I was lucky enough to be invited on a short trip to Toronto recently. It was my first time flying with Air Canada and I have to admit, I was most impressed, the seats in economy were some of the comfiest I have sat in and the legroom was exceptional. The trip was smooth and as we landed in Toronto; the excitement just grew.
We took the Up Express from the airport to the main train station which was such a cost-effective and convenient way to travel into the centre of the city. As we came out of the station across the road was the stunning and grand Fairmont Royal York hotel towering meters above the street. As you were greeted by the smartly dressed doormen, I knew that experience of this hotel stay was not going to disappoint. The grandeur yet comforting feel of the lobby was spectacular and having stayed in multiple hotel chains; this was by far the best bed I have ever slept in; it truly felt like I was floating on cloud nine.
The following morning after a filling breakfast which had everything clearly marked for all those with dietary requirements. We went on a Treasure hunt around Toronto using an app called Clue Solvers. It was a first for me to complete a treasure hunt around a city; however whilst solving the riddles and finding clues you learnt all about the arts, culture, history, entertainment, architecture and sport of the city. We then had free time where we went and had a well-deserved coffee and some retail therapy before heading back to the hotel to get ready for our evening.
We were lucky enough that night to dine in The CN Tower, sitting over 1,150 feet above the stunning ground of Toronto and whilst the 360 restaurant slowly turns as you are dining; you get the full view of the sunset and as the night elopes the city; the twinkling lights dance beneath you. A truly remarkable experience and one I would highly recommend. Toronto is one of the cleanest, safest and most friendly cities I have visited and I will certainly be heading back again.
On day 3 we checked out of the Fairmont Royal York and headed over to Nigara on the Lake. Imagine a Hallmark Christmas movie town and that is exactly what this tiny and quaint town looks like. The shops were quirky and not full of traditional souvenir tack you can sometimes see in these tourist stops. Lunch was remarkable at an independent restaurant using fresh and local produce; all helped along by some local white wine as well. Niagara peninsula is Canada's largest and most concentrated wine-making region and the wines certainly are exceptional. However due to the activity which was planned for the afternoon only one glass was consumed.
Transferring from Niagara on the Lake past the stunning and large homes which you could only dream about living in; we finally arrived at the Helfi-Hagen Terminal for Niagara Helicopters. Having never been in a helicopter and not being the most confident flyer; adrenaline started kicking in and knowing that the first sight I was going to get of Niagara Falls would be from the sky was just unimaginable. I cannot fully explain the feeling of being up in the air and seeing the falls come into view and it is not something I think pictures do justice either. But if you ever go to Niagara you must do this experience as it is truly breathtaking.
After our feet touched the ground we were then whisked away to our hotel for the evening. All I can say is if you ever go to Niagara Falls; you must stay in the Marriott on the Falls as every room has a Falls view and the pure joy and amazement when you walk into your room and see this stunning natural wonder of the world; it is just priceless.
On our last day in Canada, we checked in at Niagara City Cruises and took a Voyage to the Falls, now when they say you are going to get wet; they are certainly not kidding, do not bother about doing makeup or your hair and make sure you have a change of clothes because even under the poncho you certainly get an accelerating cold shower to wake you up and refresh you. The laughter you hear from the boat as you get closer to the Falls; just puts a smile on my face now thinking about it. Again, another experience I would highly recommend. The one thing that shocked me most about Niagara Falls was how different it was; along the front obviously, the main attraction is the Falls and the river and then as you look behind you it is almost like looking at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It is certainly an area that in my opinion I would only stay there for one night and for the benefit of seeing the falls and doing the attractions in relation to this.
Travelling over to Ontario with First Class Holidays was an amazing experience and I can see why they are known as the operator of choice for Canada. I would certainly recommend to anyone who is looking for a 4-night break to consider going further afield and visiting Toronto and Niagara Falls. I am already planning my own trip back.
