Toronto Review

I asked for Toronto recommendations a couple of weeks ago and wanted to thank everyone for their feedback!

My husband and I went to the CN Tower and Casa Loma, both of which were great. The day we went to the CN Tower it was very windy, so the outdoor observation area and the Sky Pod were both closed, but the view from inside was still worth it, even on a fairly gloomy day. Casa Loma is beautiful and an easy way to spend a few hours, at least. I highly recommend both attractions!

We tried to visit Steam Whistle Brewery, but their tours are first come, first serve on the weekends and seem to sell out around 2pm. We got there at 3pm. During the week they take reservations, which would be the preferable route.

Food-wise we checked out Ichiban Sakura for sushi (it wasn't bad, but it wasn't exceptional), Beer Bistro for apps and beer (my husband was pleased with the beer, the food didn't blow us away), Pizzaiola for pizza (incredible! and cheap!), and Hot House for lunch (meh - I'm sad we missed brunch, since that's what gets all the rave reviews). We ordered in late night from Pizza Pizza one night and it was standard takeout with a bonus of poutine, so it got a thumbs-up from me. We also hit G for Gelato one night and the gelato was tasty, and the hot chocolate great to fight the cold.

We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in downtown and the place is great. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the free breakfast is incredible (eggs, meats, pancakes, bagels, muffins, cereal, fruit, juices, cinnamon rolls - this isn't just a continental breakfast!), and the location is absolutely idea. It was nice to be able to walk so many places. 

City parking is difficult and expensive, but that's standard for any city, of course. Pedestrians don't seem to pay any mind to the cars, which as a driver, is frustrating. They just walk willy-nilly. I swore we were going to hit someone.

The Toronto airport is total chaos. It's such a major international hub that it's just heaving with people. When I landed on Friday evening I spent 45 minutes in the customs like and another 30 minutes in the line to exit the baggage area. By the time I got out of there I was ready to lock myself in a dark room by myself just to chill out.

Sorry if this is all disjointed! I don't think I've ever posted a trip review here, but since I'd asked for advice from you folks I felt like I should at least follow-up and give feedback. Thanks again for the recommendations!