Loulou's views

Sometimes all you need is a road trip to help you recharge your batteries, and if you’re looking for a quick escape, Toronto is the perfect place to visit with friends or family because there is always so much going on, whether you’re a sports fan, museum buff, movie lover (hello, TIFF!) or shopping enthusiast. Here’s how you can spend a weekend in Toronto:   Check-in to St. Regis The St. Regis in Toronto’s financial district is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, and for the second year in a row, awarded Five-Star Hotel and Five-Star Spa ratings by Forbes Travel Guide. The St. Regis Toronto helped redefine the standard of five-start luxury hotel stays in Toronto —and because of its ideal location, the perfect place to stay if you’re sightseeing, enjoying the city’s finest restaurants, or catching a sports game. The St. Regis Toronto is close to the CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena, Rogers Centre, and the city’s premier shopping, theatre, and entertainment venues. My son and...

I'm back from an incredible press trip to Chicago with Choose Chicago --one of the best big cities on earth. In fact, Chicago was just voted the Best Big City in the United States   for the seventh years in a row , and I have to say... I agree. When visiting Chicago, there is so much to see and do--and the city caters to every type of tourist, whether you're into sports, (from the Chicago Bulls tot he Bears to the Cubs--they've got it all!) sightseeing, shopping, dining, or just taking in the stunning and historic architecture. From the award winning food scene, beautiful parks and green spaces, luxury hotels, attractions, and vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a city everyone should add to their travel bucket list.  Here's a rundown of where I stayed, where I dined, and what I visited, to help you plan your itinerary for your upcoming Chicago trip!  How to get there We flew out of Ottawa with Porter, and landed in Toronto's downtown Billy Bishop airport. Flying Porte...

We are back from our month long annual summer vacation in Greece, and this year, we had the pleasure of staying at the brand new W Costa Navarino resort.  I was invited to the W to review the new property and surrounding areas and it was a wonderful experience! My entire family loved every minute, especially the pools, rooms, and dining choices. We stayed in two gorgeous and spacious rooms, both with a large, infinity-style shared private pool right off our back balcony decks. The W Costa Navarino is a beautiful escape for those looking for a getaway unlike any other. From the Navarino waterfront, to the vivid and bright design and architecture, the hotel prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming to everyone, in luxurious surroundings that include rooms with private swim-up pools, airy and modern one and two bedroom suites, and stunning beachfront villas overlooking the Ionian Sea. If you're planning on visiting Greece this year or next, you should definitely visit the W Cost...

I had the great pleasure of once again joining Choose Chicago on a press trip to experience the vibrant city of Chicago. Chicago was recently voted the Best Big City in America and as usual, Chicago was a dream, and I can't wait to return. (To read more about all the fun things to do in Chicago if you're planning a trip to the Windy City for your next holiday escape, you can read my article in Canadian Geographic Travel ).  Here are a few highlights that'll help you plan your next Chicago trip with ease--how to get there, where to stay, where to dine, and what to do:  Porter Airlines Travelling during the pandemic can be challenging, but my flight with Porter Airlines made the experience smooth, comfortable, and safe. I had all the necessary documents with me (proof of vaccination and rapid test for entry to the USA) and Porter took care of the rest--I was met with excellent service checking in, and in-flight (we loved our flight attendant so much!) along with tasty snack...

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 ...

Ever since my 13 year old was two years old, we have been vacationing at the Diplomat at least once a year—in the winter, and many summers, too. It's a beautiful resort that's so familiar to us now, it feels like our home away from home. Fresh from a $100 million dollar renovation, the Dip is now better than ever, with new rooms featuring a fun beach vibe. You can choose sunrise rooms, with oceanfront balconies and spectacular sunrises, or sunset rooms, where you can enjoy city views and a killer sunset from your balcony. Whether you're travelling with family or friends, here's why a stay at the Diplomat Beach Resort is an excellent idea: Outdoor paradise The best thing about the Diplomat Beach Resort can be found outside. As soon as you walk out the doors passed the main lobby and hotel bar, you'll be in lush, tropical surroundings, surrounded by never-ending ocean views, comfortable seating around fire pits, and an outdoor bar. The infi...