot of eco-friendly areas. You can dive into the manicured James Gardens along the Humber River, along with the Centennial Park-- with plenty of space for sporting activities. In the north, the large Humber Arboretum produces great fall walks, while Colonel Samuel Smith Park is a large space near to Lake Ontario.

In addition to lots of golf courses, Etobicoke is house to a big choice of resorts, most of which are chains and comfortably positioned in the vicinity of the airport terminal; however there are numerous smaller options nearer the lake.

North York

Formerly the agricultural heart of Toronto, and also comprised of various towns, North York is a sprawling location to the north of the city correct that still preserves a country, town feel. Evidence of its past can be seen in the large quantity of fairway, green rooms, and also big parks that supply a lot of chances for strolling about in nature. Among the largest is the East Don Park, which complies with the training course of the Don River for miles in wooded surroundings.

There are likewise going shopping malls-- such as the Centerpoint Mall and also the Bayview Village Mall-- for all your retail requirements. However there is culture here too, with interactive displays at the Ontario Scientific Research Centre, the open air heritage gallery of Black Creek Pioneer Town, and the Aga Khan Museum, revealing an option of Islamic art.

Suites and also guesthouses, in addition to modern accommodations and motels, can be located in North York.

Scarborough

The eastern part of the city of Toronto, Scarborough is loaded with a lot of plant. There is a total amount of nine parks positioned along what is referred to as the Scarborough Bluffs along the shoreline of Lake Ontario. These include Bluffer's Park-- complete with sandy beach-- and Guild Park and Gardens, with its collection of 'ruins.'.

There's additionally the massive Morningside Park; this is a forested location with creeks and also routes for a daring stroll via nature. It goes without saying, Scarborough is fantastic for those who such as to trek. Scarborough is where you will locate Toronto Zoo, a large location covering over 740 acres where you can reach grips with wild animals. Scarborough is the ideal location for a family journey to Toronto.

With motels and easygoing guesthouses, in addition to midrange resorts with swimming pools and also eating options, there are a couple of various holiday accommodation choices in Scarborough to match your travel style.

The article “ Where to Stay in Toronto: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels “ was first appeared on Touropia

Toronto Naturopathic Doctor - Dr. Amauri Caversan, ND

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woah-were-halfway-there · 4 years

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Top 5 places in Toronto !

Omg ok I didn’t even know where to start with this one because I have a lot of favourite places that can all be broken down it to like food or entertainment or just places to be lol but I’ll just do in general

- Crothers Woods are these trails that aren’t too far from downtown, but as you’re walking them you get really nice views of the Toronto skyline but like it’s all nature which is a nice break from all the pavement and high rises lol

- The Beaches is just a super nice part of the city to go chill in especially when the weather is nice and there’s a lot of really good restaurants out that way as well

- the Chinatown/Kensington Market area is one of the coolest parts of the city, in my opinion at least. There’s lots to do, and see and it looks really cool as well, it’s fun to just go walk around in that area and vibe

- Harbourfront is stunning. Like I live in the entertainment district, which I also love, and it’s not far from harbourfront by any means so that’s where I’ll go for a walk or a run most nights. It’s right along Lake Ontario so if you go at the right time, you’ll catch the nicest sunsets and is also like a block away from the CN tower, Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena so there’s lots of really good pubs and restaurants in that are too

- Queen West has some of the coolest shops and cafes you’ll find in this entire city. I prefer going there to shop than one of the malls cause malls are lame. There’s some vintage clothing shops that I love, but also brand stores as well and like pretty much anything you could need you’ll find there

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saucylittlesmile · 6 years

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Carried over from the original creator and curator, @balletfever89. Links to her original Post-Sochi timeline and her Post-Comeback timeline, as well as the original version of this timeline, Post-PyeongChang. Some of the dates may be slightly off, as I'm looking backwards at blogs instead of keeping up as things happen.

