As we officially enter into the second half of 2021, I am very much looking forward to an amazing (long) weekend ahead with Julio and Canela in Toronto. These kinds of trips don’t happen often (while we continue to do the long distance thing) so I wanted to ensure I planned the best experience I possibly could. In hopes of inspiring safe and beautiful travel of your very own. Whether you’re celebrating two dose summer or playing staycation as a Torontonian, I’ve put together the perfect long weekend list for your enjoyment.
First of all, traveling with Canela brings with it a whole slew of challenges that I am happy to plan around, but when it’s too complicated she stays with family (which I am very lucky to have in Ottawa). She isn’t a child, but she is important to us and being able to share our memories with her along for the ride makes it extra special. I’ve rented a car to drive down since it’s the best way for me to make sure she’d comfortable. Plus it allows me a few hours to sing (badly) at the top of my lungs and disconnect.
Finding a hotel that is dog friendly can be challenging – and when you do, some have crazy pet policies. Thankfully when we stay at Fairmont Royal York they always make us and her feel beyond welcome. So that’s exactly what I wanted to enjoy again this weekend. If you hadn’t seen the video below that we took over the holidays last year, I’m sharing it for you all to enjoy. And because, how can you not love that wrinkly face!
You’ll remember that we actually shared details about their Love is Love Staycation Package – click here to read that post – but in case you didn’t know, it extends all Summer Long! Similarly to their sister hotel in Ottawa that we experienced as well, I love that this package gives back to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community not just for Pride makes me extremely happy to support a brand that supports us.
For those of you travelling to or within Toronto, “celebrate with your loved one all summer long with our Love is Love Staycation Package! Enjoy 15% off luxury accommodations with a delicious and fun Pride-themed amenity. Plus, $10 CAD from every stay is donated to The 519, a City of Toronto agency and registered charity that is committed to the health, happiness and full participation of LGBTQ2S communities.” Seriously. It’s fabulous.
Now that patios are open safely again in Toronto, we will be patio hoping for sure to enjoy the culinary seen in Toronto. There’s nothing like downtown Toronto in the summer – especially after having to take a year off from enjoying walking the streets together with Julio and Canela. For those of you thinking of taking a long or extended weekend in the city, I cannot stress enough how beautiful it is to walk along the waterfront. South of the Gardiner Express way is one of Toronto’s hidden gems and offers some of the most picturesque moments.
With shops and restaurants all coming back to us, it’s so important to continue to support local. Having a few days to explore in the sun in Toronto offers options that are probably some of the best in the province (in my opinion). From Yorkville to Parkdale, Little Italy to Leslieville, Toronto has embraced patio season with full force and I am here for it. Included in this list of must try is Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails.
Having made reservations – click here if you want to do so, considering how busy it is – we got a chance to take in the perfect evening. Starting with the French Onion Soup and an heirloom tomato salad, I was living my best summer life. Julio opted for the HOT FRIED CHICKEN BANH MI which he loved and I stayed the fresh lane with the HEIRLOOM TOMATO SOURDOUGH TARTINE. Everything was paired perfectly with Veuve Clicquot Rosé and some of the best cocktails in the city, this was a meal that every one of you should enjoy for yourselves.
Speaking of cocktails, and in tandem with the #LoveIsLove package above, you can purchase ready-to-drink cocktails, you can purchase yours including the Sashay Sangria at the Veuve Cliquot bicyclette. ICYMI, $1 from every purchase of #SashaySangria is donated to The 519.
And as the city continues to open up and things come back to life, why no book at show or experience outdoors. Canada’s Wonderland is just a car drive away, Together Apart circus is running all month of July, IRL drag shows are back at stackt market and there are so many other things to be excited about.
As we lay our heads down each night, I was so grateful to know that Fairmont Royal York was able to be a part of another beautiful family memory with Julio and Canela. As our family continues to grow I have no doubt that it will continue to be and here’s hoping in a few years I’m sharing about Canela’s bed and a crib while we enjoy the perfect long weekend in Toronto.
From SkinJay Steam Shower aromatherapy to the large soaker bathtub, chef’s plates and cocktails in the sun, there is something to make everyone happy this summer. And you deserve a beautiful long weekend experience just like this one.
Join in on the social media conversation with us by following @FairmontRoyalYork on Instagram, @FairmontRYH on Twitter and by ‘Following’ their Facebook Page. Share your #FairmontGold and #FairmontMemories memories and tag your moments with the hotel and CLOCKWORK all summer long using #RYHMemories. I can’t wait to see you pamper yourself and the ones you love!
This post is not intended to be seen by persons under the legal alcohol drinking age or in countries with restrictions on advertising on alcoholic beverages. Please remember to enjoy responsibly and never drink and drive.
Photos: Daniel Reyes & All Social Media accounts listed above
Don’t forget to be kind & laugh a little more this year, and the next!
Mobile photos were taken with my Google Device of choice on the Rogers network.
*Promotional consideration may have been offered by participating brands – all opinions expressed are my own and my disclosure can be found at all times by clicking here.