Hotel Insight for Canada!

By Daryn Goodwin

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to take a trip to Canada and meet with people in preparation for the NARCh FINALS. I visited many of the host hotels in hopes of offering insight beyond what you might typically see or read online.  Overall I was very impressed with the hotels I visited.  Most have been very recently renovated and they’re offering great rates for the NARCh FINALS.  These are the properties I visited in the order in which I visited them.

Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel – It’s not the least expensive hotel on our list at $149, but very reasonably priced for what you get.  From a team hangout perspective, this is the best hotel.   Newly renovated gym and pool that are very nice.  Also a half court basketball court, as well as a squash court.  During my visit they were hosting a hockey tournament, so there were even nets set up on the squash court.  Kids would have a blast at this hotel, and it’s very nice.

Quality Suites – This hotel is currently remodeling their rooms.  The rooms not yet remodeled are nice, very spacious.  The remodeled rooms are really, really nice with modern decor.  What nobody knows is that once they get their renovations done, it’s going to become an Embassy Suites.  Hot breakfast is included and it’s in the Italian Restaurant connected to the lobby. There’s no charge for parking.  If you really want a suite, this is a great value at $127.

Hotel Carlingview and Courtyard by Marriott – I put these two together because they’re right next to each other.  Same owners too, so you can use your room key if staying at the Carlingview to get in the Marriott Pool, which is big and nice.  Carlingview is an unreal value, $95, which is like $70 in US Funds.  Marriott is a good value too at $135.  Because they’re next door to each other it’s a great option if some on the team want the cheapest room, but others want something slightly nicer. 

Westin – Probably the most upscale hotel on our list in my opinion.  If you have the money to spend and want something a little more luxurious, this is a good choice.

Sheraton – Newly renovated, sort of in the middle between the options above.  It’s very nice and a great value at $129 or $145, depending on the night.

Holiday Inn Toronto Airport – This is where I stayed on my visit and where our staff rooms are for the tournament in July. Recently renovated with a good buffet breakfast included in the $150 price. 

The 3 hotels I did not have time to visit are the Residence Inn, Holiday Inn East, and Townplace Suites by Marriott.  I’ve heard comparable things to the hotels I did visit, so I feel very confident that you’ll be happy with any of the hotels on our list.  There are a lot of hotels in the area and it’s a very competitive market.  Due to this, rates are priced really well.  Take into account the exchange rate in our favor, there’s some really, really good deals.

All the hotels I visited are surrounded by great restaurants and food options.  After visiting the hotels, I was lucky enough to be treated by Tourism Toronto at the Chop Steakhouse, which is next to the Sheraton and highly recommended!

Don't forget, room blocks will get dropped about 30 days out, so don't wait too long to book your rooms!