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Hello Everyone, welcome back, as promised this is the update re Toronto and the journey to Bernie and Debs house in Squamish, so sit back and enjoy,
Upon arrival at Toronto Union Station things were a bit confusing, first the language thing, French at the Tourist info booth, then maps which included the underground shopping centre, not to be confused with the Underground / Subway!
I found the Subway which has as single fee for all journeys, you pay your money, dont get a ticket and off you go. I found my way to Dunbar Street and exited onto street level. I was greeted with a wall of sound as a Band were playing Rock in the square. I took it all in and stood watching for some time, when my legs gave way under the weight of my backpack, I decided to find my accommodation, a helpful Torontoarian (I've decided that is a word because I like it!) sent me on my way and I found the University building in five mins. The rooms were quite good for what I paid and clean.
As you know I found my way to the Jazz Club later that evening.
The Reseviour Club.
I was met at the door by Quinn who hails from Liverpool (not his fault, so don't blame him!) and now a resident of Canada. Quinn, probably not his name (I think he is probably a Trevor) - Sorry mate only kidding! , Quinn is a real character and I think he brings a lot more to the place. He acts as reception, doorman, meet and greet, cashier and vagrant disperser!
He welcomed me in, took $10 off me for the Band and that was that until I decided to introduce myself.
We had a lively 'chat', you know the thing, cars, girls, more cars, more girls. It is a male bonding thing! I was really enjoying his company.
Then came along JESS. She simply sasheyed along to the stairwell, said Goodbye to her girlfriend, injured with a calf strain - could have helped but it would have all gone wrong. Can you imagine, 12.30am - 'Oh can I help you with that? Ooh my that Gastrocnemius looks a bit inflamed and your Soleus looks abit sore as well, now just hold still!! - Exactly - I dont think so.
Jess is a lovely girl, good looking, naturally chatty, charming and into her music. She gave me some tips on the City and we talked about my trip until I bored her stupid! It was a great night. I stood with Quinn for some time, people probably thought i was 'on the door' but I was really enjoying the company and the music.
I then met Tim. Well Tim has a distinctive look. Born in Somalia, brought up in Parma, Italy, now living in Canada, specifically Canmore, not far from my next destination.
Tim knows how to have a good time. The Band were really good the best Jazz Ensemble I have seen and heard for years.
The Club was trendy and smart. Playing the Traveller card I was by far the scruffiest person in there, sorry Folks, needs must, at least my T shirt was clean, well nearly! I was conscious that I didnt quite look the part but I was grateful to Quinn, Jess and Tim as they didnt seem to mind.
I also met Lionel, a mate of Quinns, who could get you what you wanted. He was a good laugh and 'lively' and gave me some of his top tips! He is a good man.
Now Tim. Tim does a great ' Boogie Woogie' and held the place to himself when he demonstrated his natural rythem, he is great value. To top it all off He offered to put me up when I reached his neck of the woods. I accepted and did just that.
I left the Club very late and got in about 3.00am, I forced myself out of bed at 8.00 and was up and out.
25/05
It was hot and sunny and had a great day around the City as I have previously stated.
One story you are unaware of is the Gay District story. Later the same day, I decided to check my emails. I found an Internet Cafe and spent a couple of hours doing 'stuff'. I left the Cafe and turned towards a pizza place, I collected my food aand thought I turned in the correct direction. I have no idea why but I trurned the wrong way.
I then found myself in the heart of the Gay District. Jess. Why didnt you warn me??!!! Uptown Church Street, Toronto - Wooooo! I only wish I had the same effect on Women! Well once a Gay Icon always a Gay Icon hey? 'Nice arse' - Oh come on you can do better than that! I did have my best trousers (pants to you foriegners) on, and I probably did look quite good, you know, fresh meat and all that.
I was lost, totally lost, disorientated, not a little panicked! I found a girl, pleaded for help and was directed in the right direction, she started to walk with me and I felt a little more comfortable until she left me in the Centre of it all again - Cow! Eventually I chanced upon my turning and made haste for the sanctuary of the Uni! It was quite a relief to have left the clubs abd pubs area. I thought there was something wrong when i saw the club named Beef City! Should have known shouldn't I! Well Woodies looked quite fun actually.
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