Date Night Staycation | The Shangri-La Toronto

IMG_20131021_155605The Shangri-La is Toronto’s first Asian luxury hotel and those with a discerning palate and a love for Asian inspiration will be pleased by everything on offer in this urban oasis. On arrival guests are immediately welcomed with a full sensory experience: the unique scent of Shangri-La, the soothing acoustics of the Fazoli piano (which has been autographed by famed Canadian Joni Mitchell), and sights of gorgeous chandeliers, Chinese calligraphy paintings and the quintessential touch of Asian décor elements.

 

It would be remiss of me not to mention one of Toronto’s most talked about sculptures that greets passerbys; The Rising, a steel sculpture of peace-pigeons and tree branches forming the shape of a dragon. It depicts renowned Chinese artist Zhang Huan’s wish for a “beautiful city, with life to be shared by mankind and nature”.  As Masalamommas travel writer my husband and I indulged on our final babymoon with a night of culinary exploration and warm hospitality.

 

Disclosure : We were invited for a complimentary stay but as always, opinions are totally mine! 

 

IMG_20131205_151159The finer details (such as handwritten notes to welcome you) are nurtured throughout the property so be sure to explore the areas. Don’t be surprised if you succumb to your yearning of cozying up by the fireplace to enjoy some afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge, even before you’ve checked in! Over 68 teas are on offer, all individually handpicked by the resident tea sommelier and stellar combinations of warm and cold tea concoctions are listed.

Our suite with a separate living room, bedroom and two washrooms was exactly what we needed to unwind after a busy day. Would you believe it, there was even a walk-in closet! There are over 202 guestrooms and suites to choose from and some even include a private terrace. If you’re looking to stay connected there’s Wi-Fi throughout the property and concierge services are available at the swipe of an iPad.

In the luxurious heated floor bathrooms, a large soaker tub overlooking the city gives one the perfect perspective of city living and the Asian influence is portrayed through the blue Astrale marble from Madagascar that has flecks of jade green, black white and gold. Luxurious amenities such as L’Occitane products are available for use in the suite so all you have to bring is your make-up, leave everything else at home! The comfiest of beds and fluffiest of pillows will welcome you to a blissful night’s sleep.

There’s no excuse not to dine at the signature BOSK restaurant which is guaranteed to exceed expectations of even the most discerning culinary palate. Hard to find vintage wines complement an innovative menu curated by Executive Chef Damon Campbell. Leave your inhibitions at home and let the experts take you on a culinary journey you and your partner won’t soon forget. An infusion of surprising elements has been incorporated into every dish on offer and exemplary service from one of Toronto’s most knowledgeable servers awaits you. Tempt your taste buds and let them lose!

A quick soak in the pool or snuggle in a private cabana by the hot tub may be the perfect night cap! If you’re in need of a good stretch be sure to check out the yoga and Pilates classes on offer throughout the week.

For those looking to indulge in fine cuisine and modern Asian hospitality in the heart of the city, the Shangri-La is a must visit!

Where to next? You’ll have to wait and see…

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