Иммиграция в Канаду. Первое знакомство

Давайте знакомится! 


Добро пожаловать! 


Мы, Серёжа и Ната - обычная семья, которая выбрала Канаду своим домом немного больше восьми лет назад. Здесь родились наши девочки Эмма (7,5 лет) и Джессика (5,5 лет). Мы по праву считаем, что мы очень успешно оканадились и адаптировались, чем с удовольствием делимся с вами и показываем нашу повседневную жизнь. Мы вначале хотели остаться в Америке, но, пожив здесь, мы поняли, что ни за что не променяем Канаду. С удовольствием поживём какое-то время где-то, но наш дом здесь.

В Украине Ната была юристом, Серёжа - дизайнером. Здесь мы оба работаем в сфере недвижимости. А сейчас даже в одном офисе. Ната работает с документами, проводит и закрывает сделки, а Серёжа - все так же дизайнит.

Мы живём в Онтарио, в 80 км на север от Торонто, и обожаем жизнь в небольшом городке.

Ровно три года назад мы начали снимать видео, благодаря тому, что начали вместе ездить на работу в Ричмонд хилл, где прожили первые три года нашей жизни в Канаде. Мы стали проводить много времени вместе и решили использовать это время с пользой и делится нашим опытом и самыми простыми бытовыми моментами.

Мы хотели сделать канал таким, как сейчас этот Инстаграмм, но так уж получилось, что съемка и обработка видео занимает много времени, а здесь наша жизнь всего one button away, одно нажатие на кнопку сторис и вы все видите! Куда бы мы не шли, что бы не делали -мы всегда берём вас с собой! Это невероятно! Поэтому ценность этой странички именно в сторис, которые мы снимаем для вас каждый день. Часто на темы, которые Вы просите затронуть! У нас всегда двухсторонний контакт!

В постах мы стараемся суммировать важную информацию после многих сторис, чтоб всегда можно было найти и почитать.

Со многими из вас мы сдружились, чему несказанно рады и очень ждём вашего приезда сюда или когда доедем в другие провинции!

Напишите, кто вы, как вы нас знаете, почему заглянули сюда и где живёте и что вам было бы интересно узнать.

#ЖизньвКанаде #Торонто #Канада #Иммиграция #ИммиграциявКанаду #Онтарио #Америка

Immigration to Canada: How to build your network in new country

When we came to Canada six years ago we didn't know many people here. In fact we knew only one family who lived here already and whom were kind enough to meet us at the airport after landing along with our friend from New York who came to Toronto to meet us and our realtor who was helping us to find a place to live. The family we knew introduced us to another family and we became a good friends but that was it. That was the only network we had in Toronto at that time.

We can describe ourself as very friendly people so with no plan and I would say subconsciously we've started to build our network here. After a year or so we already knew quite a few people by then we were starting slowly realize how important the connections and the network are, here in Canada. No matter what your business or occupation is it would help you to succeed.

So here are the 6 steps how to grow your network.

1. Be friendly with people. Don't be shy to do small talks with people everywhere. With your neighbors, your bank, welcome centres, at activities, organizations and institutions.

2. Promote yourself. Always (if appropriate) talk about what do you do for living and how good you are. If you do a web-design for example let people know and there is the chance that they will remember you when them or their friends would need a website.

3. Your kids could be a great source for networking. Attend events and birthdays on which your kids would be invited. Make birthday parties for your kids and invite their school's friends. Talk to parents at kids' activities: hokey, skating, skiing, dancing and so on.

4. Create database. Set up and organize the database with all people you know in Canada with their names, phones, emails and birthdays if you have all that information of course.

5. Be in touch with people in your network. Don't let them forget about you and once in a while reminding campaign. Congratulate them with their birthdays, invite them (if you know them well enough) to your home for coffee or BBQ and so on.

