Betting Tips to Beat Online Casinos Online casinos and games are plentiful, and players are always keen for some tips to beat the house edge and finish in the black. Intrigued? Then read on. Choose from the Best Canadian Online Casinos First We’ve got some great advice on getting ahead at online casinos, but before that it’s essential to have a place to play. Players in Canada have a number of provincial and offshore sites to choose from, most of which are are accessible in Toronto and across Ontario are as well. The best casinos listed are all regulated and audited, and have a plethora of games with great return to player percentages, not to mention exciting bonuses. By taking your time to choose sites with the best offers and games, that’s already one way to help ensure you have a greater chance of making a profit. Of course, Toronto is home to great brick-and-mortar casinos and excellent restaurants but even if you prefer the atmosphere of playing in person, the pandemic situation does make it safer to play online. And live dealer options accurately reproduce the experience of playing in person, with no mask (or risk of COVID-19) required. Picking the Right Slots Slots are the biggest draw to modern day casinos, including online betting establishments. Because of the lack of physical constraints and the desire to create more games for players to enjoy, online casinos can offer hundreds or sometimes even thousands of different slots. This is a dizzying array from which to pick and might lead to option paralysis. But if your strategy is to focus on trying to finish ahead there are some tips on which slots will suit you. There are two main factors you need to know: RTP (return to player) and volatility. RTP is the average return a player will get. A 96% RTP (which is reasonable) means you’ll end up with $9.60 on average, if you wager $10. Volatility refers to how far from the average the slot tends to stray. A high RTP slot with low volatility will ensure you enjoy lots of little wins but will encounter few big wins. A slot with the same RTP but high volatility could see you go through long barren spells only to enter purple patches where you win larger sums. The slots available at any given casino will vary according to which developer(s) contributes games. Many casinos only use a solo developer, but lots are multi-developer, which obviously presents more choice for players. Some slots with RTP, exceeding 98%, include Thunderkick’s idiosyncratic 1429 Uncharted Seas, Mega Joker by NetEnt, and Playtech’s Ugga Bugga. Keep an Eye on your Bankroll For any leisure activity, whether it’s golfing, reading, or going on holiday, you’ve got to have a budget in mind. That’s especially important for a pastime that has a great potential for either costing you or making you money. The first thing to do is to work out a disposable amount of income in dollars, and deposit that (taking full advantage of deposit matching and other bonuses that online casinos frequently offer). Of this sum, pick a certain amount and use that as a standard stake. This might vary according to how much you play. If you only go in for a single slot or table game and play for quarter of an hour a day it will be relatively more than if you sit down for hours at a time. Just be aware that this should be a small slice of your playing funds, so that if you have a really unlucky session you don’t get wiped out. The Top Table Games Table games have been around for a long time, some for decades, others for centuries. This is actually an advantage for players, as this heritage has helped to ensure they tend to have very low house edges. This is especially true for blackjack and roulette, with blackjack having a house edge that can be as low as 0.5-1%. Blackjack is a special game, not only because of the low edge but because players can memorize the ideal moves to maximize their chances of making the right call. Even with that, the casino will have the edge, but it’ll be wafer-thin and require only the slightest drop of good fortune for the player to come out ahead. Roulette, by contrast, is entirely random but there is a big choice players can make to massively improve their chances. Always avoid double zero games. Odd as it may sound, this dramatically enlarges the house edge while offering nothing to the player. Always opt for single zero roulette games. Another advantage afforded by playing online is the inherent stability and resilience of the virtual world when it comes to the healthcare situation. Entirely rightly, real world casinos had to close temporarily during the lockdowns imposed to help stymie the pandemic. This is something that does not affect online casinos, enabling players to continue enjoying themselves without fear of either catching the virus or suffering interrupted service. Things to Avoid Just as important as understanding the best way to get ahead is knowing about tempting pitfalls to avoid. There’s no advantage making a bundle only to lose it through missteps, after all. A top tip is to avoid ‘clever’ maths. The fact is that casino games always favour the house. They have to, or casinos would average a loss and the business model would be unsustainable. This doesn’t stop some people trying to employ seemingly smart mathematical strategies but you should avoid them like the plague. Not only will the cunning plan (in the Baldrick sense of the expression) of doubling stakes every time you lose lead you to risk catastrophic losses, it’s also frequently banned by online casinos and could see your account closed for contravening the terms and conditions. Don’t get us wrong, it’d be a terrible idea even if that weren’t the case, but players should know this mathematical madness can also see them thrown out of a virtual casino. On a similar note, you should only ever bet when you have a level head. Playing slots and table games is a lot of fun but it’s well-known that casino games can be moreish, and whether you’re excessively merry or in a bad mood it’s as well to shun betting until you’re calm. Casinos offer plenty of rule variants when it comes to popular table games. It’s not unusual to find dozens of different types of blackjack and roulette. Generally speaking, alternative rule sets serve to increase the house edge. These games are historic and come with low house edges most of the time, so be aware that updated versions tend to favour the house. With Canadian casinos slowly reopening their doors but in a restricted way, complete with mask-wearing and social distancing, there’s never been a better time to try your hand at top online casinos. We hope you found our collection of tips for finishing ahead of the house to be useful. Always remember to stay cool, and have fun.
Physical slot machines are going increasingly cashless; is this simply in line with a general societal trend towards digital payments, or has it been more fundamentally influenced by the rising popularity of online casinos? People are becoming very familiar with cashless systems and it appears that cash may no longer be king. What are the main motivators behind brick-and-mortar casinos following the zeitgeist and trending towards cashless slots and gambling? The Online Casino Effect The increasing prevalence of online casinos is indicative of a population that is very comfortable with making digital payments. One of the core reasons for the success of online casinos is the convenience they offer – this is because of the freedom to play from home or on-the-go with mobile. The transparency of online casino systems in terms of payment extends to the gameplay also, with players being immediately aware of a game’s return to player (RTP) and volatility, allowing them to make informed decisions about their game choice. But the ease of these platforms is also down to the multitude of payment methods. Players enjoy the ease with which digital payments can be made, whether via card or through emerging methods like cryptocurrencies. It, therefore, makes sense that users have an increasing appetite for this level of payment convenience when it comes to physical slot machines. Traditional slots have often meant ardent players sitting with a bucket-full of coins to put into the machine. This is clearly inconvenient and unwieldy for many people; the example set by the ease of equivalent online casinos has led to a natural transition to cashless physical slot machines that benefit the customer experience. An Increasingly Cashless Society Of course, it’s impossible to ignore the effect of a global trend towards an increasingly cashless society. It can bring vast improvements in efficiency to both the consumer and the company as keeping track of digital payments is automated and immediate in comparison to the difficulties involved with tracking physical cash. In turn, this can also help with customer protection as casinos have the ability to restrict and limit the amount of funds gambled to ensure they do not exceed certain amounts. Canadian casinos are currently making preparations to re-open and they appear to be giving increased emphasis to cashless elements as it allows for less handling of notes. Replicating the cashless elements so prevalent across businesses from cafes to supermarkets to bars certainly seems to be an obvious progression for physical casinos. Recent technological advancements also go hand-in-hand with these changes as it becomes more affordable and accessible for people and businesses to provide digital payment services. Payments can now be made via mobile phones, wristbands, and watches which makes it increasingly unlikely that customers will be caught in a situation where they are only able to pay with cash. The longevity and continued popularity of casinos has been driven by the commitment of the industry to keeping up with the times and consumer interests. Although the success of online slots have certainly informed the evolving nature of physical slot machines and their transition towards cashless, the general societal trend towards digital payments has likely been the most fundamental reason for the ongoing changes. Expect the rise of cashless slot machines and the physical casino experience to continue apace.
