wondering if anyone has strong opinions about where and where not to stay in toronto? we're looking to stay downtown, near shopping and eating establishments. Have done a bit of research but am curious for a few first hand accounts. We're heading to Toronot in early November. Many thanks!

I think you'll get a better response if you give us some idea of what your price range is and if you have any particular preferences re hotel amenities and neighbourhoods.

My favourite is the Sheraton centre on Queen St. It's centrally located plus you can take the path through to the Hudson Bay store and from there to the Eaton Centre. There is a large underground parking garage across the street (city hall parking) so you don't need valet parking and can walk underground from the parking lot right into the hotel lobby. It is probably in the $175 - $200 CDN price range.

Park Hyatt ... if you want a great hotel experience.

You also need to explain what you value in a hotel experience - service, location, ambience, decor, trendiness, service amenities (e.g. gym, health club, spa, restaurants, business centre?).

I don't know if this factors in, but I just got the Sheraton Centre on Priceline for $65. We are going this weekend, so I will post a report when I get back!

HOtels I recommend to friends and clients: Park Hyatt, Intercontinental Bloor Street, Marriott Bloor, Marriott Eaton Centre, and Sheraton or Hilton if they want to be close to the Theatre district. I'm biased toward the Yorkville/Bloor area because there are lots of restaurants and shops within walking distance, the subway is there, and it's safe to walk around there. I cringe when people tell me they got a great rate at some hotel on Jarvis Street because I would never put out-of-towners there. There are many wonderful hotels (some boutique-style) that have opened in the club/entertainement area but I still like to recommend Yorkville. Hope this helps you.

A friend of mine loves the Le Germain hotel downtown, in the entertainment district. Boutique-style, gorgeous bathrooms, good in-house restaurant.