Toronto — Travel Notes
Toronto — Overview
Toronto Overview
Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is a dynamic, multicultural metropolis situated on the northern shore of Lake Ontario in the province of Ontario. With a population of nearly 3 million residents (2026 Census), the city blends a rich history with cutting‑edge innovation and offers an unforgettable urban experience.
City Highlights
- CN Tower – Iconic observation deck and glass floor, 553 m tall.
- Royal Ontario Museum & Art Gallery of Ontario – Major cultural institutions.
- Distillery Historic District – 19th‑century brick warehouses now host galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
- Harbourfront Centre – Waterfront promenade with festivals, arts, and boat tours.
- High‑density skyline that blends modern skyscrapers with historic buildings.
- Diverse culinary scene: world‑class restaurants, street food fairs, and ethnic enclaves (Little Italy, Greektown, Chinatown).
Atmosphere
Toronto carries the pulse of a true global city:
- Multiculturalism — Every neighbourhood tells a different story: Kensington‑Market, Cabbagetown, The Annex, and Scarborough’s South Bayfront.
- Innovation hub — A nexus for tech, finance, and research, home to universities (University of Toronto, Ryerson) and startups.
- Arts‑loving community — Regular theatre productions, live‑music venues, and street‑art installations.
- Year‑round vibrancy — Despite seasonal weather shifts, the city thrives with festivals, markets, and public events.
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Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June‑August) – Mild temperatures (20‑28 °C), extensive outdoor festivals (Toronto International Film Festival, Caribana).
- Early Fall (Sept‑Oct) – Crisp weather, fewer crowds, and the vibrant “Leaf Pile” street art events.
- Late Spring (May‑June) – Blossoming parks and outdoor markets; rain is moderate.
Avoid peak winter dates (Dec‑Jan) when temperatures dip below 0 °C, making outdoor exploration less comfortable.
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Toronto — Getting There
Getting There – Toronto
Airports
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Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
Fastest downtown hop: Union Pearson Express (UPE). 25‑min ride, every 15 min from 7:00 am to 7:45 pm. One‑way $12 CAD (buy at turnstiles, kiosk or the UPE app). Drop‑in right outside Union Station – the hub for the TTC subway, streetcars, and regional rail.
If you’re coming from a regional airfield (Hamilton YHM, Kingston YWK, Muskoka YUK, Niagara YNQ, or Sarnia YSN) or on a business charter, book the Air Canada Landline motorcoach—free, 70–80 min travel, check‑in like a flight, and landing at Pearson Terminal 1 (domestic arrivals). The bus seat layout is 2×1 reclining leather, with power, a tray table, lavatory, and free Wi‑Fi. -
Billy Bishop Toronto City (YTZ)
Small‑plane flights & charter. After landing, you’ll exit via the terminal’s pedestrian bridge onto downtown’s Harbourfront.
Options: City ferry (≈$5.50 CAD, 10‑minute ride), free bike‑share, or a 20‑minute walk to the city centre.
Rail: Union Pearson Express (UPE)
- 25‑min, $12 CAD (one‑way), 15‑min intervals.
- Pass through security & customs before boarding the UPE; the train itself is a dedicated rapid link to downtown.
- A one‑way $13.50 Canada‑day pass plus a $3.50 single fare covers most TTC trips once you’re at Union Station.
Bus: Air Canada Landline Motorcoach
- Domestic flights only. Departs from
- YKF – 5:20 am, lands at YYZ 6:35 am
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YHM – 5:30 am, lands at YYZ 6:30 am
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Free, 2×1 reclining leather seats, in‑seat power, tray table, Wi‑Fi.
- Board at Door Q, check‑in and carry‑on baggage like a flight.
Taxi & Rideshare
- Range: $20–$30 CAD from Pearson to Union Station, though surge pricing can bump the cost up during rush hours.
- Depart from the taxi stand or app‑designated pickup area on the 3rd floor.
- For a one‑way 10‑minute ride, expect a fare that starts around $20 CAD and can rise to $30 CAD in peak traffic.
Bike‑Share & Walking
- Pearson’s bike‑share (bikeShare Toronto) is paid: a 15‑minute ride costs ~$5 CAD. Pick‑up stations are at Terminal 1; drop‑off at Royal York or Union.
- Quick walk option? The UPE station is just a 5‑minute walk from Terminal 1. Walking to downtown takes about 30 min if you’re feeling adventurous.
Other Transport Notes
- Bus‑Park & Ride: If you’re driving into Pearson, take the UPE Rail‑Link (5‑min walk) or a quick taxi to Union Station.
