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Hotspot: Canada’s Wonderland

Hot On The Street - Canada's Wonderland - Backlot Stunt Coaster - Sarah Prince

 
I covered most of Toronto’s tourist attractions while growing up in the city, but it’s fun to return to your favourite spots with a new perspective as an adult. I recently went to Canada’s Wonderland to experience the thrill of riding roller coasters and escape city life for the day.
 
My favourite ride is definitely The Fly. It’s slower than the Backlot Stunt Coaster, which I also liked, but fast enough to feel like a mini adventure. Thunder Run comes at a close second, while the wooden ride Wild Beast was too shaky for me. Next time, I’d love to ride in a log on Timberwolf Falls.

Hot On The Street - Canada's Wonderland - Drop Tower - Sarah Prince
 
The highlight of my day at Wonderland was crossing something off my bucket list: riding Drop Tower, formerly known as Drop Zone. The short line didn’t give me much time to think about what I was about to do. I went on it with an open mind. When we got to the top, I had a few seconds to enjoy an incredible view of the park and the surrounding area in Vaughan. After that, we quickly plunged back to the bottom and then it was over. I did it! And I was proud of conquering my fear.
 
Beyond the rides, I noticed how many food franchises have opened at Wonderland since my last visit. In addition to Pizza Pizza, they now have SUBWAY, Starbucks and Manchu Wok to name a few. Thankfully their website clearly lists peanut-free dining options so I knew where I could safely eat upon arrival.
 
Hot On The Street - Canada's Wonderland - The Rage - Sarah Prince
 
Going to Wonderland was a lot of fun, but I don’t think I’ll necessarily return next summer. Now that I’ve been to Las Vegas a few times, I prefer the thrill of gambling. It’s a different kind of risk with a different kind of reward, but if you’re smart with your bets then you can make your money last for awhile.
 
That said, Wonderland is an awesome place to take kids and I had a lot of fun when I used to have a season pass. If nothing else, Wonderland is a great place to enjoy Toronto’s summer weather where you can be free to channel your inner child. No matter how hard they try though, they can never compete with Disney World.
September 4, 2015 by

Book Review: I, Justine: An Analog Memoir

Photo Source: Prizeo

Photo Source: Prizeo

On YouTube, Justine Ezarik seems larger than life. She’s bubbly, animated and enthusiastic. On paper, Justine seems brilliant. She managed to earn a living by broadcasting her daily life and amass a social media following so big that brands couldn’t help but take notice. Her work has paid off and now she has a book called I, Justine: An Analog Memoir.

“I have been lucky enough to earn a living doing exactly what I love,” she writes in her introduction. “I hope that, whatever it is that you love, you never let anyone make you feel weird about it. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, to write or sing or draw or play video games or dance like a crazy person in an Apple Store. Do what makes you happy. It’s always worked for me. And who knows? You might even build a career out of it.”

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June 10, 2015 by

Let’s Go To The Ex!

I haven’t been to The Ex in about five years, so I was excited to return and take advantage of working within such close proximity to the CNE grounds. From concerts and performances to midway games and small roller coasters, the CNE has something for everyone.

Some game operators were quite aggressive in trying to entice festival-goers to play coin toss, but they always greeted passersby with a smile (unless texting on the job was keeping them distracted, that is).

Speaking of salesmen, one sales associate in the Direct Energy Centre implied that there may be haggling opportunities for visitors to take advantage of. Pointing to the price sticker, I asked if that was the correct price, to which he responded, “Back home, we have a sign in the store that says you get it cheaper based on how much you smile,” and added that flashing my pearly whites granted me a $20 discount. Smooth.

I didn’t make it to The Taste of the Danforth this year, where I’ve enjoyed a candy apple for the last few summers, so I carried on this tradition tonight instead. The red sauce melted instantly and dripped all over my hands, making me feel like a somewhat sloppy middle schooler who could star in a TV ad for Wet Ones. Nevertheless, it was a healthier alternative to the abundant deep fried item on sale at kiosks throughout the Food Building. Perhaps next year I’ll discover what a deep fried pickle tastes like.

The Ex continues until the end of Labour Day weekend and is a worthwhile summer outing for Torontonians and tourists alike. I suggest bringing a bag in which to carry your prizes to avoid schlepping an oversized bumble bee or stuffed blue Smurf doll on the way home.

August 24, 2011 by