Flying out of town at all this summer? You could be waiting on the tarmac for a lot longer than usual, I'm afraid, thanks to a shortage of customs agents.

You can thank U.S. President Donald Trump for that. 

The Globe and Mail reports that border personnel are being pulled out of Toronto and transferred to Quebec, albeit temporarily, to help guards there deal with "a significant increase in the number of refugee claimants" from the U.S. 

According to the RCMP, more than 7,600 asylum seekers have been caught illegally crossing the Canada-U.S. border this year alone — three times the amount we saw at this time last year — and many more are expected once the school year ends.

Quebec has received 96% of asylum seekers making illegal crossings so far in 2018: The RCMP's latest figures indicate 7,612 people entered Canada outside official ports of entry during the first four months of 2018. More than 7,300 of them crossed from… https://t.co/e9hzVsblfJ

— OnTheGroundNews.ca (@OTGNCanada) May 14, 2018

Most of these people are coming through Quebec, leading to an overload at the province's two main processing centres for asylum seekers in Montreal and Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle.

Thus, border agents from Toronto are being moved to Quebec for four-week-long gigs, leaving Pearson International Airport — the country's busiest airport — seriously understaffed. 

An Air Canada memo obtained by The Globe reveals that pilots have been told "they may not be able to unload passengers immediately on international and trans-border flights on the tarmac because of CBSA staff shortages."

Sent on May 7, the memo includes an announcement to be read by pilots while passengers are on the tarmac:

"Customs is currently dealing with a staff shortage and the custom hall is at capacity. The GTA airport authority has therefore asked that we delay the fight and remain on board."

All but one of the low-rise 19th century buildings on the corner of Shuter and Mutual streets will soon be torn down to make way for a new condo. 

The single remaining building at 79 Shuter, built in 1879, is the only low-rise of three that meets Toronto's criteria for a heritage-designated building. 

Though it's actually the newest building of the bunch, it will be the only one semi-preserved in the construction of the incoming Garden District Condos, a proposed 32-storey development by Hyde Park Homes and The Sher Corporation. 

Designed by architectsAlliance, the glassy condo will transform the skeleton of 79 Shuter — which sits directly at the intersection's corner — into the building's residential lobby, incorporating its facade as part of the three-storey tower podium. 

The Garden District condos will rise 32 storeys.

Along with five tw0-storey townhomes with private entrances, Garden District Condos will stretch from 79 to 85 Shuter Street and will feature 251 suites.

They will predominantly be one-bedrooms, with one quarter being two-bedrooms and ten percent being three-bedrooms. 

The older low-rises at 81-83 Shuter and 85 Shuter Street — built as long ago as 1864 — were originally intended to be listed on Toronto's Heritage Register by City Council in 2017.

But according a Toronto Heritage Impact Statement by architectural firm GBCA, excessive restorations using modern materials in the past have "reduced the historical integrity" of the buildings, making them unfit for historic property designations. 

Events in Toronto today see Ontario Place opening for the season with a weekend of free activities, the first Waterfront Artisan Market of the year and Artfest in the Distillery. It's also the last day of the city's newest fashion and art showcase outside City Hall.

Celebrate this Victoria Day long weekend with fireworks, food and (oh, yes) free parking. Parking on the street will be free all day this holiday Monday.

Now, it's important to note that this does not apply to parking lots, but to street parking only. And only on Monday.

Technically, according to city bylaws to do with parking on holidays, "Payment for parking is required 365 days a year...there is no exemption from the requirement to pay for on-street machines and meters on statutory holidays, however Toronto Police have the discretion to enforce the payment requirement."

This means that the Parking Enforcement Unit of Toronto Police Services has decided to not enforce pay parking regulations on the street for Victoria Day, nor any parking rules that specifically apply to Mondays.

Pay and display parking metres will still be functional, so be sure to pocket your parking change. 

You won't be ticketed for not paying at the parking meter, nor will you be ticketed for idling on routes that are normally no parking zones during the weekday rush hour.

Of course, this isn't a complete abandonment of all parking rules. So, don't think you can be parking in front of fire hydrants or people's driveways.

Area rugs and carpets in Toronto come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Whether your budget allows for a hand made creation or a simple machine-made solution to your flooring needs, Toronto's rug retailers don't disappoint.

Here are my picks for places to buy rugs and carpets in Toronto.

EQ3

With two locations in Toronto, — Liberty Village and King East — this furniture store offers rug and carpeting options in a number of different sizes and colours at price points that won't break the bank. Check out their Marimekko selection for uniquely Finnish textiles. 

CB2

This grand furniture store sits pretty on the southeast corner of Queen and Bathurst and plays host to a selection of rugs and carpets, suitable for those on a tighter budget. 

Carpet Mill

In the same strip mall as the No Frills at Gerrard and Carlaw, this place has been around long enough to see more than a few trends come and go. This is a place to get basic carpet for your floors or entrance ways cut to your specific requirements.

Allan Rug Company

This family-owned business in the Castlefield Design District has been in operation for over 50 years. Prices are reasonable for the area and there's a large selection to choose from including both pre-designed hand-knotted or machine-made piece. 

Ikea

Everyone's favourite place to buy inexpensive furniture also offers an array of rugs and carpets at prices that might be the cheapest on this list.

West Elm

With two locations in Toronto, Midtown and Liberty Village, this American-based furniture stores offers contemporary rugs in a range of sizes.

Are & Be

This purveyor of modern floor and wall coverings in the Annex offers unique pieces for those looking for something in a higher price bracket. They're open on weekdays by appointment. 

JMD Rugs & Carpets

This carpet store in the Castlefield Design District literally has thousands of items to chose from. They've got handmade rugs, area rugs, runners and so much more on offer, in both traditional and modern styles. Prices are reasonable.

Weavers Art

This showroom on Castlefield Avenue carries a huge collection of contemporary, transitional, oriental and Persian rug designs. They're also able to help out with custom projects with a team of designers on deck. Bring your credit card as prices here are steep.

