www.womanthismonth.com February 2016 57 SUNDANCE Sundance is to America what Cannes is to France – that is, the country's most prominent film festival and, all the Hollywood glamour aside, it’s one cinema-centric event that anyone interested in motion pictures holds in extremely high regard. What began in the late 1970s as a tiny showcase for independent filmmakers, has turned into an 11-day mountain extravaganza, led by Robert Redford. The festival’s focus is still on filmmaking, especially independent cinema. Even amidst all the Hollywood deal-making and corporate sponsorship, there’s no better place to check out some of what will surely be next year’s most anticipated movies. When not in the theatres, the ski town engages you with some of the most incredible slopes. Bring your gear, purchase a lift ticket for half a day and enjoy some of the greatest snow on Earth before or after your film. If skiing and snowboarding isn’t your thing, take a ride on a dogsled or tube at Gorgoza Park. Do visit Atticus Coffee, Book and Teahouse, a funky little café-bookstore and the perfect place to sip strong coffee or more than 70 looseleaf teas. Another popular joint is Ciseros, which up top looks like a modest little Italian restaurant but transforms into a nightclub as you go downstairs where you’re likely to find a festival after-party in progress. In addition to this you can go for a spa treatment or fly fishing or participate in arts and crafts workshops such as the ones offered at Sundance Arts Studios. Sundance Egyptian Theatre TORONTO Simply put, this North American city is a lot of fun for both the residents and visitors. Its thrusting skyscrapers downtown reflect the city’s status as Canada’s financial hub. The big city starts bustling with excitement during the famous Toronto International Film Festival when a host of Hollywood and international cinema big wigs descend to showcase the year’s best work. Considered the last hurrah for the film industry before the stress of awards season sets in; many films that premier here end up becoming the front runners at all the major award shows that follow. Apart from celebrity spotting during the festival, the city offers a plethora of activities that’ll keep the tourist, reveller and explorer in you engaged at all times. With classy restaurants and top-notch theatre, opera, museums and art galleries, there is plenty to see and do. The efficient and well-priced transport system makes getting around really easy in the city. And a short drive away is Canadian Niagara Falls, which many claim is a far better view than the American side. North of the city, lies 'Cottage Country' with its lakes and log cabins. The city’s cultural scene hums with nightly shows of theatre, ballet and live music at it’s numerous of pubs. Some of the must-visit sites include the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum and the quirky Bata Museum, dedicated to all things shoes. Have fun in the Distillery District, shop for funky fashion along Queen Street West and munch your way round Kensington Market and St Lawrence Market. Celebrities at the Toronto Intenational Film Festival Toronto City Niagra Falls
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