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I’ve been in Toronto since the end of July, and won’t leave until September 4th. On paper, it sounds amazing—living in a new city, exploring, working, creating content, and just being Morgan. Everyone says, “Wow, your life is so glamorous!” And don’t get me wrong—it absolutely has its sparkle. The scenery, the food, the fashion, the freedom of planning my own days—it’s all incredible. But what no one tells you about solo travel is that it can also be… isolating. Some days, I get hit with this wave of loneliness that I didn’t expect. I miss my Mom, my dog Ralph, and I think about my Dad constantly—especially since losing him. Being away from my “normal life,” from the people and routines that ground you, brings all those feelings to the surface. You start reflecting, sometimes a little too deeply, about life, family, and everything in between. The mental load of managing grief, missing loved ones, and feeling “far from home” is real. It’s not all dramatic, though—I’m still working. That’s the point of being here in the first place. I’m managing projects, meetings, content, and deadlines all while trying to enjoy this city. But solo travel is a constant juggling act. I have to actively manage my mental health because there’s no “home base” to lean on. There’s no quick hug, no familiar conversation, no late-night venting session. I’ve had to learn how to check in with myself, give myself grace, and find little pockets of joy—even when I’m missing everything else. Some people think being a solo traveler is all about freedom. And it is…sometimes. But it’s also about patience—waiting for payments, waiting for opportunities to land, and navigating a city that’s new to you, without a built-in support system. You learn quickly that you can only control your actions, your attitude, and your self-care. You also learn the importance of carving out space for stillness, reflection, and even a little indulgence—like sitting in a café with an iced matcha, just watching the city breathe around you. I’ll be honest: I’ve had moments where I wanted to just cry in my hotel room or talk to my dog on FaceTime like I used to. And that’s okay. Part of traveling solo is giving yourself permission to feel fully—whether that’s joy, awe, loneliness, or longing. You can’t have the highs of exploring a new city without the quiet moments of reckoning. Toronto has been beautiful, inspiring, and full of opportunities for growth. But the reality behind the scenes is that solo travel is emotionally taxing. It requires balancing the dream with the grind, the excitement with the solitude, and the work with the reflection. And it teaches you something that’s easy to forget in everyday life—you can survive, thrive, and find magic even when you’re doing it all on your own. So yes, I’m here, solo in the 6ix, living my best life on the surface, while also sitting with the complicated, emotional, messy layers underneath. And honestly? That’s what makes it real. Because the sparkle isn’t just in the city—it’s in learning how to hold space for yourself, even when the distance feels long and the nights feel quiet.
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Montreal has quickly become one of my favorite Canadian cities to explore, so when I found myself back in town for a quick two-night stay, I checked into the Embassy Suites by Hilton Montreal Airport. While it was a shorter trip this time, the hotel gave me everything I needed to live my best boss babe away-from-home life. From fueling up in the morning to catching my flight back to Toronto with ease, Embassy Suites delivered.
A Quick but Chic Stay Sometimes travel isn’t about how long you stay, but how well you maximize the time you do have. That’s exactly what I loved about Embassy Suites. The hotel had all the essentials that made my two nights in Montreal feel effortless—convenience, comfort, and a touch of luxury that fits perfectly into the Mo on the Go lifestyle. Breakfast Goals: The Omelette Bar Let’s start with one of my favorite highlights—the complimentary breakfast with a full omelette bar. You know how much I appreciate starting the day with something delicious and protein-packed, especially when I’ve got a tight schedule. Having a made-to-order omelette, paired with fresh fruit, coffee, and more, was exactly the kind of fuel I needed to power through my day. Embassy Suites didn’t just give me breakfast—they gave me boss babe energy on a plate. Keeping It Real: Laundry on the Go One of the realities of traveling as often as I do is that sometimes the suitcase runs low on fresh outfits. I loved that the Embassy Suites made it easy for me to do a quick load of laundry right on-site. It may not sound glamorous, but trust me—having clean clothes while you’re on the go is a small luxury that makes a big difference. It kept me feeling fresh, polished, and ready to slay my content and meetings. That’s what I call smart travel. Airport Made Easy When it was time to say goodbye to Montreal, the airport shuttle made my departure smooth and stress-free. No scrambling to find a ride, no unnecessary stress—just a seamless trip straight to the airport for my flight back to Toronto. For a busy traveler like me, those little conveniences go a long way in keeping things running smoothly. Boss Babe Takeaway The Embassy Suites by Hilton Montreal was the perfect choice for my quick two-night stay. It had everything I needed: a delicious breakfast to start the day, laundry to keep me on my A-game, and an easy ride back to the airport. While I wasn’t in town long, this hotel made it possible for me to feel settled, taken care of, and focused on what really mattered during my trip. So, if you’re planning a short Montreal getaway—or even just passing through—Embassy Suites should be on your radar. It’s proof that even a quick stay can feel like a boss babe home base when you pick the right spot. There are certain food experiences that you just have to try when visiting a new city, and for Montreal, it’s the bagels. Now, I’ll be honest—this trip to Montreal was my very first time in the city (and spoiler alert: it won’t be my last). As soon as I booked my flight, I started making a list of what I needed to see, eat, and experience. Funny enough, one of those recommendations actually came while I was already in the air. On my Air Canada flight from Toronto to Montreal, the in-flight entertainment featured the iconic St-Viateur Bagel, a Montreal staple that’s been around since 1957.