=== Feb 9 - 25 WINTER OLYMPICS PYEONGCHANG, South Korea ===

Feb 26 – Tessa and Scott arrive at London

+Scott has family party in Ilderton (Tessa reported sick)

Feb 27 – Scott at bar with friends

March 1 – Tessa attends St Judes Catholic School and talks with kids (London)

+ Scott spotted in Ilderton

+ Nivea officially announces Tessa as ambassador

March 2 – Tessa with Midori + husband got flowers as a gift from her and Liz (London)

March 3 – Scott spotted at Turtle and Crown bar (AilsaCraig, near Ilderton)

March 4 – Tessa spotted (Bayfield)

March 5 – Tessa posts about packing (London) + Scott spotted at Startbucks getting Tessa’s favorite coffee

March 6 – Scott announces partnership with ActionTrailersOntario

+ out for dinner with guy friends / Skating in Komoka rink

+ Tessa media day for Nivea (Toronto)

March 7 – Tessa Breaking the Ice Event for Nivea (Toronto)

March 8 – Tessa does interview for Canadian Living Magazine and business dinner / Scott arrives in Toronto by train + spotted in bar at night

March 9 – Tessa and Scott huge MEDIA DAY in Toronto

March 10 – Tessa and Scott at Leafs Game (get personalized jerseys) + Scott at sports bar and Tessa at bar with The Arkells (bars across from each other)

March 12 – Training with Sam new Michael Jackson number + Tessa has a spa night (Montreal)

March 13 – Training with Sam

March 14 – Training with Sam

March 15 – Training with Sam / ToutLeMondeParle filming / drinks with Mathieu Caron and Sandrine Balthazard at Le Parloir -caves privees

+ Tessa breaking the Ice with Nivea party at rink early in the day

March 16 – Tessa and Scott dinner with Scott and Jamie Livingston and rest of the team at Foxy restaurant in Montreal

March 17 – Scott spotted at bar in London on St Patty’s day

March 18 – Scott spotted with family member (Cara) at the Toronto airport in the morning / Tessa and Kelly do sightseeing in (Venice, California)

March 19 – Tessa and Scott film Ellen Show episode in (Burbank, California)

March 20 – Ellen episode airs and both are spotted at the airport in LA en route to Toronto

March 21 – Scott and Tessa back in London / Scott does spring shoot for Saffron Road

March 22 – Tessa takes over KitCA Instagram account + Scott cameo while training for CSOI (Ilderton Arena)

March 23 – Morning radio interview BX93 + The Taz Show / Breakfast at The Bag Lady / Training for SOI / Scott trains for hockey game in the afternoon + Tessa gets Molson Canadian beer fridge

(+ Tessa mentions Scott playing the other night hockey wit the Poplar Hill Flyers and scoring a goal)

March 24 – Scott plays in Fire & Ice charity hockey game (Lucan) + tells fans he has to get back to Tessa in the evening

March 25 – Tessa posts from London (TS clips for Gord come out from her living room)

March 26 – Leave for Japan from London airport

************Stars on Ice Japan Tour (March 31 April 8)

Osaka March 31 - April 1

April 1 – Boat night ride in Osaka (Eric, Patrick, Javi and Kaetlyn)

April 2 – Cafe Arabiq afternoon / Tessa does Yoga with Meagan in Osaka

April 3 – Travel day to Yokohama / Bowling Night (Scott, Meagan, Javi, Evgenia, Plushenko)

April 5 – Training in Yokohama

Yokohama April 6-7-8

April 8 – Last show day + karaoke with cast and bowling at night

April 9 - travelling back to Canada

April 11 – Tessa morning Yoga + dinner at Le Vin Papillon (Montreal)

April 12 – Tessa morning photo shoot for Bon Look (Montreal)

April 13 – Tessa spotted in Toronto

April 14 – Tessa and Scott early afternoon speak at Ontario Sports Symposium (Toronto) + sighting dinner together at Fairmount Hotel

April 15 – Tessa and Scott in Hamilton for sit down with Steve Milton for their book (+ possibly attend Patrick's retirement party)

April 16 – Tessa Takeover:YourMorning, TheMarilynDenisShow, TheSocialCTV & EtalkCTV (Toronto)

April 17 – Tessa morning photo shoot with Strong Magazine (Toronto) + Scott morning sighting at Starbucks in London and event with kids at Komoka rink

April 18 – Scott morning visit to Rick Hansen public school (London) + Tessa work out at RevCon (London)

April 19 – Scott travels to Calgary + Scott visits his niece’s school Prince of Peace (Calgary) + Scott at Calalta Ice Show

April 20 – Tessa and Scott Classroom Champions luncheon panel (Calgary)

April 21 – Scott at MoirsSkateShop + restaurant picking up food / Tessa at home watching the Leafs game (London)

April 22 – Tessa and Scott spotted at Toronto airport and dinner with SOI cast at night (Halifax)

April 23 – Scott and the guys go out to AleHouse (Halifax)

