One of the city's two most-frequented bike paths could be changing in a major way, according to a proposal that will soon be up for public consultation.

The City of Toronto will be hosting what it calls a "drop-in event" on June 25 to introduce an infrastructure plan that would see the existing separated cycle tracks on Adelaide Street move from the right (south) side to the left (north) side.

Being that Adelaide only goes one way — eastbound — this is totally feasible, and city officials have some pretty solid reasons for wanting to make the switch.

First off, the city says that there are "gaps" in the cycle tracks at commercial loading zones and TTC stops. Anyone who's traveled by bike behind a TTC bus on Adelaide will understand exactly what this means, and exactly how bad the problem can sometimes get.

In addition to filling in these service gaps, a new left-side cycle track configuration would eliminate the need for cyclists to merge with car traffic over streetcar tracks between York Street and Yonge Street.

If approved by City Council, the bike lanes on Adelaide will move to the north side of the street between Bathurst and Parliament. Image via City of Toronto.

The city believes this configuration will help cut down on "conflicts between cyclists and turning trucks at major loading dock driveways," as well as those between cyclists and TTC buses.

"While this would be the first left side bike lane in Toronto," reads the City of Toronto's website, "left side bike lanes can be found in many cities including Hamilton, Boston, New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia."

Not much would change in terms of parking spaces and loading docks; they'd simply be moved to the other side of the street. The number of traffic lanes is expected to remain the same.

If approved by City Council, the configuration change "would not be scheduled until after 2018, including engagement with adjacent property managers prior to implementation."

As it stands now, the popular Richmond-Adelaide Cycle Tracks aren't even technically permanent. They were installed in 2014 as part of a pilot project and are still being "monitored and evaluated" before City Council decides if they will live on for good.

Tsk, tsk, tsk... brands on Twitter. Will they ever learn? For the sake of my own career, I certainly hope not. 

In what might be the dumbest thing Loblaws has done since replacing all the words on their self-checkout machines with pictures, the Canadian grocery giant put forth a bizarre question to its customers this week online: "What do you feel most guilty about?"

The question was posed in the form of a Twitter poll, in which participants could select from four options: not spending enough time with their kids, eating easy frozen meals, ordering in too much, or spending too much money.

Loblaws deleted a Twitter poll due to replies like these before we could find out what won ... pic.twitter.com/ULrE46LQ4o

— twelvethirtysix (@1236) June 6, 2018

It didn't take long for people who saw the tweet to suggest a fifth answer — one that Loblaws, they suggested, should choose for itself: "Fixing the price of bread for 15 years!"

Loblaws - who famously admitted their part in a national price-fixing scheme a few months back - posted this tweet, asking people what they feel most guilty about.

Predictably, this didn't go so well for them. https://t.co/SZyf3F0wDl

— Chris Patrick Carolan (@cpcwrites) June 6, 2018

...Among other things.

I systematically stole from from every Canadian on an ongoing basis for 15 years, I turned huge profits while hiding billions in offshore tax havens, I worked tirelessly to remove rights and benefits from thousands of workers.

Oh no wait, right, that was you. https://t.co/qtn0l44vT8

— Drew Riley - 🥰 (@WerdEmUp) June 6, 2018

As replies to the poll started rolling in, Loblaws was reminded of a very recent and very high-profile scandal in which they were revealed to have colluded with at least six other corporations to keep the cost of bread higher than it should have been.

What about you, Loblaws... What do you feel most guilty about? Maybe... the price of bread?

— Nickie (@MuskokaMoneybag) June 5, 2018

Canada's Competition Bureau concluded in January that Loblaws, Metro, Sobeys and Walmart had all "committed indictable offences under the Competition Act" for their roles in a nearly 15-year-long, "industry-wide price-fixing arrangement involving certain packaged bread products."

Penalties have yet to be publicized, but Loblaw Companies Ltd. and CEO Galen Weston Jr. won't suffer much.

They were given immunity in the case for cooperating with investigators. For its penance, Loblaws gave Canadians the chance to register for and receive one free $25 grocery card each.

Ask Galen if he feels even slightly guilty about using a Barbados tax shelter to withhold $400 MILLION that should have flowed to Canadian residents in the form of schools, roads, social services, etc. Thanks! https://t.co/ush5NdJ5LH

— Hi-Fi Pizza (@hifipizza) June 5, 2018

Loblaws deleted its Twitter poll within 24 hours of having posted it, presumably upon realizing that it was really dumb and bad.

LOL Loblaws deleted their 'what do you feel guilty about' tweet after getting swarmed with reminders that they colluded to fix the price of bread.

— Adam (@ChalicothereX) June 6, 2018

Events in Toronto today will see Wild Things Fest, a new beer festival, launch while Session is back in Yonge-Dundas Sqaure for another year. Elsewhere, there's a huge block party happening and a giant neighbourhood sale along Danforth East.

Patios in Yorkville may be located in the glitziest hood in town, but you’ll be surprised to find both shi-shi and lowkey options. Whether you feel like sipping lightly on a glass of champagne or throwing back a pint of beer, this area has you covered. 

Here are my picks for the top patios in Yorkville.

Bar Reyna

The lovely back patio of this Mediterranean restaurant keeps it simple yet classy. Shapely murals and potted plants adorn the walls while cushy seating lets you sit comfortably while you dine on oysters and char-grilled octopus.

