I was happy to save my Montreal friend from terror and confusion Saturday afternoon. His ride dropped him off in front of bustling Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Not the easiest place to navigate in the best of times, especially someone unfamiliar with the city of Toronto.

Piled my friends gear into my car and gave them a lift into the city and treated them to a hearty lunch at Buddha’s. After and chilling in Kensington a bit accomodations were sought. Couldn’t offer my couch so we were on a Hostel, and if need be, a Hotel search. With Saturday afternoon upon us and the unsettling buzz of TIFF in the air we knew we were in for a challenge.

I’ve never stayed at a Hostel anywhere let alone Toronto. I only knew of two in the city, Global Village and College Hostel. Too bad they were both FULL!#@%. Damn, back on the streets and too distracted by our rejection to ask for other options. Practically resigning ourselves to Hotels we saw a cop directing people traffic in front of the old Much Music at Queen and John. Without hesitation he got on his radio and within seconds we had a new short list of other Hostel options. AWESOME COP!!!

On our way armed with information and a hopeful grin we headed just around the corner to Canadiana Backpackers Inn. YES, my friend managed to get the last room. I could see way this place had won many top 3 Hostel awards (for North America that is) SCORE!!!

Sometimes a random act of kindness is that is needed to put your faith in this great city.