Toronto: A City Overflowing with Tourists (and Maybe a Raccoon or Two)
Toronto! The bustling heart of Canada, a multicultural metropolis, and a place where you're equally likely to bump into a world-famous celebrity and a rogue raccoon digging through your garbage (hey, they're resourceful!). But one thing's for sure, this city attracts a crowd. Just how big a crowd, you ask? Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the fascinating world of Toronto's tourist traffic.
The Pre-Pandemic Boom: Tourists by the Busload (and Kayak?)
Toronto wasn't always dodging rogue selfie sticks and apologizing for overflowing poutine stands. In the good ol' days (aka 2019), the city boasted a whopping 27.5 million visitors a year. That's more people than there are entire countries (looking at you, Iceland... lovely place, by the way).
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| How Many People Visit Toronto Every Year |
Breaking it Down: A Tourist Whodunit?
But who exactly were these 27.5 million adventurers? Well, fasten your detective hats, because we're about to crack this tourist case wide open:
- Domestic Domination: Turns out, most of Toronto's visitors (around 85%) are actually Canadians themselves. Maybe they're finally taking that weekend getaway they've been promising themselves, or perhaps they're just here for the poutine (don't blame them).
- Day Trippers: A whopping 66% of those visitors are just here for a quick hello and a goodbye, flitting in and out like butterflies at a flower expo (hopefully not the CN Tower, butterflies!).
- The International Intrigue: Now, the remaining 15%? Those are the jet-setters, the culture vultures, the ones who've come from all corners of the globe to experience the magic of Toronto. The US takes the lead here, followed by visitors from all over the world.
The Pandemic Plot Twist: A Temporary Tourist Tumbleweed
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
Let's be honest, the pandemic put a damper on everyone's travel plans, Toronto included. Tourist numbers took a nosedive, leaving the city a little less crowded (and the raccoons a little more smug).
However! The tourism industry is bouncing back like a superball, and Toronto is setting its sights back on that glorious 27.5 million mark.
So, How Many Tourists Visit Toronto Now?
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
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As of right now, there isn't a definitive number for 2024, but with travel restrictions loosening and the city's charm ever-present, it's safe to say Toronto is on track to reclaim its title as a tourist haven.
How to Get Your Slice of the Toronto Tourism Pie
Thinking about joining the throngs of Toronto tourists? Here's a crash course:
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
How to Avoid the Crowds? Toronto is beautiful year-round, but if you're looking for fewer crowds, try visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall).
How to Dress for the Weather? Toronto weather can be a bit unpredictable. Pack layers, and don't forget an umbrella (just in case...looking at you, Lake Ontario).
How to Speak Torontonian? Essential phrases include "Sorry" (for everything), "Double-double please" (for your Timmies run), and "Eh?" (a universal expression of surprise or agreement).
How to Get Around? Toronto has a fantastic public transportation system (TTC), but if you're feeling adventurous, grab a bike and explore the city on two wheels (just watch out for those pesky raccoons).
How to Resist the Urge to Take a Selfie with a Raccoon? Look, they're adorable, but wild animals are wild animals. Just admire them from afar (and maybe through a telephoto lens).
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