We packed our weekend bags for our urban getaway. We planned everything to be within walking distance or public transit accessible. We had fun rediscovering and exploring what our city has to offer. It wasn’t just the perfect rest & recharge but since we gravitate to experiences, this also inspired us to make this an annual weekend getaway here are some suggestions…

STAY

When I thought about places to stay for us, I wanted more than just a clean and safe place to unpack our bags and sleep. Accommodations are very much part of the whole travel experience- whether it’s away or here in the city.  We tend to look for places where we  look forward to returning to as much as exploring when we’re out. The Soho Hotel & Residence (318 Wellington Street West) in Toronto is ideally situated in the city’s entertainment district and within walking distance to many great attractions and restaurants.

Recently the hotel unveiled its multi-million dollar renovations and updates to amenities by Gluckstein Design to the 89 rooms just in time for the holiday season. Luxurious Italian marble bathrooms, with heated floors and Canadian maple wood are found throughout. Rooms and suites are noticeably more spacious than average. Back when the hotel first opened 18 years ago, rooms were designed with more space in mind and that square footage hasn’t changed.

We also learned each room here is equipped with its own HVAC system — something the hotel had implemented when it was originally designed and well before this pandemic. Knowing that each room has its own air circulating, and not from the rest of the hotel, is something many travellers today may be interested in. It was fun to also see a few different rooms and suites throughout the property including the Soho Suite — a popular one amongst visiting celebrities.

What we are surprised to discover was the incredible contemporary art collection at this property in the lobby, common areas, and individual suites. It starts with Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass work, Persian Ceiling, at the entrance way to the Soho. Once you check in you’ll meet the eyes of Steve Jobs in the iconic portrait by Albert Watson. You’ll also find a great range of contemporary Canadian artists — worth taking time to explore!

If you’re interested working out, the hotel has also renovated their fitness centre on the second floor. You may even want to book in a personal training session with Dalton Brown (certified) …pssst, he’s worked with many celebrities. A heated salt-water pool and jacuzzi is also accessible on this floor to guests. Make sure you book your time to visit as we all adhere to the city’s health and safety pandemic protocols, there are limits to the number of guests in the fitness areas. Which, in our case, was welcoming!

What else you should know about this property? There’s an app for that! No, really. But hey, in addition to accessing property information, make specific requests, you can also use the app to check in and have room access remotely via your mobile device for a contactless experience.

WHERE TO EAT

Hotel restaurants in this city have impressive offerings and that goes the same here with Moretti’s Italian Restaurant. The popular Montreal-originated restaurant is worth visiting and you won’t even need a coat! I’ve eaten here several times prior to this stay and the dishes are deeply satisfying. Cocktails, pizzas, pastas, and more. Try their Moretti Salad and their Chitarra All’Aragosta (lobster!) pasta dishes. Whoa!

For a quick  bite, Moretti’s Caffe is an Italian caffe bar offering salads, paninis, pastries and that perfect cup of coffee or espresso-based beverages any time of day. Great if you’re in a hurry and want something fresh and tasty!

If you’re looking for casual and relaxed dining, Wahlburgers is literally around the corner and the vibe is great. Friendly, easy going staff and stellar line up on the menu. Try the Thanksgiving Turkey Burger with all the festive trimmings (loaded with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and sweet potato mash) — a personal favourite! Make sure you order a side of tater tots.

If you’re needing a slice of paradise, then Chef Nuit Regular’s SELVA Resto & Bar is worth a visit and within walking distance. The space is bold and colourful. The food is South American meets Thai. Fresh with lots of gluten-free, keto friendly options on the menu that excite. Chef Nuit’s other popular restaurant PAI Northern Thai is also within walking distance where you can often find me inhaling an order of her Thai Chicken Wings and slurping her Khao Soi curry noodle bowl.

WHAT TO SEE & DO

During the holiday season, The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada at the Four Seasons Performing Arts Centre is a tradition for many. This particular production is considered one of the best in the world and an easy 15 minute walk from the hotel.

TIFF Bell Lightbox always has incredible films that you may not necessarily find in the bigger theatres. In December, filmmaker Guillermo del Toro presents his personal selection of Film Noirs from 20th Century Studios. The gift shop is a great stop if you’re looking to pick up more unique gifts.

