THE HOTEL
Located downtown just off Yonge Street, Toronto’s main north-south thoroughfare,
Chelsea is a city “institution”. Opened in 1975, it has just celebrated its 50th anniversary Now owned by the Langham Hospitality Group, the property is the largest hotel in Canada with 1,590 rooms and suites spread over two towers.
THE CHECK-IN
The large lobby area is accessed by four separate doors from three different streets. I can’t remember seeing a lobby so busy: in town were delegates for Canada’s major annual travel trade show, FIFA executives for the World Cup, and baseball fans with tickets for the Toronto Blue Jays’, who were playing at home on six consecutive days.
I was told non-hotel guests use the lobby as a walk through. There were several self-check-in kiosks, but I joined a short and fast-moving queue and once I reached the check-in desk, I was processed quickly. Although it was a couple of hours before my official check-in time, my room was ready.
THE ROOM
I was in 1771, a Chelse Room category. Features included a king-size bed, a built in 50-inch TV, a work desk and chair, a lounge chair, an oversized mini-fridge and a Nespresso machine. A small balcony offered views of the streets below. Several art works were variations on the same theme: a montage of Toronto street signs.
THE FACILITIES
A day after I checked out a major new restaurant-cum-cocktail bar opened. Described as a “gathering place” in the heart of the city, The Elm Tavern has been inspired by the British gastropub theme found at sister property, The Langham, in London.
A large space that “evolves” as the day progresses, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner – all with an emphasis on locally sourced Canadian ingredients.
In the evening, the bar features local Ontario beers, classic cocktails using small-batch spirits from nearby artisan distillers and an “approachable” wine list.
On a Sunday, Elm Tavern serves up a Canadian twist on the British roast.
The Elm Tavern also features The Parlour, a setting designed for corporate socials and spirited gatherings, complete with billiards and dart boards.
There’s also a small deli, serving breakfast and lunch – protein loaders should try the Cajun salmon, quinoa and chilli garlic tofu bowl – and a range of grab-and-go items including several created in the in-house bakery, and Lavazza coffee.
On the 27th floor, The Heights is the city’s only adults only wellness space. There’s a heated pool, a Movement Studio, a fitness centre with gym equipment, saunas, whirlpool and a sundeck with great views of Toronto’s skyline.
On the second floor, is a family recreation area, The Hive, featuring an indoor pool and a 130 ft ‘corkscrew’ waterslide. There’s also a kids’ play area centre and a lounge designed for older children.
High-speed Internet access was available throughout the hotel.
THE BUSINESS
Nine business suites are available, designed specifically for corporate gatherings of up to 10 colleagues. Each business suite is available for a minimum of four hours a day and can be extended for overnight stays.
Two ballrooms are suitable for larger gatherings while several meetings’ rooms and break-out areas cater for smaller meetings.
THE VERDICT
Chelsea is a solid recommendation for both business and ‘bleisure’ travellers looking to build some ‘city time’ into a work-related trip. Close to one of the city’s Subway stations, the hotel is within easy walking distance of major attractions like the Eaton Centre (the city’s largest mall), theatres, sports stadia and more.
Those looking to stay at a hotel that puts a premium on sound eco-principles and is involved with local initiatives, the hotel’s Green Team is made up from colleagues of all departments who meet each month to set green goals and initiatives.
In addition, Chelsea is the official sponsor of Toronto’s SickKids Foundation (Hospital for Sick Children). Since 2013 it has raised over $1.5 million, with the initiative led by Tracy Ford, Director of Public Relations.
THE DETAILS
Room rates start at around C£275 (about £148) a night. 33 Gerrard Street West, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z4.
