Seeking Wellness in Austin
Seeking Wellness in Austin
Miraval’s newest resort and spa takes relaxation and reconnection to a whole new level
The world feels frenetic, people are too connected to their phones, and friends barely have enough time to catch up over coffee, let alone to spend a few days together really reconnecting. You’ve heard it all before. Let us offer a new antidote: Miraval Austin, the newest resort and spa from the renowned wellness brand, which joins the Tucson flagship as a top destination for wellness warriors.
CELL PHONE FREE
About 30 minutes from downtown, Miraval Austin sits on 220 acres near the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, with a view of Lake Travis. “I was immediately impressed by all the beautiful lush green trees and thought it was the perfect setting for a wellness resort,” says Christina, who recently visited with friends Awilda and Debbie for a long weekend of relaxation. “When we pulled up to the arrival area, I loved the use of all the natural woods and the open, airy feeling of the arrival lounge, with the view out onto the hills.”
The three friends each checked into one of the resort’s Hill Country King Suites, which offer king-size beds (“I felt like I was sleeping on a cloud,” says Debbie), an indoor shower—that leads straight to an outdoor shower—and other special touches, like a sound bowl and meditation cushion.
And then they checked their devices at the door: While there are specific spots to power up (and you can use your phone on airplane mode to take pics), the resort is resoundingly cell phone-free. “I loved this! It wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be—maybe I was at a point in my life where I needed this more than I knew,” says Awilda.
Bonding—35 Feet in the Air
Miraval Austin offers an extensive (and many included-with-your-stay) roster of classes, with a rotating daily schedule. While there, the friends tried a number of these—from yin reiki yoga to a tarot card workshop to floating meditation.
Of the floating meditation class—think meditation meets aerial yoga—Christina says, “You are ensconced in a beautiful lavender silk scarf hanging from the ceiling and you lay down and gently rock in the scarf while you are guided through a meditation that gives you a sense of safety and warmth.”
But the highlight for the trio? Swing and a Prayer, where you’re suspended 35 feet in the air, and then swing down.
“It wasn’t just an adrenaline rush, it was a way to free yourself—to set an intention and choose something to focus on that you need to let go of—and putting the choice and power to let go literally in your hands,” says Christina. “When you are up there, it’s you who makes the decision on when to let go and soar through the air. It gave me such a sense of empowerment and reminded me how strong of a person I am”
And it also offered a bonding moment. “I’m a person who does not hesitate to jump in and get things done,” says Awilda. “But when I was holstered up 35 feet in the sky, let’s just say, I was not releasing the rope to swing down! It took coaching from my support system below, assuring me it would all be ok.”
It was the most memorable part of the weekend for Debbie: “I was really scared and walked away feeling proud, happy, emotional, fulfilled and lighter all at the same time. I highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the property.”
Treatments and Farm-to-Table Eats
Along with classes and activities, Miraval Austin is home to the 20,000-square-foot Life in Balance Spa, which, while large, still has an intimate, relaxing feel. The friends each tried different treatments—from Christina’s Jade-Meridian massage, to Awilda’s 100-minute Pradhana Veda Ayurveda treatment (where she fell asleep, it was so relaxing!) to Debbie’s Naga massage, a Miraval exclusive. “I booked this treatment on our last evening at 9 p.m. and floated off to my room for a great night sleep right after,” she says.
But no girls weekend would be complete without some great eats and conversation. The property has three dining options, with all meals and drinks (except wine and alcohol) included. At the signature Hilltop Crossing Kitchen, the food is either local—or comes straight from the resort’s 10-acre Cypress Creek Farm & Ranch. Pro-tip: “I’m a popcorn gal and they had the tastiest herb popcorn that they served in the cafe area, which went perfectly with a glass of wine or cocktail,” says Debbie.
Recharge and reconnect
With so many classes, activities and offerings—there are also culinary classes, horseback riding, wellness counseling and so much more—the resort truly offers a chance to disconnect with the outside world, to recharge with friends, and, most importantly, to reconnect with yourself.
“I feel it’s so important to find time for yourself,” says Debbie. “Practice self-care, self-love and hit that reset button.”
The Times Square EDITION
The Times Square EDITION
Area: New York, New York
Vibe: Cool and sexy
Style: City
Fun Fact: All of the suites have their own balconies
Don’t Miss: Paradise Club, a dinner theater/nightclub in the hotel
Ready to take on New York City? Start in Times Square—and, while you’re there, stay at The Times Square EDITION. At the hotel, you’ll find everything from great rooms to amazing dining, and of course, perfect views of the city from almost every angle.
