My wife is a huge fan of the show "24", or rather, she is a huge fan of Kiefer Sutherland. She would be Mrs. Sutherland if possible, but she has me instead, and happily so!
We had tickets to see the band Stereolab at The Phoenix, so rather than stay at one of our usual haunts, I took a page from Mr. Sutherland's book and booked a room at The Windsor Arms Hotel . Located on a quiet street off Bloor, you are near the heart of the chichi shopping district, but in a quiet "I want to be alone" oasis.
Built in 1927 as a paragon of luxury and service, it closed in 1991 was restored and reopened with a old-world feel but with all mod cons. With a Neo-Gothic original exterior featuring original stained glass windows, this boutique hotel has 28 rooms ranging from 500 to 1,500 square feet.
The service is understated and European - you feel important here - and indeed, many of the movie world's best and brightest make this their home during the Toronto Film Festival. The dark carved wood of the lobby bespeaks money. But what about the rooms you ask?
Our room was spacious - a large living room with blond wood furniture led to an intimate bedroom with a king size bed and plush, crisp white 400 count sheets and a bathroom featuring a bath with jacuzzi, glass enclosed shower and double vanity sinks. The flow was magnificent and was worthy of a home-from-home for a homesick movie star. The terry robes, the premium bath products, the high-end magazines – this is a place for a couple to come and leave the kids (and cares) at home.
OK - that's all well and good, but what is the coolest thing in the room? Yes - the sound system. Check out the built-in cabinets flanking the bed and you will find extra storage and a full stereo rack system that channels sound throughout the rooms, bathroom included. It - like a movie - provides a soundtrack for your stay.
You go in feeling hip, and you come out feeling Hollywood! Need more? Check out Bar 22 off the lobby, or the Courtyard Cafe for an unforgettable evening.
One suggestion - when making a reservation ask for a room not above the bar. When you try to go to sleep the band may keep you awake while the hipsters continue to party long after we pretenders try to drift off.
If you have a few extra pennies, this place is deserving of a splurge. Toronto awaits…