Summer is already gone, and shorter and cooler days have replaced all that warmth. While the working days haven’t changed much for the majority of people, the weekends indeed have. As the weather changes, so does our mood, which consequently makes us lose interest in going out and having fun in general. If you have let colder Autumn days ruin your weekends, this text is about to give you a few ideas on how to change that. There are a few variants for both outside and inside activities, so you can choose the one that seems most appealing to you once the weekend starts. Let’s take a look! Visit Casa Loma If you haven’t already, you should take a weekend while the weather is still gentle towards Canada to visit Casa Loma. This stunning castle was built in 1914 in a Gothic style and it has proudly carried the title of the only castle in this part of the continent since. The castle’s eye-catching flower gardens and overall splendour were enough for many movie directors to use it for the shooting of popular films such as Chicago and X-Men. If you wish, you can have dinner at a restaurant located inside the castle and feel the atmosphere of the aristocracy for at least a day in your life. Organize a Casino Night If you don’t feel like going away for the weekend and you prefer having friends who share the mood with you over, there’s no better idea than to organize a casino night at home. Thankfully, this kind of party won’t require a lot of work as it used to years ago since the technology has made this process a lot easier. While it would be great to get a poker set and make it realistic, you can also take advantage of electronic devices in your home and access various online slot games. In this way, you will be able to replicate the casino part filled with slot machines so that anyone who doesn’t feel like playing cards can have some fun on their own. Furthermore, the slot games that you can find online are extremely fun as there are more than a thousand of them to choose from. You will be able to find both the classic fruit machines and the latest movie-themed slots, or anything else for that matter. The web is full of attractive games, and everyone can find something that suits their preference for sure. Check Out the Hockey Hall of Fame Considering that most Canadians love hockey, this will probably be the most popular idea. Pay a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame and spice up your weekend with some cool activities that include your favourite sport. The hall is well-equipped with a model rink, but there are also real sticks and pucks that enable you to play some hockey against the legends of this sport. Practice your shots against Frederik Anderson and Carey Price that you’ll be virtually facing over there. Indulge in a Movie Marathon Cold Autumn weekends are perfect for finally watching those trilogies you’ve always wanted to see but never had enough time for it. All you need for this activity is a TV, cozy and warm pyjamas, some snacks and drinks, and the party can start! Dive into the story of the timeless classic like the Godfather, or choose the extended versions of LOTR movies. In case you’ve already watched these and other blockbuster trilogies, or you are more interested in TV series than movies, even better. There’s no better time to start watching a TV series with more than a dozen episodes than a cold weekend with nothing else to do. You can do it alone or in a company — one way or another, you will enjoy it.
Online casinos have been around for quite some time now, and there are millions of people worldwide that enjoy playing fun casino games from the comfort of their homes. However, over time, players realised they needed a more authentic casino experience — that’s when live casinos entered the online gambling scene. Live casinos have become increasingly popular in the last couple of years, as they offer more original and more realistic casino gaming. As technology continues to develop, live casinos are improving their connections and streaming devices, thus attracting more players every day. If you’re new to the live casino world, we are here to help you out. Read our live casino guide where you can find out more on the subject, and where to find a list of online casinos with 1 dollar deposit to enjoy How It All Started Before the1990’s Casinos used to be a source of food and entertainment but then in 1994 the first online live casino was launched, which made a range of casino games available to the public. Eventually, with the development of faster internet connections and improved streaming technologies, live casinos became a feasible option. Nowadays, online casinos broadcast live dealer games in real-time, and allow players to enjoy an enhanced casino experience. The range of live casino games has made it possible for players with all sorts of casino preferences to play their favourite games at any given moment. This development has been a real game-changer, and it made live casinos one of the most popular entertainment forms online. What Are the Advantages of Playing in a Live Casino Live casinos have become players’ favourite pastime for a reason. The online gambling industry offers excellent gambling opportunities, and live casinos are like a cherry on top. The following are a couple of reasons why live casinos have gained so much attention and popularity. Live casinos give you a real casino experience This is, without a doubt, the best and most significant advantage of live casinos — the possibility of playing your favourite table game with a live dealer in real-time. This live casino feature allows you to experience the authentic gaming setting and watch the process via live-stream. That way, you can follow the game and see exactly what the dealer is doing. Moreover, dealers are always trained professionals who ensure the game will be conducted properly. The competition is more intense in live casino games In classic online casino games, you play against the software, but live casino games allow you to play against other players, which adds more intensity to the game. This adds a new layer of originality to your gambling experience. Interaction is everything If you get bored with computer-generated actions, a live casino is a perfect option for you. In addition to the live streaming and the real opponents, there’s also the fact that you can interact and communicate with the dealer and other players, which makes the whole thing a social experience as well. Moreover, in poker, for example, body language is vital — by watching other players, you can learn more about their possible moves or figure out who might be bluffing. Live streaming gives you an additional sense of security — you can watch the dealer dealing the cards or spinning the roulette wheel. That way, you will know the games aren’t rigged or manipulated in any way. How to Play Live Casino Games Online Today, almost every online casino has a special section dedicated to live casino games. Once you find the best online casino that suits all your preferences, you need to create an account. That will allow you to play a variety of live casino games. Here’s a short guide for you to follow: Log into your account and go to the live casino lobby; Before starting a game, make sure your account is funded; Then, pick a game you want to stream and play — you will automatically be included in a live session; Now, it’s time to place a bet, and you have two options — either have the live dealer place it on your behalf or do it yourself, using computerised chips or coins. Be smart about your bets, don’t bet more than you can afford to lose, and enjoy the genuine casino experience. Useful Tips for Playing Live Dealer Games No matter if you’re entirely new to live casinos, or you already have some experience, there are a couple of tips and tricks you can always rely on. Take a look at the list below — this advice will come in handy at some point: A good Internet connection is key in live casinos — it allows you to have a high definition live stream and enjoy playing the game without any interruptions. Know the game before you begin playing — live casino games are a level up from the classic online casino games. Usually, more experienced players opt for the live dealer version of casino games. Find a game strategy that works best for you — it will take some time to find the best strategy for you, but it will boost your chances of winning. Make sure you use the bonuses and other promotions casinos offer to their players — they are a great way to kickstart your gambling experience. Most important of all — know when to take a break or leave the game. Quitting when you’re ahead doesn’t make you weak, it makes you smart — it will allow you to save your winnings and come back even stronger. Types of Games Available in Live Casinos While live casinos might offer a more limited selection of games in comparison to online casinos, they still offer top-notch games that provide players with a unique casino experience. So, let’s see what types of live casino games are the most popular in the online gambling world: Live Roulette The game works the same as in a brick-and-mortar casino — you place a bet, and the dealer spins the roulette wheel. If the ball stops on a number you had bet on, you win. This game is a perfect choice for live casino newbies, as you can play it without a strong strategy, at least in the beginning. If you want to put more effort into playing live roulette, you will need a clear strategy. Live Baccarat Popular among high-rollers and experienced players, live baccarat is a game that offers you the possibility to play at multiplayer or single-player tables, depending on your preferences. Additionally, some live casinos feature another popular baccarat version — Punto Banco. Live Blackjack Blackjack is the most famous casino card game, and unsurprisingly, live casinos offer various versions of the game. What makes this game so popular among players is the fact that live blackjack has a lower house edge compared to other games, which means your chances of winning are higher. On the other hand, if you want to win in live blackjack, you will need to create a strategy that works for you, since it’s a game of skill, as well as chance.
The Swarovski Crystal Studio first premiered in Milan. Now making it’s way to Sherway Gardens for the Canadian debut, warm tones take over the new concept store from the inside and outside.
