Competition in Toronto’s ridesharing market is really starting to heat up. Where Uber formerly held onto an almost-complete monopoly, other services are beginning to enter the fray and take Uber’s crown.

A new service to Toronto, Taxify, seeks to do just this.

Pavel Karagjaur, spokesperson for Taxify, says the service wants to “disrupt a monopolistic position of a single player in the market and bring fairer conditions for the drivers, and as a result offer the best service in the city.”

The company, based out of Europe, is currently seeing success in many cities around the world, including Cairo, Baghdad, Mexico City, Prague, Vienna, and others.

The service aims to be fairer to drivers and customers than its primary competitor. For example, they are attempting to offer lower commission rates to drivers than Uber does. The rates vary depending on the city, from about 10 to 20 percent. 

Karagjaur says the Toronto team is currently working with local drivers to get a better understanding of the city's market. After some final meetings in November, the service should be up and running shortly after.

With services like Taxify, Facedrive, and maybe one day Lyft (but who knows on that one), Uber's crown in Toronto might be in danger.

The 2017  holiday season will be arriving in style next month when a very special train comes to town: THE RAVE TRAIN!

Just kidding. To the best of my knowledge, rave trains don't exist (though that would be pretty cool). What you're seeing in the photo above is the festive and delightfully flashy CP Holiday Train.

Canadian Pacific just released the schedule for its colourful Christmas train's 19th annual tour – and this year, they say it'll be even more spectacular than usual.

A post shared by CP Holiday Train (@cpholidaytrain) on Dec 6, 2016 at 5:05pm PST

"The 2017 edition of the Holiday Train also concludes CP's Canada 150 celebrations," reads a press release about the 2017 program. "The Canadian train will feature the Spirit of Tomorrow car, which was part of the Canada 150 Train this past summer."

Two trains will be travelling across Canada and the U.S. beginning on Saturday, November 25, hitting a total of 182 communities across the continent.

Toronto will see the train on November 28 from 8:30 - 9 p.m. It'll stop at ​750 Runnymede Road in front of Lambton Yard, and everyone in the city is invited to attend.

Santa's sleigh is flying through the sky tonight! #MerryChristmas @neil_zee @mymodernmet #CPHolidayTrain #GiveBack #HealthyDonations

A post shared by CP Holiday Train (@cpholidaytrain) on Dec 24, 2016 at 5:44pm PST

The event, which features live musical entertainment, is completely free, but CP is encouraging people to bring canned goods or cash donations for local food banks.

"The Holiday Train program is all about local food banks and food shelves and the critical role they play in our communities," says CP's Keith Creel.

"People come for the beautifully-lit train and stay for the incredible show – all in the name of community."

Hamilton waterfalls are the ultimate day trip destination from Toronto. It's really quite amazing that a city that's so long bore the nickname Steeltown is blessed with some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. There are over 100 waterfalls to explore here, from the thundering variety to those which are delicate and secluded.

Here are my picks for the top waterfalls to check out in Hamilton.

Sherman Falls

You'll have to do a bit of a hike from the parking lot to get to this tiered waterfall, but it's totally worth it. Not only is it scenic, but the falls are sublime. Descending  from a height of 17 metres, the flowing curtain peeks out of the woods as you approach alongside Ancaster Creek.

The stunning cascade effect at Albion Falls. Photo by Megan Lorenz.

Albion Falls

You'd need to travel a long way beyond Hamilton to find a cascade waterfall as beautiful as this one. Safety concerns have reduced access to the foot of the falls, but the viewing platforms sill make for excellent photo opportunities of this natural wonder.

The photo ops are endless at Tiffany Falls. Photo by Nicoli OZ Mathews.

Tiffany Falls

Tiffany Falls might not be the tallest waterfall in Hamilton at 21 metres, but surrounded by thick forest and rocky crags, it looks every bit like the quintessential natural setting. This is amazing spot for ice climbing in the winter. 

It's a 41 metre drop from the top of Tews Falls. Photo by Phil Marion.

Tews Falls

This is the tallest waterfall in Hamilton, with a drop of 41 metres (which is second only to Niagara Falls in Ontario). The flow of the waterfall can decrease significantly in the late summer, but even when it's only a trickle, the ribbon effect is dazzling. 

Lower Chedoke Falls is just part of the beauty of this waterfall system. Photo by Jose Tadena.

Chedoke Falls

There are two parts to Chedoke Falls, both of which are stunningly beatiful. The upper portion is a 18 metre ribbon waterfall that flows into a cerulean basin, while the lower portion is a six metre cascade waterfall that makes for amazing long exposure photographs.

Bernie Sanders is coming to Toronto, and people are really excited. Well, they were excited until today.

