The Cold Plunge: Quirky Kensington Market, Sunset at CN Tower, and a Special Souvenir

In this post, I take a stroll around Kensington Market, and then take in the sky-high city views from CN Tower as the sun sets on my last day in Canada.

It had been a busy week, and I was in two minds about squeezing in a visit to Kensington Market on my last day in Toronto. I’m so glad I did. I had expected something like the Distillery District, but what I found was delightfully different.

Kensington Market is a walkable bohemian neighbourhood of Victorian houses set along tree-lined streets. The mixed commercial-residential area features indie shops, vintage boutiques and arts spaces. The Market is also home to specialty grocers, bakeries, cheese shops, trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining. 

The sun sets on my last day in Canada

That evening, I set out to watch the sunset high above the city at CN Tower. I felt my stomach flip as I rode the elevator up, up, up to the main observation deck, watching the city shrink beneath me.

Clear skies made for perfect conditions to watch the sunset 553 meters above the city. I explored the observation deck and took in the various vantage points. I admired the Atmosphere installation, an immersive, interactive art showcase, and the centerpiece of the CN Tower’s Lower Observation Level.

Artmosphere’s expansive, state-of-the-art video walls feature animated visual representations of original works by a collective of Canadian artists, including Indigenous artists from across the country.

I ordered nachos for dinner, and the bartender asked me how I was enjoying my stay in Toronto, and I appreciated his genuine interest in my experience.

I find it interesting how when we visit a new city or country, we claim the people are so friendly. Is it because we want to see the best of the people in the new place? Because we seek it out, because we need the kindness to find our way in the new place?

In such a big city as Toronto, buzzing with the constant noise and activity, I had often felt small and invisible. But small instances of human connection reminded me of the loving care around me, from the firefighter giving the child a sticker, to the bartender who cared about my experience, and the voice of security when I accidentally rang the emergency phone in the elevator at Union Station.

I took my food and glass of wine and looked out at the best view in Toronto. I finished my meal just in time to secure a spot by the window for sunset. Again, the perks of solo travel, being able to squeeze into small spaces when jostling for the best vantage point.

Standing by the window, sandwiched between my fellow spectators, I was overcome with emotion as the sun set on my last day in Canada. It was hard to believe that after seven weeks, this epic adventure was almost over. I was going to miss it here.

One Last Souvenir

The next morning I checked out of my accommodation at Toronto Metropolitan University and headed to Bini Tattoo on nearby Elm Street, for the final souvenir of my Canadian adventure. I had chosen a very tourist-typical design, a maple leaf on my right forearm. Along with the eagle feather quill just above my wrist, the body art on my forearm was taking on a strong nature theme. I loved the finished piece- it was the best souvenir so far.

My flight to Dublin was at 8.25pm, and I bided my time before heading to the airport. I sat in a shopping centre food court for a while and then moved onto the Toronto Public Library until it closed. My flight was delayed until 10pm, and then again until 12.45am, so I had dinner and a drink at the Imperial Pub, a student bar with a ground-floor pub, upstairs library lounge & roof patio with views of Dundas Square. I was disappointed I hadn’t gone to this pub sooner in my visit. I enjoyed sitting amongst the many books, observing the groups of students laughing, talking and drinking in the cosy lounge setting. It was the best way to pass some time before heading to the airport.

I returned to Toronto Metropolitan Univeristy one last time, collected my luggage and caught the train to the airport. Once there I checked in my bag and waited with the rest of the disgruntled crowd. It wasn’t too long until we boarded our flight, and we were on our way to Dublin. The Irish chapter of my adventure was about to begin.

I hope you’re enjoying coming along with me on The Cold Plunge. If you would like to help me along on this adventure, consider donating below. There are preset amounts, or you can customise an amount too. Whatever you choose, your contribution is deeply appreciated.