Elte MKT

While their sister-store Elte has a wider selection, the prices at this more contemporary offshoot are more affordable. There's an impressive array of classic and modern rugs here that their sales team will gladly help you flip through.

Pick-up basketball in Toronto is one of my favourite summer activities, so it's a good thing there are plenty of courts to play on in Toronto. For those looking for a competitive full court game or a free hoop to challenge a friend, there's something for everyone.

Here are my picks for some of the best places to play pick-up basketball in Toronto.

Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre 

This court near Queens Quay West and Bathurst is arguably the most popular spot in the city to play pickup basketball. There's an intensely "basketball only" vibe and it's also well-maintained with enough hoops to practice on, if you're a little intimidated by the level of play on the main court. 

Regent Park Athletic Grounds

This facility near the intersection of Shuter and River streets has a well-maintained outdoor court to shoot hoops on and, if you ever want to switch up the game, there's also a great multi-purpose outdoor field where you can kick a ball around. 

Christie Pits Park

The energy at these courts is just as competitive as it is down by the lake and there's usually various levels of play. If there's a downside it's that there aren't as many hoops, so waiting times can sometimes be lengthy and the courts can be particularly packed during the summer months.

Dufferin Grove Park

The hoops and nets are well taken care of here and those who are nervous to join in need not worry, this Dufferin and Bloor spot sports a wide range of basketball ability and a very friendly atmosphere. More often then not you can join in on a game that has already started or join up with others waiting for a hoop to open up.

Hoop Dome

This isn't a free outdoor spot but it is one of the best places to go in the city for some pickup basketball inside. This Downsview Park fave sports 4 full size courts and 3 "cages" where players can gather for some pickup play that simulates the inner city feel inside the facility. Playing a game costs $13.75. 

Cooper Koo 

Now a YMCA but formerly a training facility for the Pan Am Games,this  Canary District athletic centre has great facilities and a well-maintained indoor court. 

Sorauren Park

Sometimes you can tell a great pickup spot simply from the appearance of the court. The hoops and court at this spot near Dundas West and Sorauren are usually in fairly good shape. The demographic here is a mix of adults and high school kids so the level of competition tends to vary. 

Confederation Park

While it may be out of the way for the downtown crowd there's almost always a basketball game going on at this court near the intersection of Ellesmere and Markham roads. Often the players are a mix of kids and teenagers, but there is enough room to get your own pickup game going with friends. 

Coxwell Avenue Parkette

This small court is a diamond in the rough for a nice pickup game with friends. On the east side of Coxwell and south of Danforth, you're likely to be able to play half court or full court on this well maintained East side spot.

Your Local Public School

If all else fails and you just want to have a quick pickup game on the fly with some friends, your best bet is a local public school. Some more basketball focused schools like Keele Street Public School and Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School offer large and well-maintained courts.

Filipino-style lechon in Toronto is the ultimate way to indulge in roasted suckling pig. Whether you’re digging into some crispy lechon kawali on rice or getting a whole pig catered for your party feast, these Hogtown kitchens have your pork cravings covered. 

Here's a round-up of places to get Filipino-style lechon in Toronto.

Bernard’s Pilipino Specialties

Bernard Farrol (Mang Bernard to regulars) has long retained the title of Toronto's king of lechon. Operating from the back of his Filipino grocery store in Parkdale, Bernard serves up whole crispy lechon for special occasions and by the pound. 

Wilson’s Haus of Lechon

This takeout restaurant by Wilson and Bathurst stuffs their lechon with lemongrass, peppercorns and green onion to achieve a simple yet aromatic flavour. You can get a pound of chopped lechon baboy served on banana leaves, a whole pig, or orders of boneless belly.

Lechon Republik

Located by Glencairn subway station, this Filipino restaurant specializes in lechon belly. Make sure to call in advance to reserve either a portion or the whole pig: they often run out fast. 

Bella’s Lechon

This Sheppard and Morningside Filipino spot has another location in Mississauga. As their name suggests, they specialize in whole roasted pigs which you can order through their super handy lechon hotline. 

Sampaguita Village

Fusing Filipino cuisine with a handful of traditional Chinese dishes, you can get crispy pork belly by itself or mixed with fried rice. Their lechon kawali is incredibly crispy, make sure to grab some before it runs out for the day. 

Casa Manila

If you're looking to pig out on pork in a fancy setting, head to this Filipino institution at Don Mills and York Mills for unlimited brunch buffets of lechon kawali. 

Lasa by Lamesa

This hip restaurant on St. Clair West may not serve portions as large as other more traditional spots, but their lechon kawali dinner dish is perfect for anyone who's looking for a trendier place to enjoy some Filipino favourites.

Kanto by Tita Flips

Serving pinoy comfort foods out of a shipping container in Dundas West's Market 707, Diona Joyce and her mother offer lechon kawali on rice with pickled veggies. They also cater small or large sizes of crispy pork belly.

Lola’s Kusina

This simple Etobicoke restaurant on Rexdale Boulevard does all the Filipino favourites, including cheap portions of lechon kawali on plain or garlic rice and served with Lola's specialty sauce. 

Remely’s

You can tell by looking at this Scarborough restaurant's menu that Remely's loves pork. Dine in at their clean little spot on Sheppard East or order their array of pig meat options like cebu-style lechon and lechon kawali in small to extra large sizes for your special event.

The best outdoor sports fields in Toronto are green expanses of summer sports heaven. If you're looking for the perfect space to kick a ball or toss a Frisbee, look no further than these sprawling athletic grounds. 

Here are my picks the best outdoor sports fields in Toronto.

Varsity Stadium

This 5,000-seat U of T stadium near Bloor and St. George is probably the most impressive field in the city, outside of the Rogers Centre and BMO Field. Its state-of-the-art artificial turf field has previously played host to some Olympic and Pan Am Games events — it's highly recommended to book way in advance. 