April 24 – Tessa, Scott and Jeffrey dinner at The Bicycle Thief (Halifax)

April 25 – Scott and Patrick at AleHouse (Halifax)

************Stars on Ice Tour (April 27 - May 17)

April 27 HALIFAX

April 28 – Cast hanging out in Ottawa + Greg Kolz bday dinner

April 29 OTTAWA

April 30 – TS spotted at dinner (anon report from Montreal)

May 1 – TS training at Gadbois in the morning + Tessa business lunch at Ritz Carlton

May 2 MONTREAL

May 3 – Tessa and Scott at Raptors game + meet Drake

May 4 TORONTO (TS spotted at hotel + Scott morning coaching with a team at Toronto Cricket Club) Scott podcast with Scott Livingston released

May 5 HAMILTON + Tessa podcast with Scott Livingston released

May 6 LONDON + TS leave venue together in a white car + Scott spotted at Molly’s Pub and an Italian restaurant with family

May 7 – Scott at Oxbow public school in the morning + Tessa photoshoot for Saffron Road in the morning and co-hosting an event with Saffron Road in the evening (London)

May 8 – Tessa morning shoot for House and Home Magazine + announces endorsement for HelloFresh Canada. Tessa flew to Winnipeg in the evening + Scott spotted at restaurant in Winnipeg evening with SOI cast

May 9 WINNIPEG (TS and Patrick lunch at Stella’s Plug)

+ Scott attends a birthday party for Greg Kolz (photographer) (unknown if others are in attendance)

May 10 – TS spotted around Winnipeg with the cast morning + TS/Weapo spotted in downtown + Cast flew in the evening + TS spotted at the Rook and Raven Tavern in Saskatoon

May 11 SASKATOON (Boys breakfast together)

May 12 CALGARY

May 13 EDMONTON – Scott out with the boys at Sherlock’s Pub

May 14 – TS + Cast fly to Victoria and Scott at Irish Times Pub in the early evening

May 15 VICTORIA – TS spotted together (fan reports) she did not share pics out of respect for privacy

May 16 – Cast travels to Vancouver on ferry + TS dinner with Dominick Gauthier and Jenn Heil near Gastown

May 17 VANCOUVER + TESSA’s BIRTHDAY!! + Scott gives training advice in the morning at Burnaby 8 Rinks with theintelsc + Tessa and Scott take pics with a cake for Tessa from the bakery

May 18 – travel to South Korea

May 19 – practice for All That Skate

************ALL THAT SKATE Tour (May 20 - May 22) Mokdong, South Korea

May 23 – traveled at 4 am to Japan – practice later

************Fantasy on Ice Tour (May 25 - July 1st)

May 25 MAKUHARI

May 26 MAKUHARI

May 27 MAKUHARI

May 28 – Tessa posts about work out at Park Hyatt Tokyo

May 29 – Tessa does photo shoot for Vogue Japan in Tokyo (Scott met with her after shoot was done and looked over the pics)

May 30 – Scott (maybe Tessa) spotted travelling with the cast by train (Scott had her luggage)

May 31 – Tessa Scott Jeff and Javi out for Sushi in Kanazawa

(Vogue editor Nayumi Nakamura posts insta story having a meal with Tessa and Scott…date could be from May 29)

JUNE 1 KANAZAWA

JUNE 2 KANAZAWA

JUNE 3 KANAZAWA + travel to Belgium from Tokyo

June 4 – Tessa posts about eating ice cream + sightseeing with Scott in Antwerp

June 5 – Tessa and Scott out and about in Antwerp: visiting museums, sightseeing, shoe shopping, eating waffles,Tutu shop etc. + RELEASE of Tessa’s new H&B line + Thank You Canada Tour announcement

June 6 – Tessa and Scott out to dinner with trip guests

*************Gold Medal Plates Trip June 7 - 14, 2018****************

June 7 – Tessa napped before the speech (Scott texted back to Jen Reid) both gave welcoming guests + group dinner

June 8 – Scott bike tour around Antwerp + TS announce being advocates for #abusefreesport

June 9 – Morning visit to the market in Antwerp + Visit to the Passchendaele Memorial (dinner and concert)

June 10 – Tessa bike tour around Antwerp + Boat trip with music performances + dinner with GMP guests at Elfde Gebod

June 11 – Morning in Belgium Chimay Abbey tour (TS in forest pic) + bus trip to Reims, France + Tessa sightseeing churches