Tickets went on sale today at 10 a.m. and sold out in a matter of seconds.

Woke up early this morning to purchase tickets to see @BernieSanders in Toronto and tickets got sold out within 0.2 seconds! I want to meet Bernie so bad! I'm so sad I won't be able to! pic.twitter.com/XfxLM9RjT7

— Arushana Sunderaeson (@ArushanaS) October 20, 2017

Whether there were any ticket-bots in effect is unknown, but people are definitely upset.

Recently, the provincial government has been attempting to crack down on these ticket-bots, especially after huge concerts sold out similarly in record time.

@BernieSanders can you add another speaking engagement for your toronto dates? Tickets were sold out before I even knew you were coming here

— Chanty (@Chanty58984387) October 20, 2017

Sanders’ event ran out of available tickets very quickly, perhaps as a result of admission being free and only requiring you to register.

BYE @ the Bernie Sanders event in Toronto selling out in 0.2 seconds

— SpencerHigdonMcGreal (@Spencer_HM) October 20, 2017

The former presidential candidate is coming to talk about healthcare in Canada, and what the United States should learn from it.

Tell me how these @BernieSanders tickets for his talk @UofT went faster than @Drake's OVO tickets..... #toronto

— Aanchal (@aanchal_) October 20, 2017

It’s possible some of us may need that free healthcare too, particularly after our stress levels reach maximum height when trying to get tickets online.

Fortunately, the event will be livestreamed. 

Unfortunately, the event sold out in 1 minute, and there are no tickets left. We will be livestreaming on Facebook -- hope you'll join us.

— Broadbent Institute (@broadbent) October 20, 2017

Surprise, surprise. There's a streetcar problem in Toronto. 

In what comes as a shock to absolutely nobody, the TTC has caused a massive headache for commuters this week. 

From Oct.15 to Nov. 6, 501 Queen will divert via Spadina, King, Church due to track work at Queen and McCaul. Visit TTC.ca for more details! pic.twitter.com/dvFPyzhlUL

— TTC Customer Service (@TTChelps) October 16, 2017

After being reduced to buses all summer, the 501 Queen streetcar is once again receiving a major disruption. The intersection of McCaul and Queen is currently under construction, causing the streetcar to divert down to King from Spadina all the way to Church. 

There were no streetcars on Queen all summer @JohnTory. Seems good opp to do mccaul work instead of shutting down the route again

— George James (@gjamespr) October 17, 2017

People, of course, are not happy about the issues. 

The 501 streetcars are the most inefficient mode of transportation around the city of Toronto. Bring back the buses! I never had to wait 20 minutes for a bus! #ttc

— Michelle McCann (@PhraseMe) October 17, 2017

These types of disruptions in the system can cause bunching, where multiple streetcars or buses begin to pile up. This can result in a series of vehicles arriving at a stop at the same time, while the rest of the line waits enormously long times for their ride. 

Good morning Heather, I do apologize 501 is prone to bunching currently due to the several diversions on route. ^RA🚀

— TTC Customer Service (@TTChelps) October 17, 2017

It's not difficult to feel bad for the poor person who has to run the @TTCHelps Twitter account during these types of outages. 

Hi Mully, there's a lot of construction going on there at the moment which is having an effect, we appreciate your patience.

— TTC Customer Service (@TTChelps) October 18, 2017

The intersection will be closed for the construction from October 15 to November 6.

Love it when there's a Queen streetcar diversion and there's 3 times as many people on my route. For three weeks! Gah!!!

— shawna eh. (@electricHOMEGRL) October 17, 2017

Hopefully the city will remain sane. Or, perhaps this is the final nail in the coffin that will break us. 

Your drinks is about to be a whole lot spookier this Halloween. 

The Alley, a popular bubble tea cafe that just opened a new location near Yonge and Wellesley, is now serving a special Halloween drink in blood bags.

Dubbed "Antler DNA" (based on the cafe's logo of a deer's head), the drink is made to represent blood. 

A post shared by Utura (@utura.eats) on Oct 20, 2017 at 4:04am PDT

But don't worry, it's actually just a fruit tea. The cafe is more interested in serving treats than tricks this Halloween. 

If you want to feel like a vampire this Halloween season, the blood bag Antler DNA is available through the end of this month. 

Toronto's AYCE food scene just got better. Gyubee, which opened in Markham last year, just opened a second location in the Annex today.

Their menu includes a wide array of meats and other offerings, from beef to shrimp, tofu and squid. 

Some items are already made, while others you cook yourself at the table, as per traditional Asian BBQ restaurant style.

Unlike other Japanese BBQ restaurants in Toronto like Gyu-Kaku the meal here is all at a set price for anything you want to eat so come hungry.

