I spent a weekend in Toronto last week and as a realtor on the move I tend to notice the little things that most people onn vacation don't pay attention to while away from home. It was my first trip there and I came away from there very impressed with several things. First, the cleanliness of the entire city and roadways. I figured that going into it Toronto would look like any other American city, but far from it. It is indeed a lot like attending the olympics as everyone and everything is represented.
What stuck out aside from the cleanliness were the sheer number of people on bicycles. They are everywhere. I surmise it is either because they are staying in shape, saving money on gas, which is $5. a gallon by the way, or it's just plain easier to get around. Transportation from what I could tell was not an issue. In addition, there is an electric tram on the road and a subway underground. Nobody should have any excuse for not being able to get around.
I also noticed the sheer ethnic diversity of the entire city. It seemed like everyone was represented. I heard everyting from Chinese and Korean to English and Arabic. This made for some amazing meals I might add. Then there were all of the cranes dotting the skyline. Everywhere you look condos were going up. Is there a housing shortage there? I can't recall even seeing a single single family home either. Perhaps they are in the suburbs, but in town all you have are condos and townhouses. The architecture is absolutely amazing and use of brick is consistant. All of the condos had great views of Lake Ontario and the park as well.
The architecture of the city, and I've never been to England, but it did look a lot like it has a lot of British roots with all of the old buildings and churches. And finally, the sports. Unlike other American cities, Toronto has it's pro soccer, baseball, hockey, and basketball team arenas all within what appeared to be about a one mile radius and all centrally located downtown.
Outside of New York City, this is about as lively and exciting a city as one will ever see. I came away with a fantastic sense of awe after my visit and with an overwhelming curiosity as to it's housing market. Perhaps I found the hidden gem by accident?
Don't forget to follow me...
Comments(1)