HOTEL WILLIAM GRAY - MONTREAL'S NEWEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Montreal has always been a place I have held close to my heart. From Old Montreal’s charming 17th century architecture to the urban city feel of St. Catherine street and the Plateau, Montreal tastefully walks the line between keeping up with the times and appreciating its heritage.

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New to Montreal’s hospitality industry is the enviable Hotel William Gray. This newly opened (Summer of 2016) boutique hotel features 127 rooms and suites, a rooftop terrace, an upmarket grill restaurant known as Maggie Oakes, a multi functional living room lobby (an interior designers wet dream), a state of the art fitness center, 10,000 sqf of event space, a lifestyle boutique, and café. Located in the heart of Old Montreal overlooking Place Jacques-Cartier this luxury hotel is not only world class for its hospitality and spectacular views, but also for its timeless style!

The Hotel William Gray is part of the Antonopoulos Group who own and operate many restaurants, spas and boutique hotels in Old Montreal including the Place d’Armes. The namesake for this new venture comes from the acquisition and redevelopment of the Edward William Gray residence, one of the buildings the hotel is made up of today. Edward William Gray was an English merchant, notary, lawyer, office holder, and militia officer who settled in Montreal in 1760. His legacy and vibrant history in law and politics helped shape Montreal into the city it is today. The restaurant Maggie Oakes is named after Edward William Gray’s wife whose profile can be seen illustrated in the restaurants logo.

The hotel itself is exquisitely furnished to exemplify a warm and cozy haven. The rooms boost rich wood flooring, concrete ceilings and black metal light fixtures to create a minimalist modern setting that compliments the beautiful facade of the building itself. And if you are under the impression that there is nothing cozy about minimalist modern interiors, they have luxurious linens, plush pillow top mattresses, frette towels, and the coziest robes and slippers that will make you want to stay in and order breakfast in bed! A must!

The hotel’s restaurant Maggie Oakes is inspired by Montreal’s prevalent culinary scene and has modeled its menu after an American bistro and steakhouse. Chef Derek Bocking is known for his passion for garden vegetables and thick cuts of meat (the Tomahawk Steak featured on the menu is gargantuan!) which you can see on display in their impressive dry aged meat cooler and unique green wall of herbs and micro-greens. The restaurant itself was designed by Camdi and features a long gray marble bar which boosts an oyster and charcuterie station. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Maggie Oakes is the perfect spot and ideal location for a gathering of friends or a private event.

With plans to open a luxury spa and outdoor pool in Fall 2017 Hotel William Gray continues to expand on their luxury product and aims to provide their patrons with a dynamic and singular experience of world class hospitality. What lacks when it comes to Canada’s biggest city like Toronto can be found in this gorgeous remodeling of the William Gray house in Montreal. My weekend stay at the hotel was spectacular, I felt more at home then I do in Toronto. The concierge and staff made me feel so welcomed and presented me with handwritten notes, macaroons and recommendations of local bars and restaurants to venture to when I finally did decide to get out of bed! I am definitely happy to say that the Hotel William Gray will be my first and only recommendation for accommodations in Montreal and I cannot wait until I myself get to go back this summer.

To book a room at Hotel WIlliam Gray click -> HERE
To make a reservation at Maggie Oakes click -> HERE

 

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SAYULITA, NAYARIT MEXICO

Welcome to Sayulita – the perfect Mexican retreat. This sunshine coastline is often called the Crown Jewel of the Nayarit thanks to its many beachfront rentals. This seaside surfer town is filled with expats and will charm you with its quintessential Mexican small-town characteristics making it so easy to fall in love with Sayulita. The open-air eateries and bars, small boutiques, and beach hangouts give any new explorers to the area much to experience. It’s also not too far from the luxurious Nayarit town of Punta Mita making it easy to get the best of both worlds (bohemian and luxury) should you want it.

There are plenty of hotels, villas, and hostels in Sayulita Mexico but one of the most popular ones (especially for weddings and large groups) is Villa Amor. This boutique hotel is made up of 26 oceanfront villas, all unique and made up of a different combination of modern and old-world charm. Nestled into the lush jungle hillside the Villa Amor Sayulita is a leisurely 10 minute walk to the heart of town. As a popular wedding destination spot, the Villa Amor easily accommodates large groups and all those in need of a relaxing sunshine retreat. Not to mention you are steps from the best surf in Sayulita. Not into Sayulita surfing? There are also tons of bars and restaurants to lounge out on the beach too!

THINKING OF GOING TO MEXICO? CHECK OUT THESE OTHER MEXICO TRAVEL GUIDES

Every Friday there is a weekly farmers market in Sayulita, Nayarit Mexico where you can purchase organic groceries, artisan products, clothing, and other trinkets. If shopping is not your thing there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained in Sayulita like surfing, horseback riding, ATV tours, zip-lining, golfing, bike trails, yoga classes, spa treatments – and, well, drinking on the beach!