Location: Want to be in the center of the action? This property totally delivers with its Times Square location on West 47th Street and 7th Avenue. It’s easily accessible from all three New York airports—about 35 minutes from LaGuardia Airport, 40 minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport and an hour from John F. Kennedy International Airport. Once you’re there, it’s close to multiple subway stops, as well as walking distance to many iconic attractions like Rockefeller Center to Radio City Music Hall to the shopping on 5th Avenue.
Vibe: Stylish and sleek, there’s a lush wall of greenery behind the reception desk—a theme that’s carried throughout the hotel, from the lobby to the guest rooms to The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens. There are 452 rooms and suites, which are outfitted in a neutral palette, with lots of white and natural wood tones. In the guest rooms, you’ll find floor-to-ceiling windows, while the suites all feature their own balconies. At 1,300-square feet, the Penthouse Suite is the largest of all, and along with the balcony, includes a full kitchen, soaking tub and dining area—not to mention the jaw-dropping vistas.
Why we love it: If you’ve previously shied away from staying in Times Square, this hotel will definitely have you changing your mind. The central location aside, there is lots to rave about—starting with the dining. The signature restaurant, 701West, is helmed by Michelin-starred chef John Fraser and offers a variety of cuisines, with inspiration from “classical French, Asian, and Latin fare.” The restaurant itself is gorgeous, with vibrant velvet blues and greens. Another option: The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens, which are surrounded by greenery, has outdoor seating, and where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. And for something totally different, be sure to check out Paradise Club, “a modern-day Cabaret” that starts off with dinner theater before transforming to a dance club, open till 4AM. Plus, there are lots of other amenities you’d come to expect from a great hotel, including a 24-hour fitness center (with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wraparound outdoor terrace overlooking Times Square) as well as space for events.
Why Go F1rst: Book through F1S to receive a daily complimentary full breakfast for two at The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens, a $100 F&B credit to be applied in all outlets (excluding Paradise Club), a special chef amenity, as well as a room upgrade and early-check in/late check-out (if available).
F1S Tips: For a great way to unwind, have a drink on the terrace of the Lobby Bar—the nighttime view alone is worth it (but the cocktail choices don’t hurt, either.)
NoMad Las Vegas
NoMad Las Vegas
Area: Las Vegas, Nevada
Vibe: Chic and sexy
Style: City
Fun Fact: There are 25,000 books in the NoMad Restaurant
Don’t Miss: The JEMAA pool party
If you’re ready for something new on your next trip to Vegas, here’s a great option: NoMad Las Vegas. Located inside Park MGM—it calls the top floors home—the hotel has all the makings to truly elevate your Sin City experience: gorgeous rooms, great dining led by a world-renowned chef, a weekend pool party and, of course, a casino.
Location: A quick 10-minute drive from McCarran International Airport, the hotel is located right on the famed Strip, close to all the action. But in terms of location, this one is unique: The NoMad sits on the upper four floors of the Park MGM hotel, though it has its own private entrance, as well as its own pool, restaurant, bars and casino. Its central location means it’s easy to check out what the rest of the city has to offer, while never having to stray too far from your home base.
Vibe: Chic and sexy, the hotel has that cool, old-world Las Vegas feel—think lots of wood, antique finishes and velvet textures in jewel-toned colors—while still feeling totally modern. There are close to 300 rooms and suites, from rooms with queen- or king-sized beds to larger suites, like the 1,200-square foot NoMad Suite and the 1,600-square-foot Suite Royale, which sleeps up to four and has its own pool table and dining room. When you’re ready to bring your stay to the next level, check out the Suite Royale Premiere, a two-bedroom, 2,000-square foot suite with a pool table, its own bar, six-person dining room and views of The Strip.
Why We Love It: Along with the great vintage Vegas vibe and the energy of the city itself, there’s so much to love about this hotel—not least of which is the dining experience, which has Chef Daniel Humm and Restaurateur Will Guidara at the helm. The duo are also behind NoMad’s culinary offerings in New York and L.A., plus the World’s Best restaurant winner, Eleven Madison Park in NYC. In Las Vegas, the hotel is home to both NoMad Bar and NoMad Restaurant. The \restaurant is dark and sexy, with lots of club seating and velvet accents, all surrounded by some 25,000 (!) books. “The robust menu celebrates grand, clubby mid-century dining with a dash of theater—Grande Plateaus of Fruits de Mer, seasonal pastas, our signature black truffle-laced Roast Chicken, and Baked Alaska flambéed tableside,” they say. Also not to miss: The NoMad Casino, which offers “high limit” gaming like blackjack and roulette, as well as its own bar. The NoMad Pool is primed for relaxation on the weekdays—and for partying from Friday to Sunday. That’s when you’ll find the JEMAA pool party, complete with DJs, music, bottle service, and more. Along with these features, there are amenities like a spa and 24-hour fitness center, both of which are accessed through Park MGM, as well as lots of space for meetings and events.
