Lofty Views Like No Other at The Grand Hotel

Intimate, Luxurious and warmly residential is how The Grand Hotel & Suites Toronto is described and I couldn't think of anything better to define this hotel than that.

If you're looking to stay at a hotel that offers you elegance and luxurious charm yet practical and unpretentious -- The Grand Hotel would be the perfect choice.

Offering 177 Guest Suites from a Grand Deluxe Room to an Ambassador Suite, they have the perfect room to accommodate your style and preference.

I recently stayed at The Grand Hotel in one of their Ambassador Suites which are all located on the 3rd Floor.

Each Ambassador Suite consists of one or two story suites with two marble washrooms and a full granite kitchen complete with coffee maker and cutlery.
This would be the ideal suite for longer stays, hosting events or corporate hospitality. This is also a fantastic suite for families.
There was also a balcony included with a bistro set for al fresco dining.

It was very intimate and urban and I love that everything you needed was there.
I love to cook (yes, even when away from home) so having a kitchen available plus microwave (we tend to bring back leftovers from restaurant eats) is fantastic!
Although my children were not with during this stay, the fully stocked kitchen makes it convenient to keep baby food and milk fresh and easy to warm and eat.

I was pretty elated about the 2 story loft. It completely separated the bedroom area from the living area and kitchen which I found to be ideal especially if you were to be using this suite for hosting intimate events or for business.
The 2nd level included a King-Size Bed, Large Wardrobe Dresser for storing and hanging clothing, a full bathroom complete with tub and another LCD TV with DVD Player. How convenient!
Especially when I intend to watch Ryan Gosling movies all night with wine, chocolate-covered strawberries (courtesy of Grand Hotel - thank you!) and the hubby wants to catch a Boxing match or reruns of Duck Dynasty.

The suites offer complimentary internet wifi and breakfast buffet. But this is no ordinary "continental breakfast" my friends. This is *the* breakfast buffet.

A huge assortment of breakfast options to choose from inside Citrus Restaurant.

There breakfast buffet is served inside Citrus Restaurant on the main level of the hotel until 10:30AM.
They have a huge variety of breakfast options including an array of refreshing juices.
It was jam-packed from the moment breakfast began to the end!
I was pretty impressed with their complimentary breakfast and will admit this is the best complimentary hotel breakfast buffet I've ever had.
Big bonus when staying at The Grand.

If you're in the mood for a dip in the pool, you will fall in love with their 2-Storey Neo-Classical Pool surrounded by gorgeous hand-painted murals. It was like something out of a movie. Breath-taking.

And if that wasn't stunning enough, we decided to warm up in the heated whirlpools situated high above on the 8,000 sq. ft Rooftop Patio Garden into the wee hours of the night.
Great music playing complete with massive movie screen right in front of the 2 heated Jacuzzi's and the panoramic view you get of Toronto... magnificent!
We loved it so much that we decided to head over there first thing in the morning the next day with our cup of coffee to enjoy the views.

This easily has to have been one of my favourite features of The Grand Hotel Toronto.
Pictures do it no justice, you definitely have to come see it for yourself.

To learn more about The Grand Hotel Toronto, visit grandhoteltoronto.com or on Facebook or Twitter @grandtoronto.

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THE GRAND HOTEL TORONTO
225 Jarvis Street
Toronto, ON M5B 2C1
416.863.9000


Disclosure: Hotel Accommodations were complimentary for a complete personal review; however as always, all opinions expressed are my very own.

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Celebrating my 30th Birthday at The Trump Hotel Toronto

My husband is horrible at keeping secrets. He's also not the event-planning type. In fact, he'd much rather just provide his feedback and a throw out a few solid ideas but sit and watch everything come into play.
It's also not common for me to not be in total control for once. To have someone completely plan something without me having any say (or knowledge of it to be more precise) -- I don't like surprises.
Well, the tables did turn for me this past August 30th.
It was a monumental occasion, my Champagne 30th! 
And my dear, sweet, wonderful husband outlined and coordinated my entire birthday... on his very own... without me knowing anything... every last detail.

I knew we were heading out to dinner that night in Downtown Toronto with my children (there's no way I would celebrate my 30th Birthday without my greatest gifts!) but that was pretty much all I did know.
To my surprise, my husband drove right into The Trump Hotel.

Service was remarkable from the moment our vehicle landed on Trump Toronto grounds.
The valet was exceptional and we were greeted at the front lobby immediately by Mr. and Mrs. Gomez.
Now that's first-class service. As how it should be when you enter a hotel.

I was bedazzled by the ravishing Swarovski bling that adorned the Concierge/Front Check-in Wall.

Little did I know I would be awestruck by what was to come.
What I saw upon entering our gorgeous 1 Bedroom Deluxe Suite took my breath away!