I’m going to stop myself there before I give it all away because part of Sayulita’s charm and fun is its small town feel and the ability to easily explore and navigate around it by foot. Of course, I encourage you to do just that when you visit this quaint little town and see where the day takes you.

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I hope you enjoyed the travel guide for Sayulita Nayarit Mexico! If you have any questions or comments about my time in Sayulita, feel free to leave them in the comment section below! Safe travels!

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PUNTA MITA, MEXICO

I recently (as you may of already noticed via my Instagram) went on a week long vacation to Punta Mita, a small village located 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. In the last 10 years Punta Mita has seen a lot of economic growth especially due to a huge private development that houses numerous estates, clubhouses, private restaurants, beach clubs, a medical centre and two luxury hotels. Although it may take me light years till I can afford to own a house there, Punta Mita is probably as close to heaven as I have ever been. Except in this case only those who own a house, know someone who does or are a guest at one of the two luxury hotels can pass St Peter’s pearly white gates. Even the hotel accommodations come at quiet a hefty price tag of $1,000+ USD a night for the smallest casita. This place could not be more luxurious – the Prime Minister of Mexico goes on vacation there for heaven sake!

While most of us could only dream about going to a place like this, I miraculously was invited to come explore the private compound and share my experience with you. So here we go >>>----->

ACCOMMODATIONS

The St Regis is probably the most expensive hotel I have ever come across with rooms starting at over $5,000+ USD in high season. I cannot imagine what kind of top notch, heavenly services you get for that price tag however from my first impression of visiting and dinning there it is probably pretty spectacular. The hotel itself is gorgeous and you can tell no expense was spared when they designed it. The hotels signature restaurant Carolina offers a fine dining experience of the very best in contemporary Mexican cuisine. Using fresh local ingredients and uncompromised cooking techniques Carolina captures the hearts and souls (should I drop the heaven thing yet lol) of all who eat there. With signature dishes like ceviche, suckling pig, and quail tacos there is something for everyone’s palate.

The Four Seasons in Punta Mita is actually owned by Bill Gates. This Mexican oasis is absolutely picture perfect and exactly how you would imagine a beachfront hotel. With white-sand beaches and turquoise waters there is no wonder that the area features some of the best snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, surfing and golf in the world.  Although I did not stay at The Four Season I did get to eat there! The Aramara restaurant in The Four Season features exquisite contemporary Asian cuisine made from the freshest product and seafood caught daily right off the shores of Punta Mita. With indoor and outdoor dining options Aramara offers zen-like touches to a wonderful dining experience. Get the crispy shrimp! They are unreal!

ACTIVITIES

The recently renovated Kupuri Beach Club is one of three intimate resident beach clubs that offers additional socializing, relaxation, and dining experiences for resident members and their guests. With valet parking, a concierge, spa services, an infinity pool, beach bar, water and fitness activities and of course lots of beach front – an afternoon at this beach club is an afternoon well spent.

Vista Paraiso offers a wide range of activities including ziplining, horseback riding and ATV tours. It is located about a 15-20 minute drive from Punta Mita. I went on a horseback riding tour through the small Mexican village of Higuera Blanca onto a small jungle trail and along a sunny beach. The ride lasted about an hour and a half and the horses were very well behaved. The ride is led by the ranch vaquero (that’s Mexican for cowboy – I say Mexican because I don’t think this is a word used in Spain) and is well documented by the resident ‘paparazzi’ who will print your photo at the end of the ride for a price.  I enjoyed myself at the ranch and everyone was very friendly however I would of probably preferred something a little more high pace like ATVing – ok I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie, DON’T JUDGE!

Golfing in the Punta Mita estates is unreal! I may not be a very experienced golfer but the people I played with were and they were just as impressed by the 36 holes - Jack Nicklaus golf course as I was. The golf course and clubhouse is open to the residence of the estates and their guest as well as the St. Regis and The Four Season guests. Don’t get distracted by the ocean views and picturesque manicured landscapes because this course gets quiet difficult even for those well seasoned golfers. Check out this hole below!

The Pacífico, with eight holes directly facing or playing alongside the Pacific Ocean, features the “Tail of the Whale”, an optional par-three hole with the largest natural island green in the world.

I will admit that I am much more familiar with Tennis then I am golf which is why it is no surprise I found myself drawn to the Tennis Center in the Punta Mita estates. Nestled into a grove of palm trees the Tennis Center offers hard and soft sand filled synthetic grass courts to suit your preference and also features complimentary use of balls and shoes. Additionally, ice water and chilled hand towels that have a hint of lemon freshness are placed courtside to help you cool off after a game. Now that is classy! Rackets are available to rent for $8 so no need to lug yours all the way to Mexico!