The Pilot

Appropriately nicknamed 'Flight Deck', this rooftop space is usually bustling with people enjoying the feel of those cool stainless steel seats on their sweaty thighs. Equipped with fans and retractable covers, this spot is arguably one of the best patios in the area.

The Oxley has a cozy backyard patio for patrons to sip on pints of beer. Photo by Jesse Milns.

La Société

Sitting in a little enclave right off of Bloor, the upper-level patio at this French bistro is the ideal spot for people watching. There’s nothing better than observing people grind away at the corner of Bay and Bloor, while leisurely picking at your tray of oysters. 

Hemingway’s

Ultra casual, this New Zealand pub has a couple of patios named McSheep and Shotover, in true Kiwi fashion. The upper patio here comes equipped with a tin-roofed bar and drinks come at reasonable prices, considering it’s Yorkville.

The One Eighty's patio is located on the 51st floor of the Manulife Building. Photo by Jesse Milns. 

Estia

This Mediterranean restaurant has a patio that's as elegant as its interior. Feast on flatbreads and halloumi in a lush space off of Avenue, bedazzled with hanging lights and tons of greenery for added privacy.

Cafe Nervosa

This sweet little Italian spot boasts both a sidewalk patio and another on the rooftop. It can get a little squishy here, but in a nice way: with glowing and lanterns and lit candles, this restaurant turns into the ultimate date destination at night.

The upper patio at La Société is a great place to people watch on the Mink Mile. Photo by Jesse Milns. 

One Restaurant

You’ll find this upscale patio jutting out of the Hazelton Hotel on Yorkville Avenue, and yes, it’s as expensive as it sounds. I mean, the restaurant’s website describes itself as “the see and be scene”. Who needs to make grammatical sense when you're this posh. 

Kasa Moto

Undoubtedly one of the most luxurious sushi restaurants in the city, Kasa Moto has a massive rooftop patio which you can access from its second-floor Bar Moto. Pick at a plate of their Kasa Moto Maki and order an elaborate cocktail from inside one of their cabanas.

The rooftop patio at The Pilot is aptly named the "Flight Deck". Photo by Jesse Milns. 

The One Eighty

For soaring views of the city, head up to the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre for fancy little bites and one of the best vistas you can get from Yorkville. With exorbitant prices and small portions, this spot may be better suited for Toronto newbies, but the view is still worthwhile.

The Oxley

There’s a front patio here, but I’d opt for the far more exclusive backyard getaway at this cozy pub. The Oxley is the less sporty version of its sister restaurant Queen and Beaver, but basically the same idea — fish and chips, pudding, and shepherd’s pie.

Thai restaurants in Toronto can be found in many neighbourhoods. Faves like Pad Thai and spring rolls are the comfort foods of every metropolitan citizen, and nothing feels more like home than a good Thai food go-to. 

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

Annex

Real Thailand is never incredibly busy, yet it remains a neighbourhood staple. With a storefront patio right off Bloor, it’s a reliable go-to for street-style Pad Thai and cheap lunch specials.

Avenue and Lawrence

For a reliable neighbourhood haunt, Satay on the Road delivers with satay skewers, mango salads, spring rolls and green curry in a contemporary setting. They also have another location in Leaside.

Bayview and Leaside

Fully licensed, Siam Square Hut is open until midnight daily and offers dinner set specials and — most importantly — a great variety of Thai desserts like deep fried banana and options like jack fruit to go with your coconut ice cream.

Beaches

Don’t be intimidated by Pattaya's massive menu, nearly everything at this cozy restaurant is delicious. Ingredients taste super fresh at this Beaches favourite, and the squash fritters are especially beloved here.

Cabbagetown

The Thai Room chain has plenty of locations around the city, but this spot on Carlton is a reliably tasty one. Service is fast and portions are sufficiently filling — what more can you ask for.

Sabai Sabai is an underground restaurant with well-presented Thai favourites. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Canary District

Over the years Sukhothai has expanded across the downtown core. Now, the family-run brand has four locations in the city and boasts one of the best Pad Thais. This restaurant on Front is way cozier than its Wellington location.

Church Wellesley

Si Lom is definitely the spot for Thai food lovers who also love their booze. Standout dishes include specialties like the softshell crab Pad Thai, but the real star of the show is the menu of boozy buckets.

Corktown

Arguably one of the best Thai restaurants in the city, Mengrai Thai — run by Chef Sasi — is renowned for dishes like the red curry chicken with lychee, and the morning glory appetizer.

Danforth East

The interior of Sala Modern Thai may look humble, but the food it serves is definitely something that the chefs can brag about. Egg-wrapped Pad Thai noodles and tasty curry beef are presented beautifully and taste just as good as they look.

Entertainment District

One of the most popular weekend dinner destinations in the area, you can’t really go wrong with a meal from Pai. There’ll probably be a line to get into this basement restaurant, but the wait for their pad gra prow is worth it.

Financial District

Little Khao is the mini version of its larger counterpart on Charlotte Street. Serving two to three favourites from its regular menu, this stall in Assembly Chef’s Hall keeps it simple with a rustic roadside look and handwritten signs.

Jatujak has two locations in Scarborough and is one of the city' favourite Thai spots. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Harbord Village

Just like its name suggets, Flip, Toss & Thai is all about quick Thai eats. Dine in for quick service or get their affordable dishes of panang curry to go.

Junction

Isaan Der takes its name from the region of Thailand its recipes are from — Isaan is the northeastern area bordering Laos and Cambodia. Presentation is key here: shrimp rolls are tied with noodle bows and ping gai chicken is served in charming street-style.