- Customs & Security: Regardless of transfer method, you’ll need to pass through Canadian customs and security before heading into downtown via UPE or taxis.
Quick Links
- UPE: https://www.pearsonexpress.com/
- Air Canada Landline: https://www.aircanada.com/en/landline
- TTC Fare Finder: https://www.ttc.ca/fares/
- BikeShare Toronto: https://bikesharetoronto.com/
Extra Transfer Options
- Airport limos: $70–$90 CAD to Union Station (reservation required).
- Frequent‑flyer lounges: Pay‑per‑use or membership; great if you need a quiet spot while waiting for the UPE.
- Shuttle services: Various providers (e.g., Toronto Shuttle, Coach Canada) pick up at the airport and drop off at your hotel for ~$25 CAD.
- Bike‑share pricing: First 30 min free; thereafter 15 min increments at $5 CAD.
Toronto — Neighbourhoods
Entertainment District (City Centre)
Why it’s your go‑to
Night‑life, iconic skyline, and culture all on a 1‑kilometre radius. Ideal for a tight weekend or a solo night out.
Walkability
- CN Tower: 10 min walk (≈ 2 km)
- Ripley’s Aquarium: 12 min walk (≈ 2.3 km)
- St. Lawrence Market: 15 min walk (≈ 3 km)
Transit
- Bay Station (1‑Line) 25 m from the strip
- Buses 34 Bay, 41 Bay, 54 Wellesley stop on the corner
- 7 Uber‑Bike, 5 Bird stations within 10 min
What to Do
- Catch a play at Elgin or Theatre Centre
- Sunset cocktails at the Hudson’s Bay rooftop bar
- Evening stroll along the Waterfront Trail
Parking Tip
- Street: Paid 8 am‑midnight, $2/hr
- Nearest lot: Toronto City Hall Lot ≈ 500 m
Accessibility
- Most pedestrian routes have curb cuts and tactile paving
- All TTC streetcar stops are elevator‑accessible
Safety
- Stay in well‑lit streets post‑10 pm; avoid heavy traffic near Bay Station after midnight
- Nearby police: Downtown Police Station ≈ 200 m
- Nearest hospital: Mount Sainte‑Catherine Hospital ≈ 1 km
Dining & Prices
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Avg. Main Course | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pai Thai | Thai | $18–$28 | 11‑23 |
| Copacabana | Brazilian | $20–$30 | 17‑01 |
| Buca di Beppo | Italian | $15–$25 | 12‑23 |
The Junction
Why it’s your go‑to
A foodie‑art haven with a laid‑back vibe, perfect for a relaxed day trip.
Walkability
- St. Lawrence Market: 10 min (≈ 1.9 km)
- CN Tower: 18 min (≈ 3.5 km)
Transit
- Dovercourt Station (1‑Line) ≈ 5 min walk
- Buses 10 Dufferin, 24 University
What to Do
- Saturday Junction Farmers Market (10‑2 pm)
- Coffee at Wander Coffee
- Walk through Dufferin Grove Park
Parking Tip
- Free street parking 9 am‑midnight, $1/hr
- Junction Park Lot ≈ 300 m
Accessibility
- Streets generally flat, wheelchair‑friendly sidewalks, and accessible TTC stops
Safety
- Keep to the main streets after 10 pm; intersections near Dovercourt are a bit busy
- Nearby police: The Junction Police Service Centre ≈ 350 m
- Nearest hospital: Mount Sainte‑Catherine Hospital ≈ 1 km
Market Highlights
| Vendor | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Farmer’s & Friends | Organic produce | $1–$5 |
| Sourdough Bakery | Artisan bread | $2–$6 |
| Sweet Treats | Desserts | $3–$7 |
The Annex
Why it’s your go‑to
Historic tree‑lined streets, cafés, and close proximity to U‑of‑T—a favorite among students and commuters.
