Fairmont Royal York occupies a landmark circa-1929 building that proudly retains its position amid a sea of modern skyscrapers in downtown Toronto. Stepping into the next era with an investment made in upgrading the rooms, dining and lobby, the Grande Dame delivers a welcome mix of old meets very stylish new with hand-painted ceilings and travertine pillars among the original features. Rooms and suites have a traditional design, new modern colours, plush bedding, maple furniture, lots of patterns and texture, plus striped floor-length curtains and soothing colours. Bathrooms have marble floors, spacious showers and luxurious Le Labo amenities. The Fairmont Gold rooms feel like appealing apartments with rich textures and Art Deco touches. Gold guests get access to the 18th-floor lounge.

REIGN Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering classic Canadian fare with a slight French influence. The lobby is taken over almost entirely by the swish CLOCKWORK lounge anchored by the stunning clock tower. Canada’s only Benihana Japanese Steakhouse offers Teppanyaki, sushi and sake on the lower level. The hotel has a rooftop apiary, home to over half a million honeybees, and a herb garden. The honey and over 40 varieties of herbs are used in dishes throughout the hotel restaurants. The health club includes an indoor pool with a skylight, a whirlpool bath, a children’s wading pool, saunas, steam rooms, and a fitness centre. Recent guests have included members of the British Royal Family.