Hi, I’m Bailey, a final-year majoring in Computer Security student at York University. I have been actively involved in communities such as Major League Hacking (MLH) and ElleHacks, where I’ve participated as a hacker and also organized hackathons. My passion lies in advocating diversity and inclusion within the tech industry, particularly by fostering a beginner-friendly environment for students to learn various technologies; such as CSHub Local Hack Day. I have known KubeHuddle ever since Eddie’s video about KubeHuddle Edinburgh 2022. I’m super excited for KubeHuddle Toronto and I would be thrilled to provide you with guidance on navigating and exploring the beautiful city of Toronto during your visit.
About Toronto
Welcome to Toronto, one of the most multicultural cities in the world with over 250 ethnicities and 170 languages represented in the Toronto region. There are various neighborhoods that you can visit around Toronto such as Koreatown, Chinatown, Little Italy, Little India, Little Portugal, Kensington Market, Greektown, Entertainment District, and more. Toronto is the home of the famous CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, and Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). You will fall in love with the incredible diversity that Toronto offers.
Getting Around Toronto
Many shopping areas, landmarks, attractions, and neighborhoods are within walking distance of each other so you can explore Toronto downtown by foot. Another way is you can use Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), a public transportation system that operates buses, subways, and streetcars. You can purchase a TTC fare card, known as a PRESTO card, at any subway station that has a fare vending machine. PRESTO is a pay-as-you-go system and has different fare types and passes. You can check out the price on the TTC website. For a regular PRESTO fare type, it will cost $3.30 for adults and you get a two-hour transfer, which means you can hop on and off TTC and change direction at any point in your journey. If you’re planning to explore Toronto for more than 8 hours without worrying about the free transfer period, do consider purchasing a PRESTO Day Pass ticket for unlimited travel within 24 hours and it costs $13.50 for adults. It is the best option if making more than 4 one-way trips in a day. To learn how to purchase a PRESTO ticket, do check out a video made by TTC.
Maps: Subway and Streetcar, Downtown
If the weather happens to be rainy or you simply love exploration, it’s worth considering a visit to The PATH, Toronto’s downtown underground pedestrian walkway network which connects more than 70 buildings via 30 km of restaurants, shopping, services, and entertainment. It is so extensive that you can walk from the Union Station to the Eaton Centre, Toronto City Hall, Scotiabank Arena, Hockey Hall of Fame and so many more attractions.
Maps: PATH map Feb 2021, PATH Underground Walkway
A glimpse of the PATH from Union Station: https://youtu.be/2ti2sIGJX4M
Getting to Toronto Downtown
The two major airports in Toronto are Toronto Pearson International Airport (also known as YYZ airport according to IATA) and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (also known as YTZ).
From Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ)
To get from YYZ to downtown Toronto, the recommended method is to use UP Express (which stands for Union Pearson Express) to travel from YYZ to Union Station within 25 minutes. I highly recommend watching UP Express Guidance videos which show you how to navigate your way through YYZ Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 to get to the UP Express station platform that is located in Terminal 1. Whether you are in Terminal 1 or Terminal 3, the tip is to keep following the “Train to City” signs to get to UP Express.
If you are in Terminal 3:
Follow the “Train to City” signs to the Sheraton Gateway Hotel pedestrian bridge
Take the escalator or elevator to the Terminal Link train platform and ride for 2 minutes to Terminal 1.
If you are in Terminal 1, you do not need to take the terminal link train.
Once you arrive at UP Express, you can buy a ticket from a ticket vending machine or online to save time. You can learn more about UP Fares.
The train will run every 15 minutes. You will get to enjoy the beauty of Toronto and free Wi-Fi. Once you arrive at Union Station, you can either find the underground TTC subway to take one stop to King Station / One King West Hotel OR find the exit to go to Front Street West. From Union Station, take a 7-minute walk to One King West Hotel (OKWH)
Here is the Union Station map.
If you are thinking of not using a PRESTO Day Pass ticket and UP Express paper or electronic ticket, do purchase a PRESTO card, which costs $6, at the UP Express ticket vending machine and can use it immediately after loading the card. If you wish to keep a record of traveling or load your card online, you can set up your account online and add your PRESTO card to the account. Once added, you will get access to benefits like PRESTO Perks.
⭐PRESTO card Perks: UP Express ticket discount and access to PRESTO Perks (discounts on events, entertainment, attractions, and brands)
❗Things you must do when using UP Express service: tap your card on a UP Express PRESTO device before boarding and tap off after exiting the train to avoid being charged the maximum standard fare from the station where you initially tapped on to the end of the line.
Redeem PRESTO Perks
Make sure you already created an account and added a PRESTO card to the account
Click on “My Products” on the top left
Click on “Redeem Voucher” on the left bar and enter the discount code
Please note that If you sign into the PRESTO website without an account, you will not get access to PRESTO Perks.