Now, if you know me, then you know bagels are in my DNA. Just like my mama, bagel places hate to see us coming—we don’t play around when it comes to a warm, chewy, perfectly baked bagel. So, when I landed in Montreal, I knew there was no way I was leaving the city without experiencing St-Viateur for myself. A Line Worth Waiting In The morning I decided to go, I quickly learned I wasn’t the only one who had St-Viateur on my must-try list. The line was wrapped around the block, filled with both tourists and locals who knew this was the spot. I ended up waiting almost 45 minutes before it was my turn to step inside. Normally, I’m not a fan of long lines, but this one felt different—like part of the experience, part of the pilgrimage to bagel heaven. And let me tell you: the wait was absolutely worth it. The Montreal Bagel Difference If you’re used to New York–style bagels, Montreal bagels are a little different—and dare I say, better. They’re a touch smaller, denser, and have that sweet, wood-fired flavor that makes every bite memorable. At St-Viateur, the bagels are hand-rolled, boiled in honey water, and baked fresh in a wood-fired oven right in front of you. Watching the bakers move with such precision and passion made me appreciate the craft even more. When I finally had that first bite, it was everything I had hoped for and more. Crispy on the outside, warm and chewy on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness—it was a 10/10, no hesitation. Honestly, I could have eaten two or three right there on the sidewalk, but I tried to pace myself. What I Ordered Because you know I had to do it right, I went for not just one, but two bagel experiences. ✨ First up was the everything bagel with chive cream cheese—a classic choice, but let me tell you, St-Viateur elevated it to another level. The seasoning blend on the bagel paired perfectly with the tangy, herby cream cheese, and every bite just melted in my mouth. ✨ Next, I couldn’t leave without trying something that felt truly “Montreal.” I went for the sesame seed bagel smoked meat sandwich—and wow. The sesame bagel itself was soft yet sturdy, holding all that juicy, smoky, perfectly seasoned meat together like it was made for it (which, let’s be honest, it was). Add in mustard, and I was in foodie heaven. Both were completely different experiences but equally amazing. It was the kind of meal that made me want to sit for a moment, take a deep breath, and just say, “Yes, this is why I travel.” More Than Just a Bagel Shop What I loved most about St-Viateur wasn’t just the food—it was the vibe. The shop has this old-school, no-frills energy that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a piece of Montreal’s history. Everyone in line seemed excited, chatting about their favorite flavors or how often they come back. It wasn’t just a food stop; it was a community. First-Time in Montreal, But Not the Last As I mentioned, this was my very first trip to Montreal, and this bagel experience sealed the deal that it won’t be my last. St-Viateur gave me the kind of food memory that sticks with you—the kind you tell friends about, the kind you write home (or in this case, blog) about. Montreal itself is such a vibrant, multicultural city, and moments like this reminded me why travel is so special. Boss Babe Travel Takeaway Sometimes the best part of traveling is slowing down and savoring the small things—like standing in line for almost an hour just to try a legendary bagel. For me, St-Viateur Bagel wasn’t just about the food; it was about being present, enjoying the culture, and saying yes to experiences that might seem simple but end up being unforgettable. So if you’re heading to Montreal, add St-Viateur Bagel to your itinerary. Trust me, it’s worth the wait, worth the hype, and absolutely worth the carbs. And as for me? I’ll definitely be back for round two on my next trip. Montreal has always been on my radar as one of those cities that balances culture, fashion, and food effortlessly. So when I had the chance to stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Pointe-Claire, I knew I was in for a treat. Let me just say—this wasn’t just a hotel stay; it was a full-on boss babe away-from-home experience that made my time in Montreal equal parts productive and fabulous.