Why Go F1rst: If you book your stay through First in Service, you’ll receive a slew of extra amenities, including a $100 food and beverage credit, early-check and late check-out and a room upgrade, if available.
F1S Tips: Want to relax with a spa service? You can head to the spa at the Park MGM—or have the service done right in your room. Also fun: Jazz fans should reserve Sundays for the Jazz Brunch at the NoMad Bar.
Conrad Washington, DC
GFG
Conrad Washington, DC
Area: Downtown Washington, DC
Vibe: City-cool
Style: City
Fun Fact: The restaurant’s chefs competed on Top Chef
Don’t Miss: The Sakura Club
There’s a new spot in DC to make your home base while visiting the city: Conrad Washington, DC. The flagship property for this high-end Hilton line of hotels, the Conrad is part of CityCenter DC, a development in the center of the nation’s capital, featuring high-end shopping and food options. The Conrad also offers its own signature restaurant and lounge with amazing city views, as well as its one-of-a-kind Sakura Club, which offers exclusive access to unique amenities.
Location: Here’s what makes the location of this hotel distinct: It’s part of CityCenter DC, a hub for high-end shopping and dining, including designer stores like Gucci and Hermès alongside must-try restaurants like Centrolina and Momofuku. And, with its central location smack in the center of Downtown DC, the Conrad is steps away from many DC landmarks: The White House, Smithsonian museums, and National Mall are all around a 15-minute walk and the National Portrait Gallery is a five minute walk. Plus, the hotel is about a 40-minute ride from Dulles International Airport, and just 10 minutes from Washington National Airport.
Vibe: Stylish and modern, The Conrad has all the trappings of a great city hotel: Incredible views from floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek, spacious rooms and an unexpected contemporary atmosphere enhanced by elevated terraces and a curated art collection. The 360 rooms feature a sleek, natural décor, while at the same time showcase the intuitive technology that is a staple of the Conrad brand, with smart lighting and streaming options for the HDTVs. Guests can opt for either a deluxe room or suite, the largest of which is the Presidential Suite. Clocking in at 2,405 square feet, it boasts its own kitchen and dining room, gas fireplace, office area and reading nook, and a custom baby grand piano made by DC native, Warren Shadd. Should you opt for one of the Park View or specialty suites, you’ll also receive access to the Sakura Club, a private club on the 10th floor that offers meals made by a private chef, whiskey tastings, a concierge service to help with restaurant reservations, and more.
Why We Love It: As the Americas flagship for the Conrad brand, the Conrad Washington, DC features a wealth of incredible assets that truly make it stand out. Not only is the central location fantastic for travelers looking to explore DC, but the offerings within the hotel are fabulous in their own right. Here, you’ll find the hotel’s signature restaurant, Estuary. Led by Top Chef and James Beard Award finalists, brothers Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, Estuary features a menu with dishes that reimagine the traditional flavors of the Chesapeake Bay. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served at the restaurant, and there are two distinct private dining rooms and a prominent bar and lounge, as well. Another must-try: Summit, aptly named for its spot on the rooftop of the Conrad. Along with creative cocktails, Summit offers inventive small plates (avocado fries, anyone?), all with sprawling views of the nation’s capital. If you’re hosting an event or a party, consider renting the terrace event space, also on the rooftop of the Conrad. If hosting outdoors isn’t the right vibe for your event, the Conrad also features 32,000 square feet of meeting space, including three conference rooms, two ballrooms and two executive boardrooms, all elevated above ground level and all featuring natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Why Go F1RST: If you book through First in Service, you’ll receive continental breakfast for two every day of your stay, a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity and early-check in/late-check out as well as an upgrade, if available.
F1S Tips: Choosing a room with Sakura Club access really does have its perks: Afternoon tea? Cuisines from around the world? 24-hour access? All included—plus lots more.
