Can I just live here?
That phrase popped into my head about 30 minutes into my first stay at Hotel Le Crystal and has resided there ever since (Note to self: check lobby for thought projectors)
I have distinct recollections of traveling around the world and staying in establishments that aspired toward 1 star status. I remember looking longingly into the lobbies of the 5 star places and thinking "One day..." This is the hotel I imagined for "One day"
Everything about this hotel simply works. This is not a statement that I make lightly. The aforementioned "One day" happened 20 years ago for me, and since then I have had the good fortune to stay in more than my fair share of the worlds greatest hotels.
Here's what makes this one so great:
Perfectly balanced use of space to provide a separate bedroom and a fully functional lounge complete with kitchenette AND Nespresso machine. The bathrooms are modern opulence with a rain shower extraordinaire and Mouton Brown toiletries.
Well-trained staff are anticipatory, without being intrusive. They work so seamlessly that other high-end hotels should watch scouting films to learn how it's done!
Excellent restaurant - La Coupole - onsite. Top notch cuisine and a cool elegant bright room for a power lunch.
One of all time favourites in Montreal - oh hell anywhere!
OH - They went ahead and answered my wishful thinking - Yes, you CAN live here. There are suite for sale. Bastards!