6. Use social media. Social media is one of the best ways to be connected with people in our network. Do don't have to be a close friend to be connected on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn. Be active (but not annoying) in their social media activity. Like and comment their social media activity. Make sure that your social media profile filled with important informations like your job position or occupation, your education. Make sure to post something related to field in which your work frequently.

Do not underestimate the importance of networking in Canada. It would help you not only with job searching or growing your business but also might help to find a new friends in new country.

Please let me know your thoughts on the subject and if you have any questions let me know in comment.  

Seven Surprising Facts About Canada

Seven Surprising Facts About Canada

7. Canada is the world's most educated country. 55% of adults have a degree.

6. Canada has more coastline than any other country, with 202,080 kilometers in total.

5. Parts of northern Canada have lower gravity than the rest of the world.

4. Canada has the third largest proven oil reserves in the world.

3. Canada's population is smaller than Tokyo's

2. Canadians consume more doughnuts than any other people on Earth.

1. The province of Ontario has 250,000 lakes containing 20% of the world's fresh water.

Source: nazgoz.com

Toronto Real Estate Market Update | June 2016 | Chestnut Park

June was, as have been all the months in 2016, exceptional. What we did not see however is a new monthly average sales price record, notwithstanding that June’s average sale price was almost 17 percent higher than the average sale price recorded last June. June’s average sale price came in at $746,546, about $6,000 less than the record of $752,335, established this past May.

One should not read anything into this decline. It is quite normal to see prices decline as we approach the summer months and families start focusing on the end of the school term and the holidays that lie ahead. For example, last June the average sale price dropped by about $10,000 compared to the previous month. Generally, the peak months for establishing record average sale prices are May and June, so the record average sale price established in May of this year ($752,335) will probably still be a record at year end.

And that is good news for buyers. Toronto and area’s average sale prices have been reaching dangerously high levels. This is dramatically illustrated when we consider that in January the average sale price for all properties sold was $630,193, and only six months later it is $746,546, almost a 20 percent increase.

In June we also witnessed, for the first time this year, a decline in sales from the previous month. In May there were 12,838 residential properties reported sold. In June that number fell marginally to 12,794. Again I wouldn’t read much into that decline. To some extent it is seasonal. As well it is due to the inventory shortage that has been causing so many buyers sleepless nights.

25 Scrivener Sq, 412, Toronto – $799,000

In June 16,980 properties came to market, a decline of almost 4 percent compared to the 17,659 that came to market in 2015. This decline compounded the active listing shortage. At the end of June there were only 12,327 residential properties available for buyers to view and purchase. That is more than 31 percent fewer properties available to buyers compared to last year. With only 12,327 properties on the market (17,972 in 2015) it is not surprising that those properties that did sell sold in record speed.

In June it took only 15 days for all properties (on average) to sell in the greater Toronto area. This is a torrid pace. Last year, which was a record breaking year, it took 19 days for all properties to sell. This number includes condominium apartments which do not move at the same pace as detached and semi-detached properties. The pace was even faster when we look at detached and semi- detached sales in various City of Toronto trading areas. For example all detached properties sold in only 11 days, and semi-detached properties in only 8 days. Not only did they sell quickly they also sold for more than their asking price. Detached properties sold for 107 percent of their asking price, and semi-detached sold for 111 percent. It is clear that a property’s list price is only a starting point. This phenomenon is no doubt due to the inventory shortage we are experiencing, but is also being aggravated by agents listing properties (knowingly and unknowingly) lower than they should.

31 Summerhill Ave, Toronto – $2,950,000

It is noteworthy that the average sale price in Toronto’s central districts for detached properties came in at $2,072,978. A year ago the same house would only have cost a buyer $1,664,694. Semi-detached houses in Toronto are now (on average) selling for almost $1 Million ($912,724). In Toronto’s central districts a semi-detached house now sells for $1,186,443. These are not Vancouver prices, but they are becoming pricey.