First Impressions Count The moment I walked into the DoubleTree Pointe-Claire, I felt like I had stepped into a space that understands travelers like me. Stylish yet warm, modern yet inviting—everything about the lobby screamed “welcome home, boss babe.” And let’s not forget, DoubleTree is famous for greeting you with their signature warm chocolate chip cookie. Yes, please! That little touch set the tone for a stay that was cozy, thoughtful, and chic. A Boss Babe’s Room to Recharge My room was spacious, modern, and perfect for that balance between work and wind down. As someone who’s always juggling meetings, content creation, and exploring a new city, I need a space that lets me switch gears easily. The big, comfy bed? Amazing. The desk setup? Perfect for getting things done. And the sleek bathroom? Let’s just say, it had me feeling refreshed and photo-ready every morning. Convenience at My Doorstep One of the things I loved most about this location was the mall right across the street. Yes, boss babes—shopping at my fingertips! We’re talking Aritzia, Sephora, and more. Whether I needed a quick beauty restock or a new outfit to slay the day, it was all just a short walk away. No fuss, just pure convenience. Staying in My Routine I always say, just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean your routines should suffer. A quick search led me to a super cute Pilates studio only 5 minutes away. That was my happy place for keeping my body moving, my mind clear, and my energy up during my stay. It’s the little things like finding a local studio that help me feel grounded and keep me from falling off my boss babe wellness game. Close Enough to the Action Another perk? While Pointe-Claire gave me the calm, suburban feel, I was still only 25–30 minutes from downtown Montreal. That meant I could dive into all the culture, nightlife, and food the city is famous for without being stuck in the middle of the hustle when I wanted to rest. It was the best of both worlds: peace when I needed it, action when I wanted it. Boss Babe Takeaway The DoubleTree by Hilton Pointe-Claire isn’t just a hotel—it’s a launchpad for living your best life in Montreal. From the chic, comfortable rooms to the unbeatable location (shopping, wellness, and downtown all within reach), this stay checked every single box for me. So, if you’re planning a Montreal getaway and want that perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and a little dose of boss babe magic, this is the place to book. Trust me—your cookie (and your best self) will be waiting. You know how TikTok will have you adding things to your bucket list you didn’t even know you needed? Well, that’s exactly how I stumbled upon Spa William Gray in Montreal. I was scrolling, minding my business, and saw someone post about being able to reserve time at their spa pool for only $55 Canadian dollars. Excuse me? A chic spa pool day for the cost of a brunch date? That was an immediate yes. In “girl math,” $55 Canadian is practically free—and when it comes to self-care and luxury on a budget, you know I don’t play around.
Checking In for Poolside Bliss The reservation was super simple, and before I knew it, I was heading into Old Montreal with my swimsuit packed and my “Boss Babe Out of Office” vibes on lock. The spa itself is tucked inside the William Gray Hotel, and from the moment I stepped in, I felt transported. The vibe was modern, serene, and just a little bougie—exactly how I like my spa days. When I walked into the pool area, I was honestly shocked. The place was empty. Yep, I had the entire spa pool to myself. Talk about manifesting main character energy. While I was expecting to share the space with a few others, it turned into my own private pool day, which made the experience even more magical. A Warm Surprise Here’s the thing: the weather wasn’t exactly giving “pool day.” The sun was playing hide and seek, the air was a little cool, and normally I would have second-guessed jumping in. But the moment I dipped a toe in, I was pleasantly surprised—the pool was warm. Not lukewarm, not “oh maybe if I move around I’ll get used to it” warm. I’m talking cozy, sink-right-in, spa-perfect warm. So what did I do? I stayed in that pool for 3.5 hours straight. Yes, girl, you read that right. Three and a half hours of floating, relaxing, and living my best Montreal life. I didn’t even feel the need to switch it up with the sauna or the steam room—I was perfectly content just claiming my spot in that pool like it was mine. Breakfast by the Pool Of course, a boss babe knows you can’t lounge on an empty stomach. I ordered some breakfast and had it delivered right by the pool. There’s just something about sipping coffee and nibbling on something delicious while your feet dangle in the