June 12 – Morning tour to G. Tribaut Champagne, France + dinner with guests

June 13 – Traveled to Japan from Paris – straight into practice in Kobe

June 14 – Practice day in Kobe

JUNE 15 KOBE

JUNE 16 KOBE

JUNE 17 KOBE ***<3 (fan reports they were out strolling holding hands at night near their hotel)

June 18 – Lunch with cast at Kobe Chinatown + sightseeing

June 19 – travel day to Niigata

June 20 – Tessa and Scott with Javi go out golfing in Niigata

June 21 – practice day

JUNE 22 NIIGATA + Tessa posts about eating together (pic of her with Scott and Javi but could be from the 20th)

JUNE 23 NIIGATA + Tessa out to dinner with Johnny, Miki, Anna and others.

JUNE 24 NIIGATA

June 25 – Tessa and Kat out for coffee + Tessa Scott Kat and Jeff dinner out in Tokyo

June 26 – Tessa and Kat out shopping in Harajuku + Scott and Jeff shopping nearby + meeting with Vogue Editor at Two Rooms Grill Bar + dinner with Kat and Jeff at Benkei Umi in the district of Ginza in Tokyo

June 27 – Tessa and Kat Bitove explore Happo-En park

June 28 – Tessa posts about Four Seasons hotel (along with Kat Bitove)

JUNE 29 SHIZUOKA

JUNE 30 SHIZUOKA

JULY 1 SHIZUOKA

July 3 – Tessa Scott Miki and Alojna go watch a baseball game at Tokyo Dome

July 4 – Tessa posts about playing golf in Susono-Shi Shizuoka

July 5 - Filming for Japanese TV + Practice for Dreams on Ice in Yokohama + Thank You Ilderton Party Announcement

************Dreams On Ice Tour (July 6-8) Yokohama, Japan

July 9 – Tessa and Scott back to Canada

July 10 - Tessa and Scott Thank You Canada Tour media day (Toronto)

July 11 – Tessa and Scott Acura West gala to introduce new model and support the Trauma Unit + Etalk appearance

July 12 - Tessa spotted Eddingtons of Exeter restaurant + Scott coaching in Ilderton

July 13-15 - Tessa at the DAMM family reunion (probably with Kate and Jordan)

+ Scott spotted at The Singing Chef of London

+ Scott gets a dramatic haircut

July 14 - Scott at farmers' market to give away tickets to locals for the Thank You Ilderton party

July 15 - Scott attends charity golf game (London)

July 16- 17 - Tessa at the cottage

July 17 - Scott spotted at restaurant (Toronto)

July 18 - Tessa and Scott film an episode of Mr. D (Halifax)

July 19 – Scott stops by skating rink to chat with skaters + attends dinner and meet and greet Team Jacobs Golf Tournament (Sault St Marie)

+ Tessa goes to Playa Del Carmen with Kat Bitove, Allie Grand, and Jessica Mulroney in a wedding related photoshoot (through July 22/23) (Mexico)

July 20 – Scott attends Team Jacobs Charity Golf Tournament (Sault St Marie)

July 21 -- Scott spotted at Moir's Skate Shop

July 23 -- Tessa and Scott announced as inductees to Canada''s Walk of Fame (to be awarded December 1)

July 24 -- Scott spotted at Ilderton Arena to give away tickets to locals for the Thank You Ilderton party

July 25 -- Tessa photoshoot (Toronto)

July 26 -- Tessa photoshoot for Adidas (Toronto)

July 27 -- Scott on radio via phone - The Taz show to promote Thank You Ilderton

July 29 -- Tessa at the cottage - her niece asked her to write, among other things, Tessa, Scott, nail polish and cupcake in the sand

July 31 -- Scott on radio via phone - The Dave and Rachel show to promote Thank You Ilderton + Tessa spotted in bookstore

August 1 -- Tessa posts a picture at a takeout restaurant and a bookstore

August 2 -- Scott roams Ilderton with his niece to award the winner of decorating for Thank You Ilderton and is photographed at the arena with a black eye (which he got playing softball)

August 3 -- Tessa posts a picture from the cottage

August 4 – Scott and Tessa // Thank You Ilderton Party & Parade

August 6 -- Tessa at the cottage + Hello Fresh fulfillment post

August 9 -- Scott at Quebec Summer Skate (through August 12) (Montreal)