The Lodge at Blue Sky
The Lodge at Blue Sky
Area: Wanship, Utah
Vibe: Rustic luxury
Style: Ranch
Fun Fact: The Creek Houses are for adults only
Don’t Miss: Heli-skiing, heli-snowboarding—even heli-yoga
Nature lovers, take note: If you want both the great outdoors and lux accommodations, then The Lodge at Blue Sky is the place for you. Set in the mountains of Utah, the 3,500-acre ranch offers everything from great dining to rejuvenating spa treatments to tons of fantastic activities—all set against a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop.
Location: This rural resort is set in the middle of the Uinta Mountain Range and Wasatch Mountain Range in Wanship, Utah. It’ll take you about 45 minutes to reach the lodge from Salt Lake City International Airport and it’s easily accessible by car. If you’re interested in seeing any nearby cities, Park City is about half an hour from the resort, while Salt Lake City is about 40 minutes away.
Vibe: Peaceful and bucolic, the lodge offers three distinct types of accommodations: Sky Lodge, Earth Suites, and Creek Houses. At Sky Lodge, there are 19 suites, all of which have private terraces, high ceilings and contemporary décor, with lots of wood tones and neutral colors. The two-bedroom signature suites clock in at 2,240-square-feet, and are each spread out over two floors, offering separate dining and living rooms, as well as a large terrace. For a different feel, there are the Earth Suites. They are “designed as a natural extension of the land by utilizing locally-sourced limestone and living grass roofs”—and all have a private terrace and outdoor fireplace. Lastly—and only for the adults—are the one-bedroom Creek Houses, which are located right along Alexander Creek and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a terrace, and more.
Why we love it: There’s so much to experience at this resort, particularly when it comes to the wide variety of activities. And we really do mean a wide variety: There’s fly fishing, biking, horseback riding, an 18-stand sporting clay course, and of course, miles and miles of hiking—not to mention painting, photography, and so much more. There are a number of ski resorts in the area, including at the nearby Park City Mountain Resort, which offers a private lounge exclusively for Lodge guests. But if you’re really looking to take things to the next level, ask about the heli-program. Whether you choose heli-skiing, heli-mountain biking or even heli-yoga, you’ll be able to take a helicopter ride to experience nature in a totally new way. On the dining front, there are eight different options, including a few private dining options, as well as The Bar + Lounge, The Refectory, and Yuta. At Yuta, much of the food is locally and sustainably sourced, with ingredients like eggs and honey coming straight from the resort’s farm, Gracie’s Farm. Then, to truly unwind, head to the Edge Spa at Blue Sky, which overlooks Alexander Creek and offers treatments like “Back in the Saddle Massage” and “High Whisky Journey,” which starts with a whiskey, salt and sage foot soak. Plus, there’s a heated pool, meditation classes, and more.
Why Go F1rst: If you book through First in Service, you’ll receive a $50 breakfast credit for two every day of your stay and a $100 resort credit, as well as early check-in/late check-out and a room upgrade, if available.
F1S Tips: Yogis in particular will appreciated the special yoga experiences the lodge offers, including “yoga in silks” ”snowshoe and yoga” and “heli-yoga and meditation”—plus free yoga classes four days a week.
F1S-Approved Summer Getaways from NYC
There’s nothing better than getting out there and exploring the world. But the world, at least for the moment, has changed—and your travel plans might have changed along with it. But just because your summer trip to Europe or your plans to climb Machu Picchu have been postponed, doesn’t mean you still can’t get out there and explore—now just a bit closer to home.
Domestic travel is at an all-time high. There is a huge demand for villas and private property rentals—both of which F1S advisors are happy to arrange for you—and, as hotels and resorts begin to reopen, a desire to visit local properties for a much-needed change of scenery.
And we couldn’t be more excited for that. Our newest Weekend Away series inspires safe summer travel plans. It will will focus on great properties within driving distance of major U.S. cities, like New York, L.A., and Miami. We launch the series with road trip escapes from the Big Apple Stay tuned in the coming weeks for more inspiration getaways from the City of Angels and the Beach – Miami Beach that is.
Each place on our list is following extensive safety guidelines, including measures like increased cleaning and sanitizing, social distancing—particularly during activities and with dining—and offering additional hand sanitizers in common areas. Plus, every property has their own specific measures, from new check-in and check-out procedures to protocols like temperature checks and mask requirements. Check the property’s website for a full breakdown, or speak with your advisor.