The Princess of Wales Theatre is nearby and in-person productions are back. Mirvish Productions always has  great slate of shows on stage. Coming up is the musical Jesus Christ Superstar. A block away at the Royal Alexandra Theatre is where the popular Come From Away will return to the stage mid-December  — a not-to-be-missed production that is enduring and truly restores the faith in humanity. Check Mirvish.com for details on what’s on stage.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) major exhibition Picasso: The Blue Period continues through the holiday season until January 16, 2022. It is the first exhibition in Canada to focus on the early works of the modernist master Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973).

An easy ride on the King Streetcar heading eastbound will take you to the Distillery District with its winter market now up and running. The decorated massive tree and cobblestone walkways gives a victorian era feel to the holidays. Warm yourself up with hot cocoa and treats at the various cafes and restaurants along the walk.

If there’s anywhere in the city that gives you that feeling of being in another part of the world, it’s Kensington Market. Explore the sights, sounds and taste of many nations in this amazing neighbourhood. Go hungry. There’s lots to eat around here. Jumbo Empanadas, Pancho’s Churros, Patty King,  are just a few to fill your bellies. Check out the shops too.

Looking for artisanal items? The One of a Kind Show happens late November, early December at the Enercare Centre (CNE Grounds).  This year over 400 Canadian artisans are featured with everything from unique food items, jewellery, apparel and more.

REST, RESTORE & RECHARGE

We woke up early Saturday morning to sneak in time at the hotel’s heated indoor pool and jacuzzi before heading out. But also located nearby is one of my favourite spots, Hoame Meditation Studio. Here you can take in a restorative meditation session, rest in the salt cave, take in a sound bath and more.

WHERE TO WANDER DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Wander south past the Skydome (Rogers Centre) and stop to check out the SteamWhistle brewery and the CP locomotives out on display at the foot of the CN Tower. Keep going and you’ll find yourself at Harbourfront.

CNE grounds is where you’ll find the Polar  Winter Festival happening (tickets available online). Thousands (if not millions) of twinkly holiday lights and many displays bring the magic of the season.

Financial District and its public spaces are brimming with festive lights and larger than life trees. Check out Brookfield Place for its always breathtaking soaring high displays.

The post New Holiday Traditions: A Girls’ weekend getaway at the Soho Hotel in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

One of the biggest “one stop shopping” events of the season is the One of the Kind Show (November 25 to December 5). Something for everyone on your list. While this show maybe a bit smaller (400 makers will be there) than in past years, we’re pretty sure you won’t leave empty handed. We’ve already put this trash panda shirt by CryWolf on our list.

We’ve honed our at-home chef skills over the past couple of years and learning that having the right tools available makes a big difference. We’ve explored KILNE, a Canadian company that offers award-winning professional chef grade and quality knives (and other kitchen wares soon to come) worthy of any cook on your holiday list. A 3-piece set has essentials is a great gift and comes with a minimalist Acadia wood magnetic wall mount – great for smaller kitchen with limited space. For the foodies on your list, the 6 piece steak knife set will impress. The knives come with wooden knife blocks to help protect sharp edges from getting dull.

If cozy is your jam check out Canadian founded and size-inclusive company KNIX for their latest super soft “meant to live in” limited edition collaboration with Anna Sui — bringing the designer’s iconic and whimsical prints to Knix’s innovative and comfortable pieces made for everyone. Also recently launched yet another collaboration with  Bird’s Papaya. We love this brand also for their Life After Birth project that supports community and people navigating their post partum journeys.

For the book lover on your list, Scotiabank Giller Prize winners have recently been announced. This list is one we’ve never been disappointed with. Omar El Akkad has been named the winner of the 2021 Scotiabank Giller Prize for his novel, What Strange Paradise. Finalists include Angélique Lalonde for her story collection Glorious Frazzled Beings, published by House of Anansi. Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia for her novel The Son of The House, published by Dundurn Press. Jordan Tannahill for his novel The Listeners, published by HarperCollins Canada. Miriam Toews for her novel Fight Night, published by Knopf Canada, an imprint of Penguin Random House Canada.