Wearable fitness trackers allow you to do things like monitor your heart rate or the number of steps you take while you perform exercises like running, swimming, and cycling. The right tracker can give you an accurate and comprehensive view of your health. It can help you move more, sleep better, and improve other areas of your health. Choosing the right tracker can be challenging, though. There are many different ones on the market, and each has its own features. Read on to find out how to choose the right fitness tracker for you. Choosing a Fitness Tracker at the Right Price Fitness trackers are available at a broad range of price points. You can pick up a tracker for as little as $20 or get a top-of-the-range one for around $250. As you would expect, ones that cost less have fewer features, so you’ll need to determine what elements you want your tracker to include before deciding how much to spend on one. Less expensive trackers typically don’t have displays, which means you will have to look at your smartphone to discover things like how many steps you’ve taken. More expensive trackers usually have built-in GPS and optical heart rate monitors. So, if you only want a fitness tracker to measure your steps, it’s pointless paying out for a more expensive one that contains a heart rate monitor. Choosing the Right Style for You Fitness trackers typically come in the form of clip-ons, watches, and bracelets. The latter two are difficult to lose because they are securely fastened, but clip-ons could fall off or get lost when you do the laundry or use devices to play games at an online casino like Casumo. However, watches and bracelets can sometimes get in the way when you’re doing things like washing the dishes. Clip-ons are usually smaller and more discreet, but they don’t often have displays. Another option is a fitness tracking ring that you wear on your finger. Choosing the Right Features Fitness trackers can track numerous things. Besides step-counts and heart rate monitoring, fitness trackers come with features like: · Sleep Tracking. This feature uses a motion sensor to measure your REM and see whether your sleep is disturbed. Sleep-tracking features can also include a smart alarm that chooses the optimal time in your sleep cycle to wake you in the morning, close to your chosen time. · Third-party Apps. If you already use an app on your smartphone for fitness tracking when doing things like running or cycling, you can buy fitness trackers that pair with those apps so that you won’t lose access to any data. · Built-in GPS. When fitness trackers have built-in GPS, they are able to track your distance more accurately. You can also buy trackers that sync with your smartphone to use your phone’ GPS. · Water Resistance. Different trackers have different levels of water resistance. If you are planning on regularly wearing your tracker when swimming, you will want a fully water-resistant one. · Music. If you enjoy listening to music while running or walking, you will not have to take multiple devices out with you if you choose a fitness tracker that allows you to listen to music with a Bluetooth headset. How important is fitness tracking accuracy to you? Fitness trackers differ in how accurate they are. As a general rule of thumb, the more expensive a tracker is, the more accurate it will be. If you are taking your workout routine very seriously, you are sure to want a highly accurate fitness tracker. But if you exercise more casually, you can choose another option. Even low-cost fitness trackers are pretty accurate. They’re just not as precise as others. Battery Duration Different fitness trackers work for different lengths of time, depending on how long the batteries last. If you need to change the battery pretty frequently, it could soon become annoying. You’ll also have the additional expense of having to purchase batteries more often. Therefore, it can often be investing in a fitness tracker that offers long battery life. Most fitness trackers’ batteries last from between a couple of days and a couple of weeks of constant use. But some trackers use coin-cell batteries, which last for several months.
Chill vibes and physically-distanced outdoor lounging were on the agenda for a perfect summer evening at the popular Stackt Market at Bathurst and Front.
Everybody has their own way of relaxing after a long day at the office. For some people, it is a good book or TV show, but there is a significant number of those who consider online gambling as a relaxing and fun activity. If you are one of them, check here the best Canadian online gambling sites. However, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take care of your online security. No matter if you are gambling just for fun, or you have built strategies for the long term winnings, you should always keep in mind several tips that can protect the information that you are disclosing online. These safety tips will help you avoid significant financial losses and keeping your identity safe when gambling online. Gamble at Licensed Casinos Only Although it is illegal to operate online casinos in Canada, players can gamble online at offshore casinos. The gambling market is crowded with different bookmakers and casinos, so you need to be extra careful when selecting your preferred one. There are a lot of scams who just want your money, and if you do not pay attention, you may lose your funds. So, how can you know if the online casino is legit or not? The first thing you should check is the license under which an online casino operates. If it is licensed, it is a good sign since the casino needs to follow a set of rules and regulations prescribed by the licensing authority in its base country. Some of the most reputable licensing authorities are the UK Gambling Commission, Gibraltar Gambling Commission, or Maltese Gambling Authority. The licensing information is usually available at the bottom of the home page on the website. Explore Terms and Conditions How many times have you accepted Terms and Conditions while actually not reading it? Yes, we understand that you are eager to start the game as soon as possible, but you should spend some time reading the whole document. Remember, you are about to disclose a piece of your personal information and your payment details. Take your time, read the text thoroughly, especially those parts related to making payments, and collecting your winnings. You can miss something important just by clicking the “I Accept” button. You may come across some hidden fees, or the reasons you might forfeit your winnings. Explore all drawbacks before starting to play. Look for the SSL Encryption Before entering any sensitive information on any website, you should make sure your connection is secure. How can you do that even if you not a technical expert? Well, in any browser, you can find the lock sign next to the website’s address. It means that the online casino uses SSL encryption that enables a secure connection. Thanks to the SSL encryption, you may transmit confidential information securely, which includes your social security number, or credit card details. Any online casino can claim that your sensitive information is safe at their website, however, always double-check if a lock sign is displayed next to the website’s URL. If that sign doesn’t exist, it means that the site is not SSL encrypted, no matter if you can find a badge posted on some of the pages. Carefully Pick Your Payment Method The obvious advice is to pick the most secure payment method. How can you ensure that the option you selected is safe enough? In case you intend to use a credit or debit card, you should check first if your bank has a strong history of assisting the financial and identity theft victims. If it does, then you may provide information into the online casino’s site. Your bank should be able to return you at least one part of the money, even if you fall victim to fraud. On the other hand, you should not disclose your card details on the website if your bank doesn’t handle fraud well. What can you use as an alternative? E-wallets are well-known as the best way to deposit money to your account at an online casino. This way, you can spend only your funds dedicated to gambling, without worrying if your savings will disappear. The most popular e-wallets are PayPal, Skrill, or Neteller, and the majority of the online casinos offer them as a payment option. Don’t Download Software Some online casinos may offer you to download their software to play the games. However, you should always avoid this option and stick to the internet browser. Your PC might get vulnerable when downloading software since you can pick up viruses and malware that can collect your passwords or financial information. It would be best if you were sure that your online casino has an impeccable reputation, and that your PC is protected with a high-quality anti-virus program. All these tips are equally important, and if you stick to them, you probably won’t experience any security troubles when gaming at an online casino. Keep them in mind and enjoy your game without getting exposed to security risks.
Streetwear is not something everybody can pull off. It’s easy to look silly if you don’t know what you’re doing when trying to establish your style. But once you nail it, you’ll be able to pull off outfits that will feel comfortable and look cool while still being sophisticated. Some are able to elevate their street style where they can move from casual to evening wear and even formal events by switching a piece or two. In this article, we’re going to give you a few tips to get started with luxury streetwear, and a few things you should avoid at all costs. Be Careful with the Sneakers There are two ways to approach sneakers. You can either go for a stealth and classic look or go over the top. Some people like to have a more discreet look, so a classic pair of sneakers with tapered jogger pants, a hoodie, and a bomber jacket might be all they need. This is also a good option if you have a strong build or are older. On the other end of the spectrum, if you want to go over the top with the sneakers, we suggest you try to stick with one or two colours for the rest of the outfit. Wild sneakers can also look great if you’re wearing black on black. However, colourful sneakers with a colourful outfit will look tacky, especially if you’re trying to match everything. Don’t Limit Your Options When you’re looking at brands, don’t limit your options and assume that only certain brands will have pieces you can incorporate into your style. Burberry clothing, for instance, while still having classic aesthetics and pedigree, has done a great job of staying current by integrating some streetwear elements. If you want to see what Burberry has to offer, SSENSE have one of the largest selections of Burberry clothing online, and you’ll find all types of items like t-shirts, cut out shorts, and hoodies. They also have a nice selection of bomber jackets and track pants you can choose from. Put Comfort First While it’s always nice to look good, you want to be comfortable when you’re wearing your clothes. As a matter of fact, comfort should be your priority when looking for streetwear. The goal of street clothing is to allow you to do everyday tasks while still looking good. The looking good part is just the cherry on top. So, if a piece doesn’t seem functional or comfortable, don’t buy it. Don’t Become a Walking Billboard A lot of people have this idea of streetwear being brand-driven and that you can’t wear streetwear without logos, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Like we stated earlier, it’s perfectly feasible to have a discreet look when wearing streetwear. That doesn’t mean that you have to eliminate any piece of clothing that has a logo on it, but try to keep it to one item only. Do Learn What to Match We talked about not trying to match everything earlier, but there are pieces you should try to when you can. One example is your sneakers and your cap. Matching your baseball or designer trucker hat with your sneakers will help define your look and tie your outfit together. You don’t necessarily have to look like an F1 driver, but choosing a defined color to match your sneakers and cap will bring both of them out. You can also use tonal matching, and pick different shades of the same color to make it look intentional. Don’t Be Afraid to be Creative Don’t forget that streetwear is also about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be afraid to try some wild pieces too. However, you have to make sure that you integrate them sensibly into your wardrobe. You want to understate the weirdness. Have a few outlandish pieces out there, but make it a sensible fit. You don’t want it to look jarring or clunky. Do Get the Right Haircut It’s crazy how a haircut can completely transform your look. Some clothing will also look very different, depending on your hair cut. For instance, not everyone can pull a baldie wearing a long T. This is why you have to take your haircut into consideration and make sure that you go with the right barber as well. Yes, you might be used to the one you’re going to, but going the extra mile and instead visiting a stylist might be just what you needed to take your style to the next level. Wearing streetwear doesn’t have to be complicated. As a matter of fact, streetwear was made to be easy. So, don’t be afraid to explore your options and start integrating streetwear elements into your style little by little. Then, you’ll be able to go for some more daring pieces.