August 11 -- Tessa vacations in France with Kate and Jordan (through August 26)

August 12 -- Scott is announced to be helping Polish ice dance team Plutowska/Flemin

August 13 -- Scott at Gadbois, helping coach numerous teams (through August 17)

August 17 -- Scott spotted out in Montreal

August 21 -- Anastasia Buscis' Player's Own Voice with Scott's interview is released (recorded weekend of July 20)

August 27 -- Tessa home in London, grocery shopping

August 28 -- Tessa and Scott go to Utah for Visa sponsorship commitment (through Aug 30)

September 2 – Scott’s BDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

September 5 -- picture posted of Scott in Florida (exact trip dates: unknown) + Tessa spotted for lunch with friends at The Bag Lady (London)

September 6 -- Scott Hamilton and Friends charity skate announced for November

September 8 -- Scott attends a wedding in Ilderton

September 11 -- Scott spotted in London

September 12 -- Tessa and Scott deliver a speech at Ivey Business School in London

September 13 - Tessa and Scott do a joint Hello Fresh promotion + do promotion for their new book

+ picture of Scott posted from Fitness Depot, presumably from when he was purchasing gym equipment for TTYCT (London)

September 14 -- Scott participates in the 'toba Cup, a charity golf tournament (near London)

September 17 -- Tessa and Scott in Montreal for TTYCT preparation

September 18 -- Tessa and Scott attend Soiree des Olympians (Montreal)

September 19 - Tessa appears on Marina Orsini promoting Nivea + Tessa, Scott and Sam outdoor filming for TTYCT

September 20 -- Tessa and Scott win Canadian Sports Awards for Performance of the Year and Partners of the Year (recorded speech)

September 21 -- Tessa and Scott announced as guest athletes on two future Great Kitchen Party auction trips to Mallorca and Newfoundland + Tessa attends dinner with BonLook

September 22 -- group rehearsals start for TTYCT

September 27 - media day for TTYCT + Tessa does a photoshoot for Adidas + Scott out to dinner with Andrew, Sam, and Marie-France

OCT 2 – BOOK RELEASE (official; copies were available mid-September)

+ Tessa out for very early yoga class with Kaetlyn and Meagan

*****************Thank You Canada Tour (co-produced by T&S)

OCT 5 ABBOTSFORD, BC

OCT 6 KELOWNA BC

+ Tessa has a commercial for The Brick air

Oct 8 - Tessa spotted at West Edmonton Mall with a friend going to the movies + Scott spotted at West Edmonton Mall shopping

OCT 9 GRANDE PRAIRIE, AB

October 11 -- Scott spotted at West Edmonton Mall shopping and observing Weaver/Poje practice

+ Tessa attends spinning class

October 12 -- Scott spotted at lunch at Joey Bell Tower (Edmonton)

OCT 13 PRINCE GEORGE, BC

OCT 14 DAWSON CREEK, BC

October 15 -- Tessa and Scott interviewed on Mandy and Tyler radio show

October 16 -- Tessa and Scott appear on CTV morning show via video to promote TTYCT in Regina + Tessa and Scott appear in Calgary to talk about the Olympics 2026 bid + Tessa does some 'incognito' promotion for their book at Chapters in Chinook

October 17 -- Tessa and Scott do a meet and greet for Canadian Tire (Calgary) + Scott spotted at restaurant

OCT 17 LETHBRIDGE, AB

OCT 18 RED DEER, AB

OCT 19 REGINA, SK

+ Tessa and Scott do early day press rounds to promote TTYCT

OCT 20 MEDICINE HAT, AB

+ Scott spotted outside arena with Andrew learning moves from Elvis

OCT 21 BRANDON, MB

October 23 -- cast stop in Minneapolis; Tessa posts photo of herself at a crosswalk

OCT 25 SAULT ST. MARIE, ON

+ Scott and Elvis spotted at Sault Ste. Marie shopping mall

OCT 26 SUDBURY, ON

+ Tessa and Andrew posed for a pic outside the arena

OCT 27 KITCHENER, ON

OCT 28 MISSISSAGUA, ON (2 shows)

October 29 -- Tessa and Scott attend GKP dinner in Toronto

OCT 31 BARRIE, ON

+ Tessa and Scott do an early meet and greet for Canadian Tire

NOV 1 OSHAWA, ON

NOV 2 SARNIA, ON

NOV 3 LONDON, ON

NOV 4 SAINT CATHARINES, ON

November 5 -- Tessa and Scott do a CTV takeover, co-hosting and guesting on CTV Your Morning, The Social, Etalk!, and Marilyn Dennis (Toronto)