Higher-priced properties are also selling in large quantities. In June 369 residential properties having a sale price of $2 Million or more were reported sold. Last June only 206 properties in this category were reported sold, an increase of almost 80 percent. It should be noted that Toronto is not Manhattan. Although there were many $2 Million plus sales in June, the sales activity for properties priced over $5 Million is considerably slower.

Condominium apartments continue to be an affordable alternative for most buyers. Although average sale prices are inching higher, they are considerably lower than detached and semi-detached properties. In June the average price for condominium apartment sales in the City of Toronto was $448,002, an increase of 6.9 percent compared to average sale prices last year. Although average sale price increases were moderate, the volume of condominium apartment sales was up by 15 percent. Condominium apartment sales now represent about 25 percent of all property sales in the greater Toronto area. That percentage is higher in the City of Toronto. In the central districts of Toronto, the average sale price for all condominium apartments sold in June was almost $500,000 ($494,578).

As indicated at the beginning of this report, the resale market, if it follows historical patterns, will “soften” during the second half of the year. This is what the market place needs, not only for affordability purposes, but to ensure that regulators and politicians do not create legislation to slow the pace of the market and rising prices. Generally, market intervention by government has had negative results – one cannot help by remember the 1974 Ontario Speculation Tax Act. It killed the market after it was introduced. It was repealed by 1978.
Prepared by:

Chris Kapches, LLB, President and CEO, Broker 

Source: Chestnutpark.com

Explore Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre

Step into the past and explore the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre – North Americas only in water exhibit of working antique boats. The state-of-the art exhibits capture the glory of the Muskokan experience, exploring the rich history of steamships, wooden boats and luxury hotels that helped define Muskoka.

The Grace & Speed Boathouse is a wonderful way to view up to 20 antique wooden boats in the water. Come celebrate turn of the century craftsmanship and the 11 wooden boat builders of the Muskoka area.

Experience what Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre has to offer - from permanent and feature exhibits, to meetings and conventions and even weddings and receptions.

For more information, please visit the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre website.

Source: www.gravenhurst.ca

Important Tips On How To Pack For A Canoe Trip

If you’re a newbie to canoeing, or if you usually go car camping and just take the canoe out for the odd spin, planning an overnight (or longer) trip can be intimidating. When it comes to long canoe trips, packing is everything. Not only will stores be inaccessible—if you forget sunscreen, you’re out of luck—but you’ll be hauling all your gear over portages, which always seem longer in real life than they do on maps. Trust us on that one.

Before you haul the canoe out of storage, oil up your paddle, and start looking at your collection of maps for your next big adventure, take a look at our handy guide on how to properly pack for a canoe trip.

Use a checklist

Repeat after us: you will not remember everything off the top of your head. And again: you will not remember everything off the top of your head. Make a list, and check it twice. Better yet, check it three times.

Pack enough food

If you’re going to be canoeing every day, you’re going to be burning a lot more energy than you may be used to, which means you’re going to be hungry. Ideal canoe trip food is lightweight, non-perishable, simple to prepare, and compact. As tempting as canned food might be, leave it on the grocery store shelf. Not only is it insanely heavy, but you’ll have to take the cans back out again.

Plan out your meals in advance, and pack the necessary ingredients in Ziploc bags or other light containers (for a handy guide to planning a menu, check out this article by paddling.net). Don’t forget to carry healthy, calorie-dense snacks, like granola, energy bars, dried fruit, turkey jerky, and trail mix. And hey—if you don’t feel like doing that much planning, there are lots of freeze-dried meals available. Some actually taste good, too.

Think about water

A good rule of thumb is that every adult on your trip will need about four litres of water per day for drinking and cooking. If you don’t carry your own water (which is heavy, bulky, and awkward) you’ll need a water purifier. If you’re a little overwhelmed by the plethora of gear that’s out there, here’s a handy guide to what you might need and how to make the right decision for your particular trip. Oh, and don’t even think about bringing glass bottles—they’re not allowed at most provincial parks, and really, there are much better options.

