Toronto's Chill Vibe: Budget Student Edition
this place... yeah. it's... there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. i just checked and it's... there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. layers are your friend, but honestly, the vibe is more about embracing the damp. if you get bored, hamilton or niagara falls are just a short drive away. someone told me that the local coffee shops are hit or miss, but the one near the university is decent. i heard that the hostel near the train station is super sketchy after dark, but the free walking tours are gold if you're on a budget. check out the st. lawrence market for cheap eats - the peameal bacon sandwich is a must, even if it's just for the story. the weather feels like it's trying to remind you you're alive, in the best possible way.
*gear list for surviving toronto's mood swings
- a thermos that doesn't leak (because coffee is life, and you can't afford to lose it)
- a scarf that doubles as a blanket (because why not?)
- a map that's not digital (because sometimes you need to get lost)
- a good book (for when the wifi fails)
- a sense of humor (mandatory)
overheard gossip
"i heard the park near the university is haunted by a student who died studying for finals. don't go there alone at night. or maybe that's just drunk advice. who knows?"
free things to do
- wander the st. lawrence market (no money needed, just people-watching)
- check out the royal ontario museum's free admission days (if you're into dinosaurs and weird artifacts)
- sit by the harbourfront and watch the boats (and maybe a seagull steal your lunch)
where to crash
- hostel world has some decent deals if you book early (but read the reviews first - someone told me one place has bedbugs)
- airbnb can be hit or miss, but the ones near queen street are usually lively
food for the broke
- the beef on weck at the market is legendary (and cheap)
- try the dim sum at the asian market (it's a whole experience)
- don't even get me started on the pizza slices from the corner shops
related links*
- budget hostel guide
- free toronto activities
- local food blog