There's just something about the Four Seasons. As soon as you enter the doors, the world transforms.
The music is at the exact right volume. The temperature is so perfect that women can't declare that they're too cold and men can't complain that they're too hot. And not to go all Cheers on you, but everyone does know your name, and very quickly.
And Four Seasons Toronto is no exception.
Come into the opulent lobby and be prepared for everything to change (in a good way) at Four Seasons Toronto — Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Toronto
The Four Seasons Toronto looms 55 stories high in Toronto's posh Yorkville neighborhood. In a city quickly becoming claustrophobic with skyscrapers, the views from each room offer the rare glimpse of green.
Premier rooms are spacious, with wraparound couches, sleek desks and beds that beg for ample use. (Is there anything better than reading a newspaper sprawled out on plush linens?)
Bathrooms are nicely segmented into three areas, with sunken bathtubs that fill to the brim in mere minutes. Soak and watch television through your mirror.
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who's the happiest of them all?
This is the presidential suite, but bathtubs this magnificent can be had in every room — Photo courtesy of Christian Horan / Four Seasons Toronto
Should you choose to amble outside of your luxurious paradise, the fitness center will give you the opportunity to fit into some of the designer duds in the surrounding shops. Treadmills boast full entertainment systems, from YouTube to Twitter.
Hop in the heated pool or steam your troubles away in the steam room, ignoring the rest of this thing we call "real life."
Weight equipment is extensive, and there's even a small yoga studio. Classes are regularly on offer through the team from Toronto's 889 Yoga. But if there is no class, you are welcome to go, throw a mat down and bring out your inner pretzel.
Even if you forgot your swimsuit, this is a pool and spa worth visiting — Photo courtesy of Christian Horan / Four Seasons Toronto
Speaking of pretzels, let's talk food. Some of Toronto's best chefs are within uncomfortable shoe walking distance (which is definitely closer than comfortable shoe walking distance), but you could also take full advantage of some of the lovely restaurant offerings directly in Four Seasons Toronto.
For breakfast, Cafe Boulud may not be a way to maximize fiscal restraint, but it's a way to appreciate the value of a calorie.
Start with the viennoiserie basket, with croissants so flakey you will be brushing off your pants for days.
At least one person at the table has to go for the duck confit hash, with a poached egg and mustard sauce that finds the perfect balance between salty and sweet.
You get to choose: Do you like your bed hard, medium or soft? — Photo courtesy of Christian Horan / Four Seasons Toronto
Then perhaps go back to the gym for all of your gluttonous indiscretion. This could be a dangerous feedback loop.
Cafe Boulud also has delightful dinner options, such as suckling pig with Easter radish kale salad.
Pre-dinner cocktails can be had at dbar, with artisan cheeses, inventive cocktails and "pour me one more glass" wine options.
In short, the Four Seasons in Toronto is as good as you would imagine. Sadly, it's better. We may have to start cutting down on our everyday expenses, like groceries, to make it a more regular occurrence.
Rice and beans, anyone?
When you know you'll be treated this well, a looming skyscraper becomes a relaxing oasis — Photo courtesy of Christian Horan / Four Seasons Toronto