Junction Triangle

Reliably good, Thai Lime is loved by nearby residents and visitors alike for its unwaveringly large portions. While prices have slowly been climbing over the past few years, the spot is still a go-to for delicious mango salad and affordable bites.

King East

You can expect Golden Thai to get really busy most days of the week, especially for work day lunches. This is likely due to the fact that decor here is nice and it’s fairly inexpensive in comparison to other King Street spots.

King West

Coco Rice is one of the very few Thai restaurants in this area: shocking considering how many people in neighbouring Liberty Village would appreciate a good Thai takeout spot. The dine-in dinner specials are the real steals here, snagging a spot by the window is definitely recommended. 

The shrimp rolls at Isaan Der are tied with noodle bows. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Mount Pleasant

For good service and atmosphere, Bolan Thai's charming interior makes for an ideal low-key night out. Curry is served alongside adorable star-shaped mounds of rice and appetizers like crispy deep-fried snow shrimp.

North York

For unique takes on traditional Thai, head to Eat BKK to sample some khao soi poutine (fries with beef and coconut curry) and spaghetti curry. Brought to us by the same chef behind Kub Khao, even the most traditional skeptics might find something to like here.

Roncesvalles

Ultra casual Thai Home does quick and cheap Thai eats and daily specials. It’s probably most popular to order here via JustEats, but Roncy residents often head here for convenience and efficiency.

Scarborough

Real Thai food lovers should familiarize themselves with Jatujak, a staple eatery in Scarborough that many will vouch for as the best purveyor of Pad Thai in the city. Their location on Kingston Road is mostly takeout, but this Vic Park spot is worth travelling for.

St. Clair West

Everything about Khmer Thai feels down-to-earth, from the homemade quality of their dishes to the humble interior decked out in hanging plants. The menu here is nothing fancy, just Thai and Cambodian dishes done well.

West Queen West

Conceived by the same guy that opened Khao San Road back when it was on King West, Nana's concept feels considerably younger and fun. Giving us the essence of Bangkok’s Entertainment District, you’ll find plenty of dishes worth trying here.

Yonge and Bloor 

The lovely subterraneous space that is Sabai Sabai boasts a refined menu of Northern Thai and Laotian favourites. Pair it with a bottle of Beerlao, a sweet jasmine rice beer, to offset the spice.

The softshell crab Pad Thai goes well with giant booze buckets at Si Lom. Photo by Hector Vasquez. 

Yonge and Dundas

There’s a few reasons why Salad King is so popular. Its proximity to Ryerson and sprawling seating area make it a solid spot, but on top of that prices are decent and it's really the only quick option for Thai in between classes at Kerr Hall and Ted Rogers.

Yonge and Eglinton

Dee is one of the newest spots on this list and perhaps the most beautiful, if you like colourful, vibrant decor. You can’t help but feel a little more cheerful walking into this restaurant; it also helps the gooey cheese bites come with tom yum sauce and are extra delicious.

Yonge and Lawrence

People who live by Joy Thai swear by it as the best local Thai spot in the area. The chicken Pad Thai here is surprisingly good, and they have a great selection of soups like tom kha and tom yum.

Yonge and St. Clair

Fusing the traditional Thai flavours with additional spices from Szechuan and Indian cuisine, New Thai's approach may seem adventurous, but it’s really just as reliable as other neighbourhood spots.

Yonge and Wellesley

You wouldn’t expect Thai Fantasy — located in the most hectic part of the Yonge and Wellesley area — to feel as relaxing as it does, but service here is almost so friendly it’s hard not to feel cozy. Plus lunch deals are generous here and food is dependably good.

Yorkville

Bua Thai sticks out like a sore thumb in this usually pricey area with $10 lunch specials. That being said, portions aren’t insanely big, but they definitely have a diverse enough menu to satisfy your Thai cravings.

The Ontario election may be over, but lawns across the city are still littered with the wobbly signs of riding ex-hopefuls. 

Not for long, according to a city bylaw which states that those signs have until Sunday at 9 p.m. before they're considered illegal, or at the very least more unsightly than they already are.  

The City requires election signs to be removed 72 hours after the writ of election is issued; anyone who fails to do so might otherwise find a bylaw enforcement officer at their door (if your neighbour is grumpy enough to call one). 

Did you display an election sign? The candidate who provided the sign should pick it up - contact them if it's not collected. Signs can also be brought to select #CityofTO Drop-Off Depots for recycling until July 17. Do not place signs in the Blue Bin: https://t.co/f2AR1R8G8Jpic.twitter.com/ectzWuHlQM

— City of Toronto (@TorontoComms) June 8, 2018

But don't just dump Adam Pham and Steven Del Duca signs in the garbage can or blue bin: these big ol' political proclamations need special disposal. 

If they're not being picked up by the candidates themselves, your old election signs have to be discarded at one of the city's Drop-Off Depots. 

All but one of seven depots – by Dufferin and Finch, specifically – will recycle your unwanted signs for free. Keep in mind that most depots are closed on Mondays with limited hours on weekends, and peak periods between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. should be avoided. 

You should also make sure your sign is free from stakes, nails, fasteners, and bring it separately from your other waste, lest you encounter an extra fee.

If this all sounds like too much work for you, I recommend re-purposing your sign (into some nice tomato stakes, perhaps). Here's to hoping no one calls enforcement on this guy. 