water that feels like peak luxury. It was giving “this is exactly why I hustle so hard.” Honestly, I could’ve stayed there all day if they let me. The Boss Babe Breakdown Now let’s talk about the value here, because Spa William Gray really understood the assignment. For $55 CAD, I got a pool day that would have easily cost double or triple in other cities. Think about it: you get the stunning Old Montreal location, spa-level vibes, a heated pool, and the chance to completely unwind without spending a fortune. To me, that’s what self-care should look like—accessible luxury that reminds you to pour into yourself as much as you pour into others. Final Thoughts: My Montreal Escape Sometimes the best part of travel isn’t ticking off all the touristy things—it’s finding those hidden gems that make you slow down and just be. For me, Spa William Gray was exactly that. I didn’t need a packed itinerary or a full spa package to feel pampered. All I needed was a warm pool, a few quiet hours, and breakfast by the water. Would I do it again? Absolutely. In fact, next time I’m in Montreal, Spa William Gray will be one of the first things I book. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re living in your own little rom-com moment, and who doesn’t need more of those? So, if you’re planning a trip to Montreal, do yourself a favor and add Spa William Gray pool day to your list. Because if “girl math” says $55 Canadian dollars is basically free, I say it’s basically a must. As a boss babe on the go, I’ve learned that where you stay can make or break your entire trip. I need more than just a bed and four walls—I need a space that lets me balance the hustle with a little bit of home. On my latest trip to Toronto, I found just that at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Vaughan Toronto. From the stunning lobby to the comfort of my suite, this hotel was the perfect mix of cozy, convenient, and chic. First Impressions Matter Before I even checked in, I was struck by how gorgeous the lobby was. You know I’m all about aesthetics, and this one was giving luxury meets comfort. Clean lines, warm lighting, and stylish seating areas made me feel instantly at ease. It wasn’t just a lobby—it was a vibe. The kind of place where you can sip coffee, answer emails, and still feel like you’re in the pages of a travel magazine. A Suite That Feels Like Home What really sets Homewood Suites apart is the space. My suite was designed with longer stays and working travelers in mind. Think: a fully equipped kitchen, a separate living area, and a bedroom that made me want to press snooze just one more time. For me, this was everything. I could start my mornings with coffee in my own kitchen, spread out my laptop on the desk to get some work done, and then unwind in a space that felt truly mine at the end of the day. It’s those little touches that make a boss babe feel at home while still on the move. Fuel for the Hustle Traveling can be nonstop, and I need my energy. Luckily, Homewood Suites had me covered. Their complimentary hot breakfast was a daily win—whether I was in the mood for eggs and waffles or something quick before heading out the door. And let’s not forget the evening socials on select nights. A chance to grab a light bite, unwind, and even network a bit? That’s what I call multitasking made easy. Location, Location, Location The best part? Vaughan is the perfect base for exploring Toronto. Close enough to the city to tap into all the action, but far enough away to give me a little breathing room from the hustle and bustle. I could hop into the city for meetings, food adventures, or festivals, then retreat back to Vaughan to recharge. It was the best of both worlds. A Boss Babe’s Takeaway The Homewood Suites by Hilton Vaughan Toronto isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to live, even if it’s just for a few days. As a woman who is constantly on the go, this hotel gave me the freedom to keep my routines, the comfort to feel at home, and the style to remind me I deserve the best wherever I land. For my fellow boss babes: if you’re heading to Toronto and want that perfect balance of work, play, and home-away-from-home vibes, put Homewood Suites Vaughan on your list. Trust me—you’ll feel taken care of the moment you step into that stunning lobby. Okay, let’s talk about something we don’t always glam up in travel blogs—waxing. Yep, because being a boss babe on the go doesn’t mean neglecting the basics, and let’s just say… I was way past due for a wax. While in Toronto, I found a wax salon conveniently located down the street from my hotel in Vaughan. Perfect, right? But here’s the twist—I didn’t just get a regular Brazilian. I tried a sugar Brazilian wax for the very first time. And whew, do I have thoughts.