Toronto’s new “Immersive Van Gogh” exhibit was one of the city’s only large-scale events that wasn’t cancelled or moved online in response to COVID-19 this summer.
The ongoing pandemic had a devastating effect on the world of sports – not to mention those stuck in their homes without any broadcasts to follow. Between the two, there are the sports channels that were left without a raison d’étre, at least for a while. With no NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and all the other three-letter North American sports that went global, sports broadcasters are turning to virtual sports to fill the gap. eSports Invitationals Fox Sports has first tried its luck at broadcasting virtual sports on March 24 – it was the inaugural event in a series of NASCAR iRacing tournaments that the channel committed to covering. The broadcast was a success: the inaugural eNASCAR iRacing Pro invitational Series event attracted more than 900,000 viewers to Fox Sports 1 (it was also available in Canada via FOX Sports Racing, as well as through the channel’s app) – a record for an eSports TV broadcast. Seeing the success of this gap-filling broadcast, the channel took a further step: it broadcast its first Madden NFL 20 Invitational a week later. Among the invitees, there were several current or former professional NFL players, including Michael Vick, Juju Smith-Schuster, Antonio Cromartie, and Ahman Green. There is no word on whether there will be more Madden NFL broadcasts on Fox Sports… but we will definitely see more eNASCAR races in the near future. More virtual racing Formula 1 was among the first sports to postpone or cancel events due to the coronavirus epidemic. At first, it cancelled the Australian Grand Prix and postponed the following two scheduled races until May, and decided to reschedule the following races after the coronavirus situation improves. But in order not to leave F1 fans without races to follow, the F1 Esports Virtual Grand Prix Series was created, featuring real drivers on the virtual representations of real F1 tracks. The first event in the series was already broadcast online – the Virtual Bahrain Grand Prix was held on Sunday, March 22 – and the subsequent events are scheduled to be broadcast on the days of their real-life counterparts that were postponed or cancelled. This will go on until at least May. There is no word on whether any sports channel will broadcast them… but they will be available for streaming on all the usual channels, plus on Formula1.com. More virtual sports The Grand National is perhaps the most famous horse race in the world. This year, in turn, it has been cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. With nothing to broadcast, British TV channel ITV has decided to replace the Grand National with a virtual version. The TV special will feature 40 horses and riders in the Aintree spectacular, and it will be much more unpredictable than a traditional race. The bookmakers sponsoring the event have decided to donate all their profits made on the virtual race to the NHS, the UK’s health authority. The visuals for the virtual race will be created by Inspired Entertainment, a long-time developer of virtual sports applications.
Toronto residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to nightlife and entertainment. The city is renowned for its great selection of bars and restaurants, and there are plenty of popular nightspots where you can party into the early hours. But some people’s entertainment requirements are more niche than others and gamers fall into that category. So, if you prefer to spend your evenings playing arcade games, flipping on pinball machines or trying your luck on casino games, here are just a few options in Toronto. Retro gaming Retro gaming is all the rage right now and Zed80 is one of Toronto’s newest and most popular retro arcade bars. Located in Danforth, the bar was created by the same group who run the equally popular Tilt bar on Dundas Street West. Tilt is the biggest retro gaming bar in the city but we prefer the slightly more intimate atmosphere of the newer joint. The focus here is on old-school arcade and pinball gaming. The venue attracts older customers seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane and new gamers experiencing the games for the very first time. There is a good choice of arcade and console games from the golden age of gaming in the 1980s and 1990s. Casino & bingo gaming Toronto is not a big casino city so you will have to head about 30 minutes out of town to the Woodbine racetrack and casino if you want to play table games in a physical casino setting. There are a few other casinos even further away such as the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort if you have a car and don’t mind a drive. However, this is the age of the internet and there are plenty of online casinos that accept local players. And there are great websites where you can find daily deals on the best casino bonuses in Canada. Many of the casinos feature live dealers as well as a mind-boggling choice of slot games. So, your best option for casino gaming in Toronto is probably to jump online. If you watched Season 1 Episode 10 of the TV show Better Call Saul, you might imagine bingo to be played exclusively by senior citizens in care homes but that is not the case. Toronto has a choice of bingo halls including Delts Bingo on St Clair Avenue, Dolphin Gaming on Eglington Avenue and Rama Gaming House on Kennedy Road. All of them offer a similar experience although Dolphin Gaming is our personal favourite with its combination of cool atmosphere, game choice and a good selection of food and drink. It attracts lots of young people and knocks bingo’s sometimes stuffy image out of the park. Other games Last but not least, there has been an explosion of board game bars and cafes in Toronto. Top venues include Snakes and Lattes, A-Game Café, Sea-Scape, Time Capsule and our personal favourite, For The Win with its library of over 1000 board games and fun drinks including the Nutella latte and a selection of bubble teas! Located at Yonge Street, it is well worth the trip. And did we mention? The snacks are delicious too! This is just a small glimpse of what Toronto has to offer gaming fans. There are plenty more options to keep you and your gaming buddies powered-up for hours.
Virtual reality is slowly making its way into the mainstream. It’s taking longer than developers had previously anticipated, perhaps due to the high price point of early VR headsets like the Oculus Rift. But as newer generations of the hardware are released, older models will become more accessible and they could end up being in every household within the next ten years. The technology is set to revolutionise a number of different industries, and it is likely to be put to good use in the fitness sector as a way to bring more excitement to the machines. VR is Already Getting Big in Gaming The gaming industry tends to pounce on new technology early on, helping it to reach wide audiences. In recent years, online casinos have been at the forefront of this. Indeed, certain developers have had great success by staying ahead of the curve and introducing new innovations when they come about. NetEnt, the creators of Starburst slot, have become one of the giants in the sector because of their state of the art slot games. Now, they are working on advancing this genre further with their VR slots which include Gonzo’s Quest VR and Jack’s World VR. Sony has also realised that VR will be the next big thing in gaming, and was quick to create a headset for PlayStation users. Now, a number of big developers are creating VR content for the console. Some of the standout titles include Batman: Arkham VR and Resident Evil 7. Fitness Can Take Inspiration from Games Ever since Nintendo introduced Wii Fit in 2007, gaming and fitness have been closely intertwined. The game inspired people to get up off the couch and do some exercise at home while having fun at the same time. This concept has paved the way for VR to be used in fitness, and there are already some exercise games for fitness fanatics to play at home. These include options like BOXVR and Sprint Vector, both of which are available on PlayStation VR. With offerings like these taking off for home console players, it would make sense for public gyms to jump on the VR bandwagon sooner or later. The technology has already been introduced as a way to make treadmills and exercise bicycles more immersive. While running or cycling on the machines, users can put on a VR headset and travel through virtual courses. This isn’t mainstream yet, but the novel idea could help more people spark a passion in fitness. If it takes off in gyms, VR won’t stop at treadmills and bicycles. It could be used on all the cardio machines to help make them more exciting. In addition to that, VR could enhance the weight lifting experience. For example, when doing bench presses the VR headset could show the user lifting a car. This could make them feel as if they are taking part in a strength competition. The fitness industry will work closely with game developers in the years ahead to create immersive VR offerings for fitness machines. The technology is likely to enhance the gym experience tenfold, and it promises to be an exciting stage in the evolution of the sector.
