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| - Over the years I've enjoyed many a stay at this property starting back when it was still a Canadian Pacific property and more recently as a Fairmont. Over the years they have regularly kept the property updated but still with a sense of the history it holds.
I remember the funniest thing that ever happened to me while staying at the hotel though. I woke up one morning and went into the hall to see a whole bunch of secret service looking type guys - but bigger and more European looking.
I couldn't figure out what was going on, and wandered around the floor a bit and noticed some more sitting in front of one of the large suites on the floor. They were speaking Russian. Hm.....I was intrigued!
I asked who was in there, and they said, "You. Leave now." (put on your best Russian accent to get the full effect) Ok, ok, I left peacefully. But if it was someone cool I wanted to drink vodka with them!
Downstairs I couldn't help but ask around a bit and a bellhop was kind enough to let me know Boris Yeltsin was in residence. Go figure! Guess no vodka nights with him for me.
Fast forward to current year....On my latest stay they were kind enough to upgrade me to a complimentary junior suite (thank you Presidents Club - and no, not Russia's Presidents Club - Fairmont Presidents Club!). This worked out nicely with a small living room separated from the bedroom by French doors. It wasn't a huge suite, but nice and comfortable. I bet Boris had bigger - but not better!
They also included complimentary breakfast in the restaurant each morning, which was a nice spread for a hotel breakfast. I particularly liked their selection of yogurt toppings, the maple crepes, and the selection of cheeses. And yes, I indulged in a treat of pain au chocolat on some of the mornings. How could I resist?
I still have yet to drink vodka with a Russian President there. But at least I slept near one?
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