November 6 - Tessa attends a Habitat for Humanity event + Scott attends a Maple Leafs game as part of Air Canada promotion (Toronto)

November 7 -- Tessa and Scott attend an Air Canada partnership event at Casa Loma (including Tessa's eyebrow raising photo impersonating Victoria Beckham) (Toronto)

NOV 8 KINGSTON, ON

+ Tessa and Scott attend a meal with family members of The Tragically Hip

NOV 9 PETERBOROUGH, ON

+ cast of TTYCT films interview for CBC about the tour, and their future plans (aired November 12)

NOV 10 QUEBEC CITY, QC

NOV 11 MONCTON, NB

+ Tessa and Scott win People's Choice Award for Most Hypeworthy Canadians (via pre-taped video)

NOV 13 SAINT JOHN, NB

+ Scott spotted at Britt's Pub and Eatery (Saint John)

NOV 14 SYDNEY, NS

NOV 15 SUMMERSIDE, PEI - tour stop cancelled due to weather

November 16 - Tessa does an Adidas promotional event (Toronto)

November 17 - Tessa and Scott arrive in Nashville for Scott Hamilton and Friends rehearsals

****November 18 -- Scott Hamilton and Friends Ice Show, and After Show Celebration, benefitting cancer research

November 19 -- Tessa and Scott teach at Scott Hamilton's Champs Camp

November 22 -- spotted at the airport on their way to Newfoundland (Toronto)

November 23 -- TTYCT cast out for dinner and drinks (Saint John's)

NOV 24 SAINT JOHN’S, NL (2 shows)

November 25 - Tessa and Scott spotted in Toronto (conflicting reports if it was at the airport or otherwise)

November 26 - Scott at the Ilderton Arena with young skaters

November 29 - premiere of Mr. D episode in which Tessa and Scott guest-starred (CBC)

November 29 - book signing (Toronto)

+ Tessa and Scott announce plans for another of their own tours in the fall of 2019 (no other Canadian tours for them that year)

+ Tessa and Scott attended Special Olympics Canada Awards 2018 (Toronto) (with Jackie, Scott's original ice dance partner also there)

November 30 - Tessa and Scott attend the Special Olympics Canada Limitless Gala + attend Canada's Walk of Fame event

December 1 -- Tessa and Scott inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame (Toronto)

December 2 -- television premiere of The Thank You Canada Tour (CTV) postponed

+ Scott with Steve Mignardi (CSOI and TTYCT driver) celebrating's Steve's granddaughter's birthday + spotted at Bulldog Pub (Oshawa)

December 4 -- Tessa and Scott keynote speakers for Hope in the City luncheon (Victoria)

December 5 – Tessa and Scott keynote speakers Hope in the City breakfast (Vancouver)

December 6 -- book signing/conversation (Vancouver, 2 locations) + taped an interview with CBC q

December 7 -- Tessa and Scott attend a Visa holiday party (Toronto)

+ Tessa's commercial with Becel and Habitat for Humanity airs

December 9 -- Canada's Walk of Fame airs (CTV)

December 10 -- Tessa has a 'top secret' shoot + returns to Montreal for Nivea production

December 11-13 -- Tessa Nivea commercial shoot

December 13 -- CBC q interview airs

December 14 -- CSOI 2018 airs on Radio-Canada

+ Scott in Dominican Republic with Jackie (and through at least December 15)

December 15 - Tessa attends a Nivea event at Elora Apothecary Pharmasave (Elora, Ontario)

December 16 -- Tessa posts a picture from Elora Mill

December 18 -- social media photo of Tessa posted at her mom's house

December 19 -- podcast with Scott on Inside Sports with Reid Wilkins and guest host Kaetlyn Osmond (at time of recording he was in Tampa, Florida)

+ Tessa's photoshoot for Wedding Vacation Magazine comes out

December 20 -- CSOI 2018 airs on CBC

+ Tessa and Scott named as CBC Athletes of the Year

December 21 -- Tessa spotted at Chapters bookstore

December 22 -- Tessa posts a brand thank you from her London home and an outdoor photo of herself

December 24 -- Scott attends annual Christmas Eve workout at Revolution Conditioning (London) (Tessa 'likes' the group photo posted) + Scott spotted at Masonville mall + Tessa posts about her partnership with Habitat for Humanity/Becel