If you win the lottery or are looking for a great luxury vacation Punta Mita is the perfect destination for you. The area is very safe and family friendly and offers tons of activities including great surfing (I wanted to surf so bad but there wasn’t enough time). If you’re in the market to purchase a vacation home or apartment I would urge you to consider looking at this development! The St. Regis and Four Seasons do maintain and rent properties in the compound on behalf of the owners when they are not occupied so there are also potential income benefits available to investing in paradise! So what are you waiting for? GO!

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Punta Mita travel guide

LANGDON HALL HOTEL AND SPA - CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO

Have you ever had something great and completely unexpected happened to you? Did it make you pause for a moment in disbelief before cloaking you in happiness and gratitude? In June it happened to me. I won! I woke up one morning still dazed, nursing my morning coffee as I perused through my new emails when I saw the subject line, Congratulations! You're the Winner… Winner!? What did I win? What a great way to start of my day. A gift certificate to Langdon Hall from Branding and Buzzing's July giveaway! One of the most prestigious spas in Canada! Are you kidding me! Is this a joke? Is someone playing a huge trick on me? Is Ashton Kutcher going to jump out of my closet and punk me?

I literally had to read the email three times.  I have never won anything. ANYTHING. My next immediate thought was – who am I going to invite? Friends? NAW! Think Soheila, think! Family? Getting warmer. My mom!? Ding Ding Ding!!!!  I mean I owe the women my life. Not to mention she has probably invested a bazillion dollars in educating me, feeding me and making sure I have clothes on my body and a roof over my head. I think it’s safe to say she deserves a little getaway to Langdon Hall, especially with her favorite person in the world. Or at least I will be after this!

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So off we went last week! We jumped in the car and within an hour and a half we arrived at Langdon Hall! The Cambridge property is gorgeous and although it was my first time to the hotel and my mom is practically a regular, we still were blown away by the beautiful property and landscaped grounds.  Once checked-in we were also very happy to hear that the spa had recently been moved into a newly renovated space and our spa services would give us access to all their new amenities including a comfortable indoor sitting room, a sundeck with lounge chairs, an indoor exercise room and a whirlpool and sauna.  Wow!

After my mom and I indulged in much needed massages we continued onto our mani, pedi spa services. Now one thing that I am going to point out about Langdon Hall Spa that I absolutely loved was their product line. They have a variety of products and scents that make services easy to customize to your preferences! Weather you prefer citrus or frankincense or only like vegan/organic products, they‘ve got it! I was especially impressed with their SpaRitual line of products and nail lacquers that are completely vegan and free from 5 of the most harmful chemicals found in nail polish. Not only do they use such great products, but if you get a mani/pedi they send you home with two SpaRitual nail lacquer bottles! What!? Talk about the gift that keeps on giving!

Once our spa services were complete and there was time for a small pause before dinner I took the opportunity to wander around the property. Curiously enough, as I poked my nose around the property I came across this gorgeous little secret garden door, a green house to die for, tennis courts, a pool and an expansive vegetable and flower garden I could of spent hours exploring.

However, I wasn’t about to keep my hungry mom from dinner. Back to the main house I went – very excited because Langdon Hall’s Executive Chef Jason Bangerter is known for combining ingredients that are grown and foraged on the property to create dishes and experiences so grand and captivating that they are impossible to forget. From the black trumpet mushroom amuse bouch to the summer fruit and foie gras appetizers (yes, I had two appetizers) my meal could not of started off on a better foot. To conclude the meal I chose the beef tenderloin –  so moist and flavorful it could make a vegetarian crave meat! To finish off my mom and I each ordered a desserts – the Chocolate Ganache and the Peanut Butter Sable with some Langdon Hall Honey Mousse. A symphony of flavors! Great dishes on their own but even better combined together!

It’s definitely safe to say that after the experience I had at Landon Hall, winning a Langdon Hall gift card is one of the best things that happened to me this year and the absolute best way to celebrate my one year blogiverssary! I definitely recommend anyone looking to celebrate an upcoming milestone or interested in a relaxing weekend getaway to look into Langdon Hall. Although I did not stay overnight they do offer many packages that include a mix of accommodations, spa services and dining options you should definitely consider checking out before booking your reservation.

If you are interested in visiting Langdon Hall or making a reservation visit their website -> HERE

 

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

I recently arrived back from a short but sweet trip to one of America’s oldest cities – Boston. This was the first time I have ever really had the chance to explore Boston properly so you know I had to hit the ground running!!!