Walkability
- Queen’s Park: 3 min (≈ 250 m)
- Christie Pits Park: 5 min (≈ 400 m)
Transit
- Queen’s Park Station (1‑Line) 10 m walk
- Accessible to Bathurst, Spadina, St. George; buses 70 Wellesley, 12 Bloor
What to Do
- Brunch at The Library
- Camp on the U‑of‑T quad
- Chill at Bloor Bar & Grille (currently open, serving burgers $12–$18)
Parking Tip
- City parking 8 am‑midnight, $2.50/hr
- Annex Park Lot ≈ 400 m
Accessibility
- Nearly all sidewalks feature curb cuts; many cafés have wheelchair access
Safety
- General neighbourhood watch keeps streets well‑lit after dusk
- Nearby police: Toronto Police Service – Downtown West Centre ≈ 600 m
- Nearest hospital: Mount Sainte‑Catherine Hospital ≈ 1 km
Student Perks
| Spot | Food | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bloor Bar & Grille | Burgers | $12–$18 |
| Caffe La Vita | Pastries | $5–$9 |
| University Coffee House | Coffee | $3–$5 |
Quick Takeaways
- TTC fare (1‑zone): $3.23 (presto‑card) | Daily pass: $13.25
- Avoid heavy traffic at key intersections after 10 pm
- All neighbourhoods have ample wheelchair‑friendly sidewalks and accessible public transit
Enjoy Toronto’s most distinctive neighbourhoods with confidence, knowing you’re armed with the latest walk‑times, parking info, and safety pointers. Happy exploring!
Toronto — Eating
Eating in Toronto
Toronto is a culinary kaleidoscope where historic Canadian staples mingle with vibrant immigrant‑origin dishes. Below is a guided tour of the city’s most iconic eats, from street food to Michelin‑starred experiences.
Local Toronto Specialties
- Peameal Bacon Sandwich – Thick‑cut back bacon rolled in cornmeal, served on a soft bun. Classic spot: St. Lawrence Market (price ≈ $10).
- Jamaican Patties – Flaky pastry filled with spiced beef, chicken, or vegetable. Widely sold in Caribbean bakeries and subway stations.
- Hakka Chicken – Indo‑Chinese fusion: chili chicken, Manchurian noodles. Popular in Chinatown.
- Butter Chicken Roti – Indo‑Caribbean fusion: butter chicken wrapped in roti.
- Kensington Market Street Food – Ranging from pupusas to empanadas amid the boho district.
These dishes capture Toronto’s history (the poutine‑born peameal sandwich) and the city‑wide love for global flavors.
Breakfast & Brunch
| Restaurant | Price | Specialty | Why Go | Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Egg Club (88 Dundas St E) | 💸 | Hash‑brown sandwich | Classic local breakfast, 24/7 service | No |
| Mass Deli (985 Dovercourt Rd) | 💸 | Egg‑loaded deli sandwiches, Latin burritos | Casual, hearty morning fare | No |
| Gold Standard (385 Roncesvalles Ave) | 💸 | Butter‑muffin breakfast sandwich | Quick, iconic Toronto breakfast | No |
| Maha’s Brunch (226 Greenwood Ave) | 💸💸 | Egyptian‑inspired brunch (foole, date‑grilled cheese) | Unique cultural twist | No |
| Cafe Polonez (195 Roncesvalles Ave) | 💸💸 | Pierogies, Polish platter | Community‑centered, hearty cuisine | No |
Tip: Many spots serve early lunch specials around 11 AM—great for budget travelers.
Fine Dining & International Gems
| Restaurant | Price | Cuisine | Signature Dish | Address | Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edulis (169 Niagara St) | 💸💸💸💸 | Contemporary fine dining | Mushroom‑centric tasting menu | Downtown | Highly recommended |
| Dreyfus (96 Harbord St) | 💸💸💸 | Contemporary French | Rotating inventive tasting | Queen West | Not required |
| Masa Deli (985 Dovercourt Rd) | 💸 | Japanese‑inspired breakfast | Signature hash‑brown sandwich | (also breakfast) | No |
| Misa (134 Avenue Rd, Yorkville) | $70–$120 | Northern Italian | Handmade pasta, fresh seafood | Yorkville | Recommended |
| Akira Back (80 Blue Jays Way) | 💸💸💸💸 | Japanese‑Korean fusion | Wagyu tacos | Uptown | Recommended |
Tip: Reserve 2–3 days in advance for Michelin‑starred and high‑end spots.
Ethnic Eats & Neighborhood Highlights
| Restaurant | Price | Cuisine | Local Dish | Address | Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy City (Not listed but typical) | 💸 | Korean | Ramen, Banchan | (Various) | No |
| Hanmoto (2 Lakeview Ave) | 💸💸 | Japanese izakaya | Dino wings | West Queen | No |
| Cassius Cucina Contemporanea (624 King St W) | 💸💸💸 | Italian | Truffle‑rigatoni | Downtown | Not required |
| Ossington‑based (e.g., OddSeoul, Mamakas Taverna) | 💸–💸💸 | Korean‑American, Greek | Tapas‑style plates, Greek favorites | Ossington | No |
| Sunny’s Chinese (60 Kensington Ave) | 💸💸 | Regional Chinese | Black‑sesame French toast | Kensington | No |
| La Salumeria (2021 Yonge St) | 💸💸 | Italian deli | Authentic Italian stalls | Yonge | No |
| Pizzeria Badialis (181 Dovercourt Rd) | 💸💸 | NY‑style pizza | Vodka slice | Dovercourt | No |
Spotlight: Kensington Market remains a hub for global street food—try pupusas, empanadas, and fresh‑sushi from local vendors.
