Humaniti Hotel Montréal, Autograph Collection

"Why book? The most exciting high-rise development in Montreal’s recent memory–perhaps in all of Canada’s–is the LEED-certified, design-forward Humaniti, a multi-use building smack in the center of the city’s best location. It’s modern, it’s sexy, and it’s environmentally-friendly–what more could you ask of a hotel in 2023? Set the scene Stepping into this hotel’s  modern lobby is more akin to stepping into an art gallery–you’re greeted by clean lines, colorful and contemporary artworks, and impossibly cool (yet also warm, if that makes sense) staff. The crowd skews young and beautiful, with a heavy contingent of after-work happy hour seekers (there are a number of large multinationals such as Google with office buildings in this neighborhood), but there is the occasional young family in the mix, too. The backstory It was a long time coming for this development to come to fruition–pandemic notwithstanding–but now, finally, the formerly quiet space where Downtown Montreal, Chinatown, and Old Montreal meet has a destination hotel worthy of this fabulous address. The rooms Expect the aforementioned galleryesque interiors–lots of polished concrete, clean lines, light woods, and tons of natural light streaming in through floor-to-ceiling windows. But don’t mistake these modern rooms for being cold; homey touches as comfortable beds, plush bedding, in-room Nespresso machines, and a mini-bar stocked with healthy, locally sourced snacks and natural wines make this an experience as comfortable as it is contemporary. Food and drink The hotel’s restaurant, h3, is an exercise in gastronomic seasonal fare, with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients prepared with that certain je ne sais quoi that makes Montreal one of North America’s most exciting food cities. For a more relaxed environment, check out the scene-y bar by the pool, where fresh salads, potent cocktails, and house music keep the party going from lunch, through dinner, and into the night. The spa There’s a just-big-enough spa (by city hotel standards) that offers four treatment rooms, two pedicure stations and two manicure stations. The typical menu of massages and facials is on offer, incorporating products that are often Canadian and always non-toxic and clean–such as Quebec-based BKIND. The neighborhood/area Two blocks this way you’re in downtown. Two blocks that way you’re in Old Montreal. A few minutes the other way and you’re exploring the restaurants of Chinatown or, in the other direction, the vintage shops of hipster bars of Griffintown. For first-timers to the city, there isn’t a better location.  The service For a high-rise hotel, the staff is very adept at keep service quick and snappy. We called down to the lobby for two wine glasses to enjoy the bottle of natural red in our mini-bar, and someone was at our door, glasses in hand, in about two minutes flat. For families Each room’s shower contains some frosted glass that looks out directly into the bedroom, Eco effort You won’t find single-use plastics on the premises. Bath amenities are wall-mounted and refillable, and an abundance of greenery throughout the hotel keeps the air smelling fresh. Accessibility The hotel is fully accessible. Anything left to mention? Don’t sleep on the amazing two-story gym here. It’s bright, airy, super clean, and overlooks the gorgeous pool area. It’s the kind of hotel gym that–gasp!–guests actually enjoy using." - Todd Plummer