When you’re new in town, you want to discover everything—restaurants, theatres, neighbourhoods, hotels—every destination is an adventure. I've returned to Toronto this fall after a 16-year absence to start my role as Canadian Living’s managing editor. Things that were once familiar feel new again, and much of the city seems so different... let the exploring begin!

One of my first adventures was a divine stay at The Ivy at Verity. I love a staycation—it feels like going away and taking a break from life, all without leaving the city. Inspired by the boutique hotels of Europe, The Ivy is housed in a restored 19th-century chocolate factory in the historic Queen Street East district of downtown Toronto. There are four luxurious, custom-designed rooms, each with a private terrace overlooking the charming courtyard. Upon entering the most enormous hotel room I’ve ever been in, I took in the giant king size bed, overstuffed furniture, bold wallpaper and bistro table and chairs. The room had more space than a studio apartment. The bathroom also impressed with marble everywhere, an epic tub and artisan-made bath salts perfect for a super-long soak. The icing on the cake? A fully-stocked, self-serve honour bar, just outside our hotel room door. The Ivy is part of Verity, a private women’s club, and was the site of my blessed hour-long massage the next afternoon. (Every staycation must involve a spa treatment of some sort, no?) The pool, sauna and lounge at  Sweetgrass Spa were lovely, but my massage therapist Jamie was out of this world. Her confident, strong hands removed months of stress in one hour. I’ve already been back for another massage since—she’s that good. I’m looking forward to returning to The Ivy, if not for an overnight stay, then for dinner at George Restaurant, just downstairs. I hear it’s not too shabby.