Street Food & Quick Eats
- St. Lawrence Market – Peameal bacon sandwiches, baked goods, artisanal vendors.
- Kensington Market – Empanadas, pupusas, international carts.
- Doughnut‑Shop (not listed but iconic) – Toronto’s donut bars serve creative flavors.
- Food trucks – Frequent in downtown evenings; check social media for schedules.
Tip: Check the daily vendor lists on the official market websites to catch seasonal specialties.
Reservation & Dining Tips
- High‑traffic spots (e.g., Edulis, Misa) require reservations at least a week in advance; use their websites or trusted reservation platforms.
- Walk‑in friendly (many East End cafes, local brunch spots) do not ask for reservations.
- Happy hour is popular in downtown bars; expect to pay ~$7–$10 for drinks.
- Dining during holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas) can be crowded—plan ahead.
- Loyalty programs: some restaurants (e.g., Edulis) offer points for frequent diners; join when you eat often.
Enjoy exploring Toronto’s culinary landscape—from the humble peameal bacon sandwich at St. Lawrence to the Michelin‑starred plates in Yorkville!
Toronto — Practical Tips
Practical Tips for Your Trip to Toronto
Visa & Entry
- Canada requires a Visitor Record (visa) for most nationalities.
- U.S. citizens and residents can enter without a visa and stay up to 6 months.
- Citizens of the European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) issued online before boarding.
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For other nationalities, apply for a Visitor Visa (Form IMM 5257) at a Canadian Consulate or via the official IRCC website.
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Check Validity: Passport must be valid for the duration of stay (recommended ≥ 6 months).
- Proof of Onward Travel: Airlines may ask for a return ticket or evidence of onward travel.
- Travel Insurance: Not mandatory, but highly recommended (covers medical, delay, and accidents).
Currency & Banking
- Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD). 1 USD ≈ 1.36 CAD (exchange rates vary).
- ATMs & Cash: Widely available; many ATMs accept international cards (check for fees).
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.
- Exchange Services: Currency exchange offices exist but tend to charge higher rates than ATMs.
- Bank Fees: Most Canadians use Interac® for ATM withdrawals; international card users should check with their bank for foreign transaction fees.
Language & Communication
- Official Languages: English (dominant in Toronto) and French (national).
- Basic Phrases in English:
- Hello – “Hello”
- Thank you – “Thank you”
- Excuse me – “Excuse me”
- Do you speak English? – “Do you speak English?”
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Where is the nearest subway station? – “Where is the nearest subway station?”
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Phones & Internet:
- Local SIMs (T-Mobile, Rogers, Bell, Mobilicity) are inexpensive.
- Wi‑Fi is free in many cafés, restaurants, and public transportation hubs.
Safety & Health
- General Safety: Toronto is one of Canada’s safest large cities.
- Typical crimes: pickpocketing, purse snatching, and vehicle break‑ins, mostly in high‑traffic tourist areas (CN Tower, Harbourfront).
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Avoid walking alone in poorly lit streets after midnight.
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Emergency Number: Dial 911 for police, ambulance, or fire services.
- Health Services:
- Walk-in physicians and urgent care centres are plentiful.
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Pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall) operate 8 am–10 pm most days.
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COVID‑19: No mandatory vaccination or mask requirements as of 2026-08-26. Monitor local health advice before travel.
Packing Essentials
- Weather:
- Late August: warm, 20–28 °C, occasional afternoon showers.
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Layering recommended (light sweater, waterproof jacket).
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Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes (Toronto’s subway system and streets often have uneven surfaces).
- Electrical:
- Canada uses Type A (flat) and Type B (flat + grounding) plugs, 120 V, 60 Hz.
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Bring a 3‑outlet travel adapter and a voltage converter if needed.
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Documents: Passport, visa/eTA, travel insurance, emergency contacts, copies of itinerary.
- Other Items:
- Reusable water bottle (water is tap‑safe).
- Small backpack for day trips.
- Portable phone charger (power bank).
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Sunscreen (UV index high in August).