The major sport organizations in Toronto have come together in order to help those in need and those most affected by the Coronavirus outbreak. Due to the virus, all major sport has been cancelled, so not only can you not watch it, but you also can’t bet on it. This has had major affect on different Canadian sportsbooks offering a range of sporting markets to bet on. The Sport organizations have but together something called the “Team Toronto Fund”, which was launched on Sunday. The teams involved include the Raptors, Toronto FC, Blue Jays, Maple Leaf and Argonauts. The funds will go to event staff who are losing out on work and money by the major sporting events being cancelled. This will help all people involved within the stadium who would typically be working when a sporting event is being played in an arena. There will be a lot of workers that will benefit from this extra assistance and therefore it is a very beneficial organization to have in place. It is also a great way to show appreciation to the workers, who will feel included and appreciated when receiving this funding, instead of thinking that they are forgotten about and having to go into a state of struggle in order to fund their lives. The management of each team, the players and the coaching staff will all put in their contributions in order to help these people. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the NHL, NBA, MLB, AHL and CFL are all put on hold for the time being. There is no real indication as to when they will all be back up and running and that is another worrying factor for the staff, they cant confirm when they will receive a full payslip again and this can seriously but them on the back foot, making them struggle to even survive or feed their families. All of the sports teams are put through testing to see whether they have contracted the Virus. Across the US, there are a lot of players in the sporting world that have in fact tested positive for the virus, it shows that no one is really safe from the virus and we all need to consider the health warnings that are issued to us and follow the strict rules put in place. We are hoping that sports will be back up and running as soon as possible. Over in the UK, the major football leagues have been frozen until the beginning of April, it is still yet to be confirmed whether or not the games will go ahead then or whether the break will be extended even longer. The Team Toronto organization also allows people to see how we can all come together, help communities and those in need, so that no one is badly affected by the outbreak and we can all go through it together. All the players have quarantined themselves to be cleared of the virus. Even after this there is no confirming that events will be back up and running. One suggestion is to continue playing the remaining fixtures but do it behind closed doors. This is not beneficial for fans who want to be able to watch their team play and sports are not the same without the fans, they play a major part in the entertainment of it all.
Daniel Nestor always enjoyed returning to his home city of Toronto to play the game he loves. He learned to play tennis there and has memories of travelling to York University on his way to watch world-class tennis during the summer. Once he’d turned professional, however, there was something truly special about playing in Montreal. While many fans would agree with Nestor, many others would not, which has made for an interesting debate over the years, There are many aspects that go into playing in Toronto versus Montreal. For example, the atmosphere from the crowds, the playing surface, and the history of the venue. But that’s for the players. When it comes to fans, some things remain the same, no matter where the event is played. One example is sports betting. Online betting sites such as Karamba enable sports fans to join in on the action as it unfolds on the courts and fields around Canada. In-play betting adds to the excitement At one time, the most that fans could do is bet on the match and wait until the match is over before it was determined whether they had won or not. Now it’s even possible to profit before the end of the first set. This levels the playing field when it comes to fan participation, as their level of enjoyment isn’t affected by accessibility, weather, etc., but rather by the game itself and their ability to get involved at home. Live betting is one way that online betting sites have added to the excitement of watching at home, perhaps taking away from the importance of which venue the game is played at. For the players, however, it remains a different story. Nastor insists that the Rogers Cup is better when played in Montreal, and that most players would agree. Whether that’s the case privately is impossible to say, but it certainly isn’t the case publicly. That’s even truer while the event is taking place. Rafael Nadal wasn’t keen to give his two cents. The world no. 2, who has won the competition in both Toronto and Montreal, said that both cities are great for him and that he couldn’t say one way or another. The crowds are very, very different Many observers have noted a significant difference between the crowds in the two cities. Montreal fans are rowdier than Toronto fans, who can be quite subdued. World No. 8 Karen Khachanov would know. The Russian player swatted a ball out of the stadium to show his frustration during his third-round win over Felix Auger-Aliassim, as the crowd cheered on Khachanov’s mistakes and attempted to distract him. That may have been something to do with the fact that Auger-Aliassime is a product of Montreal. The crowd booed again after Khachanov swatted the ball. Denis Shapovalov enjoyed a memorable tournament in Montreal in 2017 in which he defeated Nadal on his way to the semifinals. The player from Ontario said that he loved playing in Toronto the following year but that there’s something unique about Montreal. Both cities share best results (possibly) According to rogerscup.com, the four greatest results for Canadian players have been shared equally between the two venues. BEST CANADIAN SINGLES RESULTS Carling Bassett – Quarter-finals in 1985 (Toronto) Helen Kelesi – Quarter-finals in 1987 (Toronto) Patricia Hy-Boulais – Quarter-finals in 1992 (Montreal) Aleksandra Wozniak – Quarter-finals in 2012 (Montreal) Nestor, however, believes that when it comes to results, it’s “advantage Montreal”. The retired player said that among the reasons Montreal fans might be more involved in what’s going on in the court is because Canadian men have a better record at the event in the city than in Toronto. As well as Shapovalov’s impressive run in 2018, Milos Raonic made the final in 2013, beating fellow Canadian Vasek Pospisil along the way. While the venue in Toronto is located in the city’s extreme north, which makes it hard to reach, Montreal’s venue is in the center and is easier to access for tennis fans. Toronto recently made an extension to one of its subway lines close to its Rogers Cup venue, the Aviva Centre, while the IGA Stadium in Montreal has had nearby metro stops for decades. Nestor said that the proximity to the stadium makes for a far better atmosphere, adding that the event is far superior to all other tournaments on the calendar. Toronto is just an all-around better city, of course Tennis Canada CEO and President Michael Downey says that getting the subway to York University will make a huge difference to the event in the coming years, as it will help it to attract a larger audience. Of course, for fans outside of both cities, there are plenty of other reasons to visit both Toronto and Montreal. However, while you might consider is bias, Toronto wins that one hands down, with its fabulous array of entertainment venues, including funky bars, world-class restaurants, and trendy nightclubs.
As they made their grand entrance, Special Olympic Athletes – the indisputable stars of the show – were met with cheers and high-fives. Their presence undoubtedly contributed to the infectious energy that characterized this year’s motionball Toronto Gala presented by the AIRMILES Reward Program. So did a touching performance from Karl Wolf and empowering comments from everyone from motionaball founder Paul Etherington, to Olympic champion figure skater Tessa Virtue.
The Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation welcomes the Lunar New Year with their 31st annual Dragon Ball. Being one of Canada’s largest charity galas celebrating Chinese New Year, they raised funds to support and expand the four Yee Hong geriatric centres across the Greater Toronto Area.
Casino Woodbine is one of Toronto’s beloved gambling places first used as a racetrack in 1874. In 1956, after more than 80 years, it became an official racetrack for thoroughbred racing and has held prominent races such as the King’s Plate. The property has become a staple of the Toronto community today and has slowly expanded and updated its technology. Casino Woodbine has a remarkable selection of more than 100 action-packed table games and 3,500 slot machines that you can play 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Table games include roulette, baccarat, and blackjack. Visitor numbers range from 25,000 to 30,000 for racetrack events, and these numbers increase every year. Woodbine is also available online for those who don’t want to converse with one another in person, but table games and slot machines are also popular at this casino. Virtual roulette and stadium gaming are fun choices, and memberships are available for frequent visitors. This echoes the general sentiment on a number of land-based casinos which also offer their games online, delivering their promise of taking the games closer to the customers. Casino Woodbine Plans Expansion As the popularity of Woodbine has grown over the years, the racetrack has continued to expand. Its ownership has partnered with Metrolinx and Queen’s Park to build an expansion in the Etobicoke neighbourhood. The expansion has an estimated cost of $75 to $90 million and is expected to be a major tourist attraction for Toronto as well as a revenue generator and major employer. Funds were recently appropriated by the One Toronto Gaming partnership. Growth potential is considered to be enormous: Woodbine already employs 6,000 workers each day and is expected to hire another 5,000 with the expansion. What Types of New Venues Are Part of the Expansion? Woodbine offers many complimentary services for its patrons, including shuttle services from the Toronto Pearson International Airport and nearby hotels. However, as part of the expansion, the Metrolinx public transportation will reach the area, which has the potential to bring in more visitors. Woodbine will diversify its offerings to include cultural destinations, food and dining, office space, shopping, and plans to add residential living areas. The goal for Woodbine Casino is to become not only a hub of activity for gaming and gambling, but also to be a destination for everyone visiting the Toronto area. Blueprints show that the expansion is making the effort to retain the racetrack ambiance and increase the overall architecture for the area. Walkways, additional parking in a seven-level garage, and updates will allow the casino to resemble a city within a city. What Benefits Does the Expansion Bring to the Community? When the Toronto City Council approved the plan to expand, it required that 40% of new hires come from the local area. The increased employment will be great for Toronto, and the additional revenue generated by visitors will ensure that Toronto’s economy continues to thrive. Due to the influx of visitors, the expansion will include an area for child care services in a new child care zone. This expansion will be used by casino visitors as well as employees at Casino Woodbine, allowing visitors and employees to work or play while their children are receiving care. The expansion, although somewhat controversial, will develop an area of Toronto that is near the airport and could transform Toronto’s economy and nightlife. The changes will happen in several phases, gradually transforming the area and commerce of the community. Eventually, Woodbine will introduce a live entertainment facility and hotel tower with 12 stories and nearly 550 rooms, as well as retail buildings ranging from one to three stories high. The updates have been long-awaited by developers, casino attendees, and Toronto’s community for many years, and it is an exciting time for Ontario. Whether you’re excited to work at Woodbine or planning your next weekend getaway here, be sure to keep abreast of new developments and updates as they occur. The new retail, dining, bars, and game areas have the potential to supply an unlimited amount of fun for Toronto and Casino Woodbine.
