How to Go to Niagara Falls from Toronto by Train

VIA Rail from Toronto to Niagara Falls

If you would a like train journey experience from Toronto to Niagara Falls, you have 2 options: Via GO Train or VIA Rail. I chose VIA Rail as I never experienced it before. This is the same Amtrak train that goes to New York. The train itself is an Amtrak train, but it changes names after crossing the border.

Boarding the train at Union Station was no problem. I was easily able to find the gate following the posted signs. I was impressed by the comfortable and spacious seating. As the train departed, the urban landscape quickly gave way to picturesque farms, small towns, and glimpses of Lake Ontario. The journey itself became a highlight, with the changing scenery providing a constant source of entertainment.

The train had a dining car and offered a variety of snacks and drinks, allowing me to indulge in some delectable treats and coffee while admiring the ever-changing scenery.  The onboard service was excellent, with friendly staff. We struck up a conversation with a friendly employee and she gave lot of insights about the train.

We spent slightly more time and money than taking a bus, but I felt the 2 hours went fast. With VIA Rail, traveling from Toronto to Niagara Falls became more than just a means of getting from one destination to another – it was an adventure in itself. It's a highly-recommended option for anyone traveling from Toronto to Niagara Falls, offering a comfortable, scenic, and environmentally-friendly way to reach this iconic destination.

I have a video comparing traveling to Niagara Falls from Toronto via train or bus. I provided more info in that video. You can check it out here:

Toronto to Niagara Falls: Bus vs Train - Which is Best?

Dragon Pearl Buffet Review | Best Buffet in Toronto?

Dragon Pearl All-You-Can-Eat Buffet in Toronto

We have tried Mandarin a few times (probably the most popular buffet around) and wanted a change. So, we tried Dragon Pearl Buffet for the first time.

First impressions? We felt the beautifully-decorated elegant atmosphere right away. It had a modern and sophisticated ambience that felt like a step above the typical Chinese buffet.

Let’s talk about food. The selection was impressive, but we felt their focus was on quality rather than quantity. I felt like they have less items to choose from, but better quality. Right away, we spotted the Peking duck, a must-try at Dragon Pearl. And let me tell you, it was crispy, flavorful, and simply divine.

The sushi section was surprisingly extensive, with fresh fish and more creative rolls when compared to other Chinese buffets. We sampled the spicy tuna, the dragon roll, and a few other unique creations. Everything was fresh and delicious.

And of course, no dim sum feast is complete without the classics. The dim sum section looked extensive also. We tried the har gow, siu mai, and shrimp dumplings, all of which were expertly crafted and bursting with flavor.

They also offered a good selection of international dishes, including some delicious pad Thai and stir-fries.

I found the dessert section had less items than Mandarin’s, but couldn’t complain about the deliciousness and quality. I saw Mango Pomelo Sago and tried that several times.

However, there were downsides. With a 1.5-hour time limit, we felt a bit rushed. We would have loved to savor the experience a little more and maybe try a few more dishes. And of course, the price was significantly higher than Mandarin, coming in at around $32 or more per person.

Overall, Dragon Pearl offers a refined all-you-can-eat experience with a focus on quality. The ambiance is elegant, and the food is generally excellent. The Peking duck and sushi were definite highlights. However, the time limit and higher price point might be a factor for some.

I'd recommend Dragon Pearl to those seeking a more upscale and leisurely dining experience compared to the typical buffet. It's a great option for a special occasion or when you're looking to indulge in some truly delicious Chinese cuisine.

Niagara Falls Day Trip: A Complete Guide to Exploring the American Side

Niagara Falls What to See: Top 7 Must-See Sights from the US Side

Niagara Falls, a majestic natural wonder, draws millions of visitors each year. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, this awe-inspiring spectacle offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. If you're planning a visit from the Canadian side, exploring the American side of Niagara Falls is a must. This article will guide you through seven of the top places to visit on the US side, offering a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

1. Niagara Falls State Park (1-2 hours)

If you are coming from Canada, After crossing the Rainbow Bridge, head straight on Niagara Street and follow the signs to the park. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the bridge.

Enjoy the stunning views, visit the Observation Tower, or take a short hike on the trails.

2. Observation Tower (30 minutes) Entrance Fee: $1.25

Located within Niagara Falls State Park, the Observation Tower offers panoramic views of all three falls. It’s a great spot for photos and to take in the scenery.

3. Cave of the Winds (45 minutes) Entrance Fee: $14 Will Get Wet

Walk towards Goat Island within Niagara Falls State Park. The entrance to Cave of the Winds is on Goat Island, and it’s well-signposted.

Experience the exhilarating walk right up to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls. The whole tour takes about 45 minutes.

