The Pantages Suites & Spa (Toronto, ON, CA)

I quickly got over the fact that my King size ambassador suite wasn't available and I was given a queen size suite, but after 5 minutes on site, I didn't care. This hotel is fantastic! Staying here you may bump into celebrities (we bumped into rapper T.I. on the way into the hotel)! The location is fantastic. There's a fantastic spa on site. The staff is great. I stayed here for 17 days in July and was at home. The accept AAA and CAA discounts. If you want to avoid the rising cost of taxis or airport shuttles, arrive by lincoln towncar or limo using AIRLINK LIMO SERVICE - Ilahi will be more than happy to assist you for a mere $50-$60 CDN.

The best staffers are:
Front door: Chris, Jeff, David, James
Desk: Stephen, Tina and Ibrahim

FYI:
*be mindful of the new DMF charge that comes out at the end...it's some new tourist charge hotels can add

* the visitor tax refund program is dead and gone now (i wish i'd known before i spent so much money) so you can't get back your taxes paid on the room per night (there are 2 taxes charged equally about 15%)...for me that was in excess of $500+...ouch!

* rooms come equipped with washer-dryer and kitchen...very helpful...2 tvs (although they both got different channels...odd)...2 phones with personalized voicemail option

* DON'T USE THEIR PHONE unless you want to pay more money or unless you have your people call you...it's free to receive incoming calls.

*there is only 1 computer in the "business ctr" so bring your laptop or be prepared to wait.

* If you're not completely satisfied with spa services, ask for manager or fill out comment card. you will get immediate callback.

* there is no pool

*They hold for incidentals in advance...$150/day. This I didn't know about

VISITOR TAX REFUND PROGRAM IS DISCONTINUED SO YOU CAN'T GET ANY OF YOUR FUNDS BACK....so be sure you've got it and can afford to be without it- I was out of a lot of $$$ because of this. CDN and US $ were about equal so I didn't have as good a spending experience as in past years but it's definitely worth it. If I can afford to, can save up and/or get a nice tax refund, I will definitely be back. It's good to treat yourself sometimes.