Elaisha Goes...To Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel Review

One night wasn't enough. Guys, I had the opportunity to review the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel while on my way to the east coast this summer. This location reopened after an overhaul of the look and feel of the space. And let me just say from the top, it was luxe.

Keep reading to find out whether I would recommend that you stay here for your next trip to my favourite city. 

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When we walked into the hotel I was exhausted. We wheeled our luggage up to the concierge after a drive in from Toronto. It was 10 pm but the hotel staff were chipper and friendly. We brought our own luggage up to the room which I was ok with. The next morning I actually had the chance to check out the lobby and I loved the space. The multi-colour scheme and tiles really gave the space a luxe feel. I felt all bougie sitting there the next morning waiting for Caleigh to get back from her TV appearance. 

The first thing that caught my eye when we walked into the room was the artwork and decor. I loved the bedside table lamp (I want one for my new apartment) and the little face on the wall. It was kinda creepy and kinda cool at the same time. This might sound odd, but my least favourite part was the curtains. I felt that they fell short compared to the rest of the decor. In the grander scheme however it really didn’t matter that much especially because we were just there for one night. 

Caleigh and I shared a bed and it honestly felt like we were on separate mattresses. It was plush and I felt like I was in a fortress of sheets. I slept straight through the night and felt rested enough to wake up and work in the morning before we got on the road. I felt a boost of productivity when I woke up in such a clear space. There was even a tea bar available for use with a cute Tassimo machine too. 

I think the best part of this room was the bathroom. The white and urban decor was a treat. I really enjoyed my warm shower in the morning in the spacious bathroom. I wrapped in a warm hotel robe and felt kinda sexy walking around that room. There was enough counter space for Caleigh and me to spread all of our girlie stuff out.  

We were able to park our RV on the street. However we had to move it early in the morning to ensure that there was no disruption to traffic (and that we wouldn’t get a ticket). Underground parking is available however we had to park outside since our RV was oversized.  Checkout was a breeze we just waved goodbye, packed into our RV and rode into the sun. 

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel room

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel room

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel room

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel bathroom

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel bathroom

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel bathroom

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel lobby

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel bathroom

Elaisha Jade at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel bathroom

If you want a more romantic Montreal experience you might want to stay a little further out in Old Montreal. However , If you plan on touring downtown Montreal, this Hotel will give you the chance to do so with so much convenience. Access to Montreal’s Eaton’s Centre is a quick walk away. As well, there are several options for the underground Metro. 

I really loved my stay at the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel. If you have any questions, leave me a comment below. 

#ElaishaGoes to Terre Bleu: A Lavender Surprise

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Last summer I headed up to Terre Bleu, one of a few lavender field destinations in Ontario (especially near Toronto). The drive up past the Premium Outlet Mall was painful, I wanted to stop in and raid Restoration Hardware, but we trucked on to the remote Terre Bleu.

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We parked and walked up to what seemed to be a wooden house with a pathway cut right in the middle of it. It towered above me as we quickly scuttled in to avoid the sun. Workers in their purple shirts strolled about busy with tasks of the day. We signed up for a tour of the fields where we learned about the types of lavender when lavender would be in season and the medicinal uses of the sweet smelling bush. We visited the bees and saw them at work making lavender honey.

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After the tour and spending some time in the shop, my mum and I were ready to buy everything there. The summer sun bore down on us and I indulged in the lemonade and she got the ice cream. Since I avoid ice cream I only got a small lick off of a drop on my hand and fell in love. The flavour was subtly sweet and delicious. Thankfully the lemonade satiated my sweet tooth!

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On to the macarons: if you go, buy at least 3 boxes. Eat one either in the fields or on your way home and put the other two in the fridge (if they make it that far). The adorable purple french cookies were filled with a creamy ganache that I still fantasise about today. I also purchased some lavender oil and a pouch filled with dried lavender for my chest of drawers.

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I had the chance to meet the owner of Terre Bleu and experience the location from his perspective, too. He was very nice and educated my mum and me on lavender and how they keep the small business going.

Get a quote for this trip

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Terre Bleu reopens June 1st and I highly recommend visiting and taking the tour! The scenery, snacks and relaxation were worth the journey.

#ElaishaGoes to Hailed Coffee

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Next stop on my list of perfect IG spots is another east-end favourite, Hailed Coffee.

Pictures by Desiree of A Desired Journey

Hailed coffee was a welcome and warm escape from the wet and dreary day outside. It was a cute space with the classic coffee grinder and milk steamer noises sounding off here and there. The white washed cafe thankfully carried dairy alternatives! I ordered a decaf latte with almond milk and a hazelnut shot. The gorgeous drink was delicious. I don't drink coffee so this was a little treat for me! It was a super cozy space and I quickly found a spot to sit.

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Desiree and I split a super decadent croissant and chatted a bit of business over our snack. With only a few customers in and out of the space, the atmosphere at Hailed Coffee was super chill. I would definitely recommend one of the tables at the back for a work-day since the music wasn't blasting in there and it wasn't crowded.

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Wearing: EXPRESS Jeans, EXPRESS shoes, Missguided Top

Have you visited Hailed Coffee? Let me know in the comments below!