Hottest Travel Destinations of 2012

Toronto

If all you know of Toronto is that it’s clean, safe, and able to double for New York City on film, then you haven’t been here in a while. The city has undergone a dramatic change in the past few years, led by remarkably hip restaurant, fashion, and nightlife scenes. Three locals give T+L their take on Toronto’s new style.

Cameron Bailey, Codirector of the Toronto International Film Festival

What characteristics would you identify as uniquely Torontonian?

We’re voracious cultural consumers. To be well-versed in both vintage dub reggae and different kinds of hot sauces from Asia is totally normal here.

Where do the film-industry players hang out during the festival?

The Hazelton Hotel’s One Restaurant (416/961-9600; dinner for two $250) is the hot spot. Locals like quieter places; Bar Italia (416/535-3621; dinner for two $95) is where director Atom Egoyan eats.

Has the city upped its style game?

Men’s style here used to be jeans and a lumberjack jacket. Now there are boutiques and tailor-made clothes.

The 2012 Toronto International Film Festival runs Sept. 6–16).

Matt George, Owner of the Men’s Clothing Boutiques, Nomad, and the Speakeasy-Style Goodnight Bar

What would you say is changing the city’s sensibilities?

There’s a huge community of new immigrants. We’ve got the largest Indian, Pakistani, and West Indian populations outside of London, creating a melting pot of ideas.

What are your favorite restaurants?

I love Woodlot (647/342-6307; dinner for two $75) and the Harbord Room (dinner for two $125). They’re real Canadiana—traditional and contemporary food. My go-to sushi spot is Sushi Kaji (416/252-2166; dinner for two $220) in a suburban strip mall in Etobicoke.

Nomad stores (416/682-1107 and 416/202-8777); Goodnight (647/963-5500).

Emily Haines, Lead Singer of the Canadian Rock Band Metric

What do you think is driving the city’s recent transformation?

Torontonians are great travelers. We’re aware of what’s happening internationally and bring these things back—but make them our own.

Where do you like to see music?

For big acts, I head to Sound Academy (416/461-3625). To catch a local band, there’s the fabulous little basement bar, Dakota Tavern (416/850-4579).

And for a drink afterward?

If I tell you then I won’t be able to go anymore! If forced, I’d say Communist’s Daughter (647/435-0103; drinks for two $12). They serve pickled eggs.

Metric’s as-yet-untitled fifth album will be out this spring.
The Breakdown

Who It’S For: Film-industry types; foodies; tastemakers and fashionistas.

When To Go: April/Oct.

How To Do It: Fly in to Pearson International or the Toronto City airport.

Exotic Factor: Familiar

Phi Phi Island | is located about | two hours from Krabi >>> Travel In Thailand

Koh Phi Phi, better known as Phi Phi Island is located about two hours from Krabi. Phi Phi Island is a paradise snorkeling, with velvety beaches and crystal clear waters. With its incredible beauty, it is easy to understand why this is one of the most popular destinations in southern Thailand. If you want to swim, snorkel, dive or climb, Phi Phi Island is not to disappoint you.

two islands Phi Phi Islands consist of two islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The islands are characterized by peace, relaxation and stress free. There are no roads on the islands, etc. Long-tailed boats are the only way to move. Phi Phi Don, you can find cheap accommodation in bungalows or luxury resorts. For the more adventurous, there are activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving or kayaking. Phi phishing visibility clear water coral reefs and offers excellent conditions for snorkelling and diving. For cliff jumping brave to have something to test at 6 to 16 meters high cliffs into the water.

Maya Bay On Phi Phi island, especially on the small island of Phi Phi Ley see Maya Bay, where part of the movie "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed in 1999. Maya Bay, 100 meters from the limestone cliffs around, has many beautiful beaches. The bay is also a great barrier reef and perfect for diving. You get to Maya Bay by speed boat or long tail boat. But that is only accessible to visitors from November to April, because if the waves are too big it is safe to travel here. There are no restaurants here, so take a picnic.