Mayflower Inn & Spa
Washington, CT
2 hours from NYC
Combine relaxation with outdoor adventure at the iconic Mayflower Inn & Spa in Litchfield County, CT. By day, you’ll be able to explore the hotel’s 58 acres and try your hand at a range of activities—from those that immerse you in nature, like forest bathing or a guided hike, to those that will get you moving, like tennis or kayaking, to those that will help center you, like a private yoga class or meditation. And by night, you can relax in one of the property’s 30 rooms, which include guest rooms with soaking tubs and suites with their own balconies and gas fireplaces. And of course, there’s the spa: At 20,000 square feet, there’s plenty of space to indulge in a massage—like The Mayflower Blend, that features both Swedish and deep tissue techniques—or you can make an appointment to hang by the spa’s pool. Plus, the Inn now has even more options for private dining.
What our advisors say: “I would stay here just to have a treatment at their spa—hands down one of the best in the New England area.” — XX
Gurney’s Montauk
Montauk, NY
2 hours from NYC
With spectacular ocean views, a private beach, and outdoor lobster bakes twice a week throughout the summer, this Montauk hotel makes for an ideal vacation spot. There are lots of different room options, from rooms and suites up through beachfront cottages and a two-bedroom residence with a kitchen and terrace. But they all have one thing in common: A view of the Atlantic. Along with spending time on the beach—check out the made-for-relaxing daybeds at The Beach House (and, of course, the restaurant’s cocktails)—there are activities like tennis and multiple on-site dining options with outdoor seating, including at the resort’s signature Scarpetta Beach restaurant. Also great? The resort has upped its in-room options to feature more food choices, games and activities for kids, and even streaming workouts that you can do before heading out for some time in the sun.
What our advisors say: “Gurney’s is an icon in the Hamptons for a reason. Make sure to grab a drink or a bite to eat at The Beach Club—legendary beachfront dining you can’t find anywhere else in the area.” — XX
Primland
Meadows of Dan, VA
8 hours from NYC
Though it’s a bit further afield, consider making this resort—which is situated on 12,000 acres in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains—your ultimate destination. The outdoor activities alone make the drive worthwhile: Try everything from hiking, biking, and horseback riding to fly fishing, archery, and tomahawk tossing (!), as well as golf and wingshooting. (There’s a max of 9 people per activity.) You can even sleep surrounded by nature in one of the resort’s three secluded treehouses. There are other room options, too, including the Mountain Houses, which can sleep anywhere from 2 to 22 people and come complete with their own kitchens. Be sure to try the Blue Ridge BBQ on weekend evenings, along with multiple other dining choices. Families will appreciate the “Family Fun” program for kids under 12—a chance for parents to visit the on-site spa!—as well as the stargazing observatory.
What our advisors say: “I had a client there for a dad-daughter trip and they raved about the service and said the grounds were amazing. Plus, they were able to spend lots of time in the outdoors.” —Mayla Melo
Shou Sugi Ban House
Water Mill, NY
2.5 hours from NYC
Want to focus on your wellness? This soothing Long Island hotel—which is “inspired by the Japanese principals of wabi-sabi”—offers guest retreats, including the Vitality Immersion and the Signature Reset, both of which are running this summer. In the two-night Vitality Immersion retreat, for instance, specific activities—such as a micronutrients and immunity workshop, tea tasting, and yoga nidra class—are included and, thanks to current protocols, are completely private. You can also choose a Custom Stay and tailor the experience to exactly what you’re looking for. Whichever you choose, you’ll stay in one of the Guest Studios, all of which have patios, gas fireplaces, soaking tubs and the ability to get to the outdoor saltwater pool—plus a table outside each studio for private dining. Not to miss: the outdoor dining options around the property (like in the gardens) and the chef Mads Refslund-made private beach bonfire dinner.
What our advisors say: “This wellness retreat is what we all need in our lives right now. Also an ideal place to do a property buyout just for you and your closest friends.” —XX
Twin Farms
Barnard, VT
5 hours from NYC
*Please note that Vermont requires visitors from certain NY areas to quarantine upon arrival. Click here for the most updated information.
Nestled on 300 acres close to Killington, VT, this hotel was originally the home of author Sinclair Lewis and journalist Dorothy Thompson in the late 1920s—and today features a whole range of unique rooms and activities. Along with the rooms in the Main House, you can book the 2,215-square-foot Studio cottage, which has a hot tub, the 3,350-square-foot, 2-bedroom lodge, which boasts a private patio, or one (or all!) of the four Farmhouse suites, among others. Outdoor activities range from kayaking, paddle boarding, and tennis to biking and hiking 9 miles of trails. Plus, guests can try their hand at bocce and croquet on the lawn—and there are other activities, like picnics, bonfires and garden tours that can be arranged. Don’t miss the daily Cottage Champagne & Canapé service, as well as the additional private dining options. Plus, dogs can stay in select rooms and amenities like treats and blankets are offered.
