The Metcalfe Hotel

"We don't know much about this place—can you give us the scoop?Though Ottawa boasts some famous grande dame hotels, like the Fairmont Château Laurier and the Lord Elgin, this modern boutique hotel right downtown offers a peerless location, plus larger rooms and newer, fresher in-room amenities—including jetted tubs, 42-inch TVs, and an indoor pool. The open-plan lobby, at the ground floor of a five-story-high atrium that houses the rooms, has a striking industrial-chic vibe. We love it. And the other guests who are staying here—what are they like?This is a mostly business hotel, as Ottawa is a mostly business and civil-servant town—it's where Parliament is located, after all. The more romantic set might choose more storied properties, but the Metcalfe has a contemporary charm and user-friendliness that draws the travel-savvy. It's filled with repeat visitors. It makes sense that they'd want less pomp. Speaking of which: How was the service?The service here is friendly, helpful, straightforward, and accommodating. Onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs. Any room in particular we should book?The Executive Rooms have cushy beds, nice hardwood floors, spa showers, jetted tubs, a super-ergonomic office chair, and energizing views of Metcalfe Street. What about the mini bar, or the toiletries? Anything you were impressed with, and want to shout out?The wifi is fast and free, and the location—blocks away from Parliament Hill—is excellent. The hotel is located right in the middle of downtown and close to restaurants, pharmacies, cafés, and parking. That all sounds pretty ideal. What about the food situation?You can skip the restaurant, but there's an attached Starbucks downstairs as well as an in-room Keurig machine. The continental breakfast room service is adequate. Noted. Anything else you can recommend while we're here?Take a morning dip in the indoor pool. Bottom line: is it worth it to book a night here, and why?Save on money and gain on space at this modern property. It's not the most romantic in town, but it's the most seamlessly on point. You'll sleep well, work easily, and be right in the middle of things." - Isa Tousignant