Hotelchain: Shangri-La
Location: Toronto – Canada
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: http://www.shangri-la.com/toronto/shangrila/

Most of you already know that I am a huge fan of the Shangri-La hotel chain! When I was visiting Toronto, I was happy to find out they have a Shangri-La hotel! This is one of the very best Toronto has to offer! The Shangri-La Toronto is a brand new hotel which opened only 2 years ago. Valet parking is available and as soon as you enter the hotel, you will be entering a world of true luxury and attention to details.

The lobby is spectacular with comfy couches and fireplaces. It is one of those lobby areas where I could spend hours enjoying good drinks while listening to live music. They used a lot of marble here, absolutely loved it!

Check-in went smoothly; we were welcomed with a smile and they gave us all the information we needed. They do take their time here, which is appreciated. I loved the personal approach, they called me by my name, etc. These are small things, but they make this hotel special!

All rooms at the Shangri-La Toronto have iPads and are equipped with the latest technology, such as electronicly controlled lights, drapes and temperature. We stayed in one of their one bedroom suites which was elegantly decorated… It had a separate living room and bedroom. The living room had a nice little saloon and full sized desk. I appreciated the Nespresso coffee machine and housekeeping provided pads every day. Sleeping in the bed was like sleeping on a cloud! It felt so good! The bathroom was one of the nicest bathrooms I have ever seen! They are very large and luxurious with double sink, separate shower, oversized bathtub and I loved the mirror television. Toiletries were of a very good quality and we had plenty of them in our room.

  

The Shangri-La Toronto has a lot to offer! There is a full size spa area with a large and very up-to-date fitness center, large indoor swimming pool and oversized jacuzzi. I had a nap in one of their private cabannas which are all equipped with their own televisions. Everybody can use them at no additional charge. Every morning I went swimming and relaxing at the pool area… What a great way to start off the day! Again, the service was top notch. They remembered my name and did their utmost best to serve me in a very professional way! For example, when I was working out they handed me a cold towel, which was a great touch… It kept me going and going… Never seen before! Besides all of this, a sauna and steam room are available too!

  

After working out, it was time for dinner at Bosk, their signature restaurant. We had a 3 course menu and found the menu very reasonably priced given the overall quality of the food and service. The trout we had as a starter was so yummy… The steak we had as main course was delicious and the chocolate dessert was to die for! I asked for a fruity sweet wine and they recommended the Bricco Quaglia Moscato d’Asti which was perfect! I am not a wine drinker, but this one blew me away!

  

And then we went off to bed. While we were there, the Pan Am games were going on in Toronto. The view we had was amazing! We could even see the fireworks while we were in bed! Magical!

The next morning, after the most wonderful night, we had breakfast at Bosk. No buffet style breakfast here; they offer different breakfasts, which are served at your table. I do need to mention that the cappuccinos are one of the best I have ever had! So creamy… Still figuring out how they do that…

We did visit Toronto (by bike – a must do) and the concierge provided us with very clear and detailed information, such as where to rent bikes, most popular attractions, etc.

After visiting several Shangri-La hotels, my expectations were high and the Shangri-la Toronto didn’t disappoint! It is a top class 5 star hotel where guests are treated in a very professional way. Nothing is asked for too much and everybody will make sure that you have a great time in a luxurious setting. Highly recommended!