To help you discover more hidden gems on your next vacation, global media brand Time Out has released its annual list of the worlds coolest neighbourhoods.
For the sixth consecutive year, the publisher tapped into the insights of its team, contributors, and a vibrant community of over 12,000 locals to pinpoint the world's trendiest, most intriguing locales. And in 2023, Canada has made a notable mark, securing two spots on this coveted list.
Toronto and Montreal, two of Canada's vibrant urban gems, have proudly staked their claim in this prestigious ranking, nestled at numbers 38 and 36, respectively, among the top 40 neighbourhoods across the world. Laureles in Medellín, Colombia, reigns supreme as the planet's coolest neighbourhood, according to Time Out Magazine.
The rankings were the result of the publication tapping into the collective wisdom of over 12,000 city-dwellers and local experts. The criteria were as diverse as the neighbourhoods themselves, encompassing elements such as community initiatives, access to lush green spaces, and the vibrancy of street life.
We polled thousands of city-dwellers and grilled local experts to rank some of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods 🌎
— Time Out Travel (@TimeOutTravel) October 17, 2023
These are the top 10 spots you should know about 👇https://t.co/oPeg6f00fq
Among these globally celebrated neighbourhoods is The Annex in Toronto. Situated adjacent to the University of Toronto St. George Campus, this neighbourhood has a distinct student-friendly charm. Brimming with wallet-friendly dining options, cozy pubs, and inviting cafes, it exudes a youthful energy and vitality that's hard to resist.
"The Annex has changed. After the closure of the iconic Honest Ed’s department store changed the area’s landscape, the neighbourhood is now finally emerging from years of construction with a fresh new look. The developing Mirvish Village hub brings new retail spaces, more housing, plus a music venue and park to Queen Street West’s uptown younger sibling. Combined with long-standing favourites like Hot Docs Cinema, pubs where professors, students, and professionals stand shoulder-to-shoulder to grab a pint and a new addition to Toronto’s Michelin Guide, the Annex is making a comeback in 2023 – and is Toronto’s coolest place to be right now," reads the report.
According to Time Out Magazine, to spend the perfect day in The Annex, "start out at what might be the tiniest coffee shop in Toronto, Coffee Pocket, and then meander along Bloor Street West, popping into eclectic gift shops selling incense, homewares, and books. Catch a film at Hot Docs Cinema, then stop for a drink at one of the many local watering holes like The Lab pub or the Writer’s Room for a skyline sunset. Hungry? Nab a sexy red banquette at Michelin-starred Mimi Chinese and finish the night with a tableful of traditional Chinese dishes with a spicy twist."
Time Out says to plan your visit to The Annex around the return of the Hot Docs festival in 2024. Spring is also when the new developments in the area are slated to be completed, so the Annex will be buzzing with new activities and events.
So, the next time you find yourself in Ontario, particularly in the lively city of Toronto, be sure to pay The Annex a visit and experience firsthand why it secured a spot on the illustrious list of the world's coolest neighbourhoods, and delve into its dynamic atmosphere that seamlessly blends history, culture, and a thriving, contemporary spirit.