The new location is at 335 Bloor St. West. near Spadina.

Leslieville and Riverside really excel at brunch. Both neighbourhoods come alive when offers of fried eggs and fresh pastries are on the table. Lineups are common at some of the most popular spots, but easily avoidable with an abundance of backup options that don't disappoint.

Here are my picks for the top brunch spots in Leslieville and Riverside.

Bonjour Brioche

The scent of buttery pastries baking is a seductive force at this Riverside brunch haunt. You'll find the place bustling on weekends as family and friends congregate over sweet and savoury tarts and plates of smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and rosti potatoes.

White Lily Diner

Near Queen and Broadview, this charming spot is serving up elevated diner classics. Get full English breakfasts, smoked fish platters and messy Reuben patty melts. If looking for something boozy they also do DIY mimosas.

Lady Marmalade

Weekend brunch crowds swoon over Moroccan scrambled eggs, build-your-own-bennies, and a.m. poutine built on hash browns and smothered with cheese curds and hollandaise or miso gravy. Be sure to visit the Leslieville spot before it makes the move next spring.

Okay Okay

Settle into a booth at this cozy diner for all-day breakfasts including three different takes on eggs Benny that forgo English muffins in favour of hash browns. Those who like to start the day with something sweet should opt for the Elvis is King toast.

The Green Wood

Peameal eggs Benny, salmon rosti, and delectable French toast are top food offerings for brunch at this Leslieville spot. In addition to classic brunch fare, they offer kale-infused Caesars .

Chula Taberna Mexicana

If you're looking for a Mexican twist on your morning staples a visit to this restaurant on Gerrard East is in order. There are benedicts made with avocado and pico de gallo, huevos rancheros as well as chorizo breakfast burritos. 

Hastings Snack Bar

Polish breakfasts are served Thursday through Sunday at this tiny luncheonette. The Eastern European morning meal starts with a pair of farm fresh eggs served with a parowka (Polish wieners), fried potato pancakes, and fresh rye bread with butter.

The Peasant Table

You could go the sweet or savoury route at this Riverside restaurant, where the brunch menu offers profitteroles filled with chantilly cream, frittatas with wild boar meatballs, and steak and eggs with smashed potatoes.

Maple Leaf Tavern

The Leslieville restaurant comfortably seats over 130 so head over with a large group. For brunch they serve a menu featuring boozy cocktails, tasty toasts and buttermilk waffles.

Bunny's

Brunch is served during the week and weekends at this Leslieville destination. Take down offerings of smoked brisket hash, breakfast tacos and buttermilk pancakes. 

Toronto bikes rides don't always have to be a battle for road space with cars. Along with our extensive bike path and off-road trails system, there are places throughout the city that are ideal for just riding a bike. These routes will keep you mostly clear of vehicles while showing off what a beautiful city Toronto is. 

Here are a handful of bike rides that'll make you fall in love with Toronto (again). 

The Martin Goodman Trail

Hands down, this is the best bike ride when you need a dose of Toronto beauty. Start/finish at the Humber Bay Arch Bridge or just west of the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant and cover most of the city's waterfront on a scenic path with very little on-road detours. 

Rosedale Valley Road to Bayview

There are few streets in Toronto that rival the beauty of Rosedale Valley Road, which cuts southeast across the city under a dense canopy of trees. Once you get to Bayview, you can take the new Multi-Use Trail to the Lower Don Trail.

Mount Pleasant Cemetery

With undulating terrain that's as serene as it is pretty, the grounds of Mount Pleasant Cemetery are excellent for leisurely riding and exploration of Toronto's history. From the Eaton family mausoleum to that of Captain Fluke, this is the perfect spot for a contemplative ride.

Leslie Street Spit

Although it's technically only open on weekends, the Leslie Street Spit is one of Toronto's idyllic places to ride a bike, as it jut out into the harbour offering sweeping panoramas of the skyline and the Islands. The spit isn't particularly long, but you can do it multiple times.

Cherry Beach to Sunnybrook Park via the Don Valley

Toronto's paved trail system is at its finest along the Don Valley, where it meanders alongside the river from the Port Lands and then under the Bloor Viaduct until you eventually reach E. T. Seton Park, where the road widens and you can fly towards Serena Gundy and Sunnybrook parks. 

Toronto most recognized spots for fall colours are certainly beautiful, but they can also get annoyingly busy during peak foliage season. Fortunately, there's an array of places just off the beaten track that are also stunning in autumn and well worth a visit if you're looking to do some leaf peeping without negotiating the crowds. 

Here's a few underrated spots to check out fall colours in Toronto.