While we're all sitting here in utter disbelief over housing prices in the city, some Torontonians are laughing at the idea of paying a paltry million or two for a house — they're more in the $20 million market. Forget the most expensive condos in the city, when these houses are almost twice the price. 

These are the most expensive houses on the Toronto market, right now. 

This massive house at 469 Spadina Road literally has more space than you could ever need. 

469 Spadina Road ($25,000,000)

Near Spadina Road and Coulson Avenue, this Forest Hill home features (are you ready?) seven parking spaces, eight bathrooms, five bedrooms, a games room, an above-ground pool, an exercise room, a media room, an elevator and an eating area, which is not the dining room. It's also absolutely massive. 

The importance of having a nice front lawn to go with your even nicer house cannot be overstated at this property in Forest Hill. 

138 Dunvegan Road ($23,890,000)

This stunning manor at the corner of Dunvegan and Kilbarry roads (another Forest Hill property) boasts nine parking spaces, 12 bathrooms, five (+ two) bedrooms, a walk out basement, a library, an inground pool, a two-floor den and a family room with a terrace. 

A sweeping foyer in this "chateau" greets guests in the most fabulous way. 

85 The Bridle Path ($22,990,000)

This "French provincial chateau" sits smugly near Lawrence Avenue East and The Bridle Path with a modest 30 parking spots. In addition the house offers 11 bathrooms, eight bedrooms, a library, an eating area, and a dining room. Check out that chandelier in the foyer! 

The all-beige is certainly a look in this almost $20 million mansion. 

10 Highland Avenue ($19,800,000)

Facing Rosedale Park, this estate is a green thumb's paradise. Featuring 16 parking spaces, an inground pool, six bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, a library and an exercise room, you can be certain that you'll get lost here (at least once). 

Pretend you're having a picnic on these red and white checkered chairs. 

75 The Bridle Path ($19,800,000)

Another Bridle Path home, who could have guessed. Located on two acres, this home has 12 parking spaces, an indoor pool for when the weather gets chilly, eight bathrooms, five bedrooms, a games room, an exercise room and it's all finished in stone and stucco. 

In the weeks leading up to the provincial election, Doug Ford dodged questions as to whether or not he would be attending Toronto's Pride Parade on June 24 this year. 

Now that he's been elected, Ontario's Premier-designate has finally given a definitive answer.

In a live interview with CP24 the day after his election, Doug Ford suggested he might (for the first time ever) attend Toronto's Pride Parade on June 24, under one condition: that police services be allowed to join the march, too. 

"I look forward to [Toronto Pride's] answer on if they're having our police back in the parade," he told CP24's Stephanie Smyth. 

Friendly reminder that Ford & family refuse to march in the Pride Parade. This year, don’t make the same mistake. @fordnation, if you want to represent a province you need to represent a province inclusively. I’ll see you on June 24th.

— cam (@ThatDramaGeek) June 8, 2018

Uniformed police officers have been banned from walking alongside protestors during Pride Parade since 2016, when Black Lives Matter halted the procession to demand rights for Black and marginalized communities, and – among other stipulations – a ban on police floats from future parades.  

.@fordnation during his one term as a Toronto city councillor, he refused to attend the city’s Pride parade – describing it as “middle-aged men, with pot bellies, running down the street buck naked” - no Doug that's the mirror you look in

— Robert Michael Todd (@Roberttodd) June 9, 2018

Ford has previously made controversial remarks about the Pride Parade, describing the protest as an an event where "middle-aged men with pot bellies" ran down the street "buck naked" in 2014. 

His brother, the late Rob Ford, also had a volatile relationship with the LGBT community: he publicly shunned the yearly event during his run as mayor and once demanded a Pride flag be taken down from City Hall during the Sochi Olympics. 

If his conditions for attending the parade hold true, it's pretty unlikely that you'll be seeing Ford marching down Yonge Street in two weeks. 

@fordnation I adore your view on marching in the Toronto Pride Parade! If they allow the police back in in full uniform and taking care of the people on the street during the Parade, I won't have to boycott the Parade anymore!

— Rita L (@ChihuahuaCheech) June 9, 2018

Despite discussions between Toronto Pride and Toronto Police, the ban on uniformed officers is still in effect. Police were asked to withdraw their request to appear in the parade this April, and the issue still divides many Torontonians surrounding the inclusivity of the event. 

The relationship between police and the Church-Wellesley LGBT community are particularly strained this year in the wake of the Bruce McArthur killings, spurring some participants to opt for all-black clothes as opposed to the event's standard colourful attire.

Coupe Bizzarre – the hair salon best known for executing even the most adventurous cuts and colours – is closing its shop on West Queen West at the end of the month. 

According to a salon rep, the owners have decided not to renew the lease and will be shuttering their space at Queen and Manning by July 31. 

"They just don't want to be on Queen Street anymore," she said. 

Instead, owners Jimi Imij and Robert Pieter are downsizing the studio and will be relocating Coupe Bizzarre to their home's basement studio, just a five-minute walk from the original salon by Palmerston Avenue.

The basement – which the pair used to rent out on Airbnb – is currently undergoing renovations and will be converted into a salon where Coupe Bizzarre will operate under the same name, contact information, and rates. 

Citing flexibility and the owners' intention of travelling more in the future, Coupe Bizzarre's rep also stated the neighbourhood's changing demographic as a reason for the move. 

