Staying at Ode is kind of like if your cool older sister invited you to stay with her in the city - but better, because you don't have to crash on her futon. Tucked away in Little Portugal but on a diverse, fun street, Ode is a hip and chic small scale stay with a big presence. From the art covering the street-facing front (shoutout to @lapirie on instagram) to the stunning art inside (my room featured a blown up photograph of a beautiful couple that made me swoon) to the light art installation immediately upon entering, this charming spot takes what a sterile, cookie-cutter hotel can be and flips it on its head. The rooms were well-appointed - Smeg & Samsung appliances, comfortable linens, every surface spotless - and the little touches (an ionic blowdryer rivalling the one I paid too much for at home, and branded under-eye patches for a DIY spa vibe) put it over the top. I wasn't in town for an Ode event, but following their socials you'll see they're more than just a hotel: they foster community. Ode is black woman owned, family run, and a true gem in both the neighbourhood and in the city - and I can't wait to return.