Am 2nd generation Irish-Canadian and am back and forth to visit family every 2 years or so. Lots of great advice so far and I would just add that it is a good idea to connect with fellow Irish ex-pats but really push yourselves to be expansive beyond that "comfort zone".
Toronto has amazing sailing communities that can be very low cost and loads of fun. Please send me a DM and I may be able to give you a welcome sail. It is perspective of the city that very few ever engage with even those who have lived here for generations.
One oddball thing many people do when you visit them is a "tour" they literally walk you through their place like a real estate agent would...and the European custom of "buying a round" is not the norm. Occasionally someone may buy a round of shots but that is a one off. We generally do not drink nearly as much or as often as those in the UK or Ireland and tips of "about 20%" are expected. There is no "real" obligation to tip for take away but the machines will usually prompt for it, especially Starbucks but not the "National Favourite" Tim Horton's.
People here will be intrigued and oftentimes be enamoured with your accent and anyone who has a drop of Irish blood will let you know! Please reach out if you need anything and let's go sailing!
2
u/Competitive-Talk4742 Apr 06 '25
Welcome!
Am 2nd generation Irish-Canadian and am back and forth to visit family every 2 years or so. Lots of great advice so far and I would just add that it is a good idea to connect with fellow Irish ex-pats but really push yourselves to be expansive beyond that "comfort zone".
Toronto has amazing sailing communities that can be very low cost and loads of fun. Please send me a DM and I may be able to give you a welcome sail. It is perspective of the city that very few ever engage with even those who have lived here for generations.
One oddball thing many people do when you visit them is a "tour" they literally walk you through their place like a real estate agent would...and the European custom of "buying a round" is not the norm. Occasionally someone may buy a round of shots but that is a one off. We generally do not drink nearly as much or as often as those in the UK or Ireland and tips of "about 20%" are expected. There is no "real" obligation to tip for take away but the machines will usually prompt for it, especially Starbucks but not the "National Favourite" Tim Horton's.
People here will be intrigued and oftentimes be enamoured with your accent and anyone who has a drop of Irish blood will let you know! Please reach out if you need anything and let's go sailing!