With Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated ERAS Tour set to rock the Rogers Centre in just a few weeks’ time (November 14, 15 and 16 to be precise, and again the next week), there’s one burning question on every fan’s mind: Where will Taylor stay during her time in Toronto? Could it be the SoHo Hotel Toronto, known for its discreetly luxurious accommodations and celebrity-favourite tri-level penthouse?
“While the hotel believes in discretion, it’s just steps away from the Rogers Centre, The SoHo Penthouse is the pinnacle of modern luxury living , and offers a truly exclusive experience for high-profile guests like Swift,” hotel officials said in a press release. “With over 4,000 sq. ft. of space over three floors, the stunning tri-level suite, which boasts its own private elevator, is an elite residence. With two king bedrooms, three bathrooms, media room, two living rooms, dining room, three washrooms and a sprawling furnished terrace complete with a hot tub, outdoor kitchen, and amazing views with floor to ceiling windows – it’s no wonder the SoHo Penthouse is Toronto’s most coveted celebrity retreat.”
Well, I don’t know about that. I haven’t actually stayed the night at the hotel, but I’ve seen it during the day and it looks very nice. Is it nicer than the trendy Ace hotel or the Bisha or The Hazelton Hotel in tony Yorkville? Hard to say. But I like their “come on, Taylor” attitude.
The SoHo Hotel Toronto
“While Taylor may opt for the penthouse, her entourage of celebrity friends who seem to pop up at her concerts around the world can enjoy the hotel’s stylish suites. And for Swifties wanting a taste of the luxe life, the hotel has crafted a special Cornelia Suite Package, inspired by the pop icon’s former apartment on Cornelia Street in New York’s SoHo district.”
Cornelia Suite Package Highlights:
– Stay in a SoHo Suite or a one-bedroom suite in the SoHo Residences
– Receive official Taylor Swift concert merchandise
– A friendship bracelet to mark the occasion
– Best of all, the concert venue is just a short walk from the hotel lobby.
The hotel website says the three-storey, 3,500-square-foot SoHo Suite costs $7,500 per night (for the Cornelia Suite Package) for Nov. 15-17, with a three-night minimum. Just a bit out of my price range, but I bet it’s marvelous.
Still, is it the best choice for Swift (or her fans) when she’s in the Big Smoke? I mean, there are hundreds of options in The Six, so what’s a girl to do?
Well, I’m glad you asked. As a long-time (43 year) resident of the city and a full-time travel writer for 16 years, I’ve seen a few hotel rooms in Toronto. So, without further adieu, here are some options.
There are several, ahem, budget places along Motel Row in Scarborough, which is on Kingston Road. At one point it was the main route to Kingston from Toronto, and was lined with motels. Only a few are left, and some have a pretty sordid history. But, hey, if she’s looking for a place that fans wouldn’t expect to find her, this is a great option.
The Drake Hotel in Toronto is a super-trendy spot on Queen Street West and has rooms for just $746 (all prices Canadian dollars; roughly 35% cheaper than the US greenback) on Nov. 15, according to Trip Advisor.
MSC WORLD AMERICA WILL HAVE WORLD’S EATALY RESTAURANT AT SEA
MSC World Europa, La Plage Pool
MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC World America, will feature the only Eataly restaurant at sea when she enters service next year.
MSC Cruises is partnering with Eataly, the global ambassador of high-quality Italian food and wine, to offer guests an exclusive experience on the line’s new flagship.
The cruise line’s latest ship will also feature new Greek restaurant Paxos, along with new, complimentary “fast casual” options to cater to every taste and temptation.
MSC World America will welcome guests in April 2025 and spend her inaugural season sailing from PortMiami to the sun-soaked Caribbean.
My wife and I had a fine Mediterranean cruise on the MSC World Europa earlier this year.
