Lights, camera, action! One of the city’s most anticipated events of the year, The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is here. If you’re hoping to immerse yourself in the action and possibly rub some shoulders with some celebs, you’re in luck. The city will be full of all of your fave actors and actresses!
We’ve rounded up some of the hotspots for celebrity sightings during the festival.
Writers Room at the Park Hyatt
Located on the 17th floor of the Park Hyatt Toronto – one of the city’s most iconic luxury hotels, Writers Room is a celebrity hotspot during festival season. The hotel’s iconic 17th-floor cocktail lounge, known for unparalleled views of the Toronto skyline, has hosted the likes of Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Olivia Wilde, Charlize Theron, Pierce Brosnan, and Tilda Swinton, among many more during TIFF.
Bisha Hotel Toronto
Located just steps away from all the TIFF action, Bisha Hotel has attracted A-list celebrities like Elliot Page, Emma Thompson, Stanley Tucci, Jake Gyllenhaal, Margot Robbie, and more over the years. This year, the hotel will be hosting TIFF even bigger and better than before, with the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Red Carpet and the Deadline Lounge.
Sofia
This upscale Italian-inspired restaurant and bar in Yorkville is always an excellent spot for people-watching – especially during TIFF. Just steps away from the Hazelton Hotel and the Four Seasons, not to mention it’s home to one of the neighbourhood’s largest private patios – it’s no wonder that Sofia is a go-to spot for celebrities and TIFF events. Fun fact: Sofia hosted the Hustlers premiere party in 2019, with Jennifer Lopez, Keke Palmer, Constance Wu, Lili Reinhart, and Julia Stiles in attendance.
Byblos Downtown
This award-winning restaurant, known for its authentic Eastern Mediterranean flavours, is located just minutes from the TIFF Bell Lightbox, so it’s a go-to spot for TIFF after-parties. Stars spotted here in the past include Matt Damon, Michelle Williams, Gerard Butler, Dakota Johnson, and Jason Segal.
Figo
This Italian hotspot on Adelaide is not only a local favourite, but it’s a frequent TIFF after-party spot and has seen the likes of Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams, Liev Schreiber, and Kiernan Shipka grace through the venue in previous years.
Soluna Toronto
Steps away from TIFF Bell Lightbox is the restaurant and rooftop patio of Soluna! Soluna is an Official Hospitality Partner for TIFF, so naturally expect to see some celebrities enjoying a drink or bite to eat while enjoying music from its festival line-up.
Varda
Located on the third floor of TIFF Lightbox, Varda is a lounge and café-bar named in honour of the celebrated French filmmaker Agnès Varda. It’s the new downtown destination for high-quality delicious coffee, conversation, sophisticated drinks, and snacks. And during TIFF.- don’t be surprised to see talent sipping and snacking.
1 Hotel
This year, 1 Hotel wants everyone to be able to feel like a celebrity, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, sustainability, and exclusivity – all in one place. From its iconic rooftop bar, Harriets, to its serene Flora Lounge, to its elegant Casa Madera restaurant, there are plenty of spots within the hotel with ample potential for celebrity sightings.
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Okay, so you can’t afford a trip to Paris but you and your boo can still enjoy a romantic getaway without ever leaving the province. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, we’ve rounded up 10 of the most romantic places in Ontario to visit with your significant other this winter. Plus, with all of this cold weather, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend your winter warming up.
Here are 10 of the most romantic getaways to visit in Ontario!
InterContinental Toronto Yorkville
If you can’t make it out of the city and are looking to experience Yorkville living for just a few days, head to the InterContinental Toronto Yorkville. The hotel recently underwent a major reno, so get ready to experience serious luxury with its spacious rooms, fabulous amenities, and premium finishes. If you and your SO are feeling fancy, we recommend springing for an in-room massage!
Hotel X Toronto
Another gem that can be found in our city is Hotel X Toronto. Situated right near Lake Ontario, this hotel has everything you need for the perfect staycation. Of course you could camp out in your room, but there’s also an amazing spa, a gym where you can take spinning, yoga, or pilates, tennis and squash courts, and more for you and your partner to enjoy.
Ste. Anne’s Spa
From couple’s massages and afternoon tea, to morning yoga sessions, Ste. Anne’s Spa is ideal for showing your partner just how much they mean to you. The spa and inn offers a selection of couples packages, like the ‘Romance’ package that boasts chocolate covered strawberries, personal massage oils, and a four-course candlelight dinner. Couples packages start from $369 per person.
