What I've Learned in Toronto: My Experiences

The actor Peter Ustinov once said, "Toronto is New York if it were organized by Swiss people." For me, that means it’s a lively city with a lot going on, but not as wild and sleepless as New York. And it’s a city with a lot of culture, which makes it incredibly attractive.

What I liked right away: As in most North American cities, you can’t get lost – everything is organized along the north-south and east-west axes. It’s also exciting that there is an underground city beneath the financial district, the Path, where you can stroll around protected from the wind and weather.

Canadians are considered civilized, friendly and cosmopolitan – I can only confirm that. Toronto is a mix of people from all over the world who share their cultures and celebrate together. Also nice: your neighbor can quickly become your best friend.

It’s in the mix: The cultural diversity in the city inspires me anew every day. This applies to my work and my everyday life. When I think of Toronto, the word "modern" immediately comes to mind. It’s a place full of dynamics and possibilities.

Of course, I would take a visitor to the opera first. And then to one of Toronto’s great concert halls, Koerner Hall or Massey Hall. The Drake Hotel is also a must for me – a mixture of hotel, restaurant, bar and event venue. Here you can feel the diversity of Toronto, the youthful freshness of the city, which is particularly cool and hip here. If you’re looking for nature, drive two hours east, toward Prince Edward Island. The sea around the island seems almost endless. Wine is also grown in the area – and Canadian wine is yet to be discovered.

Johannes Debus has been Musical Director of the Canadian Opera Company in Toronto since 2009.