For more information on getting a PRESTO card, https://www.prestocard.ca/en/about/get-a-presto-card
If you purchase a paper ticket or e-ticket, please present your ticket as proof of payment during a fare inspection or you will be fined.
Check out this descriptive video for a visual guide on purchasing a PRESTO card from UP Express ticket vending machine, getting from YYZ to Union Station using UP Express and vice versa.
From Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
YTZ is a smaller airport that is located on Toronto Islands and it offers service to more than 20 cities in Canada and US. To get from YTZ to Toronto mainland, you can either have a free ferry ride or an underground pedestrian tunnel. To learn how to use both methods to travel from Toronto mainland to YTZ by riding a ferry and vice versa using an underground tunnel (which takes approximately 6-10 minutes), I highly recommend watching the provided videos.
From YTZ to Toronto mainland: https://youtu.be/0x3J0E7DCOw
Going to & From YTZ: https://youtu.be/q6K8Fi4ydMc (using shuttle bus & ferry)
Once you arrive at Billy Bishop Airport Ferry Terminal (on Toronto mainland), to get to Union Station / Fairmont Royal York hotel, take a free shuttle bus in front of the terminal and it takes an average of 15 minutes. From Union Station, you can take a 7-minute walk to One King West Hotel (OKWH) or a 1-stop subway trip to King Station which is close to OKWH.
Likewise, if you wish to get to YTZ, just hop on a shuttle bus at Fairmont Royal York Hotel (100 Front Street West, Toronto) to YYZ Ferry Terminal and either take an underground tunnel or the ferry. The ferry is much cooler since you will get to enjoy the beauty of Toronto :).
To learn more about the transportation used to go to and from YTZ, I highly recommend visiting the provided websites.
Nieuport: https://www.nieuport.com/plan-your-trip
Ferry Schedule: https://www.billybishopairport.com/to-from/ferry
Shuttle Bus Services: https://www.billybishopairport.com/the-airport/amenities/services
Famous Landmarks
I highly recommend visiting at least one of these places as they represent Toronto’s rich history and culture, offering insights into how they have shaped and defined the city's identity. I will provide several optional route options from KubeHuddle event locations to these landmarks, as well as from one landmark to another. However, please feel free to choose any other suitable routes for your journey.
1. CN Tower
The CN Tower is an iconic symbol and the heart of Toronto. It holds the record of the world’s highest external walk on a building which is 116 stories (356m/1168ft) above Toronto Street, for EdgeWalk. Next to the CN Tower is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. For those interested in visiting both attractions, the Sea the Sky package provides a discounted price. The closest station to the tower is Union Station.
Maps from
Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC): https://goo.gl/maps/Qsf2DmgBkU1GRSi97 (walk)
One King West Hotel (OKWH): https://goo.gl/maps/XeG4ajJ82efFkCLk8 (walk)
If you prefer taking transit, you can go from King Station to Union Station and walk to the CN Tower from there https://goo.gl/maps/dxk6LZJxEg9NC8iN7
2. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum of art, culture, and nature from around the world and across the ages. If you visit Toronto before KubeHuddle, you can take advantage of ROM’s 3rd Tuesday Night Free on May 16, 2023, between 4:30 pm and 8:30 pm. This special promotion grants you free access to all galleries including their special exhibitions: T.rex: The Ultimate Predator and Canadian Modern. Otherwise, the general admission for adults will be $26. The closest station to ROM is the Museum station.
Maps from
OKWH: https://goo.gl/maps/t1LRwZJV8mUk1i9B7
MTCC: https://goo.gl/maps/XsjGPv2tXXLQrTAQ9
3. St. Lawrence Market
If you are seeking a remarkable food experience, you should visit St. Lawrence Market. This historic market has been in operation since 1803 and offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, artisanal food products, and local crafts. The market comprises three main buildings: South Market, North Market, and St. Lawrence Hall. For more information about these buildings, you can check out their website. Not only can you buy fresh ingredients from family-run farms, but you can also find various vendors offering delicious options for breakfast or lunch. It's important to note that the market typically closes by 7 pm at the latest.
An interesting fact about St. Lawrence Market is that it has been recognized as one of the best food markets in the world by National Geographic.
Maps from
OKWH: https://goo.gl/maps/QSGPG4Yzs43d3zNDA (walk)
MTCC: https://goo.gl/maps/epi3kAQCcEpmrGq96
MTCC: https://goo.gl/maps/2FAnGu4dD1U5HT1J6 (walk)
4. Distillery District
The Distillery District is a vibrant pedestrian-only street and is widely regarded as Canada’s premier arts, culture, and entertainment destination. Its architecture draws inspiration from the Victorian industrial buildings that originated in the 19th century. Within this district, you will discover a captivating blend of art galleries, restaurants, theaters, outdoor sculptures, a whiskey distillery, and enjoy diverse culinary experiences. It's also a fantastic location for photography enthusiasts.