The Drake Devonshire
Imagine picking up the uber-cool downtown Drake Hotel and placing it right beside a lake. The Drake Devonshire is the Drake’s version of a lakeside retreat, but with the hip vibes the downtown boutique hotel is so well known for. A James Beard winning restaurant and picturesque views of the lake, as well as the hotel’s signature artistic flare make this a dream destination. If you feel like ever leaving the comfort of your room, head out to one of the few wineries in the area for a DIY wine tour.
Gladstone Hotel
Treat yo’self to a little staycation in one of the utterly unique rooms that the Gladstone Hotel has to offer. From the Canadiana Trading Post room, to the sumptuous Billio Room, there’s a something for every couple. There’s even a Red Room – even though it’s not the one from Fifty Shades of Grey, the intimate red hues will surely start some kind of spark.
Langdon Hall
Langdon Hall is one of 14 properties in Canada recognized by Relais & Châteaux for its luxury and excellence. It’s only located just outside Cambridge and is perfect old-world getaway. The sprawling country mansion is home to one of the best restaurants in the country, complete with a seriously skilled pastry chef. After dinner, head back to your king-sized feather bed and fireplace, or head for a walk around the grounds.
Intimate Port Perry Treehouse
Get your head up in the stars with this very, very adorable treehouse that’s located just an hour from Toronto. The property is set on 300 acres of private land that’s full of hiking trails, fire pits, and swimming ponds. The treehouse itself isn’t the tree house of your childhood – it’s decked out with a kitchen, full heating, and an indoor fireplace.
Romantic Cottage Getaway
If you and your partner are looking to really escape city life and hibernate just the two of you for a few days, this romantic cabin near Golden Lake is the place to go. Disconnect from social media and reconnect with each other while relaxing by the fireplace and snowshoeing.
Innisfil Cabin
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the waters of Lake Simcoe lies this intimate little cabin. The chic rustic interior is finished off with a wood burning stove and a gorgeous tub that looks like it can fit two. Prices start at $129 per night.
Harbour House
This small luxurious waterfront property in Niagara-on-the-Lake is beautifully designed and totally picture-perfect. With fabulous views of Lake Ontario, it’s the ideal place to get cozy with a cup of coffee and watch the snow fall. There are multiple packages to choose from to create a unique and romantic getaway. You and bae can enjoy luxury king-sized beds, a whirlpool bath, and gas fireplaces in your room.
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If you’re like me, you love the idea of travel but when the time comes to, you know, pack up and leave, you start to get anxious and panicky. If you need a break from your daily schedule, why not consider booking a staycation?Simply book in at a local downtown hotel, wrap up in a cozy robe, and get some old fashioned R&R all without hopping on a plane. Being in a big city like Toronto means we have our fair share of chic and trendy boutique hotels. Why stay at a basic hotel chain when you can tuck in for the weekend at one of these local gems that promise luxe amenities and all the relaxation?
If you’re looking for a staycation, stay at these 8 Toronto hotels!
The Drake Hotel
The Drake Hotel
A Toronto icon and hotel that really needs no introduction is The Drake Hotel. Located on West Queen West, this is the perfect spot for a staycation, if you ask me. If a re-charge is what you’re after, this is the place to get it. The rooms at The Drake are decorated so perfectly but you feel instantly refreshed just walking through the door. Amenities include complimentary spin and yoga classes so you can even turn your staycation into a mini wellness retreat, too!
The Hazelton Hotel
The Hazelton Hotel
If you’re looking to indulge in a little luxury for a weekend, head on up to The Hazelton Hotel in the heart of Yorkville. Voted the #1 hotel in Toronto by TripAdvisor means that this is obviously the place to go for supreme service, style, and comfort as no detail is spared. From the spa where only the best Valmont products are used (trust me, it’s worth it!), to even a private screening room for you to enjoy with up to 25 guests, you’ll want for nothing when you stay at The Hazelton. Don’t forget to snag a spot on the patio at One Restaurant too, it’s the best for people watching. Plus, you can even get in a little retail therapy at the goop MRKT pop-up that’s happening right next door, too!