Cherry Beach Sports Fields

Perfect for a game of pick-up with friends, the two multipurpose fields at this waterfront property in the Port Lands can host pretty much any type of field game and are home to a number of recreational sports leagues throughout the summer. 

Regent Park Athletic Grounds

With a track, basketball court and artificial turf field, the grounds right next to the Regent Park Community Centre at Dundas and Parliament have been fully revamped to be any athletes paradise. Their field house is funded by Under Armour, so you know the space is legit. 

Centennial Park

This Etobicoke park goes beast mode, with seven soccer fields, a baseball diamond, five softball diamonds, a 120-acre golf course, an eight-lane track and two cricket pitches. Home to the Etobicoke Olympium, this place even has a BMX bike park. 

Birchmount Stadium

This longstanding Scarborough sports arena features one multipurpose field, one outdoor track and a long jump pit. It used to look a little worse for wear, but since undergoing renovations in 2006 it's become a favourite for almost all major tournaments and soccer leagues. 

Go Green Cricket and Sports Field

This cricket-centric field in Thorncliffe Park is the country's first illuminated cricket field. Decked out in outdoor LED sports lights, you can rent out their two junior cricket fields during the day or evening. 

Sunnybrook Park

Located by Bayview and Leaside, this giant stretch of land is home to a number of fun outdoors activities. Use any of their four multipurpose fields, three cricket pitch fields and batting practice area — among many other fields — then head to their picnic site for a post-practice meal. 

Eglinton Flats

This Mount Dennis sports-focused park has six soccer fields, four field hockey pitches, a rugby field, a football field, winterized tennis courts and two cricket pitches. The condition of the fields isn't always the best, but the scale is impressive.

North York Civic Centre Soccer Fields

The official soccer centre of North York, these fields at Bathurst and Finch have seven full-size soccer pitches. You'll find tons of little leagues gathering for a session of ball kicking, though plenty also hit up the space to play Frisbee and football too. 

The top new restaurants for fried chicken in Toronto are the newest kids on the block to offer our favourite fried fare, either exclusively or as single menu items. There's an international selection, but regardless of the style you can be sure it'll be both crispy and greasy. 

Here are my picks for Toronto's top new restaurants for fried chicken.

Chica’s

This highly anticipated Junction spot has finally arrived in the city, bringing us crunchy, spicy Nashville chicken served with specialty house-made sauces like buttermilk ranch dip or their "hot AF" sauce. 

Five Points

Located at the back of the Bloorcourt bar Open House, this hot chicken takeout counter serves its Nashville meat in a variety of spices — from mild to devil's breath and with sides of crinkle fries. 

Jollibee

Now that the seven-hour wait times are over, it's finally safe to head over to Kennedy Road to visit this Filipino institution. Try their famous Jolly Crispy Chicken, served in buckets with a thick and peppery gravy on the side. 

MyMy Chicken

It's all gooey cheese and fried goodness at this Korean fried chicken spot in the Annex. Nearly the entire menu here is fried chicken, save for a few sides. With over 50 locations in South Korea, this brand's tried-and-true fried chicken recipes are undeniably good (and sleep-inducing). 

Hoo Hoo’s

One of five shops in the mini food court that is Mega Street Food Complex at Finch Station, this Taiwanese fried chicken stall offers massive chicken pieces deep fried in sweet potato batter, spiced then cut into thin strips that are incredibly tasty and juicy fried filets. 

Love Chix at Assembly Chef's Hall

Unlike the original Junction Triangle spot, this Love Chix location is all about buttermilk fried chicken. Tossed in their famous honey hot sauce, their three-piece lunch specials keep the Financial District crowd heading to this fancy food court. 

Gdous

Another contender for giant Taiwanese fried chicken filets has entered the game. This restaurant in Chinatown serves up massive crispy chicken steaks, drumsticks, wings and sandwiches, with an odd pairing of bubble tea. 

Union Chicken at Union Station

This southern-style restaurant is delivering the flavour in Union Station with their famous Uncle Ray's fried chicken — buttermilk breaded boneless thighs that come in different flavours like maple-honey syrup, habanero hot sauce or Korean sauce. 

Hogtown Smoke on Colborne Lane

This second location of the Beaches hit may be better know for its brisket and Mexican-style pig's head tacos, but this barbecue restaurant on King East also does fried chicken. Get their Breaking Bad-inspired nine-piece Walter White bucket of buttermilk fried chicken. 

Convenience

In imitation of the KFC favourite, this West Queen West bar makes a fried chicken that's crunchy, juicy and way better than the original KFC version. Head to the back of the convenience store to grab this delectable dish. 

Glen Stewart Ravine is one of those places that’s so picturesque, you'll be utterly confused as to why you've never visited it before now. 

Imagine all the nature locales of literary yore, like Narnia or the Shire: that’s what I’m reminded of during my leisurely walk through this 11-hectare stretch.

There's an entrance into the ravine off of the residential area of Balsam Road. 

Located just south of Kingston Road in the Beaches, this elevated boardwalk of a path is secluded and breathtakingly lush in the summer.

An elevated boardwalk allows easy travelling along the base of the ravine.

Walled in on both sides by steep hills, the path through this ravine is bordered by residences, with Kingston Road to the north, the properties of Glen Manor Drive to the west and Balsam Road to the east.

Glen Stewart Ravine underwent a restoration process to achieve the lush look it has today. 

If arriving by TTC: a bus along Kingston Road will drop you off at either Glen Manor Drive stop, or the Malvern stop if you’re coming from the east.

Wooden fences keep travellers and dogs from wandering into the creek and more hilly areas.

By car, it’s best to embark on this journey by parking on a neighbourhood street along a more southern entry point off Glen Manor Drive and walk north. The babbling Ames Creek basically marks the beginning and end of the ravine’s most sightly sections.

The tranquil ravine is a perfect spot for a morning walk or some quiet time with friends. 