In celebration of Chinese New Year’s Year of the pig, the zodiac representing good luck and prosperity, Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation hosted their 30th annual benefit gala, “Dragon Ball”. Yee Hong is a non-profit organization for geriatric care was the first residential hospice built by the Chinese community in Scarborough.
It is very easy to lapse into a predictable routine. However, when in Toronto, a little creativity with your evening plans is going to make you feel so entertained, even in your own hometown. Free time is precious and you should make the most out of it. Most of the time it passes so quickly that you don’t seem to have time to make a plan. Here are some of the entertainment ideas that will keep you busy in Toronto. Movies This is one of the most common forms of entertainment for the people of Toronto. Thanks to the internet, you can simply open an online streaming app to watch your favourite movie anytime and anywhere but here there are many option like free outdoor movies in the park. This is the best way to escape the tension and stress of the day. It will transport you to a world of magic and fun. Check out the amazing IMAX screen at the Cinesphere for a whole new experience as well. In case you do not want to watch a movie alone, you can go for a movie date with your partner or just ask your friend to catch a movie with you. Watching a movie with your family at night with some soda and popcorn is also a great idea. Open Mic Nights Believe it or not, this is one of the most popular forms of entertainment. Apart from enjoying the acts that are being presented by other people, you can get up on stage and showcase your own talent. You can tell jokes, share your story, or sing a song to entertain the people sitting there. In case you do not want to go to the stage, you can simply sit in the crowd and enjoy the performance. Toronto has a ton of Open Mic nights for you to enjoy. Online Casino This form of entertainment is becoming popular at a slow but steady pace. With time more and more people are taking an interest in playing games over the internet. There are several online casinos to choose from and most of these offer a wide range of games. In case you do not want to spend money, you can play the demo versions of the games in these Canadian online casinos, however, playing to win money sounds like a lot more fun. Comedy Clubs Stand-up comedy is the new trend. In case you are feeling low after a hard day at work, you can drop in one of the comedy clubs. This is a great way to entertain yourself. Most of the time than not the jokes is hilarious and you have a hearty laugh. This is an excellent way to let go of your joy and stress. Concert If you are a fan of live music and your favourite band is in town, you should just get the tickets. Listening to your favourite band perform is a lifetime experience and you should not miss out on this. However, even when you do not know the band, listening to live music can be an excellent form of entertainment. You might find yourself dancing to the beat of the music all throughout the night. So, make sure you wear those comfortable shoes.
If you are looking to place some bets while watching sports then the city of Toronto and its surrounding areas has some great options for a variety of needs. If you are looking to make a trip out of it, try one of the casinos a short distance from the city. Looking to watch live racing? The Woodbine Racetrack is a national landmark. Looking to lay low? Off track betting and online sports betting are both great options in the city. Here are our favourites. Woodbine Racetrack Toronto’s own Woodbine Racetrack is a great place to bet on sports. It is a racetrack for thoroughbred horse racing and is run by the Woodbine Entertainment Group. Canada’s most well known horse race, The Queen’s Plate, takes place here every year. The track was first opened in 1956 and has been extensively updated over the years. Since 1994, Woodbine Racetrack has had three racecourses. The Casino at Woodbine has over 200 electronic gambling tables, over 3,500 slot machines as well as table games including blackjack, roulette and baccarat. Woodbine Racetrack is located at 555 Rexdale Boulevard. Casinos There are several casinos that you can visit near Toronto. If you want to go South to Niagara Falls, you can visit Casino Niagara or Fallsview Casino. Visit this phenomenal natural attraction while catching live shows. Watch sports at the many bars and lounges and play the many games available at both locations. If you want to go North, check out Great Blue Heron Casino, located near Peterborough. Take some day trips to explore the outdoors as here you are surrounded by some of the most beautiful nature in the world. Spend your days hiking or canoeing and your evenings playing slots, table games and placing bets over drinks with friend or family. Off Track Betting Looking to rent a VIP room to watch the game with access to a bar and betting? Places around Toronto like Champions have access to off track better, screens and rental rooms, drinks and more. Catch up with friends in front of a large screen TV without the need to host at home. If you just want to hang out at a local spot without the fuss, these venues are located in major areas like the Danforth and Bloor West. Betting Online If you don’t want to have to go out, or plan a day around your athletic wagers, you can always place bets while watching hockey from home. With our cold winters this ia sometimes the smartest decision as well. It is an exciting year for Leafs fans with an amazing roster of young and talented players. There are websites that will show your NHL betting odds, making it easier to win from the comfort of your couch. You can play over / under or props bets and take the game to a new level of fun. Hockey props with friends is always a ton of fun.
If you’re not quite ready to embrace the warm and fuzzy holiday feeling, you can keep the Halloween vibes going until November 30 with an experience that will leave you sleeping with the lights on. In a production that began on Friday, September 13 and has remained a hot ticket ever since, The Beverley Street Séance, led by mentalist Jaymes White, is undoubtedly a terrifying affair. In fact, not everyone can handle it. Some – like a young guy in our group – feel sick and have to leave. At the end of the same session, a young (sober) woman vomited out of nowhere on the lawn. A few hours earlier, a group of 18 guests are invited to meet at a downtown pub, before being escorted a few blocks to the allegedly haunted – and admittedly creepy – George Brown House. Located on Beverley Street, the National Historic Site was once home to Father of Confederation and founder of the Toronto Globe newspaper, George Brown. In an experience that’s part theatre, part trickery and part completely unexplained, White leads guests on a creepy (if you don’t scream at some point, you win major bravery points) recreation of an authentic Victorian séance throughout the eerie space. Guests hear how Brown died at the home after a brutal infection resulting from a gunshot would after a disgruntled employee shot him. White also tells a (completely unverified) tale of other occupants – a businessman, his wife and three children – who were apparently gruesomely poisoned to death. This family is at the centre of the séance, and they reliably “show up” throughout the evening for every performance. In what some call a total hoax and others say changes their belief in the paranormal (like a fellow sound-minded writer who swore someone, or something was touching her legs), the Beverley Street Séance – if nothing else – definitely entertains. Here’s what White had to say about the whole thing: What is the difference between a psychic and what you do? I use psychological principles in order to read people. I use science psychology, my intense study of human behaviour and my own intuition. A medium believes that they posses the powers and are born with them; like someone is trying to communicate with them. I have trained since I was 6-years-old in order to read people; I think people can learn this if they devote their lives to it. What can guests expect from the séance? The séance is the most unique and scary experience in the country. There is legit nothing like it. What we do is go to a famous haunted location and conduct a séance. The crazy thing is its all psychological and in your head, there is not really any jump things its all psychological, where it sometimes makes you question reality. It is one of those experiences I think you need to attend in order to understand. How did you decide upon the location? I actually ask my fans if they know of any famous haunted locations, we then do our research and decide on the location. Marivi who is on my team is the one who kind of leads the way and is able to get the location. We were crazy luck to get the George Brown Mansion who is currently owned by the Ontario Heritage Trust, one of the most beautiful and haunted houses I have ever been to. Has there been a time during your séances when you’ve been truly scared? I am too focused on watching the audiences and making sure they are ok that I almost don’t focus too much on what is going on, safety is more important for me. The audience however has a completely different story. I think the reason why this has been sold out for three years straight is because they experience things they have never experienced before. I get messages all the time of people not being able to sleep for a few days or needing to sleep with their lights on after attending the séance. What have you learned from your interactions with the dead? I think humans come up with their own rituals and beliefs and I think they are all right. I honestly get to learn more about humans than spirits when conducting these experiences. It is very fascinating to know what makes people believe in the paranormal. How do you mentally prepare before a big show? I have my own weird set of rituals that I need to follow to a tee. If I do not follow them I feel off or weird. It is really weird but that is how I prepare for a big experience. I have always been a bit superstitious and I find when I do my weird ritual it keeps me calm and sane. These séances take a lot of physical and mental energy. Do you think that Ouija Boards are a good idea to use in the home? I actually have a collection of 103 Ouija Boards from around the world; most of them are very old. I try to find the ones that have a dark history or crazy past. I have never had anything bad happen to me. I guess you could say I am a collector. I think everyone has his or her own beliefs on the Ouija board but personally I have had never anything bad happen. What do you do with your down time? Are your friends in your industry? I play a lot of guitar I find it helps my mind mentally; I also try to train my body so I am ready for these crazy experiences. I am definitely a horror junkie, so I try to watch as many horror movies as possible. I also spend a lot of times playing with animals. I legit once got kissed by a Hyena, which was the greatest moment of my life!