Ten years after closing its doors to the public in 2008, the David Dunlap Observatory (DDO) – home of Canada's largest telescope – has re-opened its facilities to the public once more. 

Starting today, astronomy lovers can take a public tour of the 100-acre property, which includes its main copper-domed observatory and an administration building housing three smaller telescopes. 

A post shared by Cam (@cc_ride) on Jun 9, 2018 at 11:24am PDT

A crowd of people lined up for the Observatory's grand opening in Richmond Hill today, excited to explore the refurbished grounds.

It's been a decade since the University of Toronto (which built the observatory in 1935) sold the DDO to Corsica Development in a controversial deal that had Richmond Hill town staff, residents, and conservationists fighting to keep builders from parceling out the land. 

A post shared by Niina Felushko (@insightfulfinancial) on Jun 9, 2018 at 12:06pm PDT

In the years that followed, observatory staff were fired, trees were cut down illegally by developers, and volunteer groups were formed in the wake of what Richmond Hill Mayor David Barrow described as U of T's "cash grab". 

Exciting day @myRichmondHill with the official public opening of David Dunlap Observatory @Dunlap_Obs - council welcome from suspended balcony of dome, and lineups of eager visitors show keen public interest! pic.twitter.com/txICHilT8O

— Marney Beck (@MarneyBeck) June 9, 2018

Luckily for defenders of the dome, the city designated the site a historic property and Corsica eventually transferred half of the property back to the town of Richmond Hill.

Future plans include turning half the site into an astronomy-themed destination park which will feature an amphitheatre, added walking paths and a low-light level "Star Path" that self-illuminates as you walk it. 

A post shared by Lidia Carmela Kafieh (@lidiakafieh) on Jun 9, 2018 at 12:24pm PDT

But before that happens, there are plenty of ways for visitor to marvel in the night sky views. The observatory offers public programs like Star Talk Nights, where you can view the heavens though telescopes on the lawn.

Events in Toronto today are bustling for a Sunday as the sounds of Detroit make their way here for this week's edition of Promise Cherry Beach. There's also traditional Russian food for the tasting, and a big block party in support of SickKids.

Free events in Toronto this week offer a lot of things to do without spending a dime. Check out some LGBTQ+ artists at Nuit Rose or catch a movie under the stars. Take a stroll through College or hang out in Liberty Village. All for free!

Hotel swimming pools in Toronto are the height of luxury. There's nothing more glamorous than walking past concierge to the swimming pool – even better if it's salt water, and best if it's on the roof. 

Here are my picks for the top hotel swimming pools in Toronto. 

Guests Only

Bisha

The newest luxury hotel and residence to hit Blue Jays Way boasts an infinity pool and bar with an incredible view of the CN Tower, right next to its rooftop restaurant, Kost. While it's guests only at this 44th floor pool, Kost diners can swim vicariously while eating tuna tartare.

Delta Toronto

Offering an indoor salt water pool, slightly heated, with floor-to-ceiling views of the GO train tracks, you can take a dip after a trip to Ripley’s Aquarium and head into the whirlpool for some extra leisure time.

Adelaide Hotel

Formerly the Trump Hotel, this Financial District hotel boasts an indoor infinity lap pool, plus it’s full of natural salt water and heated, making it extra therapeutic. On top of that it also offers a ridiculously beautiful panoramic view of Toronto’s skyline.

Hazelton Hotel

The epitome of luxury, this shi-shi spot in Yorkville has a salt water lap pool tiled with mosaics, which – while small – is a serene reprieve if you’ve had a long day shopping in one of the stushiest areas in the city.

The Thompson

One of the most popular rooftop pools in the city, this King West infinity pool – with its sky high views of Toronto – is only open for swimming until 7 p.m. nightly but acts as a fantastic fluorescent backdrop for summer dinners on the patio.

The Four Seasons

The stay might be pricey at this glamourous Yorkville hotel but this ninth floor indoor pool has floor-to-ceiling windows that can be accessed by guests and residents, as well as appointments for massage and facial services.

Shangri-La

Perhaps the most luxurious in the city, this pool comes outfitted with a chandelier, glass roof, waterfall, cabanas, candle-lit walls and a panoramic view of the city made better with a whirlpool on deck.

Ritz Carlton

There’s nothing fancier than taking a swim in an all-white room. This expansive hotel pool on Wellington – which is saltwater, obviously – features plenty of lounge chairs and is the perfect way to relax before finishing off with an onsite spa treatment.

The Westin Prince

Muskoka chairs surround this outdoor heated pool, making it the ideal spot to catch some sun. Further removed from the downtown  core, this hotel on York Mills also offers prime views of surrounding lawn and greenery: you’ll feel more like you’re in cottage country than the city.

Hilton

At Richmond and University, this hotel has a heated indoor pool as well as a summer pool bar where you can order from a menu of cocktails and snacks like sliders and burgers, surrounded by the towering buildings of the surrounding Financial District.

Passes Available
 

InterContinental Toronto Centre

This Front Street hotel has an expansive 48-foot salt water swimming pool which you can access with a fitness day pass ($25) that lets you use everything from the hot tub to the steam rooms and gym.

Hyatt Regency

Once the Holiday Inn, this King Street hotel has a seasonal deck that offers a spectacular view of downtown Toronto and gives swimmers and sunbathers access to the room service menu. Swim it from Thursday to Sunday with a $39 day pass.