Craigleigh Gardens Park

A mere kilometre from the Brick Works is Craigleigh Park, a peaceful 3.4 hectare reserve filled with greenery. When the seasons start to change its tree canopy is one of the most beautiful in the city. From the park, you can then hike along scenic Milkman's Lane, which is also beautiful.

Hinder Property

This ravine area near Bathurst and Sheppard is home to a secluded hiking trail that cuts through a large wooded area that bursts with colour by mid October. Despite its proximity to Earl Bales Park, this stunning area is rarely populated. Spend a day alone among the leaves!

Chatsworth Ravine

This ravine just south of Yonge and Lawrence is a hidden gem. It may not have the grandeur of Moore Park or Glen Stewart, but it looks mighty fine dressed up in fall colours and is wonderfully quiet compared to the go-to spots around town.

Guildwood Park

At Guildwood Park you'll find much more than just greenery. Among its trails and trees there are architectural gems from historic Toronto buildings that were demolished. The place takes on an almost eerie beauty at the peak of fall when the ruins are covered in falling leaves.

Windfields Park

This former farm site offers 31 hectares of green space in the Bayview and Lawrence area. It boasts 15 bike trails as well as outdoor fitness equipment, making it ideal for those who want to view the fall colours while staying active (it really kills two birds with one stone).

It's surely one of the nerdiest bits of Toronto trivia, but those who know about Toronto's appearance in the 37th episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation tend to view the occasion with a sort of pride that outweighs the actual significance of the event.

For the uninitiated, the story goes like this. While investigating the loss of a Federation ship whose computer began to strangely malfunction, the Enterprise stumbles upon a probe sent from an alien race known as the Iconians. Soon Captain Picard's ship also starts malfunctioning.

In an effort to investigate, Picard, Data and Worf travel to Iconia to see if they can uncover something that will help them solve the problem. While there, they uncover the key to the Iconians' sophistication: they possess the technology to travel through space via portals.

While the Enterprise away-team investigates a remaining control centre on the deserted planet, they discover one of these portals. As it cycles through gateways to other planets, Nathan Phillips Square appears as one of the options.

It's a somewhat bizarre choice, but also completely fitting.

Why fitting?

Because the architecture of Viljo Revell's City Hall is made for a Star Trek episode. One can imagine that under the control of the Federation, this particular brand of futuristic modernism would be the chief architectural style adopted for Earth.

Even if this episode was made in 1989, the creators knew they needed an urban scene that would match the aesthetic of the show.

Who knows how many American viewers recognize the building when it appears? I'm not sure that's the point, though. It's the architecture itself that's being heralded here, not the building's location in Toronto or its status as our civic headquarters.

It was also fitting because Toronto was a town that was cuckoo for Star Trek. From massive conventions to community access TV, this city loved the adventures of the Federation, and in particular The Next Generation (TNG) series.

City Hall's cameo is a brief one, happening twice in a five minute span of the episode before the control centre is set to self destruct and the crew use the portal to escape from the Iconian Homeland.

It's probably one of the geekiest chapters in Toronto television history, but I still remember the silly excitement I felt when I first saw it while watching TNG re-runs.

If only Picard had taken the portal to Toronto. Now that would have been an historic episode.

Places to get your makeup done in Toronto can help make a look, especially thanks to HD cameras and well-meaning beauty vloggers, who make us think overdrawn lips are easy to pull off. For special occasions, photo shoots, or simply to up your own cosmetics game, it's a good idea to turn to the pros.

Here are my picks for the top places to get your makeup done in Toronto.

MYNC Beauty

With three locations around the city, Mync is your reliable one-stop shop for lashes, brows and makeup application. They offer a variety of full looks like "Pink Lady" (girl next door vibes) "Happy Hour" (Saturday night fierce) and "The Manhattan" (Old Hollywood) – all for just $40 a pop.

Schulz Beauty

This relatively new makeup studio in King West specializes in "enhancing your everyday gorgeous glow." Owner Jennifer Schulz was one of Vancouver’s top makeup artists before moving, and now she makes ladies look flawless in the 6ix – airbrush foundation, contouring, and all.

MAC

There's a reason this world-famous, Toronto-born cosmetics brand has such a cult following, and products are only part of it. MAC artists are top-of-the-line talented. You'll find them working at fashion shows or on film sets when they're not in-store getting customers on trend. The company's motto? "All Ages, All Races, All Genders." 

Kirsch Cosmetic Studio 

Excellent prices and a teen-friendly atmosphere set this North York cosmetic studio apart. First time mini makeup lessons for girls 13-18 are just $45, and a dedicated "camoflauge" class teaches participants how to use makeup with conditions like vitiligo, hyper pigmentation, and rosacea.