It's perfect for runners who come to the ravines to utilize the two sets of towering staircases, but Glen Stewart wasn't always a safe trail to traverse.

Many old wooden structures were replaced with steel work to ensure safety. 

A massive restoration saw hundreds of trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses planted in 2016. Glen Stewart’s rare red oak tree forest has also seen some restoration, with more red oaks planted to foster further growth.

The 140-step set of steel stairs leads to Balsam avenue. 

The looming forest now looks like a boreal paradise, with greenery surrounding you as you walk toward the first set of steel stairs that leads up to Balsam Avenue. Formerly a set of wooden stairs that were replaced after many years of deterioration.

There's a platform after every 20 steps so you can catch your breath on this steep flight of stairs. 

There are a total of 114 steps here, making this flight a total leg burner.

A walkway at the end of the steps leads you out onto Balsam Road. 

After you've finished this set of stairs you'll hit some flat land that will eventually take you out to Balsam's residences, where the houses are great for sight-seeing in themselves. 

A scenic lookout point provides an incredible tree-filled view of the ravine. 

If you skip the Balsam exit and continue along the boardwalk you’ll come across the rounded lookout extension with two benches and a view of the ravine’s sloping, grassy walls.

Alternative paths will begin to appear as you head north toward Kingston Road. 

You’ll begin to notice points along that path that will allow you to walk closer to the creek to better explore the wildlife; it’s quite likely that you’ll see a number of ducks and squirrels on your walk.

The ravine is home to both a rare with hazel shrub as well as a red oak forest. 

Glen Stewart Ravine is also home to rare witch hazel shrubs and maple trees.

A fork in the road at the ravine's northern point leads to Beech Avenue or Kingston Road. 

After just a 15 minute walk, you'll reach the end of the path and a fork in the road that leads to Beech Avenue to the right and the bustling Kingston Road to the left. Continue to Beech for a more leisurely stroll or charge up the wooden stairs for an intense finish to your walk. 

The top patios in Toronto by neighbourhood are the ultimate celebration of summer. These local open-air spaces let us congregate under the sun for some much-needed vitamin D, all while sipping on an equally necessary boozy beverage. 

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

Annex

The lively and affordable Paupers Pub has a sidewalk patio, but everyone knows their bustling rooftop is where it's at for prime patio real estate.

Beaches

Hanging out on Hogtown Smoke's backyard patio feels like chilling in your own backyard. Situated right next to the pit, you'll be basking in the meaty scent of barbecued goodness. 

Bloordale

Make some new friends at the communal tables on the patio at 3 Speed. Hanging greenery from the support beams make this spot super cozy.

Bloorcourt

The patio at Northwood is really simple: just a bunch of tables and chairs for people to drink espressos then cocktails as the café transitions into a bar over the course of the day. 

Bloor West

A Dark Horse is a classic pub with a patio that's made for an afternoon brewski, enjoyed in the shade of a lush tree. 

Eat sushi and sashimi at Nome Izakaya's woodsy rooftop patio in North York.  

Cabbagetown

The patio floor at Stout Irish Pub is covered in astroturf, giving this tight space with the picnic tables a playful, mismatched vibe. 

CityPlace

The colourful support beams overhead Macho Radio Bar lend some funk to this massive patio. Grab a seat on one of their sofas and get slowly drunk off shots of mezcal.

Church Wellesley Village

There's a reason why O’Grady’s gets so busy during Pride: its huge patio takes up both sides of a street corner and is always a lively, fun place to be. 

Danforth

The backyard patio is what makes Allen’s a go-to pub on the Danforth. It gets super busy here with customers hankering for their homemade burgers, so make sure to score a spot ASAP. 

Distillery District

Perfect for both daytime snacks or date night drinks, El Catrin's fire-pitted patios and giant chandelier make this Mexican restaurant an attractive option no matter the time of day. 

Dundas West

The patio at Lucky Shrike is just as intimate as the bar's interior, with a secluded feel, hanging grapevines and lights dangling from the ceiling.

Entertainment District

It's definitely more fun to hang out at Mascot Brewery's patio at night, since daytime doesn't quite capture the epic city lights. Still, the view is spectacular any time of day. 

Macho Radio Bar at CityPlace has a colourful patio that can seat 100 people. 

Financial District

King Taps has tons of beers on tap, all which can be imbibed on the rooftop patio under umbrellas for lunch or in the evening. 

Harbord

Her Father’s Cider has a side patio adorned with umbrellas and flowers that makes for a lovely spot to indulge in adult apple juices. 

Harbourfront

One of the most popular waterfront hangs in the city, Amsterdam BrewHouse has three patios — one of which is lined with Muskoka chairs that lets you get your tan on while sipping on a brew.

Junction Triangle

The Drake Commissary will soon be the ultimate summer destination, just off the railpath. Though the view from the patio right now is basically just an empty parking lot, the area is soon to be bustling with activity. 

Kensington

The sidewalk patio at mezcal bar El Rey snags top spot in the market, with a laid back chic feel to its agave-strewn space. 

King East

During school semesters Betty's patio is a George Brown student favourite, but in the summer all types of folks head to this little hideaway for brunch and late night drinks. 

King West

There's several stunning rooftop patios in this area, but Lavelle takes the cake with three pools, cabanas and easy access to its adjoining restaurant.

The patio at Tennessee Tavern has a giant bird cage as its centre piece. 

Koreatown

Pour Boy has a patio that's really easy to get drunk on — mostly because drinks are so cheap, but also because uninhibited vitamin D exposure will be sure to have you feeling a little sun-basted. 

Leslieville

There's multiple patios and outdoor tiki bars at Chula Taberna Mexicana, where glowing lantern-esque lights and lampposts illuminate this fun, trendy restaurant. 

Liberty Village

The sidewalk patio lining the side of Local Public Eatery is decked out in hanging lights. It's the perfect spot for watching the game and even has lawn games. 

