There is plenty to be excited about this May — from the year’s most-anticipated red carpet event post-Oscars (we’re talking about The MET gala of course) to the Cannes International Film Festival later in the month — there is no shortage of glitz and glamour to be had. Whether you’re planning upcoming travels or just need some sweet Mother’s Day ideas, there is much to covet this month. READ MORE
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A view of Porto from a room at The Yeatman Hotel.
We recently had the opportunity to spend a few nights at The Yeatman Hotel in Porto, Portugal and can say it quickly became one of our favourite hotels. Upon arrival we were greeted by a charming bellman who had to escort us through an alternate entrance, since we happened to arrive at the same time as the President of Poland. From this moment it was clear service here was above and beyond. Before checking in I had to use the restroom and when I asked the concierge, instead of just telling me, she escorted me directly to the door. This happened again when one of the two elevators were temporarily out and we wanted to use the stairs — instead of just directing us, we were escorted to our destination.
The layout to The Yeatman is unique in that the floors go down instead of up (reception is on the top floor and rooms are below). Unlike many other hotels proclaiming a view, all of the 82 rooms here boast spectacular views of Porto (as pictured above). We stayed in a Superior Room complete with a large private terrace, a perfect place to sip a glass of port and enjoy the view. READ MORE
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A macchiato and croissant at Manic Coffee. Photography by Kyle Edward Wilson.
While we love our Starbucks, we also love finding independent cafés where we can sip on everything from organic brews to espresso from fair-trade beans. The great thing about Toronto is that no matter what neighbourhood you happen to be in, you’ll be able to find a great coffee shop. Plus many of these cafés come with free WiFi, ample seating and yummy treats. Read on to find out 5 of our favourite.
1. Dark Horse Espresso Bar
A well-known espresso bar amongst coffee lovers in the city, Dark Horse currently has four locations across the city, including a spacious café in Chinatown. This particular location has a rustic atmosphere, with large wood communal tables and a second-level with plenty of seating. Our Americano was smooth and went down quite easily. Like most cafés with free WiFi, it’s a great place to get some work done on your laptop, so don’t be surprised if you see everyone from students to writers sipping and typing away (although WiFi is only free for an hour). If you’re in the mood for a treat you’ll find everything from muffins to parfaits. READ MORE
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As the Strategic Manager of Finance and Operations for Trufflepig Travel, Diane Ring gets to dabble in a little bit of everything — from marketing to balancing the books — not to mention jetting to and from Paris on a regular basis (they have an office there). For those of you who aren’t familiar, Trufflepig Travel is a luxury trip planning company who specializes in designing custom trips for clients around the globe. Unlike other trip planning services, Trufflepig only services a select number of countries (currently it’s 31) of places they know — and know well. Plus they also rely on experts on the ground in various locations to keep them up-to-snuff on what’s new in that destination.
Diane (who’s also recently engaged to a pilot, none-the-less), may be saying “I do” close to home, but is currently planning two honeymoons. One right after the wedding and a second later in the year, either in South Africa or Brazil. We would too especially having the best information right at her fingertips! We recently chatted to Diane about her travel must-haves and latest adventures (she just hit the slopes in Whistler), so read on to get the scoop! READ MORE
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The Dolder Grand.
Switzerland’s largest city has more than its financial muscles to flex, in fact, this clean and prosperous city offers fantastic shopping, a lively nightlife and first-class dining. With the crystal clear Lake Zurich at your fingertips, cobblestone pedestrian streets filled with boutiques and cafes, plus the picture-perfect Alpine backdrop, whether its business or pleasure, Zurich is a delightful destination to explore. We’ve selected what we think are the best hotel’s to be found in this world-class city.