Ok so after arriving in Boston, looking for the best attractions and restaurants was a little hard. I don’t necessarily think that their food scene is that obvious meaning I have heard from others that it’s there, but still quiet underground so make sure to ask locals for recommendations if you can. A lot of establishments have been around for a while so finding the coolest new places can be a challenge, however I managed to find something for everyone!

SIDE NOTE: If you are flying into Boston’s Logan airport make sure to look out the window during landing! The Boston Logan airport is located on the waterfront and you get absolutely picturesque views of the city!!!!

First things first! Things to do!!!!

Samuel Adams Brewery - 30 Germania St, Boston, MA

I made sure that I stopped by the Samuel Adams brewery. Not just because they have tours starting from 11-4 every day for a simple $2 donation (proceed go to one of their chosen charities), but you also get FREE samples!!!! Tours are about 45 minutes long and include a FREE sample tumbler souvenir as well!

Fun facts about the Samuel Adams Brewery:

-       They let you sample and review beer that isn’t on the market a.k.a. you get to give the ‘Gladiator’ thumb-of-approval
-       Boston is home to a Samuel Adams beer you can’t find anywhere else! It’s called the Boston Brick Red and its only available on tap and in Boston.
-       Boston water (as in PH levels, Dissolved Oxygen, Chlorophyll and other Fluorescing Materials levels, etc) is one of the most important components to the flavor profile you can find in their beer.  Samuel Adams does have breweries in other states and they will break down their local water content and build it up again to match Boston’s water profile before brewing.
-       Samuel Adams (a founding father of America) didn’t start the Samuel Adams Brewing Company - Jim Koch’s did in 1984
-       Their autumn seasonal Octoberfest beer is available August through October and can be purchased in the gift shop along with other small batch growlers! I grabbed their Blueberry growler and it was so YUM!

SAMUEL ADAMS BREWERY -> LINK

Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum - 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA

This museum is better known for its gorgeous courtyard, which is ideal for amazing photo opportunities. The Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum is the converted residence of Isabelle Stewart Gardner – an American art collector, philanthropist, and patron of the arts. She was a very affluent lady in her time and incorporated her property into the museum in 1900. Today, the museum hosts exhibitions of historic and contemporary art, as well as concerts, lectures, family and community programs, and changing courtyard displays.

Fun fact about the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum:

- admittance is discounted to those wearing Boston Red Sox memorabilia, and is free to anyone named Isabella!

ISABELLE STEWART GARDNER MUSEUM -> LINK

Quincy Market - 367 S Market St, Boston, MA

Quincy Market is a historic market complex near Faneuil Hall in downtown Boston (near the water). I loved this place and found it a great place to stop after you explore the Boston harbor. The market itself offers a wide range of food vendors and restaurants. The market can get a bit hectic on the weekend but is still a fun place to go if you want a family friendly activity. Also expect to see horse drawn carriages around the market/Faneuil Hall and street busker performances.

QUINCY MARKET -> LINK

Place to eat! YUM!

Sorellina – Fine Dining $$$$ 1 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA

I loved the Italian-Mediterranean cuisine at this restaurant. I ordered the octopus appetizer with squid ink cous cous and it was a symphony of flavors in my mouth. This restaurant is super posh so it’s great for a nice celebratory dinner occasion or if you are looking to really impress someone. Wink wink nudge nudge.

SORELLINA -> LINK

Saltie Girl – New Seafood Restaurant/Oyster Bar $$$ 281 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA

A new comer to the Boston restaurant scene, Saltie Girl is an oyster bar and seafood paradise. Boston is known for their lobster rolls and clam chowder and you can definitely get both of these staples here! I got their spicy tuna carpaccio, which was literally art on a plate. I also would recommend their Foie Gras with brioche as it was so decadent and delicious it brought tears to my eyes – ok not really but you get the point! LOL!

SALTIE GIRL -> LINK

Kashmir – Indian $$ 279 Newbury St, Boston, MA

Located on Boston’s famous Newbury Street this place serves up some great Indian food. I had their version of Chana Masala and a side of their Dahl and had absolutely no regrets! You can also enjoy their patio and free WIFI if you’re in the area and are in need of refreshments or a break from shopping.

KASHMIR -> LINK

Gourmet Dumpling House – Chinese $$ 52 Beach St, Boston, MA

I was recommended this place by one of my followers and I am so glad I went. This little dumpling house located in Boston’s Chinatown was packed full of people and served up some pretty awesome steamed dumplings. Expect very nice portions that are good for sharing.

GOURMET DUMPLING HOUSE -> LINK

Other fun stuff to do in Boston

If the Red Sox are in town go to Fenway Park to see a game!!!! -> LINK

Keep an eye out for awesome acts at the House of Blues!!! -> LINK

Zip around the waterfront in a speedboat called Codzilla!!  - This looks like a lot of fun and I wish I could of done this! Be prepared to get wet! -> LINK