Eye Love Beauty Bar

Best known for her brow consultation and shaping, owner Mary Dang also offers bridal makeup, red carpet glamming, and personal makeup tutorials ($75 for eyes, $150 for the full face.) Customers are encouraged to bring their own supplies for lessons to help them learn.

Sephora 

Best known for its massive selection of trendy, high-end cosmetics, Sephora also has a robust "beauty services" team that hosts free workshops on everything from winged eyeliner to "no-makeup makeup." Purchase $50 worth of stuff at the Eaton Centre store and you can book a complimentary, 45-minute-long custom makeover.

Radford Makeup & Hair Studio

You'll feel like a celebrity when you visit this beautifully-designed salon in the heart of Yorkville. Owner Victoria Radford used to tour with the Black Eyed Peas and is a noted pro when it comes to skincare and cosmetics. You can get your makeup done in-studio for as little as $65 with a junior artist, or $155 by Radford herself.

Blush Pretty

This Toronto beauty boutique boasts more than 20 experienced, professional artists across its three locations, which is awesome if you need to book in quickly. Bridal styling is their bread and butter, but they also do special events and two-hour-long, customized makeup lessons.

Canadian Beauty College

If cash is a concern, consider the Yonge & Eglinton medi-spa clinic run by this private cosmetology college. You can get a full, basic face done for as little as $15 by an intern, and senior artists are available starting at $25. Peep Instagram to see what kind of talent you'll be getting for just a fraction of the price you would pay post-graduation.

Civello

This popular Toronto salon brand is best known for its hair services, but many locals swear by Civello's makeup artists for bridal looks and customized makeup lessons. All four locations are Aveda salons, so you can rest assured that your look will be natural and fresh.

Seafood restaurants in Toronto are as plentiful as the yield of a good catch. Whether you want to splash out at a fine dining establishment, feel like a baller taking down a tower of shellfish, or simply enjoy a lobster roll at a fish market, these seafood purveyors have got what you need.

Here are my picks for the top seafood restaurants in Toronto by neighbourhood.

Bayview & Leaside

It seems like seafood chain The Captain's Boil is everywhere these days including on Bayview. Go here to get down and dirty with your seafood as it gets boiled with spices in a bag. Bibs are provided. 

Distillery District

Whether looking to knock back a couple Malpeques, slurp up a seafood chowder, or dive into a bowl of steamed mussels, Pure Spirits Oyster House is the place to go when dining out on shellfish in this historic neighbourhood.

Dundas West

Ufficio is an Italian restaurant with a pescetarian menu. Forget meatballs, this place offers a menu free of meat products but heavy on vegetables and seafood.

Eglinton West

While some may argue the steak is the star of the menu at the House of Chan it's the seafood that may be that much more impressive. This is where to get Alaska king crab legs and fresh lobster in this 'hood. 

Seafood platters don't get much more epic than the one at Lbs. Photo by Derek Flack.

Financial District

The epic yet pricey Poseidon Platter at Lbs. is what seafood lovers dreams are made of. Lobster, crab legs, clams, oysters and octopus come beautifully presented on a tower of ice. It's almost too pretty to eat. 

Junction

Honest Weight is a fish shop and restaurant where the daily catch inspires the menu. Look forward to a glass of wine while dining on seafood okonomiyaki, mahi mahi ceviche, and steamed clams and mussels with bacon.

King East

Pearl Diver has been winning over seafood fans on Adelaide East for years. Go for the oysters but stay for the cured fish platters, grilled whole fish and Caesar cocktails made with fresh clam juice.

Oysters are the perfect start to your meal at Rodney's Oyster House. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

King West

Rodney's Oyster House is an institution where fresh oysters share the menu with boiled and cracked lobsters, dungeness crab, and seasonal specialties.

Leslieville

Eastside Social channels the East Coast with convivial menu of coastal fare including clam chowder, salmon tartare, fish tacos and more.

Little Italy

For valet parking and white table cloth fine dining head to Chiado, an upscale Portuguese seafood restaurant where sardines are served raw or grilled, and entrees include piri piri glazed monk fish.

Mount Pleasant

Start with crustacean cocktails, crudo or ceviche at Zee Grill before moving on to mains like spice crusted ahi tuna or Peruvian fish stew.

You can never go wrong with the cod at Nome Izakaya. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

North York

Just steps away from Sheppard subway station, Nome Izakaya serves up seafood delicacies like oyster platters, assorted sashimi, and marinated black cod.

Queen West

Fresh Off The Boat makes an excellent lobster roll overflowing with succulent picked shellfish in a buttered split-top bun. Also noteworthy is the deep fried softshell crab sandwich which will draw you in with its come-hither claws.

