Something I find frustrating about visiting new cities is being absolutely certain that there is a wealth of fantastic radio programming, but having no idea where to find it. Somewhere on the knob, there must be some decent radio… between the ads for winter tires and that week’s #1 hit being played for the fifteenth time…

I would like to invite you to check out my favourite radio broadcaster: the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), or Radio-Canada in French. In Toronto, tune in at:

99.1FM (CBC Radio 1) for local, national and international news, insightful discussion of current events, and various innovative programs. Metro Morning is a local favourite and the show I wake up to, from early until 08:30. Q, a lively commentary on arts and culture and conversations with interesting guests is also worth a listen at 10:00;

94.1FM (CBC Radio 2), where it’s all about the music. I love The Strombo Show on Sunday nights from 20:00-23:00 with George Stroumboulopoulos, a well-known Canadian radio/TV personality whose love for music is palpable through the soundwaves – it’s like discovering music with a friend. Tempo, playing lovely classical music on weekday mornings starting 09:00, is also wonderful; and…

…Pour ceux qui préfèrent sa musique et radio en français, trouvez Radio-Canada à 90.3FM – aussi génial que les autres.

If you’re interested, you can visit the CBC at its headquarters on Front St. For a few other decent (non-public) radio options, try 88.1FM, 93.5FM and 98.7FM.