The Beverley Hotel
The Beverley Hotel
One of TO’s newer hotels is The Beverley Hotel that’s located on Queen at Beverley. This darling 18-room establishment boasts an elegant and modern design that’s a juxtaposition of its more grunge Queen West neighbourhood. This hotel is on the smaller side so it’s possible you may have passed by without noticing but step inside and you’ll find not only top notch comfort, but also a retail shop, Carlotta Bar, and a rooftop patio. This is the perfect cozy spot to unwind!
The Annex Hotel
The Annex Hotel
If an NYC getaway is what you’re craving but aren’t into shelling out big bucks for a flight, check into The Annex Hotel. Situated at Bloor and Brunswick is this 24-room boutique hotel that’s got all the chic and minimal New York vibes without paying steep Manhattan prices. The Annex is doing things the modern way as there isn’t even a front desk as everything is done the high tech way here. On the date of your booking, you’ll receive a text with a key access code. If you need anything like extra pillows or recommendations simply text that number and it’ll be taken care of.
Gladstone Hotel
Gladstone Hotel
Located even further than The Drake on Queen West, almost in Parkdale, is Gladstone Hotel. Known as a boutique art hotel, this abode prides itself on how it pulls you into an arts, culture, and dining adventure as soon as you walk through the historic doors. What’s unique about this hotel is that each room is completely different than the next as they’re all designed by different artists. If you’re looking for a good time, check out the art exhibitions, party at age at one of its legendary queer parties, or break out into song at the weekly karaoke night!
The Anndore House
The Anndore House
Even if you’ve lived in Toronto your whole life, staying at The Anndore House allows for you to experience your city in a whole new way. Located on Charles Street just south of Bloor, this historic hotel once had a shadier past but is known as one of TO’s prized gems. The Anndore’s doors opened just last year and notoriety sure has grown with how it marries art and culture with its modern yet cozy decor. Plus, one of the best restaurants in the city, Constantine, is within its walls, too!
Windsor Arms Hotel
Weekend plans, the #WindsorArms way. Indulge in our #AfternoonTea after your #SpaDay on our rooftop terrace. #WindsorArms ?: @lailakharouba ??? pic.twitter.com/0LQTwBXMan
— Windsor Arms Hotel (@windsorarms) August 18, 2018
If classic elegance is what you’re craving, then the Windsor Arms Hotel is just the place to go. This historic hotel has played home to visiting royalty, dignitaries, and various film stars, so it’s definitely good enough for your luxe staycation! Originally built in 1927 and rebuilt in 1999, the Windsor Arms is a Toronto icon for good reason as it encompasses the glamour, comfort, and luxury of past eras. Don’t forget to book in for the hotels notable Afternoon High Tea!
The Broadview Hotel
The Broadview Hotel
You might never guess that this gorgeous boutique hotel used to have a storied past but The Broadview Hotel used to be quite the place back in the day. With 58 rooms, this establishment provides a graceful home away from home but with better views. Located in Toronto’s East End, take in views of the hustle & bustle Queen and Broadview or soak in the peaceful landscape over Riverdale and up the Don Valley River. Because you’ll get hungry at some point, don’t skimp on a delicious meal at The Civic or indulging in cocktails at the bar!
Featured Image: Gladstone Hotel
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In days past, hotel restaurants were strictly for tourists, located in touristy areas, and perfect for those not in the know of where to eat. However, Toronto can now boast of hotel restaurants that are actual destinations for foodies, both local Torontonians and travellers. As with other “hot” restaurants, reservations are a must. The following food ambassadors are some of the best spots in town:
Constantine
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Located at the Anndore House on Yonge Street (South of Bloor), the Constantine interior is beautifully designed. Mediterranean small plates, as well as a prix-fixe multi-course meal for $70, are served around an open kitchen. Think Fogo Island cod, various vegetable dishes, or portions of pasta with a twist. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Address: 15 Charles Street East
Buca (Yorkville)
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This popular Italian restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner so Four Seasons guests can eat when they fancy. Part of the Buca empire, the wine and food menus are extensive, with everything from pizza, pasta, and crudo, to meat and fish.
Address: 53 Scollard Street
Drake Hotel
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This rock n’ roll boutique serves high-end comfort classics, such as lobster nachos, and the best burgers in the city. Diners can grab a croissant and expresso at 7:30 a.m. and dine until 2 a.m.
Address: 1150 Queen Street West
Kojin
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Despite its name and pedigree, there’s not one Korean dish on the menu. As part of the Momofuku chain of restaurants, this one serves South American inflected food. Located at the Shangri-La Hotel, it has the atmosphere of a Gen-X steak house, and serves a refined Colombian menu of grilled meats, burgers, sausage and bread with dips.