Richmond Hill

Beyond dim sum, Yu Seafood serves a variety of sushi and seafood including a decadent Sashimi Platter and impressive Crispy Garlic Hong Kong Style Lobster.

Scarborough

If you're looking for jaw dropping platters of king crab and lobsters look no further than Fishman Lobster Clubhouse. These mountains of seafood are not only flooding Instagram feeds but they also taste delicious.

Lobster is overflowing on Buster's Sea Cove lobster roll sandwich. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

St. Lawrence Market

Buster's Sea Cove is a popular lunch counter found against the southern wall on the main floor of the historic market building. A must try item is their lobster roll, it's one of the best in the city. 

West Queen West

Go raw or baked with the oyster selection at Oyster Boy, or opt for mains like the pan seared arctic char and crab and bay scallop pasta.

Yonge & Dundas

Hong Shing Chinese Restaurant is your destination for spicy deep fried shrimp and fresh lobster in a green onion sauce at any time of day. No really, they're open until 5 a.m. on weekends.

A squeeze of lemon is the perfect addition to your meal at Mermaid Fish and Grill House. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Yonge & St. Clair

Whether you want your fish fried, grilled or with lemon and garlic, Mermaid Fish and Grill House is your spot.

Yorkville

Josh's has been a mainstay on Davenport since the '70s. The menu draws inspiration from the Dalmatian coast offering standouts like insalata di mare, fisherman style shellfish risotto, and whole grilled calamari.

The $500,000 home still exists in Toronto, but it's generally quite small, and it almost certainly won't be in the neighbourhood of your dreams. If half a million dollars is what you're working with, and you're dead set on avoiding condos, your options right now include a lot of two bedroom bungalows on the outskirts of town.

Here's what a $500,000 house looks like in Toronto.

$549,000 in Oakridge

Just steps from The Danforth, this well-maintained starter home appears to be quite the value buy. It's fully detached, has 2+1 bedrooms, a finished basement, and sits on a huge lot. If you can deal with the tiny rooms, you'll be getting quite a bit of backyard space at a very good price.

$499,900 in Mount Dennis

This recently renovated single-family home is described as a "precious jewel," and at less than 500 grand, it just might be. The house has a relatively large back yard and plenty of natural light. The walk score is pretty low at 73, but the house comes with three parking spots and a private driveway.

$509,000 at Jane and St. Clair

Tiny as it may be, this Rockcliffe-Smythe house has 9 foot ceilings, a private balcony off the master bedroom and a shed in the backyard. If outdoor space is important to you, it's worth checking this one out. It's also just steps from the TTC. 

$509,000 in Pellham Park

This semi-detached home has the nicest interior of any property on this list, with hardwood floors, a finished basement and a sunny master bedroom. It's also rare to see a walk score of 93 at this price point. The catch? It's literally almost touching the auto shop next door.

$549,000 in Eglinton West

Four bedrooms, two bathrooms and four parking spaces on a quiet, one-way street within steps of a grocery store, a dollar store and Canadian Tire. How? Well, this house is being billed as a "fixer upper" and sold in "as is" condition. If you're into home renovations and stuff, this could make for a fun (and eventually lucrative) project.

The strangest streets in Toronto are ones you might stumble upon and feel like you were in some different city, temporary lost while still broadly at home. They're not the ones with the weirdest names or necessarily filled with random odd houses, but in terms of general ambiance, this collection will thoroughly defamiliarize you.

Here are my picks for the strangest streets in Toronto.

Craven Rd.

You have a fence on one side, a mess of old and new homes on the other, and just that vibe, that weird vibe that is Toronto at its most odd and wonderful. No one planned this place; it built its character over time. Craven Road might be the most interesting street in Toronto.

Redway Rd.

Head down this hidden hill that terminates at an old sewage treatment plant. It's best at night in the fall when cars kicks up the leaves strewn across the road and headlights illuminate the tree canopy. This is one of the hardest hills for cyclists in Toronto.

Wellesley Cottages

One of Toronto's prettiest cul-de-sacs, Wellesley Cottages is strange for its beauty and history. Entering the place is like walking into a time warp. This little community near St. James Town is a collection of workers' cottages that have been immaculately preserved. Exploration is discouraged because the lane is private property.

Blackburn St.

I love Blackburn St., but it has this profoundly unfinished feel to it. Overlooking the Don Valley and a Toronto Hydro substation, the houses here are a smattering of old cottages and anonymous new structures. The hodgepodge character here is everything that most Toronto streets are not - and the complete opposite of planned developments.

Convair Dr.

Curling around Pearson Airport, Convair Dr. has a unmistakably mysterious feel to it. Everything feels forbidden here, from the old security gates to the ILS equipment at the side of the road. The road cuts across airport property, but is open to the public. Just don't park here.

