Concerns about the Metropolitan
 

Our family has tentatively reserved a room at the Metropolitan and now I'm having second thoughts. I don't see it's name come up under recommendations of places to stay. They've quoted us a room at $169 CN which includes parking and breakfast I think. What does anyone think? Is there a better choice in a similar price range? We'd like to stay in the city and enjoy walking and window shopping in interesting neighborhoods. <BR> <BR>Any input would be much appreciated, we leave in a few days! <BR> <BR>Thanks

We stayed at this hotel before (1997) and will be staying there again for six nights later this month. <BR> <BR>If you're looking for "action" in the lobby, it's the wrong place (as some folks here have said). But, we're adults and we certainly aren't going to spend vacation time in a hotel lobby! <BR> <BR>Some have criticized its' location (not in the "heart" of the downtown action, but certainly close by, and within easy walking distance.) Go to travelocity.com and check out the distances THEY show between the various hotels and popular spots in Toronto and then decide whether the Metropolitan is comparable in terms of access to other places. <BR> <BR>If you're a member, check out its rating by AAA/CAA. Check out its restaurants on Zagat.com, check out it's web site, Metropolitan.com (not sure on this, try a google search) fri for some photos of the accomodations. <BR> <BR>Lastly, here's what the ultra-tough Mobil Guide(http://www.exxonmobiltravel.com/inde...partner=nypost) says about this hotel they rated as 4 Stars (one of only five hotels in Toronto rated that highly): <BR> <BR>"A good value for the quality of accommodations and services offered, this hotel's guestrooms are fairly intimate but the comfortable beds covered in fine linens and feather duvets more than compensate. Add to this a friendly, enthusiastic staff and two restaurants that stand up to the competition, Lai Wah Heen and Hemispheres, and guests are guaranteed to have a great experience. 425 rms, 26 story. S, D $240-$380; each addl $30; suites $490-$1,800; wkend rates. Crib free. Parking, in/out $19/$24. Pet accepted, some restrictions. TV; cable (premium), VCR avail (free movies). Indoor pool; whirlpool. Restaurant 6:30 am-11:30 pm. Bar 11-1 am. Ck-out noon. Meeting rms. Business center. In-rm modem link. Concierge. Gift shop. Exercise equipt; sauna. Bathrm phones, minibars. Eaton Centre 2 blks." <BR> <BR>The Metopolitan certainly is not the only fine hotel in Toronto; but it sure is one of them, IMHO. <BR> <BR>

There is also a Metropolitan Hotel in Vancouver. You didn't specify the city you will be visiting. I have never stayed at the one in Vancouver, but I have heard good things about it and they have a fantastic restaurant - Diva at the Met. It is also located in the heart of downtown, so would be a good bet.

The location is quite central - walking distance to Eaton Centre, Queen West, the Entertainment district. The two restaurants are highly regarded. I think some of the undeserved concerns arise because i) its on a side street so it seems less busy, ii) its not part of a mega-chain. Enjoy.

If you are talking about the Metropolitan in Vancouver, it is an excellent hotel and very good value for money. It is equal to the Four Seasons located across the steet and much better in price. The lobby is small and plain, but Diva's at the Met is excellent.

I'm very confused also. Which Metropolitan are you talking about?