Address: 190 University Avenue
Thompson Diner
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From 6 a.m. to 3 a.m., the upscale diner serves all-day breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, and other American diner comfort classics. It’s known to have hosted a celeb or two.
Address: 51 Bathurst Street
Luckee
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Located at the Soho Metropolitan Hotel, this ornate space from Susur Lee serves dim sum and upmarket Chinese delicacies. Treat yourself to lunch or dinner every day except Sunday.
Address: 328 Wellington Street
Mother Tongue
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This brand new modern Asian restaurant and cocktail bar just opened its doors at the Templar Hotel. Serving lunch and dinner during the week, and dinner only on Saturdays, the menu offers Filipino, Japanese, Chinese dishes with a North American twist, such as steak foie gras fried rice and dumplings stuffed with confit duck.
Address: 348 Adelaide Street West
The Civic
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Housed in the Broadview Hotel in Riverside, this restaurant pays homage to the neighbourhood’s past, serving 20th-century rustic food with a contemporary flair. Dinner only from Tuesday through Friday; lunch and dinner available on Saturday; brunch only on Sunday.
Address: 106 Broadview Avenue
Akira Back
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Located at the new Bisha Hotel, it is a legacy of the many restaurants worldwide of Michelin-starred chef Akira Back. The food is high-end creative Japanese with Korean flavours. The dinner-only menu is served 7 days a week.
Address: 80 Blue Jays Way
Source: Blogto.com
Featured Image: Instagram/@drizzylindsey
Getting away is nice, but sometimes a staycation is even more ideal. You still get to retreat and relax without having to take a long drive or flight anywhere. And sometimes, that’s all our wallets and schedules can handle. Toronto is home to some gorgeous accommodations that we’re lucky to have in our backyard. Take advantage of these gorgeous hotels located in prime Toronto areas! Whether you’re looking to take a staycation with your significant other, your best friend, or want a solo getaway without actually going away, here are 5 spots to take a staycation this fall.
1. Hotel X Toronto
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The newest hotel in the Library Hotel Collection, Hotel X Toronto is a total dream. Located downtown in Toronto’s Exhibition Place, it’s easily accessible and offers stunning views of the Lake Ontario waterfront. Each room is extremely luxurious and cozy, for a stay that oozes relaxation. If you’re craving a more active staycation, take advantage of their tennis courts, squash courts, and their dedicated rooms for pilates, spinning, and yoga. And don’t forget to check out Toronto’s only 3-level rooftop skybar and their partially outdoor rooftop pool (open year round!).
2. Kimpton Saint George
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A gorgeous boutique hotel located in the heart of the Annex, Kimpton Saint George offers a restful retreat just steps away from some of Toronto’s most popular neighbourhoods. At Kimpton Saint George you can marvel in design and art. Every space is intricately designed and decorated, with nothing overlooked. Each room has a cool colour palette, balanced by the warmth of plush textiles. Enjoy their evening wine hour in the lobby living room, and take advantage of their fully equipped onsite fitness center if you feel like getting your sweat on.
3. The Drake Hotel
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If you’re craving a hip, urban retreat, The Drake Hotel is the staycation for you. Situated on bustling Queen Street West, and surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, it’s perfect for those who want a more lively stay. Every room is designed with coziness and personality in mind, so any room you choose is sure to please. Visit the Drake Cafe for some coffee and pastries in the morning before you head out to walk around the Queen West borough for the day.
4. The Broadview Hotel
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Offering 58 uniquely designed boutique guestrooms, you’ll love your stay at The Broadview Hotel. All rooms blend classic elements with eclectic accents, are pleasantly spacious, and some offer outdoor terraces you can relax in. Enjoy drinks and shareable bites on their rooftop bar, taking in beautiful views of the city, and have brunch in their light-filled cafe after lounging in bed for a while.
5. The Ivy at Verity
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A European-inspired boutique hotel, The Ivy is small and intimate and offers an old-fashioned hotel experience. Each room is designed with elegance and sophistication and features a luxurious king-size bed, handcrafted Italian linens, a heated floor, a deep soaking tub, and bath salts and in-room products you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy the exclusive hotel lounge with an Honour Bar with complimentary refreshments and serve-yourself preferred rates for wine and spirits. Have a bite at Toronto’s top-rated GEORGE restaurant and enjoy the Sweetgrass Spa for an amazing, rejuvenating treatment.
