This is Polson Pier, one of the most prized locations from which to shoot photos of the Toronto skyline. Most photographers and Instagrammers know of this area on the harbor, but visitors wouldn’t think or know to come here. In fact, it’s so desirable as a photographic location that some Torontonians will visit repeatedly at different hours of the day to capture the perfect image of the dramatic skyline and CN Tower at sunrise, sunset and the blue hour on a clear day. On this particular morning, I braved the -20 degree celsius (-4 degree fahrenheit) temperatures, precarious winds and icy conditions with friends to snap this shot with my iPhone. It reminds me that, even in a polar vortex, Toronto is still beautiful. I nearly gave my fingers frostbite and twisted my ankle, but it was worth it.

Multiculturalism is a principle entrenched in our country’s constitution (a cultural mosaic as opposed to a melting pot) and there’s no other city in Canada that embodies it more than Toronto. It’s reflected in the rich medley of our imported cuisines: From my home, every type of ethnic food from Ethiopian to Cuban is just 20 minutes away. And diversity is celebrated at the many cultural festivals that take place throughout the year. It’s what gives our city its international flavor–and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sleeping in on a Sunday morning and indulging in eggs benny and coffee at one of the many top-notch brunch spots in the city. Then an afternoon of wandering the streets, parks and alleys to find undiscovered photographic hot spots.

It offers the opportunity to capture photos of the city skyline that will make your friends jealous.

Toronto is cold enough in the winter, but it’s freezing near the lake.

Half of those who live in Toronto are not Canadian-born. Staggering statistic, isn’t it?

Olivia Chow, a progressive, well-loved member of Parliament who just decided to throw her hat into the race for Toronto Mayor this year. If anyone can drive Rob Ford out of City Hall, it’s her.

Steve McCurry, Marcus Bleasdale and the late Timothy Findley.