There’s a lot to be said about a guy who takes good care of himself. That level of attention deserves to be noticed. Sure there are wonderful shaving products but what caught our attention is this made in Canada and all natural deluxe box full of new found favourites by GROOM. This Montreal based company creates and manufactures their signature products in house.  The kit includes 9 luxe products that cater to the men in our lives.

Light up the night with a stunning set of limited edition candles with this holiday with this  collaboration between KANDL and Toronto-based artist Monica Smiley. Peace, Love and Glow make for perfect gifts. The artist created unique artwork for the scent vessels inspired by Kandl boutique’s surrounding Yorkville neighbourhood.

Guys looking to freshen up their athleisure wear should check out Harry Rosen and Toronto Raptors Vice-Chairman and President and Giants of Africa Founder Masai Ujiri  Humanity Capsule Collection 2.0. Building on the #ThatsHumanity movement that Ujiri launched in 2020, the new 10-piece athleisure curation is inspired by values of diversity, inclusion and community partnership. A key component of the 2021 Humanity capsule project will be a donation to community partner Water First Education & Training Inc. Founded in 2009 to bring drinking water resources to rural schools in Uganda, Water First began working in Canada in 2012. The Water First Internship Program supports young Indigenous interns to become certified water treatment plant operators within 15 months—with 90% of the pilot Internship graduates employed or pursuing further education within weeks of completion. The 2.0 capsule collaboration is between business leader and philanthropist Masai Ujiri and celebrated Canadian luxury designer Patrick Assaraf, in partnership with Canada’s premier menswear retailer Harry Rosen.

Puzzle Lab and Toronto Artist Benny Bing: Victoria-based wooden puzzle company Puzzle Lab has collaborated with Toronto-based of Nigerian descent contemporary artist, Benny Bing to bring his art to life with  limited edition puzzles. “Nkatha” from his BLOOM series explores beauty and blackness, celebrates the power of the black female for and reinforces ideas about individuality and self love. Bing’s work has been shown at Art Basel Miami and his pieces are in the private collections including The Weeknd, David Chappelle, and Milos Raonic. Two more puzzles will soon be released. Each puzzle is made up of 300 uniquely shaped 5-ply baltic birch pieces created in-house. A portion of the proceeds from each sale will go to support Artscape.

Bathorium’s  Let it Soak Crush Soaks are limited-edition custom blends for the holiday season. Ingredients are ethically sourced and use certified organic extracts. Products are of any harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, colourants, phthalates and parabens.  and made right here in Canada. This small Canadian company is on a mission to bring back the bath! Ideal for the person on your list who needs a little ‘me time’.

If you have a newborn or a mom on your list, consider local retailer Poppy Collection that carries a few Canadian labels including Tara Rivas and a fresh new line of bathrobes this holiday season. They also carry LOLO (Montreal) line of soothing bath line for parents, kids, and babies. Great for delicate and sensitive skin.

For someone on your list who’s maybe just moved to their own condo space or has a few empty wall spaces to fill, Toronto-based graphic designer Carolyn Graziani has a whimsical take on the city’s favourite neighbourhoods (Kensington Market, Roncy, The Junction, The Danforth, East York, The Bluffs, Distillery, and sooooo many more!)  with her line of affordable prints. Available unframed or framed. Several sizes available. localesdesign.com

We all have the dreamers on our list and we’ve discovered cloud photographer Eli Bajet recently who’s singular focus on clouds in the skies gives us pure joy. While each image is of a  moment in time, each of her works offers thoughts of movement and fluidity while providing focus and calm.

Joe Mimram is known as one of Canada’s leading designers. You may recognize his name from the launch of such brands as Club Monaco with fashion designer Alfred Sung. Mimram has recently been designing lifestyle items under the label GRY MATTR (found at Staples Canada). Thoughtful and smart touches for everyday essentials but this Backpack caught our attention with its internal organizer, RFID pockets, anti-theft zipper puller and external USB port. Ideal for the urban worker bee, weekend escape artist, student marathoner, and cool parents.

Cheery and happy objects win our hearts especially during the cold long winters here. We love these sweet Mini Orange and Heart Vases by DA Ceramics (Drake General Store). The vases are wheel-thrown with stoneware clay and glazed with minimalist art throughout. Made by hand.

