Rated 3.0 out of 5.0 by CCH1 Location
In the downtown area, subjest to large amonts of younger people on the weekend, even the "Priority" floor is not isolated.
March 5, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by AnneTW Clean and comfortable
This hotel is the better by far of the 2 HI/HIE hotels I know in the Toronto downtown area. Rooms have a modern decor and are clean and comfortable. The heater fan was quiet, which is important to me. Breakfast was good, but there should have been more wholegrain options. I would definitely recommend this hotel for overnight stays in downtown Toronto.
March 4, 2013
Rated 3.0 out of 5.0 by 1stStay You get what you pay for.
I was initially attracted by a very good deal on the room at Downtown Toronto Centre. The hotel was in close proximity to another, more expensive, hotel that hosted my event. I told the representative when booking that all I required was a room and a shower. I suppose in this regard, I was not disappointed. I was impressed by the Priority Club and the ability to be served more quickly in line. It was also very nice to collect points from my first stay. I found the hotel new and clean. The ambience was very nice for walking around the immediate area and this is a block I have not previously spent much time in. Charming neighbourhood. I was able to strike up conversation with many local residents in the shops, etc. (a first in many years of Toronto visits) The lobby decor is not to my preference. I would describe it as a Japanese/Mediterranean hybrid. Bizarre fusion of minimalist excess. The room was lovely and I actually like that it was small. It is more cosy. If I were having an extended stay or it was a family group, I might have felt differently. The decor, especially the artwork was perfect. The mattress and sheets were perfect. I love the heavy, cotton sheets as opposed to the newer trend of silky, thin sheets with an excessive thread count. The cleanliness was perfect. (Although I did not appreciate the maid pounding on the door despite my DND sign on the second day of my stay...) I found the shower a bit scary at first. I have a slight problem with balance due to a back injury. I can see the lack of a grab bar and those big glass walls would be a huge risk management issue for some guests. The sink height was a little high in the bathroom and the lighting was very hot when turned on. Your products on the counter were really nice and pleasant with a good scent suiting men or women. In-room coffee is always a plus for me, thanks. HERE IS THE MAIN ISSUE: Throughout my two-night stay, my room's temperature hovered between 89 and 90 degrees, despite the window being open and temperatures below zero outdoors. The thermostat style was familiar to me, so I adjusted by clicking it down. No result. Maintenance was sent very promptly and the man was pleasant with great customer service skills. He explained the boiler system and noted the thermostat had been adjusted incorrectly. (Presumably by the previous guest?) He fixed it and explained it would be a couple of hours to regulate back to a habitable temperature. Before he left, he asked if there was anything else I needed. A very well-trained employee! I went out shortly after for the evening, returning around midnight. The temperature was down to 79, a big improvement. But by the next morning, it had risen to 90. I was forced to run around nude to stay comfortable, added to the unpleasant fact that the curtains did not close). I had clothes for the blizzardy weather and could barely dress in time to get out of the room without suffocating. On my way out that morning, I let the front desk clerk know what was going on with the heat. His irritation was barely concealed. I am sure it is difficult to be the manager in this, but I was by no means alone in my concern. I had learned in the hall from another employee that these snags were due to the building being newly renovated and opened but still on an antique boiler system. I have experience in facility management and customer service, so I did suggest that the thermostat is not the appropriate place to control an antique boiler. I also joked about my predicament being nude in my room with no curtains and a robe that doesn't fit. ( I had also had to call down, because there is no robe and I wished to use the pool. The robe is not normally in the room here, I was told. The robe sent up did not cover me so I did not use the pool. I am a larger lady, but well within the range of normal size for robe purposes.) Anyway when I returned the second afternoon, the window in my room was open wide and it was still in the 80's. When I checked out the following morning, there was a different clerk at the desk. I gave a small account of what had happened. He responded with what I consider to be the perfect manner for a dissatisfied customer. He apologized, commiserated, admitted that there was a widespread problem due to growing pains and he offered me a complimentary breakfast, which I was unable to take up on. I thanked him for the stay. I do feel that in this situation, and the fact that you have prominently displayed signage stating your policy, I should have been offered a partial rebate on my stay. The temperature issue is key to a guest's comfort. The issue was intolerable for 80 percent of my stay. It required a lot of time spent communicating with desk, when I was trying to enjoy some quiet time alone in the city following the death of a friend. My experience would be equivalent to being served uncooked food in a restaurant. I did not think the breakfast was really appropriate in this situation. I will stay again but I intend to give a suitable interval to allow for these issues to be dealt with.
