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| - When we recently visited Toronto, we picked this brand spanking new property (see photos). It is curiously built right next to another Hilton property (a Hampton Inn - but the rate was actually lower at the Homewood Suites - go figure. I suppose the immediate advantage is that the 2 share a pool (and perhaps fitness area?). So if you want to bathe, you have to do it with the crowd of the great unwashed (JUST KIDDING!!! We stay at the Hampton Inn ALL the time.)
When we were there, they were literally still doing some heavy duty building in the backyard, but the hotel itself was fully operational. As a new hotel, it holds some attractive perks. So, no nicks and dents in your room or in the hallway, no worrying about nail clippings they didn't vacuum up too well or all that gross stuff. No jive, but I got the sense when I wrapped the towel around me that I was the first person using it. And NO CROWDS! Most new properties take time to build up familiarity and a clientele, and this new HS is no exception. Other than an horde of hockey Moms there for a tournament, the place was practically deserted. One thing I noticed right away was how well trained and friendly the staff was. My one peeve was that the "welcome home" reception was devoid of booze. Most HS properties in the U.S., if not all, give you not just a "free meal" that ranges from "meh" to "MY!!", but they all give you draft beer and cheap wine for free. But not this one - perhaps it's Canadian liquor laws?
Talking about free booze brings up a small gripe against my fellow travelers. Whether it's in the executive lounge of the Drake Hotel, or at these HS "receptions" where you're getting a beer buzz for free, so few TIP!! Come on peeps. You're getting something free. Couldn't you drop a buck or three for the hard-working worker picking up after your mess? So come on - I KNOW we can do more to make this a better world!
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