Toronto has long earned a reputation as one of the most diverse cities in the world. This multiculturalism has resulted in a fascinating city that is home to several communities and a magical interplay of diverse elements that residents and visitors enjoy.
In fact, there is a steady demand for furnished apartments in Toronto among tourists, remote workers, digital nomads, relocators, and those coming here on temporary assignments. Much like Lisbon, which has become a popular destination for remote workers and international communities, Toronto offers a welcoming and cosmopolitan environment. They appreciate the welcoming and cosmopolitan vibe of the city. How did the city become so diverse and inclusive? Let’s find out more about it below.
Toronto’s Fascinating Journey towards Becoming a Diverse City
There are several unique aspects that have gone into making Toronto one of the most diverse cities worldwide. Let us look at some of them below:
- The Immigration Act of 1967: What this did was eliminate any national-origin quotas for immigration. The entire system switched to a points-based framework. You will find it fascinating that the system evaluated immigrants based on their education and skills over their country of origin or race. As a result, several people could migrate to Toronto from the Caribbean, Africa, or several other parts of Asia.
- Progressive policymaking: Back in the 1970s and 1980s, Canada was known for its progressive policy. Thousands of refugees were welcomed into the country, especially those fleeing from conflict zones. This has naturally led to several people considering Toronto as a safe haven for several decades.
- Unique cultural policy: Unlike other models of assimilation, the cultural policy of Canada encourages immigrants to retain their languages, cultural heritage, and traditions. Nowhere is this more visible than in Toronto, with its diverse localities like Little Italy, Chinatown and Little India.
Toronto today has approximately 200+ distinct ethnic origins and its residents speak more than 180 different dialects or languages. Interestingly, with more than 55% of its population coming from various minority groups, the city is an apt reflection of the globe itself.
Toronto’s Diverse Neighborhoods and Communities
While there is sizable demand for business and holiday accommodation in Toronto, the diversity of its neighborhoods is also something worth mentioning. Here is a brief look at some of its most diverse communities and areas.
- Chinatown: Right in the downtown core, this is the oldest existing Chinatown here and was established around the 1950s. Not only are there people from Hong Kong and China, but also Vietnam. You will find fascinating local eateries here serving authentic local cuisine.
- Little Tokyo: It is a fascinating ethnic area between University Avenue and Bay Street. You will find several Japanese restaurants here, serving delights like ramen, sushi, and more.
- Koreatown: Nestled in Seaton Village, Koreatown is another interesting Asian enclave which is near the Christie subway station. You will love the authentic Korean fried chicken here and walnut cakes. Other attractions include Korean BBQ and P.A.T. Central, a Korean supermarket. It’s also a great place to find salons and stylists for fabulous haircuts.
- Little Tibet: Within Parkdale in western Toronto lies this fascinating enclave. It’s one of the biggest Tibetan communities in North America. Many Tibetan restaurants are available here, serving butter tea, momos, and a lot more. The Students for a Free Tibet also hosts their annual Momo Crawl everywhere, where people get the opportunity to try a wide selection of dumplings.
- Little Poland: Just west of Parkdale is the Roncesvalles Village, or Little Poland. If you love Eastern European food, this is where you’ll find it. Right from hand-made pierogies and sauerkraut to cabbage rolls, soups, and sausages, there are plenty of delights offered by the restaurants and delicatessens here. The area also hosts the Roncesvalles Polish festival every year.
- Little Italy: Right around College Street, it has a sizable Italian community. You will find several Italian-owned businesses and authentic restaurants here. The biggest Good Friday procession also happens here. There’s also the annual event called Taste of Little Italy that serves up some fabulous treats. Several Chinese, Vietnamese, and Portuguese families also live in the area.
- Portugal Village: Just westwards from Little Italy, this area is home to several local businesses and residential buildings. It is known for its love of football and authentic Portuguese-style potatoes and peri peri chicken.
- Greektown: East Toronto’s Danforth has long been a Greek enclave, right from after the First World War. Today, it houses a sizable population and has one of the world’s highest concentrations of restaurants (per kilometer). The Taste of the Danforth food festival is also held here annually.
- Little India: Also called the Gerrard India Bazaar, this is right in the Leslieville locality. The Naaz Theater opened here in 1972 and screened Pakistani and Bollywood movies. This drew several Indo-Canadians to the area, leading to the growth of several stores and restaurants. It is still a bustling and vibrant marketplace.
- Kensington Market: This is a multicultural area in more ways than one, positioned just beside Chinatown and having earned a National Historic Site of Canada honor. You will find several quirky attractions, cafes, and shops here. It has people with diverse backgrounds, including Italy, Portugal, Eastern Europe, East India, China, Afro-Caribbean, and other communities. Pedestrian Sundays are also hugely popular here, when artists and vendors take over the streets and cars are not allowed.
So, from diverse cultures, languages, and delicious global cuisine to festivals and unique traditions, Toronto is a great place to see how a world city truly functions. All you need to do is find flexible rentals and book your accommodation in advance to plan a trip to the city. It will give you a taste of diversity like no other!