March 2, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by jlamarre8 Great stay for a weekend in Toronto
The hotel was an overall great experience. The staff was welcoming and explained any question we had. As well they were very accommodating with our luggage and allowed us to check-in early due to our train arrival time. The location was amazing if you're looking to go to the Eaton centre, shop on Yonge street or take the subways. As well it is conveniently located close to a Starbucks, Tim Hortons AND Second Cup.
Though the travel coordinators were very much help with travelling on the outskirts of the city since they just used google maps to plan our route, they were friendly and tried their best.
The room was quiet small for 3 people and 2 double beds, but the location and price was worth it.
The only recommendation I would make is to look into the travel routes yourself, DON'T RELY ON THE TTC WORKERS.
February 28, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by Stepanie1002 Courteous/Reliable staff and clean room
I can say that my family's stay was memorable. We have been to other holiday inn location but thie location at Toronto downtown is impressive not just the staff who are very willing to accommodate each guests needs but also the amenities are available earlier than usual. I will definitely recommend this location to travelers.
February 23, 2013
Rated 3.0 out of 5.0 by wilkes16 Very small room
I stayed in Room #924. It was cold in my room. When I went to look for an extra blanket in the closet, there wasn't one. I turned up the heat, but it didn't make a difference. For such a small space, you'd think it would have warmed up faster. There wasn't tea to drink in the morning in my room. There was only coffee. Comfy bed though. Service people extended my parking until 3:30pm, instead of 3pm, as I was taking a class down the road, which was nice. This was a nice motel in a pinch, during the snow storm of 2013.
February 13, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by ironhide502 Great Value
It was a pleasure to stay here,it is a perfect location if you looking for Dining or to catch a game of ice hockey or basketball.
The staff are very helpful and very polite.
February 12, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by Nomadicseeker Great Downtown Location
The hotel is in a terrific location. One block from the Lockwood Clinic, half a block from Young Street. The room was comfortable and quiet, I slept great. Another bonus was the fact that the room had a fridge, not a minibar. The only negative was the lack of a bathtub, but every newly renovated hotel room I stayed in over the last year has eliminated the tub in favor of showers.
February 7, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by StevieNichs Excellent stay; small rooms
I have stayed here twice now and have enjoyed myself both times. The staff are courteous and the building and rooms are nice. My only complaint is the size of the rooms - they are tiny compared to a normal hotel. I understand this is downtown Toronto and space is at a premium, but I am a tall and big man, so the space felt cramped for me. This space issue would not stop me from staying here again, though. The location and price etc were good enough to bring me back.
February 6, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 As someone who has stayed several times....
I stay regularly at this location (weekly)
The front desk staff here is fantastic. They all know myself and my partner. Checking in is simple and stress-free.
The location is perfect - in the heart of Toronto. I used to live just a few blocks away from Yonge and College. It is the best neighborhood in Toronto. Everything you need to be close to in Toronto is close. The rooms are consistent.
The Downtown Holiday Inn is tastefully decorated and always impeccably clean. My only complaint would be that I sometimes find the temperature to be a bit warm.
The rooms are consistently nice. I've never had a problem during my frequent stays.
I've only ordered room service a handful of times however it was always at my room quickly and the food was great.
I have had good experiences with the cleaning staff, the bellman, and the front desk staff. No matter who you encounter during your stay - the staff is always friendly and professional.
This hotel is located in the best neighborhood in the city and their rate is always a deal compared to other hotels in the neighborhood.