If you’re looking to do some sightseeing out of the city this fall, this Ontario town might be a great choice.

Ontario is full of towns that call back to European architecture and culture, as they’ve done a great job of keeping the heritage in place after many years.

The perfect example is Goderich, nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Huron.

Goderich Beach, located on the shores of Lake Huron. Image by RichardBH. 

Goderich has been called “the prettiest town in Canada,” and rightfully so. From the stunning beaches, to the historic buildings in perfect shape, it offers visitors an endless amount of beauty to see.

The Goderich Lighthouse is a popular site for visitors. Image by cmh2315fl.

Founded in 1827, the town predates Canadian Confederation. Its European history is visible across the area, highly visible in architectural style.

One of the many historic buildings in downtown Goderich. Image by jofo2005.

One of the town’s proudest icons is The Square, a traffic circle downtown that is home to the county courthouse. This traffic circle is actually an octagon that was built in the mid-19th century and continues to stand today. The Square is encircled by quaint shops, local restaurants, and an art gallery.

If you’re interested in seeing The Square, the courthouse, or any of the other historic buildings (and there are plenty!), there are self-guided tours available across town.

The Huron County Courthouse, located in The Square in Goderich. Image by cmh2315fl.

A charming day trip into the town wouldn’t be complete with a stop at one of the many restaurants Goderich has to offer. West Side Willy’s is a local favourite, and offers the “rockstar burger,” which has an interesting combination of cheese, peanut butter, and a deep-fried pickle for the adventurous.

After that, take a hike out to the Menesetung Bridge, which will give you a stunning view of the fall colours just outside of town. The former railway passage has been converted to a foot path to give visitors a breathtaking view.

A view of the Menesetung Bridge. Image by Margaret Bourne.

The historic Goderich Gaol (jail) is another option for those who love history. This National Historic Site is where the last public hanging in Canada took place, and offers visitors a look into the history of its prisoners and punishments. The Gaol only stays open until the end of October, so it might be worth a trip this weekend.

An aerial shot of the uniquely-shaped Gaol in Goderich. Image from huroncountymuseum.ca. 

If you’re looking to get out of town this fall, don’t miss a chance to spend some time in a quiet recluse on the beautiful shores of Lake Huron. You’ll be happy to see the stunning fall colours in a town known for its foliage and natural beauty.

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon returns October 22. Along with tremendous feats of endurance, the event will feature major road closures all over the city. Over 25,000 people are expected to participate this year, completing everything from the full marathon to 5K runs.

Here's what you need to know to navigate around Toronto on marathon day.

Course map

Whether you're a runner in the marathon or an eager spectator of the annual event, the map below details all the route info for this weekend. You can find a high resolution version here.

Spectator areas

While you can watch the run from vantage points all across the route, if you're looking for something a bit more festive, there are 12 designated neighbourhood and cheering entertainment sites throughout the course:

• University of Toronto (after 2.5K) from 8:50 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
• Alexandra Park (after 5K) from 8:55 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
• Liberty Village/King West (after 7.5K & 17K) from 8:05 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
• Swansea/Bloor West/High Park (after 12.5K) from 9:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Parkdale/Roncesvalles (after 11K & 14K) from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
• Harbourfront (halfway) from 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Corktown (after 26K & 39K) from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
• Cabbagetown (after 25K) from 9:55 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• GreekTown (after 27K & 38K) from 10 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.
• Leslieville/South Riverside (after 30K & 35K) from 10:10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• The Beach (after 32K & 34K) from 10:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
• St. Lawrence (after 41K) from 10:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There will also be bleachers set up at the start/finish line near Nathan Phillips Square. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Road closures

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon has more road closures than any event in the city, but fortunately for people making their way around downtown, many of them will be lifted by late Sunday afternoon.

Key areas of the run will, however, be closed from Saturday to Sunday evening. The chart below offers an overview of all the closures.

For more detailed information consult the official Toronto Waterfront Marathon website. There's also an interactive map that some might find useful for tracking participants and charting road closures.

Free events in Toronto this week include a Halloween night parade, a Day of the Dead celebration, and the final Pedestrian Sunday of the year.

Thanks to the geography of the areas surrounding Toronto, ours is a city that boasts striking views from over 50 kilometres away in multiple directions. The iconic CN Tower-anchored skyline can be viewed from various points across Lake Ontario but also the Niagara Escarpment to the northwest.

It's tough to pick a favourite angle, though it's worth noting that the view from Grimsby offers a rather remarkable example of the Earth's curvature, where the bottom half of the Rogers Centre sits out of view (if you climb up the escarpment, it mostly comes back).