Clothing considerations

Regardless of when during the year you’ll be travelling, you’ll need to think about layers: a wicking layer, a layer for warmth, and a layer that’s wind and rain resistance. If it’s hot, just wear your wicking layer. If it’s cold, wear all three and strip down as needed. Pants with closeable pockets and belt loops for hanging carabiners and gear are hugely useful. It’s prudent to plan as though you’re going to get wet, so don’t keep anything precious in your pockets that’s not in a waterproof container and securely fastened. If you have space, two pairs of shoes—one for water, one for land—will keep your feet happy. And don’t forget a hat—one that’s tight enough to stay on your head in the wind or has a handy fastening system.

Good gear

A comfortable pack will make all the difference on portages—find one that fits your body proportions, and load it up before buying it so you can test out how it will feel.

Other must-haves include:

• Canoe, paddles, and personal flotation devices
• Tent (or another form of shelter)
• Sleeping bag or alternative
• First aid kit
• Stove and fuel
• Flashlight
• Multi-tool
• Map/map case
• Matches/fire starter
• Cookware, including utensils
• Bug repellent
• Dry bags/hard case for keeping things waterproof
• Duct tape
• Sunscreen

Nice-to-haves are:

• Tarp
• Sleeping pad (don’t bring an inflatable mattress—they’re too bulky)
• Rope
• Saw
• Knife
• Extra Ziploc bags
• Light, comfy camp shoes. Changing shoes at the end of a long day can feel like heaven. Old sneakers work, as do Crocs.
• Camp chair. Only if you’re not doing honking-long portages.
• Toilet paper. Depending on who you are and how well you can identify poison ivy, this might go on the must-have list. (Also, check out our“How to poop in the woods” article.)

Are you planning a canoe trip this summer? What are some of your best packing tips?

Source: Cottagelife.com

Enjoy Cinema Under the Stars in Gravenhurst This Summer

Enjoy an unforgettable experience of Cinema Under the Stars in Gravenhurst This Summer.

Location: Gull Lake Rotary Park, Gravenhurst

Time: (July - August) 7:30 p.m. for Live Entertainment, Music and Games. Movies start at dusk.

'Cinema Under the Stars' began in 2012 and has fast become a cherished tradition among attendees. Bring a cozy blanket, lawn chair, friends and family and enjoy free full length features with us every Thursday night in July and August!

Snacks and Refreshments are available for purchase.

Source: Gravenhurst.ca

The 2016 Town of Gravenhurst Spring & Summer Activity Guide Released

The 2016 Town of Gravenhurst Spring & Summer Activity Guide Is Here!
Featuring a Stellar Lineup of Programs, Activities & Events

Gravenhurst, ON – The Town of Gravenhurst Recreation, Arts & Culture Department is pleased to introduce the 2016 Spring & Summer Activity Guide featuring an action-packed lineup of family fun for all ages. With over 50 pages of programs, there is bound to be something for everyone.

“Through our exciting lineup of recreation, arts and cultural offerings, we truly believe there is something for everyone,” said Marta Proctor, director of recreation, arts & culture. “Whether you’re looking to stay active, learn a new activity, make new friends or participate in one of our workshops, there are plenty of options to choose from.”

Those interested in Tee-ball and Baseball will be excited to learn that the Town of Gravenhurst has partnered with the Muskoka Hornets in an effort to grow the league, provide more structure and improve the experience for youth.  Participants will get to learn to play like the Blue Jays and their other Major League Baseball favourites as hardball is introduced for the very first time!

In response to the overwhelming support and demand, the Pickleball program is also being expanded. This unique, fun and easy-to-learn sport has been a huge hit and now is your chance to experience it with the new ‘Pickleball 101: Group Lessons for Beginners’ program. For those looking to dive right in, there will be both a Spring session (April – June) and a Summer session (June – September).