As someone who has stayed more than 60 times in the past two years, I highly recommend this location :)
Thanks for the consistently great experience :)
February 6, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by Shelley55 Excellent Location, Subway, Walk to Pride Toronto Festival
We had a great, calm room in the eye of a Political Convention Frenzy. Room was small but well appointed and quiet. Service was very responsive to the needs of the convention organizers and delegates. Food was good, though not exceptional. This hotel is walking distance from an amazing supermarket with cafe and bakery. It's also right around the corner from the Pride Toronto Festival neighbourhood without being too in the middle of it.
February 4, 2013
Rated 3.0 out of 5.0 by Murf27 Uncomfortable
Stayed at this location many times as we have a corporate contract. This particular visit the internet and cable TV were not working most of the evening, made for a long night. Understandably not the hotel's fault as Rogers network was down in the area. The room was uncomfortably warm. This is not the first time, tried turning temperature down but remained at 80 degrees until finally the AC was turned down.
Rooms are small but have everything you need for a single person travelling on business.
February 4, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by Linda66 Room small but comfortable
The room was very small but clean and comfortable. I liked the location as I was in Toronto for the liberal convention which was held at Maple Leaf Gardens. The staff was helpful and polite. I would recommend this hotel if you are visiting the downtown area and you want a central location.
February 1, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by PT2013 Surprisingly comfy
I paid a low price. My room wasn't huge but it was well organized, the staff kept it clean and tho I was there for a big noisy convention I had an afternoon of total quiet in my room and found the whole experience wonderful. Thanks! I'd recommend you guys in a heart beat. Location is great and convenient too.
February 1, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by island2012 clean, basic, and reasonable. for value.
Excellent pivotal location to downtown. This hotel is used for many seminars and events, so be prepared to wait a while for elevators.
It's a clean but basic hotel. Rooms are small though, the beds very comfortable.
Restaurant in the hotel had surprisingly very good food!
You're on your own at this hotel. Nothing special, but all you need if you're on business. The pool was well maintained.
February 1, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by HMK7 comfortable bed
Overall we were very happy with the room except for the wind noise from the windows. This was very annoying.
January 29, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by Hofmeister Great Overall Experience
Check in and out was fast and smooth. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The room was clean and in good shape. I will definitely stay here again next time I'm in Toronto.
January 29, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by Bunk Friends theatre outing
Location was ideal for our trip into the city for theatre, shopping and dining. We could walk to many attractions or take the subway which is only a half block away.
January 28, 2013
Rated 1.0 out of 5.0 by LinL OMG! It Was A Regretable Stay
While I was out of room, my 86 year old mother who got into her bed lifted her pillow & found a brown bug she said it was alive she crushed it with her tissue, scared she flushed it down toilet before I could see it. Should have asked to move to different room she had her nightgown on, leg swollen, too tired to walk and almost asleep. Worried all night about taking bugs back home (sprayed everything bags,coats, van & washed clothes when home).Bathroom opening too small for walker.Small room.Wind howling thru window all night long could not make it stop. Advised staff at checkout. No wheelchair/walker access.no ramp found.(did not see signs posted).Staff did not assist.Best part of stay was leaving this hotel.Lesson learned: you get what you pay for. I've stayed at other Holiday Inns before, enjoyed my stay & never had any problems. This hotel was unbelievably disappointing, only thing positive is location.
January 28, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by Honcho Great Location & Staff
Always enjoy staying here, right beside subway and a cool Loblaws store that is worth a visit, if only for breakfast. Rooms are a bit small and parking expensive ($25!) but it is downtown.
January 24, 2013
Rated 3.0 out of 5.0 by magicsailor good staff good room lousy parking
would use this hotel again. Biggest complaint was staff's lack of knowledge of local restaraunts that served food (as opposed to "luxury food - read overpriced) and paid parking. I will not pay $15.00 for breakfast!
January 23, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by Bessie it is a good place to stay!
Before I went to the hotel, I believe it is a good hotel from the photos of it. When I got there, it is relly like what the photos show--clean, comfortable and beautiful. And the staff are really helpful and nice! And it is so convenient to buy things and go to different restaurants and have some sightseeing. I strongly recommend it!