Triumph. Sorrow. Hope? Storm Crow Manor D2021 Commemorative Die commemorates the world that is what it is… so far. What we’ve experienced from crypto drama and social media storms are immortalized this holiday season for your favourite nerd on our list (and we say that affectionately). Comes in a calming blue dice bag, a MadLibs style fill in the blank apocalypse game to play. Price $20.21

Hockey is life! An unforgettable gift is this comparative Team Canada Lacer Hoodie circa 1961. This super cozy sweater features cut and sew panels of ivory, red, and blue, and features the 1961 Team Canada logo. It’s the perfect sweater for game time, skate time, or any time! We spotted this one at The Sports Gallery (Distillery District)

CHARITABLE DRIVEN GIFT IDEAS…

mini mioche recently launched a limited edition family collection in support of Project HALO for SickKids. 50% of proceeds from the ethically made, sustainable, and gender-neutral made Kind Human Club collection will be donated.  the collection was created to spread kindness and support for Alana Kayfetz, founder of The Mom HALO, who after spending the majority of her young son’s life at SickKids, had a vision to raise $1 million to create spaces at the hospital designed for parents and caregivers, where they can go to connect and to process the heavy emotions of their reality caring for a sick child.

For the bookworms in your life RippleFoundation.ca offers up minimalistic art printed tees, organic totes and wall prints. Each piece has been crafted to inspire avid readers and aspiring authors of all ages. Each item in the new collection are invested back into Ripple Foundation’s free national creative literacy programs for kids across Canada.

Another meaningful charitable gift idea this season is Kindness Only. The non-profit charity started during the pandemic my Toronto-based mom who wanted to raise the awareness of the importance of reporting child abuse. Funds from the line of t-shirts and hoodies will go directly to our city’s organizations including BOOST that work on the ground to help victims.

AND DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE PETS!

Nothing says Canadian, eh? more than this Arborist Dog Onesie spotted at the Drake General Store. Poutine, maple syrup, shovel, bagels, Canadian Tuxedo, hockey sticks and more iconic illustrations are found on this soft waffle fabric material. Back leg holes make everything stay put (yes, matching human PJs are available too!). Shopping local made easy – available online too!

Photos in pyjamas on Christmas morning a tradition but your puppers is not keen on a full outfit?? No worries!  Quebec based Petit Lem has something for the entire family. We adore the matching pet bandana to the festive collection!

The post The Great Canadian Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Holiday Markets in Toronto

Toronto ETSY Holiday Market at Evergreen Brick Works Winter Village: Every Sunday through the month of December and daily from December 26 to 31st. Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Avenue. Support local and Canadian made gift and goods (this is a serious one for me..one for you kind of market). Visit often as the Ontario Etsy artisans will be rotating to get you into the holiday spirit. There will also be a holiday food court, live entertainment and outdoor play for kids.

Toronto Christmas Market: November 16 to December 23. Distillery District. One of the most popular in the city given the charm of the cobble-stoned lane ways and pedestrian only zone. Grab your apple cider and stroll through the outdoor market and throughout the shops. Admission is free of charge on weekdays until Friday at 5pm. $6 admission on weekends started at 5 pm on Fridays. Full details www.torontochristmasmarket.com

One of a Kind Show & Sale: November 23 to December 3. Enercare Centre Exhibiton Place. Over 800 Canadian artisans are featured at this massive show from jewellery to original artwork and food to toys, it’s pretty much every creative lover’s dream place. Wear your comfy shoes and bring a bottle of water. Weekdays are best times to go as the nights and weekends are crowded. There is a Girls Day Out event as well as a Late Night Out shopping event with extra perks. Onsite childcare also available. Take advantage of the re-admit pass to go back for more. Admission $15 adults, children under 12 free. See site for other pricing. www.oneofakindshow.com

Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market & Open House: November 30, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Toronto Botanical Gardens 777 Lawrence Ave. East. Stroll through the halls decked with holiday cheer and stocked with handcrafted and nature-inspired gifts, seasonal greens, local honey and more. Visit the Amaryllis Potting Bar. www.torontobotanicalgardens.ca

Holiday Fair in Nathan Phillips Square: December 1 to 23, Tuesday to Friday 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Saturday & Sunday 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Closes at 6:00 pn on December 23. Closed Mondays. This is the second year for this outdoor artisan market. Visit the vendors, enjoy festive drinks, food, live entertainment. In support of Epilepsy Toronto.