Summer 2016 also means the launch of the Gravenhurst Opera House’s exciting season of Summer Theatre and the return of other classics like Cinema Under The Stars and Music On The Barge.

“Our staff remains committed to offering affordable, relevant and engaging opportunities for all ages to experience everything that Gravenhurst has to offer,” says Proctor.

The Spring & Summer Activity Guide will be distributed directly through Canada Post to all Gravenhurst households. For additional copies, you can find them at the Gravenhurst Centennial Centre, Gravenhurst Public Library, Town Hall, the Library, Chamber of Commerce and various locations throughout Gravenhurst.

For more information, please visit www.Gravenhurst.ca/activities where you’ll find a digital copy of the Activity Guide and can register for programs.

More info at Gravenhurst.ca

MEGANEWS. Guns N' Roses coming to Toronto this summer

For the first time in 23 years Guns N' Roses re-united for a Big North America Tour. Including Toronto, Ontario. For the first time in 23 years Guns N' Roses reunion in 2016 is including Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKaganwith - the original members of the band.

"Following months of intense rumor, speculation and feverish excitement from rock music fans around the world, Guns N' Roses confirmed today they will embark on a massive North American summer stadium tour as founder Axl Rose and former members, Slash and Duff McKagan regroup for what will be one of the century's most anticipated musical events", states on bands official website.

Rogers Centre, Toronto, ON
Sat, Jul 16, 2016 08:30 PM

For tickets www.ticketmaster.ca

Ontario Parks Blog: Backcountry at Grundy Lake Provincial Park

Today’s post hails from Grundy Lake Provincial Park, courtesy of Park Clerk Courtney Lafleur and Natural Heritage Education Leader Jessica Schulze.

You’re an experienced car-camper. You’ve got a favourite campsite. You’ve memorized your ideal site setup, and can put your campsite together in record time.

But now you’re ready to up your camping game and try something different. Something a little bit off the beaten path.

Grundy Lake Provincial Park is the perfect spot to test the backcountry waters!

Why is Grundy Lake’s backcountry ideal for beginners and families?

Campsites are easily accessible by canoe or kayak, just a short paddle from various access points throughout the park. Our sites, while paddle-in only, do not require any portaging.

Want to practice your portaging skills? Grundy Lake has a few portaging trails where you can practice without the pressure of having a full canoe of equipment.

Some campers are looking for multi-hour or -day backcountry paddling, but this may be a bit daunting for beginner backcountry campers. Our sites are located between a 10- and 30-minute paddle (depending on skill level) from your launch point. (Those who want to test themselves can always change their launch point to make the trip longer).

This short paddle time also means that backcountry campers are far enough away to feel secluded, but are close enough to the main campground to utilize facilities like showers, laundry, and beaches, and participate in NHE programming.

What do our backcountry sites look like?

Look for the orange markers — that’s how you’ll know where to land.

We have sites located on four of our lakes: three on Grundy Lake, three on Gurd Lake, two on Pakeshkag Lake and one on Beaver Lake.

Each site is marked by an orange tent symbol and comes equipped with a fire pit, picnic table and thunder box.

What’s a thunder box? It’s your restroom facility while camping in Grundy Lake’s backcountry (and they come with some spectacular views!).

Additionally, most sites have good swimming right off shore. And don’t forget to bring your fishing rods!

What else do you need to know about backcountry camping at Grundy Lake?

Our lakes are motor-boat free, meaning you won’t have any motor noise while trying to enjoy your backcountry experience. It also makes the paddle all the easier.

Also, Grundy Lake is located in bear country. This means that bear-proofing your site is very important (for all campers, whether in the backcountry or main campground), however in the backcountry you may need to be more creative.

Hanging your food is a great way to do this, so make sure to bring some good, long rope to hoist bags over a branch of a tall tree so it is off the ground.  Some good rules are: 6 feet away from the trunk, 6 feet down from the hanging branch, 12 feet off the ground, and 200 feet from your tent area.