January 22, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by Terry22 Great Staff and convenient location
From the minute I arrived I was made to feel welcome and wanted. My room was immediately upgraded because I was a gold member. Staff were helpful and assisted me with directions to local stores I inquired about.
The rooms at this location are smaller than those at most locations but they are tastefully decorated and and beautifully appointed.
January 15, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by CandM Great location for tourist
We, American tourist who wanted to check out Toronto, had a great stay here. The location was great. Allowed use to move around the city very easily via the TCC. Rooms were clean and beds were comfortable. Close to some great restaurants and bars. Would stay again and recommend to others.
January 13, 2013
Rated 2.0 out of 5.0 by Joshpal Less than expected service
Long story short for being a downtown holiday Inn, I was disappointed.
The door of the room i was staying in was broken ( there was a crack through it) and i have pics if you really want to see it.
Also the waiting period to check in/check out was quite long. Lastly I have stayed at Holiday Inn multiple times and seems every time i stay i confirm with front staff that they have added my points but it is not appearing online.
Hotel business is cut throat and I expect nothing but the best from holiday inn. I am sincere appreciator of this chain but recent service has been disappointments.
If someone is serious about this review, feel free to email me and we can have a chat.
Cheers
Nav
January 11, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by jrsschmitt Excellent!
This is the second time staying at this hotel. Absolutely would I stay here again. Staff are friendly, rooms are excellent value (although I would have been more content if the price included parking) and above all the location is magnificent!
There are only two cons that I can think of. One of them was at around 2330-2400hrs there were some staff in the hallway being a little noisy, but they left after about 15 minutes of clanking some type of glass. And the parking fees are a little high. I do understand that Toronto is expensive, but parking should be complimentary for guests who are staying at your hotel.
Apart from that, I am excited for my next visit.
January 10, 2013
Rated 2.0 out of 5.0 by captrev Overheated!
Room temperature would not go below 79F even though the window was open. This was reported to the hotel staff at 5 a.m. during our first night and was supposed to be fixed during the next day. When we returned to the hotel the next night at 9 p.m. it was not fixed. At 10 p.m. they asked if we would like to change rooms but since we had to leave early the next morning it was not feasible to pack up/move/pack for just a few hours. It would have been more appropriate to fix the heat problem right away or move us right away.
The check in and check out staff were excellent.
January 7, 2013
Rated 1.0 out of 5.0 by catherine1 Huge Disappointment
We stayed New Years eve as a result we were given arm bands and asked to sign a waiver to confirm that Holiday Inn had a no party rule. We returned to our room at 12:45 to false fire alarm for half and hour. The remainer of the night was partying and yelling and fighting on the 8th floor, we did not sleep at all. Despite numerous calls to Mike, at the front desk, nothing was done. Security came up once with a warning. My husband is a police officer and spoke to the paid duty officer and she confirmed that she would attend should the ruckus continue. At no time, after we called, did the police attend our floor. In the morning , when we complained, we were advised the it was New Years eve and we can't stop the partying nor should we have expected to sleep. We were offered a free breakfast, unacceptable.
January 7, 2013
Rated 4.0 out of 5.0 by bunthorne Well run hotel, tight room
All of the housekeeping, front desk, and bell services were superb. We stayed in a King Executive room on the Priority Club floor for several days over New Year's Eve; the hotel was smart enough to control access on NYE so that there was no noise and all night partying to disturb us.
The only limiting factor to comfort is that the room is a bit cramped with the King bed, wall-to-wall desk built into the window wall, and chair--all nice to have, but little room to put suitcases or store clothes for 2. I wonder whether making the room a Queen instead of a King might provide just a bit of more space.
January 6, 2013
Rated 5.0 out of 5.0 by falconlake Great location,great food &smiling staff
The location is perfect for getting a real flavor of downtown Toronto.
We only had breakfast but it was beautifully presented and the waiters were Excellent. Can't get over the real feeling of friendly staff. Would recommend to any-body who wants exceptional location and super value. JL
January 5, 2013