Population > 5.1 million

Leading indicator > The city counts 100 different ethnic communities; 44% of residents are foreign-born

Fast companies > Nortel; Four Seasons Hotels; TAXI, the brand builder behind Mini and Viagra

Toronto's embrace of diversity extends into every corner: There are 29 major film festivals this year, covering nearly every micro-genre. The skyline boasts silhouettes from architects as varied as Frank Gehry, I.M. Pei, and Santiago Calatrava. The University of Toronto even offers a drama course titled "Sexual Performance: Case Studies in S&M." More than enough to brighten those cold, gray winters.

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