How Toronto Stole my Heart

From the second I stepped off the plane I knew I was in trouble. Toronto, you stole my heart.

Coming from Edmonton I’m used to cities, but when I’m introduced to a new one that is 2.81 million people compared to 899,447 people I always find myself in total awe.

With an evening flight I fully got to experience the “bright lights big city affect.”

What to pack: 

I’m an excessive over packer by nature: I plan things and run a style blog-let’s be real. Now for a trip to Toronto you DEFINITELY do not need to pack as much as I did: unless you plan on snapping some super chic photos, if that’s the case then I highly suggest over-packing.

The weather this time of year is what I’d call “chilly” it runs anywhere from +3 to -10 degrees Celsius, so jackets are a must. I packed 2: a trench and a more causal jacket. If you can get away with 8 hour days in heels: pack em. You’ll need to just to fit in. With Toronto being known as one of the “Style Cities” of Canada you’ll want to make sure you’re dressed to the nines while still being warm: layering is your best friend and ally.

What to do:

Treat yourself to a spa day at Her Majesty’s pleasure. With the hustle and bustle of life as well as the insanity of touring Toronto, Her Majesty’s Pleasure is an absolute must. Think of a bougie hipster bar meets spa and you’re in paradise. With a cute and cozy location close to brunch  and  and other total foodie places, totally Instagrammable décor and great services it’s really a no brainer.

Shop. A lot. Toronto is absolutely heaven if you’re a fellow fashion lover like me with Huge Canadian Flagship Stores, The biggest shoe showroom in Canada and Queen St. that is jam packed with local talent as well as major brands you really can’t say no.

(Photo taken by Robin J.)

Where to eat:

If you’re a foodie Toronto was made for you, with at least 8 spots on what seems like every block you really are in a MECCA of food heaven with ENDLESS OPTIONS.

While I was there: I ate out 3x a day without fail.

Brunch:

Crepe TO

Colette

Portland Variety 

Dinner:

Montecito

Figo

Terronis

Cafés and Hotspots:

Dineen

Hula Girl

Sweet Jesus

 

Where to stay:

The Omni King Edward for me was another one of those “love at first sight” hotels: in the heart of the financial district this historic hotel offers luxury at it’s finest.

The décor is nothing short of fit for royalty, with deep reds & prominent purples mixed with breathtaking chandeliers, never ending staircases, amazing customer service and your comfort kept in mind I was thoroughly impressed.

One of the many luxuries of the Omni King Edward is the Traditional High Tea they offer to guests on Friday & Saturday from 1:30pm-5:00pm & Sunday from 2:30pm-5:00pm for $49.00 CAD per person , which of course I went too. Traditionally high tea is served with tea, finger sandwiches, scones, and a beautiful selection of desserts accompanied with champagne.

You’re greeted by the warmest welcomes and encouraged to smell each and every one of their dreamy tea options. I chose the “Mountain Berry” , a herbal blend; Saskatoon Berries, Currants, Raisins, and Blueberries.

With so much to offer Toronto was hard not to fall in love with.

Sadly we parted ways and said our goodbyes (which after 4 days was much harder than I thought it would be). I will definitely be making a trip back to visit.

Until we meet again…

 Photography was done by Renna Ray

**This post is sponsored, all thoughts & opinions are my own**