A day at the spa is made even better when the said spa is nestled in Ontario’s peaceful wilderness (yet, just over an hour away from the Toronto grind) and immediately puts you in vacation mode. A staple all-seasons resort since 1985, Mono, Ontario’s Hockley Valley Resort offers a refined yet cozy spa experience that comes with the added perks of resort amenities.
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has officially taken over the city, rolling out the red carpets for Hollywood’s finest. But it’s not just about the films, snapping cameras and glam, guest list-only parties (and mild hangovers). The jam-packed gifting and experiential suites are bustling at the seams with swag and services (hair, makeup and massages) to so generously gift the familiar faces that grace their doors. Naturally, being a celebrity comes with some pretty nice perks – but being in media does too. We got to check out some of the sweetest suites for ourselves… EGPR Essentials Lounge Each year, lifestyle public relations company EGPR arms Toronto media with everything they need to survive the festival. Now in its 10th year, the lounge, which took place on Wednesday, September 4, is a must-hit and anyone who’s been in the past knows it. Taking over The Richmond, media were invited to indulge in an express facial compliments of skincare and wellness brand This Works – a company that specializes in beauty sleep solutions, including morning-specific skincare – who also stocked our bags with items to help the late night/early morning cause. Reps from beloved brand Aveda were onsite to offer makeup touch-ups and brow shaping, and to educate on the new Brow Definer, which we got to take home in a limited edition Aveda gift bag. The smudge-proof, multitasking brow pencil is enriched with a balanced blend of vegan, botanically derived emollients, conditioning agents, waxes and minerals – and it’s one of my new favourite things. Carolina Herrera New York infused the lounge with polka dots to celebrate their new fragrance, the Good Girl Dot Drama Eau de Parfum, a Collector Edition – the first from the brand – inspired by the emblematic Polka Dot pattern. The fragrance is exclusively designed by Carolina Herrera de Baez, Creative Director of Perfumes, with Karlie Kloss. Media left with personalized bottles. A team of hair professionals from Goldwell Kerasilk was onsite to ensure that guests left with red carpet-worthy hair, gifting them with a complete collection of the new Kerasilk Revitalize routine, designed to protect and counteract key signs of scalp aging and shield the scalp from oxidative stress. As a beauty expert for the brand told me, “it’s like a facial for your scalp.” Guests were also invited to relax with a shameless reality TV fix from the all-reality subscription video-on-demand service Hayu – who offered guests free trial subscriptions – while enjoying a shoulder or foot massage. Many did so with a cocktail in hand, thanks to the tasty libations served by Moxie’s Bar and Grill. Accompanying this was chips and 10/10 guacamole(!), spicy tuna sushi and steak bites from Moxie’s, who offered each guest a gift certificate to keep them coming back for more. Other appreciated swag bag additions included AlumierMD’s Clear Shield Broad Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 42), ROAR Organic’s organic low-calorie electrolyte infusion beverage and Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Face Wipes. Bask-It Style Suite Back for its eleventh year, Toronto public relations company GLO Communications held its annual media day on Wednesday, September 4 at the Thompson Toronto Hotel. Members of the press enjoyed the VIP treatment as they got acquainted with this year’s 20 sponsors. The lounge delivers VIP swag bags to visiting celebs in town for TIFF. One of the main highlights of this jam-packed suite – at least for me – were the limited edition travel totes designed by California-based brand Amber & Ash. The large black tote features straps that can convert into a backpack and is full of internal pockets, including a protected laptop pocket – so you can leave your case at home (amazing). The decided star of the show this year – and one that aptly made its rounds on social media – was an attention-grabbing DeLorean from Back to the Future thanks to peer-to-peer ride sharing company Turo (the car is actually available on their site; no joke). Professional photographers were ensured that the experience was properly documented. Guests took home a $200 Turo credit. Guests were also invited to take off the pre-TIFF edge with D.O. (Destination of Origin) Rueda, who showed up to offer tastings of 17 different Spanish wines. Guests took home a bottle of their choice to sip after a night of busy TIFF action. In addition to the crowd-pleasing wine, guests also sipped tea thanks to British Columbia-based Oteas. The rapidly growing family-run business offers aromatically energizing blends that range from sweet to spicy, all neatly contained in plant-based packaging and biodegradable teabags. The beauty experts from MONAT Global both educated on their intensive anti-aging haircare line and offered touch-ups with their flagship product, REJUVENIQE. Also onsite to help the pre-TIFF beauty game were reps from skincare company Indigena Skincare. The brand’s Glowing Travel Kit (which guests were gifted includes Labrador Tea Day and Night Cream, Rose Petal Eye Cream, Sea Veggie Face Lotion and Blueberry Bliss Lip Scrub) was the topic of discussion and a welcome addition to gift bags. Because optimal TIFF health isn’t skin-deep, the team from Tru Niagen was there to offer the Hollywood-loved supplement, which contains a unique form of vitamin B3 called nicotinamide riboside (NR). Completing TIFF-worthy looks, Michael Hill showcased an assortment of coveted jewellery, including this season’s essential gold pieces, like their dainty stackable 10-karat gold and diamond rings and 10-karat gold mini hoop earrings – which we got to take home (and are currently wearing). . Perfect for post-TIFF down time, the suite offered the chance to explore a collection of the latest fall titles from two major publishing houses. MIRA showcased its latest title Good Girls Lie by J.T. Ellion and DK Publishing showcased their latest and greatest, including the coffee table book Fashion, New Edition: The Definitive Visual Guide. Media left with both books, knowing full well that they wouldn’t be opened until the festival wrapped. Other well-received gift bag items included things like soaps from Dr. Bonner, chocolate from Green & Blacks and Welo probiotic bars, to name a few. NKPR IT House x Producers Ball A few years back, NKPR evolved their annual gifting suite concept with a central hub for innovation, experiences and philanthropy with Scott Brothers Entertainment. The influential public relations company and its powerhouse owner Natasha Koifman (who is pretty much synonymous with TIFF) hosted the NKPR IT House x Producers Ball at The Purman Building – a 7,000 square foot loft-style space in the heart of the film festival activities. In this bustling hub of all things TIFF-related, Rolling Stone returned with a celebrity portrait studio where renowned NYC-based photographer Leeor Wild was busy snapping away, taking portraits of the entertainment world’s most familiar faces. Leeor is no stranger to the celeb set, having photographed stars like George Clooney, Emily Ratajkowski and Halle Berry, to name a few. This year, hair care brand OGX Beauty offered guests the star treatment with hair touch-ups from September 5-8, using OGX’s extended range of dry-styling products, and supplied talent with hair products to take home. Also helping the pre-photo shoot cause, beauty brand Bobby Brown was onsite to help media and talent get ready to get behind Wild’s lens, and gifted IT House guests with mascara and liquid eyeliner. For the third consecutive year, Swarovski returned to the IT House with a series of experiential programming to promote the brand’s new FW19 Tarot, Power and Nirvana collections. Their four-day styling lounge loaned and gifted talent and industry leaders with product to wear to their TIFF events. Highlights included Aura Reading and Celestial Chart Mapping as a nod to the Tarot collection, and guests left with Swarovski tarot magic necklace. Making for a nostalgic Instagram op, on September 5, Canadian mattress-in-a-box brand Sleepenvie offered a throwback set-up that mirrored the bedroom of teenybopper cult classic Mean Girls. Other talking points included the debut of Lightspeed Founder and CEO, Dax Dasilva’s novel Age of Union, a smoothie bar from Pure Protein and no shortage of custom cocktails from Hounds Vodka (famous for their black vodka) and Flow Water.
