Issue 032
December 2007
Visit the cosmopolitan city of Toronto, and you’ll quickly discover why it’s considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities. With the diverse population conversing in 85 active languages, Toronto is a city where over 80 cultural and ethnic communities come together to create an incredible mosaic of differences.
With such an amazing array of people converging in one city, it’s easy to find nearly anything and everything you could possibly want or need – any type of food, entertainment or cultural experiences you can think of – Toronto’s got it!
Fights
One thing that has been noticeably missing from Toronto – and the entire Province of Ontario – is the sport of MMA. Banned by the Ontario Athletic Commission and the Criminal Code of Canada (although it’s somehow legal in other areas of the country, including neighbouring province Quebec), participating in an MMA event in Ontario is considered an illegal act – and those caught in the act can be charged with ‘prize fighting’. Constant work is being done to change this situation though, and hopefully things will change in the near future.
Training
The lack of MMA events in Ontario has not deterred those committed to practicing and training in their sport of choice. MMA training facilities in Toronto and the surrounding area have been growing and developing at a great pace, moving the sport from fringe to mainstream, and putting added pressure on the Ontario Athletic Commission to initiate change in the legalization of MMA events.
Toronto BJJ
(813 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Phone: 416-744-6868, Web: www.torontobjj.com)
Located in the heart of the city, and easily accessibly by public transit is the Chute Boxe and Saulo Ribeiro-affiliated Toronto BJJ. Complete with over 3000 square feet of mat space, an octagon, boxing ring and workout area, Toronto BJJ is a great facility for anyone from hobbyist to professional. Coaches include Chute Boxe representative Mauricio Veio, Canadian Olympic wrestler Ainsley Robinson and BJJ black belt Kareem El Sayeed. Guest instructors frequently stop by, and seminars are regularly held with some of the best instructors from around the globe – the most recent visitors include Saulo and Xande Ribeiro, and Bibiano Fernandez.
M1 Thai Boxing System
(410 Chrislea Drive, Unit 10, Vaughan, Ontario, Phone: 905-856-6902, Web: www.m1thaiboxing.com)
If you are looking for some of the best Thai boxing instruction in the city, M1 is the place to go. Located about 20 minutes north of Toronto, M1 offers authentic Muay Thai classes for everyone from beginners to advanced, and there is even a by-invitation-only fighter’s class. Personal training and nutrition guidance are also available with qualified professionals. BJJ classes have also been introduced so students are able to cross-train their ground and stand-up game in one school.
Xtreme Couture Gym
(Location to be announced, Web: www.xtremecouture.ca)
The newest addition to the Toronto fight scene is the Xtreme Couture facility. Due to open their first Canadian location in Toronto’s east end in the very near future, the Couture gym will be modelled on the existing Xtreme Couture facilities throughout the United States. Xtreme Couture hopes to expand their reach across the entire city by opening two additional facilities – one in West Toronto, and one centrally located – soon after their first establishment is opened.
Where to stay
Hotel, motel or hostel, Toronto’s got it all, in any price range that suits your budget, and any style that caters to your tastes.
Fairmont Royal York
(100 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Web: www.fairmont.com/royalyork)
If you’re looking for luxury, this Toronto landmark may just be what you need. The Royal York is located in the centre of the downtown core, and has been a recognizable presence in the Toronto skyline since 1929. Spectacular rooms, platinum service and a prime location in the middle of all of the action are the main draws of this lavish establishment.
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
(21 Avenue Road, Toronto, Ontario, Web: www.fourseasons.com/toronto)
Centrally located, the Four Seasons is the choice accommodation for Hollywood’s who’s-who during their stay in the city. It’s the perfect spot for ‘star-spotting,’ especially during the Toronto International Film Festival each September.
Gladstone Hotel
(1214 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Web: www.gladstonehotel.com)
Want something a little different? Check out the unique Gladstone Hotel. Enjoy relaxing in one of the 37 artist-designed theme rooms. Stay in Room 302, “The Biker Room,” Room 309, “The Puzzle Room,” or Room 405, “Parlour of Twilight,” or choose another theme to transport you to another time, place or state of mind.
Where to eat
Along with the many different cultures in Toronto comes an incredible selection of authentic food from around the world. Anything and everything you could possibly be craving is available for you somewhere in the city. But sometimes, you just want some simple home cooking.
Kubo Radio
(894 Queen Street East, www.kubo.com)
Canada’s first Asian pub serves up authentic Asian lunch, brunch and dinner selections, along with a cold Asian beer or Sake Martini.
The Real Jerk
(709 Queen Street East, Web: www.therealjerk.com)
First opening it’s doors in 1984, The Real Jerk hit the city with a fresh and authentic Caribbean flavour. The restaurant is renowned for its Jerk Chicken, Oxtail, Jerk Ribs and Roti. Reggae music sets the mood from the moment you walk through the doors.
Fran’s
(20 College Street, Web: www.fransrestaurant.com)
This 50’s style diner opened over 60 years ago and has not lost any of it’s original charm throughout the years. Open 24-hours, it’s become somewhat of a Toronto landmark, and is a favourite for those late-night party-goers or for anyone with a craving for a hamburger and French toast at 5 a.m.
Nightlife
Toronto has got a very vibrant nightlife – and even when the weather outside turns cold, the clubs stay hot, hot, hot! Just take a walk down Richmond Street and through the Entertainment District to see how endless your clubbing choices are! Rock-out at Republik, or dance it up at Metro, just across the street. If you want to keep the party going after-hours, head over to The Guvernment to experience seven clubs under one roof, each with a different look and sound.
Sights
There are a few must-see attractions that any Toronto tourist should visit. A trip up the elevator in the CN Tower will give you a great view of the city – and when you come back down the elevator you’ll be travelling in goes at the same speed as a raindrop! You could even take a day trip to Niagara Falls (about 45 minutes out of the city) and enjoy this awe-inspiring natural wonder or just take a stroll around downtown – there’s always something to see and do.
Shopping
Shopaholics rejoice! You’ll find an incredible selection of shopping choices, from the unique one-of-a-kind shops along Queen Street, to the vintage finds in Kensington Market, and the 5-storey Eaton Centre Mall, stretching two full city blocks.
How to get around
If you’ve decided to stay downtown, getting around using public transit is easy – and usually faster than driving! An intricate subway, bus and streetcar system will get you where you need to go – and many bus and streetcar lines run 24-hours. Taxis are also an option, but the fare can add up quickly if you’re stuck in the infamous Toronto traffic. Staying outside of the city limits? If public transit doesn’t reach your area, a car rental may be your best option for getting around.
How to get there
Toronto has two airports, with the majority of flights landing at Pearson International Airport on the outskirts of the city. Some chartered flights are available to the Toronto Island Airport, but they are pricier and you’ll have to catch a ferry to get back to the mainland.
When to go
Toronto’s weather ranges from frigidly cold from December through February, to swelteringly hot in July and August. Spring and Autumn are typically milder, but can be quite unpredictable.
