At the beginning of 2017 I was inspired by Makelight to choose a word to guide me through the year, instead or as well as New Year’s Resolutions. At first I was hesitant and it took me a while to come up with something that I felt summed up what I wanted to achieve. However, once I found that word there was no stopping me!

My word is Explore.

To me, Explore means meeting new people, learning new things and visiting new places. I find exploring in this way really opens the mind, allows creativity to blossom and creates a great work life balance.

Today I’m talking about exploring the Old Town area of Toronto. There will be lots of photos so grab a cuppa and take five minutes out to enjoy!.

I spent four days in Toronto this May. I stayed near the shores of Lake Ontario and close to the Old Town. It was worth devoting at least one day to explore this enchanting historic area.

I headed off on foot fairly early in the day and decided to grab some breakfast on the way. I came across this wonderful cafe that sells tea, coffee, breakfast snacks and flowers! (Yes, flowers!)

Then it was on to the heart of the Old Town and my first view of the Flatiron Building. (CN Tower is never far from view)

The wall art on the back of the building makes a great backdrop to Berczy Park .

Berczy Park is a fun green space to sit and watch the world go by. The centrepiece of the park is just being finished. It’s a fountain of dogs all looking up at a golden bone — really fun. The water is being turned on this month.

Apart from interesting buildings and sitting places there are a number of independent stores. One of my personal favourites is Kochi. I spent a long time in this place. There was an eclectic mix of unique home and gift ware, clothes and jewellery.

I loved the storage boxes and hand made painted trays. It was only the fact that there was a weight restriction on my luggage that stopped me going really crazy with my credit card! I did pick up some lovely photo props though which (if you follow me on Instagram) you will see in my flat lays.

One of the main attractions of the area is the lively and colourful St Lawrence Market.

The origins of this market go back to the 1800s and the old buildings are an amazing contrast against the modern skyline.

Inside, the fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, cheese provided a colourful display . Yes, I did take lots of photos! Here are just a few!

Time for another coffee stop. It was warm enough to sit outside.

Having re-fuelled I was ready for the walk to the local camera store. I was expecting a little independent shop but it was huge and the selection of cameras and camera paraphenalia was overwhelming.

A colourful building on the walk back!

And a stroll through St James Park before heading back to the hotel. It was awash with red and white tulips.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and it’s inspired you to get out and explore! There are so many wonderful places to see — whether it’s a local walk or getting on a plane.

If you would like to see more of my photos I would love to see you on Instagram.

If you would like to hear more about me click here.

If you would like to know about the One Purl Row products visit the Etsy store.

Stay safe and cosy until next time.

Yvonne x

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Originally published at www.onepurlrow.co.uk.