1. Best for Relaxation: The Dolder Grand
This 5-star luxury hotel is nothing short of stunning. Perched on a hill overlooking the hustle and bustle of the city, this 173-room city resort has plenty of history too. Opening its doors in 1899, the hotel temporarily closed in 2004 when it underwent a major renovation led by renowned architect Lord Norman Foster. Reopening to the public in 2008, the wait was well worthwhile. Now with two new wings, the rooms are modern and bright with floor-to-ceiling windows, luxurious bathrooms and outfitted with the newest technologies. The main building still has its historic charm, but the interior has been fully modernized. Other highlights of the hotel include the 12,800 square-foot spa, which we detailed in a Spa We Love feature. Dining-wise, The Restaurant is the hotel’s jewel. With 17 GaultMillau points and 2 Michelin stars, it’s gourmet cuisine at its best. READ MORE
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In a digital age, a hand-written note is the ultimate luxury. We can’t think of a nicer way to say thank-you than writing a note on a beautiful piece of stationery. Whether you’ve had a lovely stay at your best friend’s cottage or had hotel staff go above and beyond for a recent visit, a little thanks always goes a long way. It was hard to narrow down, but we’ve found 6 stylish pieces of stationery we think you’ll love to send. READ MORE
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When you’re planning a short getaway, packing your belongings in a large piece of luggage doesn’t always make sense. We prefer to pack more compact and opt to carry our essentials in a stylish weekend bag. To solve this dilemma, we searched high and low for bags that were equally stylish as they are functional, and to fit every budget. Happy travelling! READ MORE
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It wasn’t too long ago we had the pleasure of featuring Tatiana Read of Knot PR, so it’s only natural that we complete with equation with the company’s other stylish half, Amy Burstyn-Fritz. This Toronto arts and culture enthusiast (her twitter bio confirms) has a love for globe-trotting and does it in serious style (think Rag & Bone jeans with Chanel ballet flats). With aspirations of doing a cross-Canada road trip, fond memories of an 11-course meal in the south of France and two favourite hotels found in Italy, Amy has us inspired for our next trip. READ MORE
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With spring full steam ahead (the weather might be lagging just a bit), we thought it was the perfect time to launch a new monthly feature in which we showcase products, hotels, exhibits, festivals — really anything we’re currently coveting that we think you’d like to know about. Thankfully there is plenty to get excited about this April. Between the recently launched Tom Ford perfume to the newly opened The NoMad Hotel in New York City, this month is looking pretty hot.
The NoMad Hotel, New York City
Officially opening its doors April 1, you can find this 168-room luxury hotel on the corner of Broadway, just north of Madison Square Park. The interiors have been done by French designer Jacques Garcia, which were inspired by the Parisian flat of his youth. The feel is very residential, but you’ll discover plush amenities including Argan bath amenities by Côté Bastide, linens and bathrobes from Sferra and Frette, complimentary WiFi throughout and laptops and iPads available to borrow on request. Thankfully you won’t have to travel far to get a great meal, as the hotel is home to five different dining spaces with the food and beverage overlooked by acclaimed Chef-Partner Daniel Humm. We’re particularly excited to check out the Library, which becomes an evening cocktail destination. Reserve now because opening rates are starting at $295/room. READ MORE
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Paris in the spring has a romantic ring to it, non?
There’s nothing like a jolt of warm weather (or the anticipation of it) to bring on the travel itch. From late March to the end of May, you don’t have to worry about the spring break crowds, cold Canadians flocking to the hot sun of the Caribbean or boatloads of tourists taking over the streets in Europe — in fact, between the weather and prices, the spring may just be the best time of the year to travel. Not sure where to book a flight to? We pick 7 destinations that are perfect to visit in the spring.
1. Where: Paris
Why: While the weather might be fickle (you may see rain one day, sun the next), we bet you’ll quickly overlook any gloomy days upon seeing the gorgeous blooms and lush trees that decorate the already beautiful landscape. Not to mention the height of tourist season in Paris comes in the summer, so you’ll be in town when the locals are. For those who are tennis fans, consider planning around the French Open which occurs every May at Roland Garros.
Travel Tip: Beat any weather woes by dressing in layers and packing a chic umbrella. READ MORE
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