Little India

The patio outside of Eulalie’s Corner Store is small but it does the job if you feel like nomming on your Super Nachos outside. 

Little Italy

Bairrada Churrasquiera has a patio that'll make you feel like you're in a friend's backyard. Cluttered with picnic tables, this fun and surprisingly spacious outdoor spot is a really great place to watch the game.

Mount Pleasant

The purple brick-walled patio at Belsize Public House is an ideal spot to enjoy the summer heat without sitting directly in the summer sun. It's also heated, meaning you can chill out there during fall as well. 

North York

The woodsy rooftop hangout that is Nome Izakaya's patio allows diners to snack on oysters and assorted sashimi, while catching that nice summer breeze.

Ossington

The poetic patio at Union does communal seating for wine-lovers looking to pair their bistro classics with some sunshine. 

Bairrada Churrasquiera in Little Italy is a laidback patio for guests to watch the game.  

Parkdale

A vintage birdcage is the centrepiece on the patio at Tennessee Tavern, featuring booths and a light-bedazzled open roof for extra airiness.

Port Lands

Cherry Street Bar-B-Que has a big patio that looks pretty bare, but an outdoor DJ to go with your barbecued meal makes up for it.

Queen West

With everything on the menu being $4.95, you can bet your bottom dollar that the patio at The Dime gets packed, but beware of the weekend line. 

Riverside

The stunning view from the Broadview Hotel's rooftop patio may actually be one of the best in the city, with the expansive Riverside landscape making a much better view than, say, Queen Street.

Roncesvalles Village

Once the warm weather hits, Bandit Brewery's front lawn fills up with picnic tables and hanging lights to create a bustling patio that lines the sidewalk. 

Rosedale

With a patio on the sidewalk as well as on the rooftop, Terroni Bar Centrale is as much a refined Italian restaurant as a summer getaway along Yonge.

South Core

The sleek patio at Aria Ristorante is perfect for lounging around in all-white on a hot summer day, while snacking on some Italian eats and sipping on wine. 

The sidwalk patio at Bandit Brewery is decked out with tons of tables and dangling lights. 

Upper Beaches

Humble and petite, Bodega Henriette has a patio for guests to indulge in boozy coffee drinks and light meals to go with your cocktails. 

West Queen West

Pretty much Toronto's favourite rooftop, Drake Sky Yard has its own bar and even has marshmallow-roasting opportunities in the colder months. Expect lines to get into this patio hot spot. 

Yonge and Dundas

You can escape from the chaos of the Eaton Centre and head to one of the best pubs in the city, The Queen and Beaver, where a rooftop patio overlooks a scenic and tree-lined Elm Street. 

Yonge and Eglinton

This stylish backyard patio at Prohibition Gastrohouse is a great spot for a daytime chill session over cocktails of both the shrimp and boozy kind.

Yonge and Wellesley

There's two patios at Artful Dodger: one in the front and another more intimate one behind the restaurant. People congregate at both for a brew and a classic English pub meal. 

Yorkville

The Pilot's patio, also known as the the "Flight Deck", is another Toronto favourite. Laidback and casual, you don't have to worry about keeping up appearances here — just make sure to wear sunscreen. 

Events in Toronto today mark the first day of Electric Island and its return to the Islands after last year's flooding. Back on the mainland, Sunnyside Pavilion opens for the season with a huge party. There's also a farmers market, art show and a lot more to keep you busy this Sunday.

Vintage jewelry in Toronto can put a classic or quirky touch on any look. Anything from extravagant costume jewelry to antique engagement rings to Art Deco pieces can be found in antique, vintage and consignment stores all over Toronto.

Here are my picks for where to find vintage jewelry in Toronto.

Cynthia Findlay Antiques

This beautiful store in the Entertainment District carries antiques that are backed up by extensive knowledge on every piece in the shop. While she carries other items like smoking paraphernalia and ink wells, this place is best known for the large selection of meticulously crafted antique engagement rings.

Van Rijk

This shop is a known buyer, seller, and trader of high quality estate jewelry that's been operating for over 30 years. The showroom near Yonge and Eglinton displays a full collection of vintage pieces like elegant diamond rings of the Georgian era and Victorian pocket watches, among many others.

Courage My Love

This Kensington Market staple has an abundance of jewelry, found amidst their vintage clothing. Their collection includes enough semi-precious stone rings to decorate every one of your fingers.

Siberia Vintage

This vintage shop near Dovercourt on Bloor has enough vintage silver rings to keep you in style for years to come. Head on over if you're looking to bedazzle your fingers. 

Gadabout

Located in Leslieville, this attic-like space is famous for having so many doodads to spend hours looking at. Each garment, accessory or odd little novelty is handpicked and attractively displayed. The jewelry in particular can only be described as unusual... in a good way. 

I Miss You

Primarily a vintage boutique that specializes in designer clothing, this shop on Ossington has a jewelry collection that's often overlooked. The glass case, doubling as the cashier area, is filled with costume jewelry and an impressive assortment of fine jewelry, including detailed jade bracelets to die for.

The Cat's Meow

Near Avenue and Dupont Street, this shop is probably the most upscale vintage boutique on this list and the jewelry is no exception. Visit if you've got money to blow, otherwise beware of the temptation, I promise you'll feel, to blow money you don't have.

Green's Antiques

This hidden gem in Cabbagetown is all over the place. They sell everything from furniture and home decor to costume jewelry for any and all budgets. It's worth taking a gander in because the jewelry is always intriguing and, oftentimes, really affordable.

Reflections Vintage

This purveyor of all things drama near Gerrard and Carlaw isn't just about costumes — or costume jewelry. Here you'll find a magnificent collection of everything from vintage designer to vintage British, Scottish and Irish jewelry. 

Vicky's Jewellery

This Eglinton West establishment first opened its doors in 1970 and has been considered a fine purveyor of antique, vintage and unusual pieces ever since. Run by a mother-daughter duo who are both equally passionate, you'll be sure to find something timeless here. 

