by Colette Gilbert
How would we entertain the kids? Would there be decent hotels that would cater for a family with two young children? Although I’d heard amazing things about the city, I’d never have considered Toronto to be a holiday option with a family in tow. How wrong I was.
We fell in love with Toronto – as adults it was hard not to love the history, the varied scenery (walking off a beach and 15 minutes later being within view of the skyline above, a ferry ride away), the amazing restaurant choices. But to see how much the kids enjoyed it too was really satisfying and there really was something for us all.
Accommodation
We stayed in the heart of downtown Toronto at the Delta Chelsea which is Canada’s largest hotel (with an astonishing 1590 rooms!). Just minutes away from hot spots such as The Eaton Centre shopping mall, live theatre and cinema, the hotel was well chosen for us in particular because of its many family-friendly offerings including a Kids Centre with painting, making and Wii gameplay activities. They also have pet rabbits may I add. . . and goldfish which our little’uns loved. There is a family pool with new corkscrew water slide, Club 33 Teen Lounge and Camp Chelsea which is like an activity camp you can book the kids on during your stay. Needless to say, lots on offer for all ages.
The hotel offers a limited number of Family Fun Suites which are like a home away from home and feature a living room and kitchen as well as 2 separate bedrooms. Bunk beds are offered along with a toy selection and game consoles. As any parent of young kids will know, a separate living space is key when you want (nay, need) some evening time to yourself – and it’s not so common a find.
It does make such a difference to your holiday experience to be welcomed and well accommodated for at a hotel. The entertainment centres available were great but also the choice of restaurants were very much appreciated. There is a buffet style restaurant, Market Garden, for more casual meals. Giant muffins my children could not jump over were their regular choice for breakfast. Then there is an a-la-carte restaurant BB33 which is still comfortable for families just a little more ‘deluxe’ and somewhere to get a little bit more spoilt.
See more details about the Delta Chelsea and their latest offers at their website www.deltachelsea.com or at their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/deltachelsea
To read all about our family-friendly activities read on. . .