Radisson’s on Queens Quay

This pool and its patio offers a great view of the city and sweeping view of the Toronto harbour. Whether you choose to go for a dive or kick back on a lounge chair, you can get in on towel service, showers, and lockers with a $40 day pass.

Sheraton Centre

With the largest indoor and outdoor heated pool in Toronto, this Queen West hotel has deck chairs and sofas galore. Get a day pass for $35 and get access to this year-round pool.

Fairmont Royal York

This facility on Front Street comes equipped with everything you could ask for: a skylight, whirlpool, steam rooms, saunas, and a 50-foot pool. It’s technically reserved for hotel guests but you can still access if it you grab a health club membership for a year – it’ll only set you back $1,500.

Presto cards might be saving riders money – if they're transferring between GO, that is – but it's costing the TTC more than expected. 

According to a TTC report released Friday, converting Toronto's transit payment system from tickets, tokens and Metropasses to using Presto cards exclusively will cost the agency $110.8 million this year. 

By the time the Presto system is fully implemented in 2020 (pushed back from 2017) it'll be $9 million more expensive, costing $119.7 million. 

But that's nothing: the years leading up to that will be even costlier as the TTC juggles two payment systems, slowly phasing out old methods of fare collection as Presto becomes the norm. 

Can the TTC do anything right! Presto has been well executed in the 905 transit agencies with little to no glitches.

— Jackie Chan (@jackiechan511) June 9, 2018

These expected "transitional costs" for 2019 will set the TTC back $19.5 million, making its total fare collection expense a whopping $130.3 million – that's $20 million more than this year. 

Then there's the 5.25 percent fee that the TTC has to pay to Presto operators Metrolinx for every card transaction, maintenance costs for Presto gates, and the cost of "customer service agents" at every station. The latter alone which will set the TTC back $35.6 million a year. 

And on top of all this, TTC and Metrolinx can't seem to agree on who's paying for what, making this fare transition feel less like growing pains and more like a big bumble. 

Right now, the TTC claims the owner of Presto owes the agency a total of $4.2 million for lost revenue due to malfunctioning Presto-reading machines, while Metrolinx says the transit agency still has a debt to repay for fare card-related business. 

TTC Chair Josh Colle has also stated that he thinks Metrolinx should swallow any additional Presto-card related expenses.

None of this is surprising since costs relating to Presto always seem to balloon to exorbitantly pricier amounts unexpectedly. 

rip it out... all of it... turnstiles, collector booths, ticket machines, Presto machines, transfer machines, fare inspectors... all of it
make #TTC free and reap the benefits -- no lineups, easy boarding, increased ridership (and less car traffic), incredible tourist draw... https://t.co/fWLrQiMpYT

— Rudy Limeback (@rudydotca) June 9, 2018

Despite all this financial finger-pointing, the transit agency's plans for Presto domination are moving ahead at true TTC speed.

Tickets and tokens will no longer be sold by August 2019, while Metropasses won't be accepted after 2018: if you haven't gotten one of those sleek black Presto cards yet, it's time to at least start thinking about it. 

The best and worst No Frills in Toronto all provide discount groceries, but sometimes the price cuts just aren’t worth the bruises. Old fruit, decaying meat, and inaccessible aisles tend to overshadow the occasional deal on cans of No Name kidney beans. 

Here are the best and worst No Frills locations in Toronto. 

Best

Dundas and Lansdowne

Peter's No Frills is undoubtedly the best location n the city. Clean and big, it's equipped with almost every service you could want, from a butcher's counter and a seafood counter to a pharmacy and cheese bar. This yellow-topped grocery can rival your local Loblaws any day. 

Carlaw and Gerrard

After some recent upgrades, Dave and Charlotte's large No Frills is way easier to navigate than before. Best part: they now have a liquor section that stocks some pretty good – albeit warm – IPAs. 

Royal York and Mimico

It gets pretty busy here, and for good reason. Mario and Selina's No Frills is usually well-stocked despite being smaller than other spots on this list and parking is dependably convenient: perfect for the burgeoning number of locals in the Mimico area. 

Dufferin Mall

Say what you will about Suffering Mall, shopping at Joe's No Frills is a far less painful experience than its counterparts. Newly renovated and just steps from Dufferin station, you'll be treated to spacious aisles and a great place to snag some deals if you beat everyone else to it. 

Worst

Vic Park and St. Clair

Sorry Tom, people complain that the No Frills here isn't always the cleanest nor convenient. Meats could be fresher, and aisles feel cramped, making for a less than ideal shopping experience. 

Runnymede

Since it's right opposite the subway station, Nicholson's No Frills gets expectedly busy, but sometimes it all just gets too much. Comparing it to sardines in a tin can is generous: at least sardines don't have to shop for groceries. 

Dixie Mall

Despite undergoing some renovations, Chris and Stacey's doesn't feel like it's getting any more organized. There seem to be rarely enough cashiers running, resulting in very off-putting line ups, especially on weekends. 

Parliament and Carlton 

Cosimo, what's going on with this aisle situation? This tiny No Frills gets packed with disgruntled customers who are likely feeling a little miffed by the less than stellar produce. Plus there's no deli or dollar store: it just can't compare to the quality of No Frills we've come to expect.

For lovers of antiques, farmers' markets and all things flea, the Downsview Park Merchant's Market is a weekend paradise.

It's been a decade since the market first took over a massive warehouse building on the Downsview Park site, and over the years this weekly enterprise has drawn thousands of price-minded patrons through its doors. 

