Went to go visit my kid at university, a trip that called for book end overnight layovers due to the number of time zones being crossed (as well as the desired for a more relaxed pace of travel). On the way out we stayed overnight at “The Rose Hotel Chicago O’Hare”, a Hilton property. Very disappointing. On the way back we stay here at the Le Germain Hotel Toronto Maple Leaf Square. Much, much better.
One of the things I have learned since our business started doing well in recent years and we’ve become “luxury travelers”, is that the real difference between “4 – star” hotels and “5 – Star” hotels, isn’t the property or the quality of the accommodations. It is staffing... the number of person available to assist with and service your needs. At a 5-star hotel you can see and feel the staff all around you, there at your beck and call. 4-star hotel? Not so much.
The Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square is not a 5-star hotel, and unlike some others, they don’t claim to be. But it isn’t for lack of trying…
Just a lovely, lovely property. Very modern, almost “edgy” (so if you are strictly “old school” you might not like it), but so lovely, so luxurious. Everywhere, everything you touch, doesn’t just feel new (because it obviously is), but it feels…upscale. In a way that mid-tier hotels just don’t feel. Yes, the room is a bit quirky – the shower in what is essentially the middle of the room is certainly different – and also a tiny, tiny bit small (at least the one we were in), but it never felt “weird” or “cramped”. Unlike another property we stayed at recently, the photos are very representative of what you are going to be getting. And what you are getting is the quintessential Modern, Boutique Hotel.
The people? Not a lot of them, but those we encountered were beyond pleasant, polite, and professional. The quality of staff you would expect at this price point.
The location? Right downtown in the Central Business District, right near the two sports stadiums and the highway, surrounded by high rise buildings. It is exactly what it represents itself to be. Quintessentially “Urban”.
Enjoyed the breakfast buffet before we checked out (was included in our rate). Delicious. Genuine French Pastries! French Press Coffee!
In summary we had a fantastic one-night stay, and would very gladly do so again, and for longer. Thanks, Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square – well done.