My husband had a dozen beautiful Long-Stem Roses, my favourite treat - Macarons, chilling Moet Champagne and a stunning Paris Cake he designed on his own from my favourite bakery, Swirls Cupcakes, waiting for me upon arrival.
I was so pleasantly surprised and at the brink of tears!
This was honestly the sweetest thing anyone has ever done for me for any of my birthdays to date and I couldn't believe how much he put into making my 30th Birthday extra special.

One thing he also knows about me is that I loved the design features of The Trump Toronto Hotel.
Designed by Ivanka Trump with Chic and Contemporary Elegance in mind -- every corner of our Suite was alluring.
From the paint colours to the furniture to the decor pieces -- so lavish! Yet, at the same time, it was charmingly warm and cozy.

I love that Trump Toronto is social! Check out this cute (and yummy) welcome spread!

The Bedroom was separate from the spacious Living Room which featured beautiful furniture pieces including a Sofa Bed, a European Style Wet Bar, a Fireplace with LCD Flat-Screen HDTV, a Desk with wired and wireless Internet Access and near the entrance was also a Powder Room.

A very notable feature is their Trump Attaché. More than a concierge or butler, Trump Attaché delivers personalized attention without intrusion, offering a comprehensive brand of VIP treatment on request, and even sometimes before it.

The bedroom was also exquisite with a large King Bed with Italian Bellino Linen, Bedside touch panel control for lighting and window fashions (because being wonderfully slothful at the Trump is encouraged), and an amazing bathroom!

The luxurious stone bathroom featured a deep soaking tub, a separate shower with rainfall shower head (I LOVED this!), Stone-topped dual sink vanities and magnifying mirror, In-mirror bathroom TV (this was also pretty awesome!) and heated floor option! 

But what I really was happily amazed to learn was how particularly kid-friendly The Trump Hotel was!

You would think luxury and kid-friendly would not go hand in hand but this wasn't the case here. 

There were gift packages wrapped and ready for the kids filled with yummy treats and an adorable plush toy as part of their Trump Kids program and also a backpack for each with colouring book and crayons.

The bedroom was already ready with a crib for our son and in it included another little plush toy for him to sleep with and baby bath and body products. Oh, and they didn't forget the importance of keeping the diaper stinkies at bay - they even had a diaper pail available! 

That, my friends, is how you know they were very much prepared.

We had a scrumptious In-Room Dinner from Stock Toronto and decided to try out their Summer Menu.

It was delightful! 

After some R&R in my comfy Trump Robe and Slippers, a dip in their Infinity Salt Water Lap Pool located on the 32nd floor was a must.

It offers guests a heated, natural salt infinity-edge lap pool and whirlpool overlooking the Toronto skyscape. 

Before the night ended, I made a wish and blew my out my candle. And of course had some of that delicious cake and a glass of champagne! Did I mention Trump provided us with sparklers for that added touch for the cake? Once again, above and beyond.

The day was perfection and I wouldn't change a thing! 
Turndown service included bottles of Evian Water and little boxes of decadent pretty chocolate in boxes.

The next morning, we started the day off with In-Room Breakfast and of course a cup of warm Nespresso Coffee (Nespresso Coffee Machine is offered in the suite).

My birthday weekend was beyond magical and impeccable.
I am so grateful for my loving husband to have conjured up such a remarkable and unforgettable milestone birthday celebration.
And of course, my birthday weekend would not have been complete without the splendid accommodations at The Trump Hotel. Everyone went above and beyond to accommodate my husbands requests during the planning stages and during my family`s stay.
I honestly would not have selected a better hotel to have celebrated such an event.
Thank you to all that helped make my Champagne 30th Birthday extraordinary!

More Information
TRUMP HOTEL TORONTO
325 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5H 4G3
416.306.5800
www.trumphotelcollection.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/trumptoronto
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TrumpToronto

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A Heavenly Stay at The Westin Harbour Castle Toronto

Let's just revel in this view for now, shall we? (Click on the picture to see a larger view)

Imagine waking up to this view in the morning during a delicious and freshly made in-room breakfast, or melting into a comforting Heavenly Bed® at night gazing out into the glistening waters, the moonlight and boat lights bouncing off the reflection of the lake.
It's no wonder Heavenly is the word used to describe Westin's signature product line-up.

This past weekend, my husband and I caught up on some much needed R&R at perhaps one of the best (and now one of my favourite) hotels in Toronto, The Westin Harbour Castle.
The view you get alone is worth the booking. Make sure you choose a room facing the Lake! It's absolutely breath-taking.

Check-in was a breeze and even though we were a bit early, we were accommodated.
Valet was quick and courteous and the Concierge was polite and professional.
Checking into a hotel should be nothing less than that.
We had a Junior Suite with King Bed on the 15th Floor facing Lake Ontario.
This is what we walked into.