Within its cool, looming exterior hides a giant maze-like interior of shops that run the gamut of cheap, international goods, easily making it one of the most diverse markets in the city.

Downsview Park Merchants Market is one of the most diverse markets in Toronto. 

But beyond the bookstore piled wall-to-wall with vintage books, the shop selling dashikis, and the Chinese medicine store is Downsview's most prized attraction: a food court with dozens of vendors serving up delicious international fare. 

There's a great selection of merchandise at the market at affordable prices. 

Open every weekend from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the parking lot is vast, with several entry points. I recommend entering through the discrete market entrance (not the antique or farmers' market doors) to start your journey. 

Smaller food vendor areas operate outside of the main international food court. 

Even before reaching the food court, a handful of stalls off the main shopping paths mark the way toward your final destination. 

The corner stall Yummy Bubble Tea offers no-frills cups of bubble tea with tapioca. 

Marking the beginning of your culinary adventure is Yummy Bubble Tea, which you'll quickly spot on the corner, likely with a sizeable line. There's nothing fancy here, just simple boba at cheap prices in all your standard flavours. 

Samosa Palace is another corner shop offering cheap eats. 

At another corner, Samosa Palace marks the starting point of a succession of food stalls. You'll find this stall across from a sizeable lighting and appliance store, where you can grab a meat samosa for $1.25, or two vegetarian samosas for $1.25. 

Meat samosas from Samosa Palace are just $1.25 each, and the same price for two veggie-filled samosas. 

Right next door you'll find Pupusas Hot, a pupuseria that sells the popular El Salvadorean corn tortillas with a variety of fillings. 

A seating area is fenced off by a white picket fence. 

Continue walking through the market aisles past a used-parts bike shop and stores selling tons of "6ix" gear and you'll encounter a small seating area of sorts.

You can buy slices or whole cakes from Minuet Cafe. 

Not to be confused with the international food court, this makeshift food vendor zone is home to Carmen Y Pepe Peruvian Cuisine, a stall where you can get lomo saltado and civeche, and Minuet Cafe, which specializes in chocolate and strawberry cakes which you can by whole.

Angel's "Heaven Soup" is made of veggies and yanang leaf, a popular veggie used in Thai cuisine. 

At Angel Dusit International Vegetarian Cuisine, you'll likely find the owner Angel stirring a pot of her self-proclaimed cancer-curing concoction called "Heaven Soup". Made of stewed veggies and yanang leaf, Angel offers cancer patients a bowl of her soup for free. 

Ice cream and bubble tea make an unlikely pair at Icecream Paradise. 

Past a gold shop, you'll find Icecream Paradise – a purveyor of iceys, banana royales and bubble tea – lining the outskirts of the market. A short walk will soon take you out of the merchants' area and out into the farmers' market hall. 

Pita House sits at the edge of the Downsview Park Farmers' Market. 

Here is where you'll find Pita House, a stall that sits on a slightly elevated area that offers a beautiful vista of the giant market, likely to be bustling with shoppers as they peruse veggies and fruits offered by five separate grocers. 

Pita Hut serves espresso and large puffy pastries filled with jam for $3 each.

If you're feeling a bit tuckered out from the walking you can grab an espresso from the friendly Greek owner of Pita House. For something more substantial grab a falafel for $5, or grab one of their giant jam-filled pastries for just $3. 

Head to the back of the warehouse site to find the international food court. 

While it may tempting to meander around a bit longer, it's important to keep your eye on the prize. Head back into the market from where you came from and you'll spot the sign that leads you to the food court in the back. 

Flags mark your arrival at the Downsview Park Merchant's Market international food court. 

Once you see the strings of flags hanging from afar, you'll know you've found the international food court, Downsview Park Merchant's Market's secret gem.

There are over 15 stalls to choose from in the food court. 

Depending on how busy it is, you may feel a little overwhelmed by the multitude of options.

The pupusas from Pupuseria Delicias come with a side of slaw. 

Trying to decide between the tacos from Tacontento Mexican Foods. the empanadas from Comida Ecuatoriana or the pupusas from Pupuseria Delicias will probably be the hardest decision to make all day. If you have a budget of $15, you can easily get something from all three stalls. 

You'll find a variety of Chinese and Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls and noodles from Saigon Quan. 

For Asian eats, you Chinese & Vietnamese Food serves up exactly what you think it does, with cheap four-item combos of fried rice and sweet and sour chicken costing only $7. Further down, Saigon Quan has Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and cheap daily specials. 

Tavga Pizza and Wings offers combos of pop, fries, and a slice of pizza. 

If you're craving something reliably filling, Tavga Pizza and Wings – situated in the corner of the food court – has slice and pop combos with fries, while Reber Poutine Fiesta does an original take on the classic Canadian comfort food but adding halal meat to it. 

Roti Corner may not have a sign but it boasts some of the best doubles in the food court. 

Dominating the space are Caribbean stalls serving up Jamaican and Trini favourites like oxtail, jerk and doubles. Roti Corner is a standout: despite having no sign, the stall is a family-run affair and serves some of the best doubles I've had, plus a killer pholourie. 

There are several stalls offering Caribbean fare at this food court.

Mama Original has cabbage and saltfish for just $5, while King's Palace has $6 specials of jerk chicken with rice and homemade drinks of sea moss, sorrel, and mauby. 

The Trinidadian beachside favourite, bake and shark, can be found at Melo's Kitchen. 