Naturally the type of lens one uses to capture the distant skyline determines the perspective it's shown in. Telephoto lenses visually compress space, so with a little foreground and a central object that's far away, one can create the illusion that Toronto is much closer than it really is.

But really the key to all of these photos, whether zoomed in or out, is the CN Tower. Naturally it's the most recognizable structure in any skyline photo of Toronto, but when one is shooting from 50+ kilometres away, the unmistakable shape of it never fails to pull the photo together by proving a focal point.

In the absence of this landmark, we'd hardly know what we were looking at.

Photos

Toronto from from Caledon by Iain Bell.

The skyline in the distance from Mount Nemo. Photo by Alex Meoko.

Toronto from Vineland by Derek Flack.

Toronto from Caledon by John Church.

Toronto from Grimbsy by ethervizion.

Toronto from Grimbsy (closer view) by Stephen Hutchinson.

University buildings in Toronto run the gamut from internationally recognized structures to infuriatingly confusing labyrinths. Yet, all of them hold dear memories of stressful all-nighters and impossibly long lectures. And, despite our complaints, even our most derided campuses are turning the corner towards sunnier architectural days.

Here are my picks for the best and worst university buildings in Toronto.

Best

Student Learning Centre (Ryerson)

The recently opened Student Learning Centre (SLC) puts Ryerson right on Yonge Street and provides the campus with much needed study space. The eight-floor building features an amphitheatre, a green roof and an even an indoor beach (check out the sixth floor if you have a OneCard). The New York Times also spotlighted it earlier this year.

OCAD's Sharp Centre for Design is one of Toronto's iconic structures. Photo by Scott Norsworthy.

The Sharp Centre for Design (OCAD)

While some say it looks like a high school on the inside, the exterior of this award-winning OCAD building is visually stunning. Located on McCaul Street, it's instantly recognizable for its pencil crayon stilts and tabletop design.

The Bergeron Centre is a central piece of York's architectural renaissance. Photo via YAS Architects.

Bergeron Centre (York)

This recent addition to York University might just signal a renaissance for its Keele campus. Inspired by natural objects, such as clouds and rocks, the minimalist, open-concept building was designed by ZAS Architects and Interiors. It's now the school of engineering's new home.

You won't find many athletics centres better equipped than the Pan Am Sports Centre. Photo via the City of Toronto.

Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre (U of T)

Built for the Pan Am/Parapan Games, this 312,000 square foot facility is jointly owned by the City of Toronto and U of T. It features two 10-lane, 50-metre pools, a climbing wall, gym and conditioning centre, a field house and a track. It's safe to say that behind the Canary District, this is one of the best legacy projects from the 2015 Games.

Being a U of T student has its perks. Case in point: the Goldring Centre. Photo by Marcus Mitanis.

Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport (U of T)

With a 2,000-seat field house suitable for court sports such as basketball and volleyball, this new athletic centre is open to the U of T community and the public alike. It features a gym and fitness studios along with a sports medicine clinic and research labs.

Academic buildings don't get much nicer than the Terrence Donnelly Centre. Photo via U of T.

Terrence Donnelly Centre (U of T)

This glass tower stands in stark contrast to many of the other buildings that dot the University of Toronto's St. George campus, but in a good way. Along with its impressive physique, the Donnelly Centre is an open-concept space that's responsible for world-class research in the STEM fields.

The Schulich School of Business ushered in a new era of architecture at York. Photo via York University.

Schulich School of Business (York)

In 2003, Hariri Pontari Architects designed a brand new home for York University's prestigious business school and won the Governor General's Award for architecture in the process. The 340,000 square foot building houses Schulich's many programs and also features a hotel for "select clientele and guests."

Worst

If you've ever wanted to enter a Kafka story, just head to Kerr Hall. Photo via the Wikimedia Commons.

Kerr Hall (Ryerson)

Even seasoned Ryerson students get lost in Kerr Hall because the massive building is a veritable maze. Its classrooms are either too cold or too hot and the lineup at the second floor Tim Hortons is always way too long.

The Ross Building is a Brutalist throwback that doesn't get much love. Photo by Lori Whelan.

Ross Building (York)

This behemoth of a building at York University is also extremely difficult to navigate, especially for first year students. Ross is stunning example of the Brutalist architecture that once dominated the Keele campus. It's so ugly that Vari Hall was built at least partially to cover it up.

The 1970s are alive and well at the Ryerson Library. Photo by  Brian Cameron.

Ryerson Library/Podium Building (POD) (Ryerson)

Don't even bother trying to take an elevator at the Ryerson Library; they're always over-crowded. While the Librarians are always helpful, the building is usually over-heated and you're pretty much guaranteed to bump into someone on the awkward zig-zagging staircases. That said, POD now has The Hub cafeteria, which is awesome.