Contemporary and Simple Decor including a chaise lounge and armchair, a desk with chair should you need to catch up on some work or make a phone call, a large stand with drawers and a small fridge to keep drinks and non-perishable food items cool, a mounted flat-screen TV, a King Size Bed, and in a seperate area near the hall of the entry way, a large closet and the bathroom.

I'd like to talk about the bed first. Or as they call it, Heavenly Bed®.
Billowy down blankets, five plush pillows and sumptuous pillow-top mattress, only until you experience it for yourself will you understand why they call it that.
*sigh* Once I lay on it, I did not want to get back up.
Westin designed every detail of the Heavenly Bed® to evoke superior slumber - from the crisp, white 250-thread count sheets to custom mattresses.

Seriously check out the view you get when lying in bed. Amazing!

On top of the comfort of the bed, everything was just so super clean!
The linens smelled so fresh -- you would think they never re-use them after it's been used.
That matters very much to me.  Nothing turns me off more in a hotel then odour, especially coming from the bedding.

The Bathroom was also spotless! I loved the way everything was laid out - easy to grab and find items you need. And the lighting was perfect! Ladies, getting yourself prepped and proper in this bathroom was a dream.

I didn't get a chance to snap a picture of the Bath and Body Product provided but the Heavenly Bath® White Tea scented Products smelled incredible! 
I usually find hotel bath and body products sub-par, but I can honestly say this is the first hotel bath products that I really, really loved. The scent of the body lotion was fantastic! I regret not purchasing some at the Harbour Gifts Shop before leaving. I will make sure to next time I'm back (and that will be soon!).
Also, their custom-designed velour bath robes are extremely cozy!

Before I go on, I have to share the divine spread that greeted me when I entered my room.

Thank you, Westin Harbour Castle and Staff! And to Valerie... merci mille fois!
They really know how to make guests feel special at The Westin Toronto.

Aside from the obvious comfort, lovely view and accommodations and great service, there are two other major reasons why The Westin Harbour Castle has made it to the top of my Favourite Hotels List:

1) They are extremely Family-Friendly
Offering some wonderful Family Packages (You can view them here) and even a Westin Kids Club which features: Nintendo® Wii™, Board games, Karaoke machine and a Play area on the pool deck.
There's something to satisfy every member of your family - no matter the age!
This includes your furry family member too! They offer a Heavenly Dog Program providing your pet with their own Heavenly Dog bed as well as treats. They don't forget anyone!

2) Clean and Green
The Westin Harbour Castle thrives on being green and even offers rewards for guests that choose to "Make a Green Choice" (Conserving water, electricity, etc.). Their main floor lobby lounge is even powered by 100% green power.
They also have a Breathe Westin® initiative. Being the first major hotel brand to convert to a smoke-free policy, they set the stage for an industry-wide shift in thinking. Now, more than 115 Westin hotels are smoke-free, providing healthier and cleaner environment for their guests.

Health and Comfort are truly number one priority to Westin.  

For those that love working out (hopefully I will fall into that category soon...), you can stay fit while travelling and take advantage of their Gear Lending Program in partnership with New Balance. They provide you with shoes and athletic wear for a nominal fee of $5.25. Also, their workout area located on the 5th floor is newly renovated with an indoor pool, fitness centre, squash and tennis courts (equipment provided). They also have yoga and personal training available.
Also on the 5th Floor, you can unwind and pamper yourself at the Votre Beaute European Day Spa.

Aside from the list of wonderful restaurants and bars they offer including: The Mizzen (Buffet Breakfast & Lunch), Chartroom, Coffee Bar and Toula (Italian Restaurant *Separate review to come*), they also offer 24 hour Room Service which includes In-Room Dining.
And for those that tend to get quite busy, this may be a good option. I love in-room dining!

I wanted my egg whites and they were able to do that. They also offer Gluten-Free meal options!

Delicious Pastries!

Ready to dig into a delicious and hearty breakfast!

Great way to start your day, don't you think?
I had a very busy morning and although I wanted to try out the Mizzen Restaurant, I had to go with the In-Room Breakfast, with absolutely no complaints of course.
Our deluxe breakfast was more than amazing and extremely gratifying. Filled us up for the entire day ahead!  Their menu is extensive with some really unique and tantalizing dishes.
If you're pressed for time or would just much rather enjoy your meal in the comfort of your room (in your comfy Westin Robe!), highly recommend the in-room dining!

Plus, it's not very easy leaving such a fabulous view.

We had such a remarkable and satisfying stay at The Westin Harbour Castle. They not only met our expectations, they exceeded it.
Thank you to The Westin Harbour Castle and Staff for making my weekend smooth, relaxing and pleasurable.
I will definitely be back again, and this time I will be bringing the children and taking advantage of the great Family-Friendly Packages they have.

Next time you're planning a stay in Toronto, a heavenly stay awaits if you choose The Westin Harbour Castle. You will not be disappointed!
 

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