You have a new reason to visit Toronto’s innovative new shipping container marketplace, Stackt Market – especially if your home (and life) could use a little update for fall. Fresh from the streets of Tokyo, Japanese sustainable home and lifestyle brand Puebco has arrived in Canada and will occupy real estate at Stackt for a two-month-long pop-up.
Now that we’re deep in the hazy days of summer, there has been time to reflect upon the first half of the year in Toronto – in particular, on the city’s lively social scene. Between functions that fell flat, over-the-top galas that won’t be forgotten and fundraisers that generated important dollars, some events stood out from the rest.
This year’s Gardiner SMASH: Nourish was held on Wed June 26, 2019. It was a splendid evening with new and old faces – young and old – art enthusiast and cultural philanthropists alike joining the night of nourishment at the museum.
Since they first began to emerge in the late 90s, online casinos, poker rooms and other iGaming operators have enjoyed an incredible surge in popularity. More money is being invested in the industry than ever before, with both new and established vendors vying for a bigger share of the market. All that funding is being put to good use, allowing operators to develop their services and offer a more immersive gaming experience in whichever way they can. Canada has already proven a prime market for ambitious casino brands, particularly in major cities like Toronto. Big brands like Delta, Dolphin and BLG have cemented their reputation in the city’s physical casino market; yet we’re also beginning to see a switch in focus to digital casino offerings, not just in Ontario but across the country. The latest stats from http://www.usgri.org estimate that online casinos collectively pull in over $6 billion every year from the Canadian market. There’s plenty to suggest that figure is set to explode even further over the next few years – let’s take a look at a few of the key factors involved. Strength of competition “online-poker-ranking-reliable” (CC BY 2.0) by Chingster23 Competition within the Canadian iGaming market is fiercer than ever, so much so that it’s becoming increasingly hard for players to choose between the range of online casino brands out there. Naturally, specialist comparison sites like a2zcasinos.org have become a key resource for keen gamers, posting detailed reviews of the best casinos available to play in Canada. This saves a lot of time for players that are constantly on the lookout for the best deals and promotions. It also adds a level of comfort, security and peace of mind, so new joiners can rest assured that they’re signing up with a reputable casino with a good rating. Even if you begin to think that the market is becoming saturated, it’s hard to argue against the fact that such strong competition is proving vital fuel for rapid development within the industry. Technology “Smartphones” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by clasesdeperiodismo We know that mobile usage in Canada is among the highest of any country in the world, and, according to https://www.statista.com, mobile gaming is the digital game category set to have the highest growth in Canada, which means that more players than ever are now looking to enjoy their favorite casino games on their smartphone, tablet or other mobile devices – anywhere with a decent Internet connection. In fact, you could argue that mobile gaming has already become more popular than the traditional desktop format. That’s a big deal for iGaming developers who are being forced to switch their focus to producing games that primarily appeal to mobile users. As a result, more and more casinos are investing heavily in HTML5 games, effectively allowing players to log in and play games from any device with minimal hassle or trade-off in quality. The sky is the limit One of the most exciting things about the rise of the Canadian iGaming industry is the collective focus on development and evolution of services. Every online casino is looking to attract and retain loyal customers by offering a better service than anybody else, and that’s leading companies to experiment with new technologies and techniques as soon as possible. That level of commitment to service and product development is unique to this corner of the gaming market – and it’s ultimately what will see an even quicker rate of evolution in years to come. Watch this space!
Now that road-trip-and-patio season is around the corner, Cove Bar and Restaurant in Oakville, Ontario will be the perfect destination for indulging in seafood cuisine, or sipping on tropical cocktails while enjoying the beautiful view of the harbour through their patio, reminiscent of a beach bar.
“The restaurant is known for receiving 2019’s Best Patio Talk of the Town Award.”
So many people are getting more autonomy and freedom in the way they experience employment. One of the ways this is happening is through the ability to telecommute. For many people, the ability to work from home is ideal. For others, it’s very difficult to get anything done. Because there’s no set time to be in the office or report to a boss, it can be challenging to develop the discipline to get anything done. One of the most popular solutions to this issue is the co-working space. Organizations like We Work have provided co-working spaces all over the globe. Furthermore, there are tons of people who are developing their own co-working spaces within their communities. If you would like to be a part of the co-working movement, there’s a lot of opportunities to consider. As you develop your plans, consider the following components. Location When you’re ready to spend money and invest in the perfect location, you’ll want to consider a ton of elements. If it’s in a location that’s inconveniently far from civilization, you might have a tough time filling up the space. You’ll also want to consider the businesses that are nearby. Do your research to find out if the area is projected to have more development in the future. If it’s an up and coming area, that building might be a great investment. You’ll also want to make sure that the building is inspected thoroughly. Pricing Once you’ve purchased the building, always set your prices with plant operations in mind. Draft a plan to help you know how much it will cost to run the space on a daily basis. Don’t be afraid to make it exclusive and charge what the experience is truly worth. You’re not investing in this business as a form of charity. Yes, you want to be able to help local entrepreneurs and employees set up an office space away from home, it’s still a business. Plus, when you’re hosting different professionals within one space, they’ll be able to add value to one another. Knowing this, charge fair fees that are still competitive. Competition If there aren’t any co-working spaces in your area, you’re setting yourself apart as your own competition. However, consider the closest co-working space. Think about where it is and how you can set yourself apart from it. Do not try to copy what you’ve seen. Instead, consider ways that you can make your co-working space innovating, interesting and efficient. Whether you choose to invest in energy-efficient appliances or serve Starbucks coffee in-house, find a variety of selling points that will easily persuade potential customers to burst through the doors. Facility If you take a look at the WeWork’s Instagram page, you’ll quickly realize that people love a stunning space to work in. This is why it’s incredibly important to hire an interior designer who can create the ideal space. In addition to interior design, it’s a great idea to include natural elements like lots of natural light, indoor plants and water features. Within the budget, it’s wise to create space for employees like a barista and a plant manager. The co-working space needs to be clean at all times. If you’re serving food, this is a great way to attract bugs and rodents. If you’re not careful with food handling, things can get messy and unsanitary very quickly. If you have a barista who serves drinks as well as food, you’ll want to make sure to get a food handler’s license to cover the legalities. When you’re dealing with the maintenance of the building, always make sure to contact the right local professionals to make sure that the building is up to code. As you continue to draw up plans for your co-working space, be relentless in your research of what needs to be done for facility upkeep and maintenance. Marketing In order to facilitate an effective marketing strategy, you’ll want to employ both online and offline marketing efforts. From an online perspective, it’s wise to develop a website, a strong social media presence and more. When you’re creating a co-working space, know that this concept is beloved by the Millennials. Most Millennials hang out on Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter. Knowing this, you’ll want to do the research to know the meaning of SnapChat emojis, how to go live on Instagram and how to connect with the right people with witty banter on Twitter. Your offline strategies might include billboards, newspaper advertisements and radio advertisements. As you become consistent with spreading the word about the co-working space, you might have to create a waiting list. Depending on your location, it’s good to know that so many people are looking for a great co-working space because they want an environment that inspires them. If you can make sure that this inspiration is communicated through marketing, it won’t be too hard to fill up the spaces.