Maps from
OKWH: https://goo.gl/maps/rFPDcCrN5KZW4X3z8
St. Lawrence Market: https://goo.gl/maps/zFXFn8vg9m297FAu9 (walk)
MTCC: https://goo.gl/maps/yq1pZiy2SLSA4VNr6
4. CF Toronto Eaton Centre
Eaton Centre is one of Toronto’s most iconic shopping destinations and is located in the heart of Toronto downtown which is near Dundas Station, Nathan Phillips Square (NPS), and Toronto City Hall (TCH). While there, don’t forget to take a selfie with the TORONTO iconic sign (outside of Eaton Centre), prominently displayed on NPS and in front of TCH. With over 230 stores in Eaton Centre, you can find international fashion brands, electronics, department stores, restaurants, lifestyle, and more. It is a great place for socializing, leisurely strolls, and delightful dining experiences. It is a must-visit destination in Toronto. For a preview of the stores and dining options, you can explore stores and dining online on their website.
Recently, Metrolinx made an announcement about the Construction of the Ontario Line which to accommodate this work, Queen Street will be closed between Yonge & Bay Streets effective May 1, 2023, for approximately four years. While Queen Street will be closed to all vehicles including streetcars, it will be open to pedestrians. Please be cautious getting around in vehicles on Queen Street.
You can enter Eaton Center from Dundas Station or Queen Station. However, I would recommend entering from Dundas Station to avoid confusion.
If you still would like to take transit, you can go to Eaton Centre from MTCC without going to Queen Station:
Walk from MTCC to Union Station https://goo.gl/maps/gB5qTe6guUufxh9V6
Take a subway trip to St. Patrick Station https://goo.gl/maps/JkYVUXSBiYFBvfU86
Arriving at St. Patrick Station, go to the ground and find streetcars with a number of 505 to travel to and stop at Yonge & Dundas. If you see the H&M store, that's the Eaton Centre. https://goo.gl/maps/zJCjCMYEyQiq9De5A
If you travel from OKWH, I would recommend taking around a 6-minute walk https://goo.gl/maps/9CSFcSksKFVYuKXRA
6. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, housing over 90,000 artworks in its collection ranging from contemporary pieces to European classics and beyond, the AGO offers a diverse range of artistic expressions. One of the most famous exhibitions in AGO is “Infinity Mirrored Room - Let’s Survive Forever” by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Given its immense popularity, it is highly recommended to arrive early and reserve your spot. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis and once you secure your spot, you will be allocated a limited time to experience the room fully. If you are under 25 years old, you have an opportunity to get a free annual pass. Simply create an account with AGO, and they will provide you with a digital pass that can be used at the entrance for check-in. For adults, the general admission fee is $30 per visit. To learn more about AGO, do check out their general information fact sheet
Book your ticket: https://tickets.ago.ca/tickets
Maps from
Eaton Centre: https://goo.gl/maps/rND6J5CVECWGwW9a8
Eaton Centre: https://goo.gl/maps/MamYWbfbiKPP3k1z6 (walk)
OKWH: https://goo.gl/maps/8TqRtXimu491s2d1A
There are more famous landmarks/neighborhoods which you can find around Toronto
Chinatown: https://goo.gl/maps/d8VVyxoLupwvsfZU6
Kensington Market: https://goo.gl/maps/ddLDruGjiqtcmNK39
Entertainment District: https://goo.gl/maps/ZCFYyAJCgGCszSgm7
Little Italy: https://goo.gl/maps/9h8DNKr1TaKTUegHA
Little Portugal: https://goo.gl/maps/aa86bazuC1jfvwCg9
Little India: https://goo.gl/maps/qBwuDXgMHF1ApQAz6
Greektown: https://goo.gl/maps/dDKnCb3LLkt5SiY58
You can check out blogTO’s blog for the best restaurants to visit in Toronto.
Highly recommend to further checking out blogTO and Curiocity Toronto for more places you can visit!
What I’m most excited about KubeHuddle
I’m new to Kubernetes and Cloud Native but I have gained some understanding through the content created by Kunal, Nigel, Kaiwalya, and TechWorld with Nana. I was thrilled to come across the Twitter posts about KubeHuddle Toronto from KubeHuddle organizers, Marino and Barsha. I love the headline on KubeHuddle’s Twitter, “Community-First Kubernetes Conference” because the community is the reason for my growth in tech. During the pandemic, I had chances to collaborate with amazing community members to learn technologies and build hackathon projects together. I have greater learning experiences in hackathon communities than at school. I’m excited to learn more about Kubernetes/Cloud Native and meet other community members at KubeHuddle. It will be my first community-first Kubernetes conference ever.
Interested in learning and connecting with community members?
Visit KubeHuddle Toronto to learn more about amazing speakers, workshops, and organizers
If you are new to Kubernetes, KubeHuddle will feature beginner-friendly and intermediate content, including beginners to Kubernetes
Grab your ticket at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/kubehuddletoronto2023/
Thank you so much for reading ❤️
Please don't hesitate to reach out to me on Twitter if you have any questions. I'm more than happy to help!