The best parks to have a picnic in Toronto don’t need much: just a little greenery to roll out the blanket, maybe some shade and, at the very least, a decent view. Enough distance from carbon emissions as possible helps too. 

Here are my picks for the best parks to have a picnic in Toronto.

Trinity Bellwoods

The epitome of Toronto picnic parks, it’s bound to get crowded at this sprawling space along West Queen West between Gore Vale and Crawford. Make sure to get here early to save yourself some real estate on the less patchy sections of grass.

High Park

With tons of lush, grassy space to pull out the wine and cheese, this park bordered by Bloor West and The Queensway is one of the largest in Toronto. Post up under a cherry blossom tree, or if you prefer benches to sitting on dirt there’s also 18 designated picnic areas here.

Ward’s Island Beach

Hop on a ferry with your picnic essentials and head over to Ward’s Island, the easternmost part of Centre Island that’s not overrun with frolicking children high off the effects of g-force. There’s nothing like sipping iced tea on a sandy beach.

Christie Pits

A post-swim picnic doesn't require a lot of planning at this park. Sit on the slope just off of Bloor or head further north toward the sports fields for more luscious green grass. There are also some pavilions with benches for larger picnic endeavours.

Trinity Bellwood's spacious green lawn gets incredibly crowded in the summer. 

Ashbridges Bay

Walk past the main area along Lakeshore East near the parking lots to discover a charming little peninsula peppered with pristine tables and shady areas. This lakeside attraction is a popular spot to eat, but it’s also a pretty romantic setting when the sun starts to go down.

Riverdale Park East

After years of construction, the building of this park's outdoor athletic facilities are finally complete. Bordered by Broadview and the DVP, just a little south of Bloor, this spot has one of the best sunset views of the city and the benches at the top of the hill make the ultimate picnic spots. 

Étienne Brûlé Park

A beautiful park by Old Mill, you can tire yourself out on these hiking and biking trails along the Humber River where you might spot some jumping salmon before heading to one of the many picnic points. 

Scarborough Bluffs Park

Stretching along Lake Ontario for 15 kilometres, you can lay up on the grass, by the beach or in designated picnic areas with unparalleled lookout points throughout the area.

Christie Pits is full of benches, pavilions and grassy areas to post up for a picnic. 

Dufferin Grove Park

Just steps from Dufferin subway station, you won’t have to worry about lugging your picnic basket too far. Outfitted with gazebos, bonfires and two community bake ovens, this park makes an ideal picnic destination for convenience and efficiency.

Cherry Beach Park

Stock up on provisions at the nearby T&T and settle on this sandy beach in the Port Lands, also known as Clarke Beach, which offers a great waterfront view and two designated picnic sites. 

Bluffer’s Park

With an incredible view of the escarpment and the lake, this remote park at the base of the Bluffs boasts some of the city’s most surreal scenery. Score one of few picnic tables on the sandy beach or stake out a grassy picnic area along the winding waterfront.

Beaches Park

This park has a shelter and three picnic sites, sitting alongside the Kew-Balmy Beach south of Queen, with proximity to some restaurants like Hogtown Smoke that will help with the provisions pre-picnic.

Ashbridges Bay's  sunset view makes a beautiful finale to an afternoon picnic. Photo by Kevin Cabral.

Withrow Park

Lush green trees, grassy fields and a fire pit make this park south of the Danforth a very attractive picnic destination. Plan your picnic on a Saturday to coincide with the weekly farmer’s market, so you don’t even have to pack a lunch ahead of time.

Corktown Common

Mixing urban and natural scenery, the beautiful marsh trails of this park are supplemented with some playgrounds, a splash pad for kids and a pavilion at the top of the hill outfitted with a fireplace, outdoor grill and large communal picnic tables.

Humber Bay Park West

Jutting out into Lake Ontario, this super scenic park is the perfect spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy some snacks while birdwatching. It’s not too far from a butterfly habitat, so you might be receiving some colourful new party guests.

Colonel Sam Smith Park

Take a stroll by the wooded shoreline south of Kipling and Lakeshore — an area that boasts excellent sunrise views and fishing waters — before settling down for a picnic surrounded by trees, birds, and other wildlife.

Free events in Toronto this week mark the opening of many historically and culturally significant buildings with Doors Open, a festival of dogs and the return of Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market.

Cheap eats in Markham will help you dine on a budget of $8 and under. Expect a lot of cheap Asian eats, with decent to phenomenal portions for affordable prices that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

Here are my picks for the top cheap eats in Markham.

Babu

Super spicy and super cheap, this restaurant near the intersection of McCowan and Bur Oak serves up Indian cuisine. They've also got another strip mall location in Scarborough. Rice with veggies come with five different curries wrapped in banana leaves for $7.45, fluffy dosas for under $5 and daily specials run for $4.99.

Gasa

This longtime Sri Lankan institution right off Markham road at New Delhi Drive has a minimal interior and sparse prices to match. Dishes like kothu curry and biryani cost $6.50, as are boxes of rice and curries.

Yin Ji Chan Feng

Specializing in rice noodle rolls, this Chinese restaurant at Warden and Steeles has plenty of menu items for under $8. Pork and beef rice noodles work better as snacks for $5.25, but heftier portions of congee are also cheap at just $5.50. 

Papa Chang’s

This plaza spot off 16th Avenue near the intersection at Markham Road serves up Taiwanese favourites at crazy cheap prices. Filling portions of chili braised pork on rice costs just $5.50, while warming bowls of chili beef noodle soups will set you back $7.99. 

Phoenix Restaurant

A Hong Kong mainstay on Woodbine near Steeles, this restaurant is the spot for your cheap Chinese food fix. All day Hong Kong breakfasts of fried ham, eggs and sandwiches are $8, with a variety of snacks like french toast with syrup and buns for $7 and less. 

