I just had the pleasure earlier this month of spending a few days in both of the above mentioned cities. I realise in some circles Canadians refer to Toronto as Canadas version of NYC and I would like to add a few points I noticed about both cities. Please be aware that I am just a little biased as I really don't like Toronto that much.
First I'll add some points on NYC.
1. Manhattan was clean!
It's been over 20 years since I was last there and I couldn't beleive the difference since the last time.
2. The cost for any "touristy" outings was extremely reasonable. The truly expensive things in NYC were food and drinks. Unfortunately I've become used to eating at least a couple of times a day so I spent a bit more on food than I originally planned for.
3. Transit is cheap, and covers every inch of Manhattan. Subways run every few minutes and cabs are everywhere.
4. People were friendly and helpful
Again I was shocked.
Now Torontos turn.
1. TO was not clean, and the downtown had some strange kind of funky smell. All in all not that pleasant.
2. Prices in Toronto were expensive, end state. But I don't really blame TO, it seems to be a Canadian thing to over-charge for whatever we can get away with.
3. Transit wasn't bad but due to the size of TO versus NYC it seemed we spent more time in transit then we did enjoying ourselves.
4. People were mixed. Some friendly, more not. It seems Torontonians don't wan't to get involved to such an extent that answering simple questions is beyond their tolerance levels.
Toronto did have some good things, I enjoyed the science centre and there was a good selection of restaurants but overall the cost was alot higher than NYC for less return. I also find Toronto really didn't push the history of the city whereas NYC constantly reminded you of...
[ Continued ]
September 2008