Wait… What is Sugar Waxing? If you’ve never heard of sugar waxing, let me break it down for you. Instead of the traditional hard or soft wax, sugar waxing uses a paste made of natural ingredients: sugar, lemon, and water. That’s it. The paste is molded onto your skin and flicked off in the direction of your hair growth (instead of against it), which supposedly makes it less painful and better for your skin. It’s been around for centuries, and people rave about it being a more natural and gentler option compared to traditional waxing. So when I walked into the salon and my esthetician—a beautiful woman who looked like me, which immediately made me feel more at ease—suggested sugar over hard wax, I was intrigued. I had heard it could hurt more, but she smiled and said, “Honestly, I don’t think so.” Flashback to London Trauma Now listen, the reason I was even more hesitant is because I still have flashbacks to my waxing experience in London last year. Let’s just say it was a horror story that belongs in a stand-up comedy set, not a beauty blog. But a girl’s gotta do what she’s gotta do, right? So, I took a deep breath, trusted the process, and let her mix up that sugar paste. The Sugar Wax Experience BABY. Let me tell you something—sugar waxing is an experience. From the first flick, I knew this was not the same as my tried-and-true hard wax. Hard wax, in my opinion, covers more area in fewer strips, so you’re in and out quicker. Sugar, on the other hand, is more… meticulous. It’s like they go section by section, flick by flick. And yes, to me, it did feel like it hurt more. Not unbearable, but definitely enough to make me question why I agreed to this in the first place. That said, I did notice something different afterwards: my skin felt super smooth and soft in a way that was slightly different from hard wax. There wasn’t that sticky residue or raw feeling—it almost felt like my skin got exfoliated in the process, which was a nice bonus. Final Verdict: Team Hard Wax As much as I respect the sugar wax tradition and the smooth results, I don’t think I’ll be switching teams anytime soon. Hard wax just feels more efficient for me and my pain tolerance. I’m glad I tried it, though, because now I can officially say I’ve experienced it—and isn’t that what Mo on the Go is all about? Trying new things, even if they make you wince a little? So now I’ll turn the question over to you: would you try sugar waxing, or are you sticking with hard wax like me? Because one thing’s for sure—waxing adventures always make for the best travel stories. When you’re a boss babe on the go like me, travel isn’t just about a change of scenery—it’s about creating a space where you can still thrive, even away from home. On my most recent trip to Toronto, I had the pleasure of staying at the Residence Inn Downtown Toronto, and let me tell you, this spot had me feeling like I was living my best “away-from-home-but-still-on-top-of-my-game” life. Home Meets Hustle What I loved most about the Residence Inn is how it perfectly blended comfort with functionality. As much as I love being out in the city, exploring food spots and catching the vibes, I also need to come back to a space that feels like mine. From the moment I stepped into my suite, I felt just that. The rooms are designed like mini apartments, complete with a full kitchen, spacious living area, and work desk. For me, that’s a game-changer. I could start my mornings with coffee while checking emails, head out for my Toronto adventures, and come back to a space that let me unwind and recharge. It’s giving independence, flexibility, and a little luxury all wrapped into one. Fueling the Boss Energy Every boss knows you can’t pour from an empty cup, and Residence Inn made sure I was taken care of. Their complimentary hot breakfast was a daily must—think fresh eggs, waffles, and plenty of grab-and-go options for those mornings when I had back-to-back meetings or wanted to hit the city early. And let’s talk about the little touches. A quick snack from the lobby market, high-speed WiFi that never let me down, and even laundry facilities for when I needed to keep my fits fresh—all the small things added up to a big impact. It’s like the hotel knew exactly what a modern, on-the-go woman needs. Location is Everything Another boss move? The location. Residence Inn Downtown Toronto put me right in the heart of it all. Whether I was heading to Caribana festivities, grabbing dinner with friends, or exploring the city’s neighborhoods, everything was just minutes away. Toronto is a city that thrives on energy, and staying downtown meant I was never far from the action. At the same time, the hotel gave me the peace and quiet I needed to rest. I could be out dancing to soca one moment and then back in my suite journaling, reflecting, and recharging the next. That balance was priceless. A Boss Babe Away From Home Traveling often means sacrificing some of your comforts, but Residence Inn Downtown Toronto made sure I didn’t have to. It felt like my home away from home—with just the right touch of elevated service to remind me I was still on vacation. For my fellow boss babes who are balancing business with pleasure, this is the spot. You get the freedom of having your own space, the convenience of being downtown, and the comfort of knowing you can keep your routine intact while still living it up in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Final Thoughts Toronto already had my heart with its culture, food, and energy, but my stay at the Residence Inn Downtown made the trip that much sweeter. It’s more than a hotel—it’s a lifestyle hub for women like me who need their travels to fuel both their hustle and their joy. So, if you’re planning a trip to Toronto, make the Residence Inn your base. Trust me—you’ll feel right at home while still living like the boss babe you are. |
About MorganMorgan Angelique Owens is the author of "Finding My Sparkle" and Founder & CEO of the MAO Brand, Professional Pretty, and Curvy Cardio, LLC. Archives
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