Chinese Dumpling House

The Markham version of the Scarborough original, this small restaurant in Metro Square Mall along Steeles at Ferrier Street has some of the best dumplings in the area at phenomenal prices: an order of 15 of them steamed will cost just under $6. 

Biryani Hut

This small plaza takeout spot on Steeles near Markham Road serves roti and rice for insanely cheap prices. Grab a portion of their chicken biryani for just $4.25 and butter chicken starting at $3.50. 

Keung’s Delight

It gets packed here on the weekends, usually with families who hit up this Steeles and Warden restaurant for afternoon tea, where they serve Hong Kong-style dishes like baked rice and spaghettis for $7.95 and macaroni with pork chop for just $4.95. 

Malay Thai Famous Cuisine

Stir fry specials like chilli chicken come with rice for under $7 at this spot bordered by Highway 7 and Roddick Road. Same goes for dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, Pad Thai, and Malay stir fry vermicelli.

Taipei Chin Yuan Pai Ku Fast Food

Known for their juicy Taiwan-style tender pork chops ($7.25), this stall in Metro Square Mall is surprisingly delicious for its cluttered surroundings. You'll also find chicken legs on steamed rice and noodle soups for the same price.

Welcome to the fabulous lives of Toronto's rich and famous. Peel back a curtain on this $31.5 million penthouse in Yorkville to reveal exactly what luxury looks like. This two-floor 10,200-square-foot palace — with a concierge — has everything you could ever want. 

Created in the 1960s by architect Philip Johnson, this condo has 5000-square-feet of terraces, perfect for hosting all the hottest society events. Except for two, all of the rooms in this condo open on to terraces.  

Just look at that sweeping staircase that seamlessly blends the two floors in a blanket of beige. 

The creamy colour palette in the living room gives the space a very luxurious feel that's complemented nicely by the wooden and glass accents. 

The pops of colour in the kitchen break up the neutrals just enough to keep the space lively, without making it overpowering. I do have to say, for such an expensive property I would have expected a much larger kitchen space to get all Top Chef in. 

The dining room has a sort of water theme to it, complete with a soft blue area rug, waterfall painting and gorgeous leafy chandelier. 

There's no need to end the party, this condo has three bedrooms — this one with two beds — making it an epic place to house overnight guests. Two of the bedrooms also boast walk-in closets, so there will always be enough space to store your splurges. 

While this bathroom — one of six — is beautiful in photos, I have to imagine it would get a bit chilly on the feet during those cold winter mornings. 

Finally, a space to keep all of your many leather-bound books. 

And you can just forget hitting the GoodLife with everyone else, this home has it's own home gym. With all the money you're saving in gym fees, it's practically a steal. 

Like, look at that view, that expansive patio, that greenery. What more could you want? 

The top ways to escape the city without leaving Toronto are much-needed reprieves from urban life — all just a subway, streetcar or bike ride away. Leave the confines of the concrete jungle and escape to some lush green spaces and waterfront views. 

Here are my picks for the top ways to escape the city without leaving it. 

Crothers Woods

If you're looking for more than just a walk in the park, this area in Leaside provides a lush hiking path that'll be sure to work out your quads. Escape to this Don River-side path for possible sightings of a white-tailed deer. It's surprisingly beautiful in the wintertime too. 

Allan Gardens

Easily the most beautiful conservatory in the city, you can spend a whole day wandering around this glass-domed historical building at Sherbourne and Gerrard. It's flowers and greenery galore all year round here. Post up on one of their interior benches and soak in the sights.

Glen Stewart Ravine

Think about any naturesque fiction locale you've ever read about — like the Shire — and you'll feel you've entered it at the otherworldly Glen Stewart Ravine that runs along Glen Manor Drive between Kingston Road and Queen. Rolling green spaces line both sides of an elevated boardwalk that runs along a babbling creek. 

Scarborough Bluffs

Jutting out into lake, the Bluffs escarpment in Scarborough consists of nine parks and a beach: there's nothing like sunbathing surrounded by a wall of 25-storey-high rock. Walk the back paths for extra adventure: they'll lead you through reed brushes filled with red-winged blackbirds

Edwards Gardens

Delve into a world of sprawling green lawns, swirling hedges and curated botany at this 34.4-acre land at Leslie and Lawrence. You'll be guaranteed to cross a few picturesque bridges and befriend a couple of chipmunks while you're here. 

Guild Park and Gardens

You'll get an incredible view of Lake Ontario at this park just off of Guildwood Beach. Get your heart racing at the cliff's edge or take a more relaxing walk around the old columns and amphitheatres that dot this park-turned-art hub. 

Ward’s Island Beach

Centre Island's amusement park attraction might get all the attention, but the Toronto Islands most eastern section — Ward's — is the place where the grownups go (clothed, anyway). A mix of super soft sand and rocky earth make this beach an intimate getaway, with a private feel. 

David A. Balfour Park 

Hints of urbanism can still be found throughout this park by Yonge and St. Clair that's full of steep slopes, and the occasional shopping cart. If you're feeling poetic, you can also refer to it as the Vale of Avoca, the name of the ravine it runs through. 

Leslie Street Spit

Despite the fact that its shoreline is made of bricks and concrete, this fascinating man-made peninsula, also known as Tommy Thompson Park, makes for an incredible nature getaway. Truly a park where nature and the city collide: you'll find it at the southernmost tip of Leslie Street.

Rouge Park

This national urban park is Toronto's only campground. Slowly expanding, this park will soon be the largest urban protected area in North America. The area by the Toronto Zoo is the most popular for Toronto visitors heading to this massive nature getaway. 

The Scarborough Bluffs, more fondly referred to citywide as the Bluffs,  is a towering escarpment that runs for 15 kilometres along Toronto's eastern portion of the waterfront. 

This east end getaway is perfect for full day of fun in the sun. 

The most frequented area of the Bluffs is Bluffer's Park, which has a marina, picnic benches and trails.

