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By: Christopher Turner
There was a time when your options for accommodation in Toronto where typical and boring. Thankfully, today things are different. A trip to the big city isn't limited to your typical boring hotel, thanks in part to the emergence of boutique hotels which began popping up during the late 1980s in major cities around the world.
Considerably smaller than a mainstream hotel, these little guys differentiate themselves from larger chain/branded hotels by providing a personalized level of accommodation, services and facilities. They are generally independently owned establishments that are characterized by fine architecture, deluxe or unique amenities and personalized, first-rate service. While you might get many of these same amenities at a big hotel chain, boutique properties take everything one step further ensuring a memorable visit.
Whether you're in need of some pampering or just in search of some city chic, here's a sample of the best boutique hotels in TO:
The Drake Hotel
1150 Queen Street West
(416) 531-5042
http://www.thedrakehotel.ca
There are few establishments in Canada that have undergone a more lengthy and fascinating evolution than this Queen Street West hideaway. The Drake Hotel originally opened in 1890 as Small's Hotel and underwent various incarnations until its recent multi-million dollar facelift which has transformed it into one of the sexiest hotspots in city. The 19th-century building hosts 19 guest rooms, an amazing restaurant, raw sushi bar and a lounge complete with DJ. Topping it all off, this boutique hotel is home to a permanent art collection that any gallery would be envious of. This is where the cool come to party and crash.
Hotel Le Germain
30 Mercer Street
(416) 345-9500 or 1-866/345-9501
http://www.germaintoronto.com
The Germain Group is known for their beautiful, chic, upscale boutique hotels and the Toronto version is no exception. In 2003 Hotel Le Germain opened in the heart of Toronto's Entertainment District offering a mixture of sleek pampering and relaxation. The open-concept, two-level lobby is designed to dazzle while the guest rooms are filled with ultramodern furnishings that ensure relaxation. For truly first-class cuisine urbane clientele can stop into the boutique hotel’s own restaurant and lounge Luce and be amazed.
The Gladstone Hotel
1214 Queen Street West
(416) 531-4635
http://www.gladstonehotel.com
Built in 1889 The Gladstone Hotel is Toronto's oldest continuously operating hotel and another Queen West favorite. Despite it's colorful past the west Toronto landmark recently underwent a massive multi-year renovation which included restoring much of the original Victorian detailing. One truly unique feature is 37 of the rooms have been individually redesigned by local Toronto artists ranging from funky to elegant ensuring a truly unique guest experience. Adding to the charm of Gladstone... The common spaces of the boutique hotel play host to numerous social events including: art shows, film screenings, live music events and even karaoke.
The Pantages Hotel and Spa
200 Victoria Street
(416) 362-1777
http://www.pantageshotel.com
The upbeat and energetic Pantages Suites Hotel and Spa is the latest boutique hotel to hit Toronto. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the sister hotel of the Cosmopolitan Toronto, offers true style and luxury. The design is contemporary and the level of personalized service is extremely high. This stylish space includes ultra-modern guest rooms as well as a full service spa, martini bar and lounge with the Eaton Centre, bars, restaurants and theatres literally steps away.
The SoHo Metropolitan Hotel
328 Wellington Street West
(416) 599-8800 or 1-800/668-6600
http://www.metropolitan.com/soho
Located on the edge of Toronto's trendy entertainment and theatre district, the SoHo Met's main focus is definitely glamour and luxury. The exceptional attention to detail can be seen throughout the hotel from the refined décor to the floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic views. The boutique hotel, which opened in 2003, has some of the finest amenities in the city which include: a state-of-the-art fitness center, full-service day spa and access to the award-winning Senses restaurant and bakery which offers gourmet fare and epicurean treats. This is the ideal spot for those looking for sophisticated pleasures.
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