Are you coming to the joint MLA/CHLA/ ABSC/ICLC Meeting – Mosaic, in Toronto this May, or thinking about it?

Here is some handy information about Toronto to tempt you!

Toronto is well-known as a mosaic of heritages and peoples.  Priding itself on being one of the most multicultural cities in the world, the mingling of unique communities into its “big picture” has generated a wonderful energy within the city.  Reflecting this diversity, according to the 2011 National Household Survey, out of approximately 5.5 million Torontonians responding, almost 43% reported speaking a language other than English or French in their homes (Source: Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 National Household Survey, Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 99-010-X2011031).

Multicultural Toronto is not easily divided into ethnic neighbourhoods but there are locations where you may experience the energy that is quintessential Toronto.  We encourage you to not only attend Mosaic ‘16 but to experience Toronto’s multicultural mosaic by visiting some of these neighbourhoods known for culture, cuisine, community and character.

Here are some interesting notes about just a few of Toronto’s unique neighborhoods.  

Baldwin Street:  Through different times in this street’s history it has been home to Toronto’s Jewish population, American war resisters, and immigrants from around the world.  Today it is a cozy and eclectic mix, one of the most pleasant places for a stroll.

Downtown Chinatown:  With a mixture of Southeast Asian influences from Chinese, Thai, to Vietnamese to Cambodian, this area is known for its many cuisines.  It is one of the larger Chinatowns in North America.

Greektown: Known to be the second largest Greek community outside of Greece and the largest in North America, it is “the” place to listen to Greek bands, spend time at a sidewalk cafe, and experience authentic Greek cuisine. It was originally established as a small community in 1907.  

Kensington Market: Kensington Market is many things -  bohemian, counter-culture, gritty, and close-knit. It also houses many modestly priced high-quality restaurants.  Known as one of the best street markets in North America.

Koreatown: A relatively young neighborhood, Koreatown offers shopping at high-end Korean fashion boutiques, acupuncture clinics, and authentic restaurants knowns for generous portions of Korean comfort food.

Little India: North America’s largest South Asian market.  It is a high density neighbourhood  of shops with all the latest in Indian fashion, jewelry, art, cinema, and cuisine. Also known as Gerrard Bazaar, it is home to immigrants from all over South Asia.  

Little Italy: Check out traditional Italian trattorias, enjoy an espresso on an outdoor cafe, hit one of the nightclubs or take in pool halls. The neighborhood is a busy and vital area. Although more Portuguese according to demographics now, it still holds a truly Italian vibe.

Old Town: Of significance as a historical area dating back to the early 19th century. Check out Old Town for a taste of Toronto’s historical beginnings. It contains the Distillery HIstoric District where Victorian-era spaces have converted into restaurants and galleries.

Toronto’s neighborhoods celebrate the city’s distinct style and flair. To find out more, see “Toronto Neigbourhoods” on the Official Website of Tourism Toronto at http://www.seetorontonow.com/explore-neighbourhoods.

(Source: Official Website of Tourism Toronto: http://www.seetorontonow.com/explore-neighbourhoods)