If you're accessing the Bluffs via TTC, take the new 175 Bluffer's Park bus that runs between Kennedy Station and Bluffer's Park Beach every 15 minutes during the daytime and early evening, on weekends and holidays.

Otherwise, expect a 25-minute walk from Kingston Road if you're taking a bus from Victoria Park subway station or the Scarborough GO stop.

It's a worthwhile trip: with nine parks lining the escarpment, one beach and tons of nature to explore, a day at the Bluffs is a guaranteed day well spent. 

Bluffer's Park is a good spot for picnics and large weekend get-togethers. 

Starting at the southern point of Victoria Park Avenue and continuing west between Kingston Road and Queen Street East, the escarpment (which, sadly, is slowly eroding) is full of secret paths, fire pits and picnic tables that draw in families big-time during the hot months. 

There are washroom and change room facilities available right at the entrance to the park. 

There's no shortage of places to explore here and you'll likely continue to discover new spots and lookouts after a handful of visits. 

If you're looking to start off with impeccable views, trek to the top of the Bluffs to visit Scarborough Heights Park further west along the shore, or to Cudia Park and the lookout atop Cathedral Bluffs.

You'll likely see ducks and swans in the water by the Bluffer's Park Marina. 

For something less physically strenuous, visiting the main drag of the Bluffs is a good idea if you've never visited the area before and want to get a gist of what it's all about.

The ice cream truck in the parking lot at Bluffer's Park is a kid's dream come true. 

While the hills descending down into the entryway to Bluffer's Park are treacherous enough, I strongly suggest being extra cautious of small children dashing through the parking lot. 

The shore is lined with rocks and trees to prevent further erosion of the Bluff's base. 

Here your access to the water is lined with massive rocks and willow trees that are partly there to barricade visitors from jumping into the water, but largely to help stop erosion along the base of the Bluffs. 

The rock-lined area by the water is a popular spot for selfies and group photos. 

The stunning skyline here makes for perfect photo ops and you can walk further west along the shore, eventually hitting the little peninsula area that includes Bluffer's Sand Beach. 

A bridge further inland leads you across a small lake toward the escarpment. 

One of the best parts of this area is stumbling on a series of bridges that lead you across some beautiful ponds — built for storm management — further inland toward the escarpment. 

The water in this small lake is untreated, which means no swimming here. 

It's untreated and there's a slight smell that comes from the still water, depending on what time you go, but the serene beauty of this area will hold you for at least a few moments of silence on this bridge. 

The path leading from the bridge takes you to a trail that loops back around to the parking lot. 

After crossing, you'll find yourself on a secluded walkway that will lead you to a trail that loops around back to the parking lot. The trails here are easy to traverse and safe if you watch your footing, although sections closer to the escarpment base are at risk of landslides on rainy days. 

Red-winged blackbirds are common here since this species is attracted to rivers and marshes. 

While ducks and swans are plenty in the area closer by the parking lot and the Bluffer's Park Marina (where you can also grab a bite to eat) these quieter sections are home to an amazing number of beautiful red-winged blackbirds — a rare sight for the city eye. 

You'll see plenty of them swooping through the bushes and trees. 

You'll see man-made collections of rocks placed together to create paths and prevent erosion. 

Continue walking northeast and you'll eventually pass a waterfall that runs through a man-made path of rock slabs, which you'll have to cross over to head back toward the Bluffer's Park parking lot. 

Bluffer's Park beach is the perfect spot to spend a day in and out of the water.

After completing Bluffer's Path, you can either drive or walk further northeast — just follow the road past the yacht club — toward Bluffer's Park Beach, the only one in the area. Again, you'll find a spacious parking lot here that gets filled up during tanning season. 

The Bluff's loom over Bluffer's Park Beach. 

The sand here is soft, not like the painfully rocky Woodbine Beach. Bound in by the Bluffs, there's a more secluded, intimate feel here where you can spend at least a few hours here lounging in the sun.

Small trails will lead you off the beach and on to a separate path going parallel to the waterfront. 

If you're more in the mood for walking, enter the trail that runs along the beach via one of several tree-lined paths leading away from the water.

This secluded path leads you closer to the escarpment. 

Again, you'll find numerous red-tailed blackbirds here, especially during spring: they tend to congregate around marshes or rivers. Hearing their chirping along this isolated trail is incredibly soothing, as is the crunch of the sand as you walk along the path. 

The path is lined with reeds that separate the trail from the base of the Bluffs. 

To the left you'll get one of the best views of the Bluffs from the base. The escarpment today towers as high as 90 metres in some areas, though the rocky wall has changed dramatically over the years due to erosion and the use of explosives in the past, especially to the west. 

The trail will lead you into the woods, where you can either exit back to the beach or walk toward the Bluffs.

You'll eventually enter a wooded area that will take you even closer to the Bluffs than before. Most likely you'll notice a sign or two here warning walkers not to attempt climbing up to the top because, you might get stuck up there. You'll probably do better going back to the beach for a swim.

Victoria Day fireworks in Toronto for 2018 look to celebrate the annual tradition with a mesmerizing display of shimmering colours splattered across the night sky.

The biggest display, accessible from the downtown core, remains the Ashbridges Bay yearly fireworks in the Beaches, with over 2,000 fireworks blasted off over a 14 minute period. 

The spectacle is set for May 21 starting at 9:45 p.m. and can be viewed from the comfort of the sand anywhere along the shoreline.

Almost immediately afterwards, you can catch another, slightly smaller display on at Boardwalk Place at Woodbine Beach beginning at 10 p.m.

Away from the lights of the city, Canada's Wonderland has the pyrotechnics ready to roll in honour of Queen V's birthday on May 20 at 10 p.m.

And it wouldn't be a fireworks weekend without some DIY action in Toronto's bigger parks like Christie Pits and Trinity Bellwoods.

Among the dazzlingly displays, expect a whole lot of burning schoolhouse whistles, sparkler Instas and barking puppers.