This time around, the flight to Toronto went without any hiccups. No long line-ups at security check. There even was enough time for what has become, over the years, a veritable travel rite: Birchermüesli and coffee at Sprüngli to mark the start of the trip. Then a leisurely stroll to the departure gate.

“The Eagle Has Landed” (quote by Karin)

We reached Pearson International Airport even a bit ahead of schedule. Passport and border control was a breeze. Thus, before I knew it, I sat in my rental car – which turned out to be somewhat of a granny mobile but I didn’t care. I was driving east on the Gardiner Expressway towards downtown Toronto. Its skyline drew closer and closer with the iconic CN tower. It’s truly awe inspiring every single time I come back to the city.

Sunset at the Docks

Although the jet lag had kicked in with a vengeance, I needed to stretch and use my legs a bit before calling it a day. The moored sailboats, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and, set off a bit in the distance, Toronto Island presented themselves in the golden sunset light along the shores of Lake Ontario.