Never store anything that has a scent in your tent, including food, garbage and toiletries.  (For more information about camping in bear-country, check out tips on the web or give us a call at the park).

Backcountry camping is leave no trace. Always camp on the designated site and carry out all your garbage. This way, you’ll leave the backcountry natural and clean for future campers and wildlife!

Source: Ontarioparks.com

Spring in Algonquin Park. Moose Watching Season.

If you never been to Algonquin Park in spring time you may want to give it a shot in May. We've been to Algonquin several times in May and every time we've spotted moose.

Spring offers the year's best Moose viewing and you typically don't have to search very hard to see Moose. The application of salt to Highway 60 during winter road maintenance operations, attracts Moose to roadside ditches. Moose with salt deficient winter diets, capitalize upon this unnatural source of salt and chances are you'll see a half dozen or more of these magnificent animals during a leisurely drive along Highway 60 on a May morning or evening.

Moose (and other wildlife) pose a serious danger to drivers. Stay alert as Moose can be on the road or standing in roadside ditches and are often surprisingly hard to see. Each year Moose and other wildlife are killed in vehicle collisions. Reduce your speed (especially at night) and help save the lives of Algonquin Park's Moose and possibly even your own.

If you see a Moose, pull onto the shoulder and off the traveled portion of the road and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If drivers flash their vehicle headlights at you in Algonquin Park, there's a good chance a Moose is ahead or maybe even a "Moose Jam" (a traffic jam caused by Moose watchers).

If you exit the vehicle, watch for traffic and ensure you keep a safe distance from wildlife. If you are watching a Moose and it flattens its ears the length of its body (rather than ears pointing to the sky), you are too close and you should back up.

Adapted from /www.algonquinpark.on.ca

Tips to budget your summer travel plans

With March break and Easter in the rear view mirror, Canadians' attention is now focused on a summer vacation. While vacations are remembered for the time spent with loved ones, a successful vacation starts well before you arrive at your destination. Being able to switch off and engage a vacation mindset and successfully leave stress behind is all about planning and budgeting.

One of the biggest disrupters of this vacation mindset is worrying about the financial costs of the trip. Dealing with the low Canadian dollar, getting the best deal on your package and budgeting the trip into your yearly financial plan are concerns that we deal with when planning a vacation.

The most important part of budgeting a vacation into your yearly financial plan is to determine how much money you are comfortable allocating and building the plans out from there. As soon as you establish a figure, you will be able to navigate through the planning process while still feeling in control.

Exploring the offers of travel rewards programs is an important way to limit the potential cost of travel and amenities. For example, Aeroplan members now have the ability to book a flight reward cash-free. Members' miles can now cover the cost of taxes, fees, charges and carrier surcharges associated to their flight reward. This results in additional savings. Removing the flight cost from vacation planning really opens up your budget and helps you feel confident about your plans. For added convenience Aeroplan members are now able to book flights through the Aeroplan app.

Source: www.newscanada.com

8 tips for Buying a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle in Canada

The last thing you want to do while gas prices are low is sabotage your savings by driving a gas guzzler. Consider these tips from Natural Resources Canada for buying a greener, more fuel-efficient vehicle. The long-term savings will be worth it.

1. In most cases, the smaller the vehicle, the better. Don't buy a large vehicle if you do not need it. Rent a trailer or larger vehicle when needed for hauling heavier cargo or more passengers.

2. Consider a manual transmission. Manual transmissions are generally more fuel-efficient than automatics, especially combined with a tachometer or shift indicator.

3. Gear up an automatic transmission. The more gears the better. Ask about a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that uses belts and pulleys for an infinite amount of gears.

4. Simplify your drivetrain. Four-wheel and all-wheel drives are less efficient, adding up to an extra 10 percent to fuel consumption. Unless needed, two-wheel drives are your more fuel-efficient alternative. 