Holiday Market at the Barns: December 9 & 10. Artscape Wychwood Barns. Over 60 vendors featuring fashion, jewelry, home decor, beauty, and more. The Stop kitchen will also be serving Syrian comfort food by Majada as well as gluten-free treats by Ines Rischke. www.artscapewychwoodbarns.ca

Swedish Christmas Fair: November 25 & 26.  Harbourfront Centre. Free admission. A two-day holiday event with unique imported handmade crafts, texts, decor, food as well as a showcase of the Swedish culture and arts. www.harbourfrontcentre.com 

Makeology Holiday Fair: December 17 at Artscape Wychwood Barns. Featuring over 65 artisans. This market will also have locally made food and treats. Admission $3. Free for children 12 and under  www.makeology.ca 

Toronto Vegetarian Association Holiday Market: November 19, 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. at Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St. Over 30 local businesses featuring handmade gifts and holiday treats. Locally made and cruelty-free products. Admission $5 per person. Free admission for kids 12 and under. www.veg.ca 

Black Owned Holiday Pop-up Market: December 3, 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St. This market features one of a kind products and services from black-owned businesses. Shop, enjoy the live performances and music too! All are welcome. Free admission. Details here.

GAS Holiday Pop-Art Market: November 25, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Gerrard Art Space, 1475 Gerrard Street East. Artisanal and one of a kind creations by local artisans including hand-crafted metal candle holders, handmade printed pottery, and jewellery.

The Nooks Holiday Pop-Up Market: December 9, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. 2005 Danforth Avenue. Themed to celebrate the season, this pop-up is a go-to for handmade, local, artisan wares.  Lots of gifts under $50. Free admission. www.thenooks.ca 

Bad Girls Market: November 25, 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm, 165 Geary Avenue. Shop and support your local girl gang this holiday season. Over 20 bad girl run businesses. Enjoy some Bad Girl entertainment. Proceeds going to Nellie’s Shelter. www.badgirlscollective.ca 

The Trinity Bellwoods Flea – Christmas is Coming Market: November 19 & December 17, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Great Hall. 50 vendors will be under one roof at this holiday shopping event. Wander the hall and enjoy the music, food and drinks too. Free admission.

The Eco Lifestyle Market Holiday Edition: November 12, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. 2087 Queen Street West. Thinking of greener gifts? Over 55 vendors will be at this special market. Local, handcrafted, sustainable, eco-friendly and wellness goods. Admission is free. www.theecolifestylemarket.com 

Pop Up Sip & Shop: November 23, evening event,  1801 Danforth Avenue. The Create Art Studio featuring mom-owned local businesses, with a wide range of products and services. Admission is $5 includes a glass of wine or a bottomless coffee or tea. www.createartstudio.ca 

The BUNZ Flea #6 Holiday Edition: December 3, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen St. West. A unique market where local artisans and craftspeople exchange their goods and services for both cash and trades. There’s also a Open Trading Zone where you can bring whatever you have and see what other people might be willing to offer you for it. Tarot readings available also by The Mermaid Oracle.

Toronto Vegan Winter Market: December 17, 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Lithuanian House, 1573 Bloor Street West. Features some of the best vegan-friendly local businesses while raising funds for Wishing Well Sanctuary. Advance tickets $5. Tickets at the door $8. Kids 12 and under get in free.

City of Craft: December 9 -11. The Theatre Centre, 1115 Queen Street West. This annual fair brings over 60 artisans from organic and all natural body care products to baby gifts to wonderfully creative knit cactus with Plants You Can’t Kill. Don’t be surprised if you end up walking out with more stuff for yourself than on our list. It’s so good! $3 admission.

Tonic Blooms Holiday Pop-Up at The Sleepover Space at 950 Queen Street West: December 17, 12:00 to 6:00 pm. Toronto’s favourite speedy and delightful on demand florists is hosting a one day only pop-up that’s worth going to. Discounted flowers and gifts make for perfect last minute gifts.

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