December 25 -- Tessa posts one of her Christmas trees and a childhood photo

December 26 -- Tessa posts about relaxing at home (London)

December 28 -- Tessa and Scott named Canadian Press Team of the Year

December 30 -- Scott spotted on London to Toronto flight (assumption he flew out of Toronto to Florida for New Year's Eve)

2019

January 3 -- Tessa posts from home (London)

January 4 -- Tessa posts from the cottage (Bayfield) (through at least January 5)

+ Tessa has dinner with a friend from her Saffron Rd. photoshoot

January 7 -- Tessa spotted travelling by plane

+ Scott spotted in Florida (known via very controversial pictures) (PSA: don't be a stalker)

January 8-13 -- Tessa in New York with Kelly playing tourist and doing a photoshoot

January 11 -- Tessa spotted at a spin class (New York)

+ Scott spotted at a restaurant (London)

January 14 -- Tessa and Scott do a photoshoot (Toronto)

January 16 -- Tessa posts about Moir's Skate Shop helping her get new skates

+ Tessa attends a CanSkate class to watch her niece (Komolka)

January 18 -- Tessa does a photoshoot (London) + posts about watching Canadian Nationals (also on January 19)

+ Scott with Patrick, Liam Firus, and Manuel Osborne-Paradis (Whistler, BC)

January 19 -- Scott appears in IG stories snowboarding with Jackie and friends (Whistler)

January 22 -- Tessa posts a photo of herself at a barre class (Detroit)

January 24 -- Tessa does appearances with Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau for Fillactive/Fitspirit as the 2019 ambassador (Toronto)

January 26 -- Tessa posts about a project being filmed with a childhood friend, Katie

January 28 -- Tessa's podcast for Her Mark airs (taped November 9, 2018) + Tessa posts photos from home for Nivea

January 31 -- Tessa does a radio interview (TSN) and a TV appearance (CP24) for Adidas She Breaks Barriers (Toronto)

February 1 -- Tessa attends Motionball Gala (for Special Olympics) (Toronto)

February 2 -- Tessa posts herself on a train (presumably going back to London)

February 5 -- Tessa attends a SpinCo class + Tessa at Westside studio + Tessa attends Toronto Fashion Week David Dixon show in support of osteoporosis (Toronto)

February 6 --- Tessa at Easter Seals Rogers Conn Smythe Sports Celebrities Dinner & Auction and gives a speech (Toronto)

February 7 & 8 -- Tessa films for her partnership with The Brick (Toronto)

February 10 -- television premiere of The Thank You Canada Tour (new date) + photo released from January photoshoot promoting TTYCT2

February 11 -- Tessa announces partnership with Air Miles Canada and does numerous interviews (television and radio) highlighting Valentine's Day + pre-tapes interview for the 1 year anniversary of their PyeongChang gold medal (Toronto)

February 13 -- Tessa donated two costumes for charity auction benefitting London Abused Women's Centre + eTalk airs new segments on Tessa's July Mexico trip with Jessica Mulroney

February 17 -- Tessa at fellow ice dancer Lewis Gibson's 9am spin class (Montreal)

February 18 -- Tessa in studio (voiceovers?) for Nivea (Montreal)

February 19 -- Tessa posts a boomerang with Scott recreating their Sympathy for the Devil opening choreography + Scott does an interview with Leafs Nation Network (coming soon) + Tessa and Scott attend a lunch with supporters of Air Canada Foundation (Toronto)

February 20 -- one year anniversary of PyeongChang Olympic gold medal celebrations from Tessa, fans, and media + profile piece on Tessa regarding post-Olympic struggles released by The Walrus + Scott breaks social media hiatus to post an Olympics anniversary thank you to their team + Scott spotted at Moir's Skate Shop (London)

To Be Continued in the Post-One-Year Anniversary timeline

#timeline #(I can't promise I'll keep up with this faithfully)#(but anyway it's updated for what we know)#(please let me know if there are major errors LOL)

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virtuemoirdailynews · 5 years

Text

Post-PyeongChang Timeline #03

Carried over from the original creator and curator, @balletfever89. Links to her original Post-Sochi timeline and her Post-Comeback timeline, as well as the original version of this timeline, Post-PyeongChang. Some of the dates may be slightly off, as I’m looking backwards at blogs instead of keeping up as things happen.