I had several expectations before I arrived in Toronto:

1. Toronto is like New York
For an Angeleno, the fact that I'm walking around on the streets does give me the feeling like I'm in New York.  But Toronto is much cleaner.  I can see where that 13% sales tax is going.

2. Canadians are friendly
This is true!  Especially the TIFF volunteers in the green t-shirts!  It's the best feeling in the world when I mention "The Real Shaolin" and people recognize it immediately :-)

3. Canadians saying "Eh"
I haven't heard anyone say "Eh" as of yet.  I guess this goes along with the Molson myth.  How little I understand Canadian culture.

4. Toronto is diverse
Wow, Toronto seems more diverse than my hometown Los Angeles, which I thought was the most colorful city on the planet.  I notice immigrants from the 4 corners of the planet, which gives the city a vibe that anything is possible.

So far so good.  My first time in Toronto has been fantastic!  Great people and a dynamic city!  I hope that I can return again with a film in TIFF!

Alexander S. Lee
www.realshaolin.com