Melo's Kitchen is another Trinidadian food spot that specializes in bake and sharks – the delicious baked bread sandwich with shark meat inside – and a big menu of other favourites like stewed chicken. 

Churros in all shapes and sizes from Churro Zone will satisfy your sweet tooth. 

For dessert, Churro Zone offers a sweet Mexican treat option, with churros coming in all shapes and sizes, from drizzled and filled to ice-cream filled bowls and churro ice cream sandwiches. 

The elegantly designed Sweetnuthin's Dessert Shoppe sells whole cakes, pies, and funnel cakes. 

There's also Sweetnuthin's Dessert Shoppe, one of the newest additions to the food court that's popular for its cheesecakes, pies, and funnel cakes ($6). They even have candied apples, if you really want to complete the whole market experience. 

Regardless of what you choose to devour at the Downsview Park Merchant's Market, your food cravings and your wallet will be feeling satisfied and ready to return to this Toronto sanctuary next weekend. 

The son of Toronto celebrity chef Susur Lee just got his one-of-kind Mercedes stolen, and he's taken to Twitter to try and find it. 

At around 10 p.m. last night, Kai Bent-Lee tweeted out that his very rare Mercedes SUV had just been stolen from Toronto, stating the theft happened while he was in Los Angeles. 

HELP! My car was just stolen downtown Toronto. My Valet was showing a “potential buyer” my car that was for sale. The buyer asked to start it up to hear the engine. The buyer then gunned off with my car. Please share this picture if anyone sees it downtown Toronto call 911. pic.twitter.com/XynP77Qs25

— Kai Bent-Lee (@kaibentlee) June 10, 2018

Apparently, the Kid Lee restaurateur was trying to sell his car long distance, and instructed his apartment's valet to show a "potential buyer" the car that was for sale. 

According to Bent-Lee the supposed buyer asked the valet if he could start it up to hear what the engine sounded like, then proceeded to drive away at full speed. 

If you don't find this by sundown its probably already been chopped or on a boat to Africa as we speak my guy.

— Playboy Gardi (@JacquesBandito) June 10, 2018

Since then the former Fring's owner has gotten over 160 retweets and well-wishes have been flooding into the comment section. 

The car – which is purportedly the only of its kind in Canada – has yet to be found.

The best thing about this is it's going to make a good youtube video.

— Brian Wheatley (@thefunnybarrel) June 10, 2018

And though it always helps to keep an eye out, it's very unlikely that this very rare G-Class will be seeing the light of day anytime soon, unless the thief's a total idiot. 

If you're planning to celebrate in Pride festivities this year – and partake in the new beer garden on Church Street – prepare to fork out some money, and submit to random bag and I.D. checks. 

Pride Toronto has introduced a new policy for their Drinks on the Go program that requires festival-goers to purchase wristbands if they plan on consuming alcoholic beverages within the festival limits, and it's not going over well with anyone. 

Wristbands will set you back $10 for the day, or $25 for the entire weekend on top of what you'll already be spending on boozy drinks.  

In the past, Toronto's lively celebration of the LGBTQ+ community has been lenient with the (illegal) transportation of liquor and beer on the festival grounds, which officially runs along Church between Isabella and Wood Streets, and on Wellesley between Yonge and Church.  

This is the first year it'll be completely legal to purchase booze at partnering businesses like O'Grady's and beverage gardens in the vicinity and take it along with you in a can or plastic cup. 

But unlike previous years, you'll now have to pre-buy your wristband on Eventbrite if you plan on drinking, and pick it up from various kiosks and stages around the event. 

You'll also have to bring a receipt and government I.D. (driver's licenses and passports only), and – the most unsavoury part of all of this – be prepared to be asked for them at any point during the day. 

By purchasing a wristband, festival-goers are agreeing to Pride's terms and conditions which state that all wristband holders will have their bags searched upon entering the event, and that, "Security guards may search any persons and property on the Event site at any time." 

Anything that's confiscated (including forbidden items like large umbrellas, frisbees, or water guns) will never be returned. 

Comments on Pride's wristband announcement on Facebook have been largely negative, with people calling the new policy out as "ludicrous" and a "money grab". 

One user Stephen Smith commented, "Ka-Ching! It's all about da money. Congrats Pride Toronto for your continued mission to ruin what used to be a great event." 

Commenter Krista White cited security concerns, stating, "Some folks may not be comfortable having a wristband on when they leave the area-for safety reasons. Above all though, this is the worst idea yet. I won’t be buying one." 

Meanwhile others blasted the idea as just being plain inconvenient, subtly offering ways to bypass the whole ordeal. 

User Steffany Grieco said: "Sounds like Tim Horton's coffee cups will be making appearances this pride." 

The World Naked Bike Ride returned on Saturday as about 150 people gathered near Coronation Park bringing only a bike, helmet and body paint, fully naked and ready to ride the busy streets of downtown Toronto.

The annual worldwide event is meant to bring awareness to the environmental impacts from oil and urban pollution. 

Just like last year, the naked ensemble rode through areas including Kensington Market, Yonge-Dundas Square and City Hall, stopping along the route to take pictures with shocked pedestrians and honking drivers.

Take a look at the NSFW photo gallery of this year's ride.

Events in Toronto this week will see a slew of big artists hit the stage all over the city. Pride celebrations are on in full force with a tech community event, market and party, while there's lots of fantastic free events happening, too.