5. Rein in the horsepower. This can be tricky. A mid-sized car with a two-litre, four-cylinder engine burns about 2,066 litres every 20,000 kilometres. The same car with a three-litre, six-cylinder engine burns 2,244 litres - 178 litres more. 

6. Avoid unnecessary extras. Car-starters, air conditioning and roof racks can increase fuel consumption. 

7. Request fuel-efficient features. Aluminum wheels, a block heater, cruise control, navigation systems, removable roof racks, sun roof, tachometer, tinted windows and trip computers have the potential to reduce fuel use.

8. Consult an impartial, trusted source. Natural Resources Canada, The Canadian Automobile Association and others can provide unbiased tips on their websites.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Outdoor design trends in Canada for 2016

Canadian design enthusiasts have one more thing to look forward to this spring as new outdoor trends emerge. Make your outdoor living area look as good as it makes you feel so you can take advantage of the season, whether you're relaxing, playing or socializing. 

Here, Debbie Travis, Canada's lifestyle expert, who recently launched an exclusive partnership at Sears Canada, shares her favourite new outdoor trends.

Space-saving patios: Multi-functional patio sets that save space are a go-to item this year. “No matter how much space we have, it seems there's never enough. That's why it's important to select versatile, space-saving patio sets,” she advises. “When it comes time to put away the patio set for winter, we want to be able to stow it away easily and use minimal space. Sofas that have all the chairs slotted underneath or coffee tables that sit right on top of the sofa make it easy to cover and pack-up.” Travis suggests her Chelsea Conversation set, designed specifically for Canadian weather, available at Sears Canada.

European inspired pieces: You can rejuvenate their outdoor living spaces by pulling inspiration from Europe. Right now, it's all about sleek, modern pieces combined with rustic accents. “Canadian barnwood is very cool at the moment and quite popular in Europe. Consider using it to build an outdoor countertop or as flooring on the deck,” says Travis.

Mix and match: Mismatched is trendy, so mix-up accessories like throw pillows or tableware. “Combine colourful, vintage looking pieces with simple, modern whites or greys. It's not only about mixing colour and pattern, but also old with new,” says Travis. “Tableware has also come a long way, and now it's easy to achieve a fun yet sophisticated look with pieces that appear to be ceramic but are shatter resistant.”

Travis recommends being adventurous with colour, fabrics and materials. Outdoor furniture made from multiple materials promotes a dynamic fusion between the indoor and outdoor entertaining space. Popular combinations for 2016 are wood and iron, stainless steel and teak or aluminum and wicker.

Source: www.newscanada.com

7 Best Towns in Ontario You Have To Visit in 2016

This is the fist part of the list of the 7 Best Towns in Ontario that You Have To Visit in 2016. If you never been to any of these places it is time to discover them.


1. Elora, Ontario. Ontario's Most Beautiful Village

Elora is a very beautiful and cozy community in the township of Centre Wellington, Ontario. It is located close to Guelph. If you are driving from Toronto it would take about an hour and half to get there. Approximately the same driving range from Richmond Hill, Aurora and Newmarket.

(It is well known for its 19th-century limestone architecture, its artistic community and the geographically significant Elora Gorge.)

What to do: Walk and explore the town.

What to see: The Old Mill in Elora, David St. Bridge, Elora Gorge Conservation Area and Elora Canyon.

Where to eat: Cork Restaurant, Box Social, The Cellar Pub And Grill.

2. Stratford, Ontario. One of the most romantic towns in Ontario

I remember that we’ve discovered Stratford by accident. We were going on camping to the Pinery Provincial Park and GPS led is through countryside and we found this beautiful city. Then we promised ourselves that we will return and discover this place. So we’ve been in Stratford many times since then.

City is about two hours drive from Toronto.

What to do: Visit antique shops, took a boat on the lake Victoria, Visit The Stratford Theatre Festival.

