Did you know that the Four Seasons chain was started in Toronto as a lowly motor-hotel in 1961? With a determination to set a new standard for travelers, these hotels are notorious for sweeping all categories of the luxury hotel "best" lists. But you knew that.

This was the start of our journey by railcar across Canada and we wanted a final pampering before we boarded. Lucky us! The concierge honored a nearly discarded incentive coupon we had brought along and upgraded us to the Executive Platinum Suite, of which we were not worthy. But we overcame our inferiority complex quickly when we saw the room and even considered canceling that silly train reservation in order to just stay put between those sumptuous down duvets for about a week instead.

We stopped again in the lobby bar to enjoy that uniquely sparkling, heady atmosphere that permeates all Four Seasons downtown hotels, and attempted to fit right in by ordering a martini. One was enough and we decided to have a look around the town.

Toronto is a surprisingly gleaming, vibrant, cosmopolitan, hip city with an enormously diverse population contributing to its appeal and glamour. We didn't have nearly enough time here (do we ever?) As we walked the area surrounding the hotel that one glorious evening in August, we made a vow to return to enjoy much more of what the city has to offer. Incredible shopping with an exchange rate that tempts Americans too much, theater that rivals London or New York (here you can actually get tickets!), the Royal Ontario Museum -- Canada's largest, Kensington Market, Greek Town, China Town, Little Italy…it's all here.

For then, we passed on the gourmet chi-chi hotel restaurant, Truffles, and headed to a concierge recommended restaurant instead, the Bloor Street Diner www.bloorstreetdiner.com where we thought we might have something "simple." What we found was authentic French Bistro dining that was simply delicious. The three course fixed price dinner would have been an excellent value even before the currency conversion.

Morning came too quickly at the Toronto Four Seasons cutting our stay in Toronto entirely too short.

This is your typical Four Seasons hotel: understated, elegant, posh, the ultimate in personal attention. The Four Seasons offers a level of service not found in more moderate accomodations.

This Four Seasons has many things in its favor beyond the usual perks. The hotel is located is in the midst of excellent shopping. Yonge Street, etc. is all within walking distance.

During my most recent stay at the Four Seasons-Toronto, my room was gorgeous. Its corner location offered sun from two directions and my huge balcony was a great place from which to observe the buzz of the city and beyond. The view was spectacular.

The rooms themselves are decorated just as I'd like my own bedroom to look. Colors are primarily cream and gold; subtle, yet still they make an impression. Bathrooms are large and complimentary toiletries go beyond basic. The famous Four Seasons robe is fluffy, dazzlingly white and the perfect thing to wear while sitting at a desk working via laptop.

And the bed! Probably the most comfortable one I have ever slept in... the feature mattress-top, four pillows all for me, bedding in rich, luxurious fabrics. Although I have not eaten in the restaurant at the Four Seasons, Truffles, I have sampled their room service several times. It's standard fare - nothing to rave about and prices are extreme - but when convenience is what you're looking for, it's a great option. It arrives quickly and to your specifications. For breakfast, the french toast is tasty and the coffee, strong.

I have not yet had the chance to try the hotel spa which offers a variety of massages and skin treatments. According to their literature, some services can be provided in-room rather than in-spa. An indoor/outdoor pool is open year-round. Price noted is in Canadian dollars.