Impressed…. was how I felt when leaving the airplane. My first time in Business Class, the great service and how rested I felt. Basically ready for a new day. Next to the unexpected high temperature the Canadian border security also positively impressed me. Without any waiting lines I was able to scan my passport, get a ticket and get questioned by a customs officer who actually was very friendly. After collecting my suitcase, I was off using the UP Express to downtown Toronto. This took me less than 20 minutes.
The second new experience I had planned for myself was an Airbnb. The cost of a proper hotel in downtown Toronto during this week is sky high! I selected a place where I have my own bedroom and bathroom within the downtown area. The lady who rents out the place was very proactive on communication before my arrival and provided lots of valuable tips coming into the city. The pictures she had shown on her page looked promising and the recent reviews she had received were all overly positive, so I should be fine.
Once I arrived, sweating (because I thought it was a great idea to walk fully packed) the hostes openend the door. She was in an online meeting so she briefly showed me my room and told me that she would be ready in 10 minutes. Please take a seat outside, catch your breath, make myself comfortable and enjoy the view.
In the middle of downtown Toronto and what a view (see picture).
Before going into Toronto I had reached out to two of colleagues that are based in Toronto and invited them for dinner and some drinks. I therefore had little time to really get to know my host as I seriously needed a shower and get ready to move to the bar on the other side of the downtown area.
Our meeting point was the Distillery Historic District. The place where art, food, drinks and people become one. It was a great experience to meet-up with the two co-workers, have a couple of drinks, enjoy a fantastic dinner at Madrina and talk different things. From kids, to health and ofcourse about the company we all work at.
After the final beer we all went our ways and informed my host that I was on my way “home”. I silently entered the home, went to my room and slept like a baby for almost 8 hours….. My first impression of Toronto is very positive and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.