What to see: Enjoy the peace of Shakespearean Gardens

Where to eat: Pazzo Taverna and Pizzeria, Bijou Restaurant, Fellini's Italian -Mediterranean

3. Goderich, Ontario. “The prettiest town in Canada” according to Queen Elizabeth II.

Although it is very nice town I wouldn’t agree with our Queen. But of course it has its own charm and beauty. It is about three hours drive from Toronto.

What to do: Discover town, Go for camping at Point Farms Provincial Park

What to see: Courthouse Square, Goderich Main Beach, Goderich Lighthouse

Where to eat: Thyme On Twenty One Casual Dining, Goderich Harbour Restaurant, Park House Bar & Restaurant.

4. Parry Sound, Ontario - is the town of Georgian Bay's 30,000 Islands. 

If you want to get there from Toronto it would take about 3 hours drive. Could be less but to be on a safe side think about 3 hours.

Town itself nothing special as for me. But nature around is something. Many of lakes, provincial parks making this Muskoka edge place just simply splendid.

What to do: Take Island Queen Cruise

What to see: 30,000 islands

Where to eat: Lill's Place, Bay Street Cafe, Or just grab your own portable BBQ and spend a couple of hours somewhere at the lake,

5. Barrie, Ontario - City on the Lake Simcoe.

About an hour drive and you are in the Lake Simcoe Resort City. Many cities parks not just overlooking Kempenfelt Bay but give you a vacation feel. Just walk and feel Simcoe’s breeze.

What to do: Relax in the parks

What to see: Heritage Park, downtown

Where to eat: The North Restaurant, Painters Hall Bistro

6. Huntsville, Ontario - One of Muskoka’s best town and the largest one.
It is located in one of the best region in Ontario - Muskoka district or Cottage Country. In 2011 National Geographic Traveler named Muskoka as the best summer destination.

Huntsville is about 2 hours drive from Toronto. The road itself is splendid and you can extend that pleasure if you turn from highway to small roads around.

What to do: Drive around, Walk through the town, Relax at Town Dock Park

What to see: Lions lookout, Dorset Lookout Tower (not quite Huntsville but worth to drive there), Canada Summit Centre

Where to eat: On The Docks Pub, La Dolce Vita Trattoria, That Little Place By The Lights

7. Niagara on the Lake - This is one of the best towns in Ontario. In my opinion of course but I think many ontarians would agree. Every time you’re going to see the greatest waterfalls Niagara Falls you should include Niagara on the Lake in your trip. That what we do.

The best route to get there is Niagara Parkway which is going from Falls right to the heart of Niagara on the Lake. In summer time it is just flooding with amazing flowers. Just an hour and half drive and you in most romantic place you can imagine.

What to do: Take a walk through the town, go for shopping, take a carriage ride from a 4 star hotel Prince of Wales, get your feet wet at Queen's Royal Park, test wines at many wineries in the area, take Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour.
 
What to see: Queen street, Queen's Royal Park, Heritage houses, Fort George, Irish Tea Room
 
Where to eat: Bistro Six One, Prince of Wales Escabèche Restaurant, The Epicurean, HOB NOB Restaurant.

So make sure to visit at least three of them during this summer.

Can anyone suggest the best place to buy a kayak and canoe?

Thinking about buying maybe two kayaks and one canoe. Wanna try kayaking and canoeing in Algonquin Park, Simcoe Lake and our local river in Cannington, Ontario.

I know that maybe the best option is rent for now, but anyway if you know some nice places - recommend please.

Canadian Tire is the fist that is coming to my mind, but I am not sure about quality.

Thanks in advance.  

Hugo Boss Made In Ukraine

I discovered this sport jacket Hugo Boss in Hudson's Bay store today. I was quite surprised to see a label "made in Ukraine" on Hugo Boss' stuff.

Beautiful day for skating today )

Just right day to put you skates on and go for skating. It is the ice rink everywhere.