Do you have any other staycation ideas for this fall? Let us know in the comment section.
Featured image: Instagram/ @katebialowas
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The coolest Toronto hotel openings in 2018 that you need to know about. Whether you want top-notch luxury or funky boutiques, the best hotels in the city offer something different for every kind of traveller. Here are the top choices in luxury and style:
Bisha Hotel & Residence
The new luxury boutique hotel, in the heart of the entertainment district, is a project from Toronto nightclub and restaurant impresario Charles Khabouth. At 44 stories, the cultural hub and hotspot has a rooftop bar and infinity pool. Celebrity chef Akira Back runs his chic restaurant: Japanese cuisine with Canadian and Korean twists and bold cocktails. In addition, the French Made Café serves sandwiches, salads, cakes, pies, and pastries, and the Mister C Bar Room, at 2,200 square feet, is the quintessential hotel lobby bar. Rock star Lenny Kravitz designed one of the floors of the hotel, and rooms are Las Vegas/Miami chic.
Location: 80 Blue Jays Way
Rates: $394-$810/night
Anndore House
Reborn in 2018, it was previously a charming 10-story brick hotel and apartment building, home to many of Toronto’s eccentric and famous personalities. It’s now a fusion of its funky past and present modern style, located downtown steps from Bloor and Yonge’s many galleries, theatres, boutiques, and nightlife. Each room is equipped with a Crossley turntable and records, and there’s a library of vinyl LPs. Designed by Cecconi Simon, the generously sized rooms have the feel of an industrial loft. The main floor lobby, by Studio Munge, is casual, a place to grab an expresso or a haircut at Crow’s Nest barbershop. There are two restaurants: Scarlett Door, which serves coffee and pastries, and Constantine, a destination Mediterranean restaurant, run by chef Craig Harding of La Palma and Campagnolo fame.
Location: 15 Charles Street
Rates: $299-$399/night
Broadview Hotel
At Broadview and Queen, this is the first boutique property in the booming Riverdale area. This 127-year-old landmark building was transformed into a luxury boutique hotel. Built in 1891, it was carefully restored and re-imagined. There are 58 rooms, five different venue spaces for weddings, special events, and meetings, a 7th-floor rooftop terrace, both indoor and outdoor, with spectacular views of the Toronto skyline, and the Civic restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef John Sinopoli. With vinyl record plays in every room, there’s a very creative vibe.
Location: 106 Broadview Avenue
Rates: approximately $300/night
Hotel X
A unique lakefront urban resort, Toronto’s first resort-style hotel, located at Exhibition Place, incorporating historic military barracks. As part of the Library Collection of hotels, it has 404 rooms and 39 suites, 17 flexible spaces, both indoor and outdoor, with 83,000 square feet for special events, a library, business centre, studios for yoga, spin, and Pilates, a rooftop heated pool, a 250 seat cinema and a 56 seat screening room, plus tennis and squash courts. With extraordinary views from every room of the waterfront and skyline, the hotel houses Toronto’s only Tri-level rooftop SkyBar.
Location: 111 Princes Blvd.
Rates: approximately $460/night
Kimpton Saint George
Toronto’s newest hotel opened two weeks ago in the Annex, it was transformed from the old Holiday Inn next to the St. George subway station into the first Toronto branch of the swanky San Francisco hotel chain. Featuring custom-made décor from Mason Studio, it has an ultra-comfortable lounge decorated with original art by local artists. There’s a gastropub, The Fortunate Fox, a hosted evening wine hour in the lobby lounge, and bicycles to spin around the neighbourhood. It’s also pet-friendly, and your pups are welcome in the lounge as well as your room.
Location: 280 Bloor Street West
Rates: approximately $300/night
Rates: approximately $300/night
COMING FALL 2018:
St. Regis Hotel
In late 2018, the luxury boutique will be transformed from The Adelaide Hotel to Canada’s very first St. Regis Hotel. It will soar 65 stories in the heart of downtown Toronto, at 325 Bay Street. The AAA Five-Diamond Award-winning hotel places guests moments from the city’s premier landmarks, theatres, luxury shopping, and the Toronto International Film Festival.
Source: TorontoSun.com | TorontoLife.com | Blogto.com
Featured Image: Instagram/@hotelxtoronto
Have you been to any of these hotels? Let us know in the comments!
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