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Prohibited Items:
- Certain medications (e.g., alprazolam) require prescription letters.
- Illegal substances, weapons, or large amounts of cash (> 10 000 USD) need to be declared.
Toronto — Related Itineraries
Related Itineraries
3‑Day Toronto Itinerary
Day 1 – Downtown & Waterfront
- Morning (9:30‑10:30): Beat the lunch rush at the CN Tower – adult ticket $38.50, child (5‑12) $31.65. Book online at https://www.cntower.ca/book.
- Mid‑afternoon (1:00‑4:00): Walk the historic Distillery District; free street art tour if you arrive before 3 pm.
- Evening (6:00‑9:00): Grab a bite at Café Casa in Kensington Market ($10‑15) and cruise the Harbourfront Boardwalk.
Day 2 – Culture & History
- Morning (8:30‑10:00): St. Lawrence Market stalls open 8‑2; try a peameal bacon sandwich at Kewble ($8).
- Early‑afternoon (11:00‑1:00): Ferry to Toronto Islands ($7.25 adult, $3.60 child, 15‑min ride, https://www.toronto.ca/parks/ferry).
- Late‑afternoon (2:00‑4:30): Return to the mainland; tour the Hockey Hall of Fame (free under 12, $11.25 adult).
- Night (5:30‑10:00): Catch a show at the Yonge‑Dundas Theatre – check https://www.ontariovisualartist.com.
Day 3 – Modern Toronto
- Morning (9:30‑11:30): Explore Harbourfront Centre’s glass sculptures; drop‑off free at the visitor desk.
- Afternoon (12:00‑3:30): Stroll Queen West – pop at Bitey’s Café (vegan fare $12) or browse indie boutiques.
- Evening (6:00‑9:00): Sunset cruise (book via https://www.torontocruises.com) and cap the day with the CN Tower light show at 10.
Optional 4‑Day Extension
- Day 4 – Nature & Food
- Bike the Don Valley Trail (bikes $12 / hour from Lanes Bike & Pedal).
- Lunch at Midtown Yonge food hall, Pangasi ($9‑12).
- Sunset at High Park; picnic with take‑away from Mosaic Bakery ($5‑8).
This extra day lets you break the schedule or add a detour to Casa Loma (admissions $30).
Week‑Long Deep Dive
- Days 1‑3: 3‑day itinerary + bonus: Casa Loma (admissions $30) or Bata Shoe Museum ($17).
- Day 4: Drive to Niagara Falls (≈90 min).
- Fallsview Casino entrance $25 / adult; ride behind the falls ($12 / adult).
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Twilight illumination at 8 pm.
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Day 5: Ottawa (4 h drive or 4.5 h train).
- Parliament Hill free tours; ByWard Market lunch ($15).
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Train tickets (Ottawa Railway) $45 / adult round‑trip.
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Day 6: Return to Toronto; full day at Toronto Islands (picnic, bike rental, Centre Island Café $8).
- Day 7: Toronto Zoo (adult $17; free under 3) or Ontario Science Centre (adult $20).
Conclude with a sunset walk at the riverfront promenade.
Day‑Trip Options from Toronto
- Niagara Falls – 90‑min drive, ferry $7.25; book early for the Cave of Wonders ($18 / adult).
- Ottawa – 4‑h drive or train; train: https://www.ottawatrains.ca, $45 / adult.
- Toronto Islands – 15‑min ferry; bring a reusable water bottle (water $0).
- Bruce Peninsula – 3‑h drive; Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore entrance fee $25 / vehicle.
- Algonquin Park – 2‑h drive; canoe rental $45 / day, stay at Algonquin Cottage Camp ($75 / night).
- Lake Simcoe & Huntsville – 1‑h drive; picnic at Lake Simcoe boardwalk; trails free.
Use TTC fare $3.25 per ride; consider daily Rider Card $12.50 for unlimited rides over two days.
Seasonal Stay Recommendations
- Spring / Summer / Fall: 5–7 days is optimal. Weather 10‑22 °C; festivals like Pride (June) and Osheaga (August).
- Winter: 3‑day trip fine—focus on indoor museums (AGO $20, ROM $23). Heat up with a coffee at Timelapse ($5).
- Accommodations: Book waterfront or near Union Station (e.g., Fairmont Royal York, $170 / night). Pre‑book on https://www.hotels.com or https://www.booking.com for best rates.
- Currency: CAD is standard—use a prepaid travel card to avoid foreign‑exchange fees.
- Parking: Toronto Parking (downtown) $13 / 4 h; street parking $1 / hour, free after 6 pm.