Loulou's views

Ten years ago, we visited  Atlantis Paradise Island  in the Bahamas for the first time. Our boys were much younger, and we didn't enjoy all the resort had to offer (like the water slides) but we still had a wonderful vacation, and planned on going back when the children were older. A few weeks ago, we had the pleasure of travelling to Atlantis again with our entire family, including my sister, her children, and my parents. I was invited to this amazing resort for a media review, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity and the wonderful memories we made. From the moment we arrived to Bahamas (and were driven to the resort by limo–my boys thought this was so cool!) until the day we checked-out, we had a blast.  I don't think it's possible to visit Atlantis and have a bad time; it's a resort that truly offers something for everyone, whether you love to swim, golf, explore, shop, or relax. Bonus: the weather was perfection the entire week we were there. W...

Canada's first St. Regis has finally arrived in Canada, making a grand entrance in downtown Toronto. With personalized butler service, a lobby bar, 124 spacious suites, a two-level spa, large swimming pool, and a stunning restaurant on the 31st floor, the hotel definitely caters to those who love fine dining, relaxation, and luxury. I was thrilled to find out Canada was getting their very own St. Regis, but even more excited when I was invited to review the new hotel a few weeks ago. I've had the pleasure of experiencing the St. Regis Bal Harbour twice, and I instantly knew that my experience at St. Regis Toronto would be equally as memorable–for myself, for my husband, and for our children. Fine Dining  The newest restaurant that's causing a lot of buzz in Toronto is LOUIX LOUIS, on the 31st. floor of St. Regis Toronto. It's the perfect place to indulge in your most desired cravings, from caviar to champagne, and everything in between. The menu features items ...

Ottawa has drastically improved in many ways over the years, making it a must-see city for world travellers, and a place to re-discover for local residents. The downtown core has two new hotels perfect for those looking for a modern, stylish place to stay: Le Germain and Alt Hotel . (These two hotels, in addition to Andaz, have helped make downtown come alive again). I had the chance to check-in to the Le Germain Hotel Ottawa with my husband for a mini staycation, and we loved the hotel–especially because of the location–only a short walk to CF Rideau Centre, and my favourite department store, Nordstrom. Nice hotels and shopping make me happy! I've stayed at Le Germain in Toronto, and I found that hotel has a more bustling, sexy vibe, but Ottawa's version was equally beautiful and elegant, with an artful design, spectacular views of the city, and great service. The rooms are clean and modern, each one its own work of art that stays true to Ottawa's unique vibe. A...

When you check in to a Four Seasons Hotel, no matter where you are in the world, you know you'll be experiencing the most luxurious, memorable stay—and incredible service from the moment you check-in. I had the chance to review the beautiful  Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto , situated in the upscale Yorkville neighbourhood. This hotel is one of the tallest in the area, at 55 storeys—and it is breathtakingly beautiful as soon as you walk in the front doors. The flowers in the lobby area are so colourful and welcoming. The Four Seasons Hotel Toronto was designed by Yabu Pushelberg, so I instantly felt like I was back at the  Four Seasons New York . There were many similarities between the two properties, like the incredible service one can only expect to receive at hotels of this calibre. Yorkville is known for its fine shopping—from luxury boutiques to department stores like Holt Renfrew—to fine dining, and the Four Seasons Hotel is a perf...

There's a new hotel in Ottawa that's getting some well-deserved buzz. Andaz Hotel recently opened its doors right in the heart of the ByWard Market, but first, there was a grand opening party that was the talk of the town. As a lover of fine hotels, I couldn't be more thrilled with this new opening. The grand opening party—complete with red carpet, of course, and champagne upon arrival—was a blast, as hundreds of invited guests mingled from floor to floor, checking out the sights of the new hotel and enjoying delicious food and customized drinks. This new luxury boutique hotel is the first Andaz hotel by Hyatt in Canada, with 200 rooms and 16 floors. It's clean, modern, and perfect for Ottawa. It'll be a hot spot for locals and tourists alike, especially the top-floor outdoor lounge and restaurant, Copper Spirits and Sights . And what a sight it is from the 16th floor, with views of downtown, Parliament hill, and Gatineau. (I suggest going there to eat and...