4. Goat Island (1 hour)

You can walk to Goat Island from the main part of Niagara Falls State Park. It’s a short walk across a pedestrian bridge.

Enjoy beautiful views and visit Terrapin Point for a closer look at the Horseshoe Falls.

5. Terrapin Point (30 minutes)

Located on Goat Island, Terrapin Point offers one of the best views of the Horseshoe Falls. It’s a must-see spot for its breathtaking scenery.

6. Luna Island (15-20 minutes)

Accessible from Goat Island, follow the signs once you’re on Goat Island to reach this small island.

Provides unique perspectives of both the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

7. Three Sisters Islands (30 minutes)

Located on Goat Island, the Three Sisters Islands are accessible via three historic walking bridges.

Enjoy the scenic walk and beautiful views of the rapids and the river.

Niagara Falls, whether viewed from the Canadian or American side, offers a truly unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, thrilling attractions, and rich history, it's a destination that will leave you in awe. So, plan your trip, choose your preferred vantage points, and prepare to be amazed by the power and beauty of Niagara Falls.

How to Use Toronto Public Transit TTC

Navigating Toronto's TTC: A First-Timer's Guide to Public Transit

If you are a tourist or visiting Toronto for the first time, Toronto has a robust public transit system called TTC. Using TTC is an efficient and economical way to get around Toronto. Here's an easy step-by-step guide on how to use Toronto's TTC for the first time.

Payment Methods

There are several ways to pay for your TTC ride:

1. Credit/Debit Cards: Tap your Visa, American Express, or Mastercard on the reader. Alternatively, you can use mobile wallets like Google Pay, Apple Pay, or Samsung Pay.

2. Presto Card: Purchase this reloadable card from vending machines at TTC stations, authorized retailers like Shoppers Drug Mart, or online. Once you have a Presto card, tap it on the reader upon entering a TTC vehicle or station.

Using the Presto Card

The Presto card offers additional benefits, such as reduced fares and easy reloading at TTC machines, online, on the app, or at authorized retailers. You can also use the Presto card on the UP Express train between Pearson Airport and Union Station. This is a much faster and cheaper way to connect to downtown Toronto from the Pearson International Airport.

Navigating the TTC Network

The TTC network includes subways, streetcars, and buses. A single fare covers your entire one-way trip, and you can transfer between TTC vehicles without additional charges within a two-hour window. This allows you to travel across the Greater Toronto Area using the same card or payment method.

As you venture into the city, keep these tips in mind:

1. Be aware of peak travel times, as vehicles and stations can get crowded.

2. Check TTC schedules or use the official TTC app or other transit apps for real-time updates.

3. Prioritize your safety and be mindful of your surroundings when traveling.

With this guide in hand, you're now ready to explore the vibrant city of Toronto using its extensive and accessible public transit system. Safe travels, and enjoy your ride on the TTC!

Tim Hortons Takes a Slice: First Impressions of the New Flatbread Pizza

Tim Hortons Unveils New Flatbread Pizza: First Impressions

Tim Hortons recently launched their brand-new flatbread pizza, which was the talk of the town. We wanted to try it for the first time and decided to do a first impressions video.

Ordering Up

Our initial excitement was dampened by the limited vegetarian options. With only pepperoni, bacon, and cheese on the menu, we settled for the chicken parmesan—the only option without pork. We also grabbed two coffees to complete our meal.

Behind the Counter

Intrigued by the preparation process, we watched as the staff assembled our pizza. The flatbread base was brushed with what appeared to be oil or butter, followed by a layer of sauce, cheese, and what we presumed to be parmesan cheese. The chicken was then added, making it the only option suitable for our dietary restrictions.

Super Fast Machine

The most surprising aspect of the experience was the cooking time. The pizza went into a compact oven and emerged a mere minute later, perfectly golden brown. This efficiency is a definite advantage for those on the go.

First Impressions

The pizza itself was a decent size, measuring approximately 11 by 7 inches. The initial aroma was pleasant, with a hint of cheesiness. However, the first bite revealed a noticeable level of saltiness, which may be a drawback for some.

Final Notes

Despite the higher salt content, we were generally satisfied with our Tim Hortons flatbread pizza. The crust was soft and not greasy, and the overall taste was decent. At a price point around $7.99, it's a convenient and affordable option for a quick bite.

Also, another feature we liked a lot about our Tim Hortons pizza was that it wasn’t too oily like Pizza Pizza. We found nothing major to complain about and we don’t mind having Tim Hortons flatbread pizza once in a while on an ongoing basis.  

Tim Hortons Pizza Challenge! First Impressions! (Honest Review)