What our advisors say: “This is the place people retreat to when they just want to escape from it all. I would highly recommend renting the farmhouse—it’s like having the whole place to yourself.” — XX
Duvine Hudson Valley Bike Tour
Amenia, NY
2 hours from NYC
Here’s a totally different idea: Go on a bike tour. Duvine offers bike tours all around the world—including in New York’s Hudson Valley. The four-day and three-night tour starts out at the Troutbeck hotel in Amenia, which will be your home base for the duration of the trip. From there, each day features cycling throughout the area, including Connecticut, with rides ranging from 19 to 48 miles. Stops include local farms, farm stands, and a whiskey and bourbon distillery, among others. All meals are included, as well as specific gear and activities.
What our advisors say: “What a perfect way to explore the Hudson Valley’s beautiful scenery, along with fantastic guides and amazing food. It’s also a perfect way to burn the dreaded quarantine 15!” —XX
Want more ideas?
We love these properties, too:
· Canyon Ranch in Lenox, MA; 3 hours from NYC (Opening on July 23, 2020)
· Castile Hill Inn in Newport, RI; 3 hours from NYC
· Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michael’s, MD; 3.5 hours from NYC
· Inn at Little Washington in Washington, VA; 5 hours from NYC
The Art of Living in Toronto
The Art of Living in Toronto
With its diverse communities, culture and cuisines, a weekend in Toronto is like a quick trip around the world.
Toronto is a city of neighborhoods. And what ties all these communities together is the love of culture. There are amazing galleries, theaters and concert halls celebrating art all over the city. Surrounded by buildings by internationally renowned architects and restaurants run by top chefs, Torontonians have elevated everyday life to an art form. Even jogging past the city’s exceptional outdoor murals and sculptures is an art experience.
Here’s an insider’s guide to nearby neighborhoods that you need to explore in The Six.
THE CROSSROADS OF CULTURE
The Shangri-La Hotel is the place to begin any explorations of Toronto because it bridges three dynamic neighborhoods: the Financial District with its towering skyscrapers and five star dining experiences; the Entertainment District, and Queen Street West, a unique shopping and dining strip.
In fact, your first engagement with Toronto’s globally celebrated cultural community begins just outside of the Shangri-La. The exterior of the hotel is home to the iconic sculpture, “Rising”, by Chinese artist, Zang Huan. Bringing the best the world has to offer together is, in fact, the city’s true talent.
After checking into the hotel, you’ll want to check out of your work week with a relaxing afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge. The lobby is a hub where visitors and locals come together to take in daily live music performances played on the custom-made Fazioli Piano. It’s always buzzing, but after a busy work week, it also provides a zen-like sense of home, thanks to paintings by famed Shanghainese artist Wang Xu Yuan.
The Lounge is also home to a rotating exhibition of vintage couture fashions featuring designers such as, Alexander McQueen, YSL, Chanel, Versace and many others.
Performance Art
At night, you want to make the Entertainment district your destination. Take in an early dinner at Kojin from David Chang and Chef Paula Navarrete. Located above Momofuku, this vibrant restaurant serves a Columbian influenced lunch and dinner menu.
Then cross the road to the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. It is home to the National Ballet Company and the Canadian Opera Company. The opera in particular is known for classic performances done in collaboration with visual and other artists such as performance artist Robert Lepage, director Atom Egoyan, and musician Rufus Wainwright. Just a short walk west down King Street, you can hear the symphony at Roy Thompson Hall. Or stroll over to see some live theatre in the nearby Entertainment District (Elgin and Wintergarden on Yonge Street, or the Royal Alexandra, Princess of Wales, on King).
In warm weather, you can talk about performances while taking in a nightcap on the rooftop bar at Lavelle for a masterpiece of a gin and tonic. Or return to the lobby for a delicious cocktail or two.
Good Morning
Toronto’s many outdoor art installations let you enjoy some inclusive culture while you wake up with a walk, bike, or run. Set your course to take you past the Bentway, the Stackt shipping container market or jog over to the Distillery District for many interactive and experiential installations. The concierge service at the Shangri-La is ultra-connected and can help you make a map of outdoor art (or coffee shops for a post jog pick-me-up.)
After your morning workout, relax with a pre-lunch treatment at the Miraj Hammam Spa on the fifth floor of the Shangri-La.
