The original St. Regis opened in 1904 in New York’s Midtown neighborhood. Eight years later, the hotel's founder, John Jacob Astor IV, would die on the Titanic, sinking to the bottom of the Atlantic with the full knowledge that he was the richest man on a sinking unsinkable ship. To this day, the hotel still performs rituals adored by the Astors—perhaps more than any other luxury hotel brand, the St. Regis places an emphasis not only on keeping its traditions alive, but honoring its founders. Champagne is opened with a sabre and pomp for the daily sunset sabrage; on weekend afternoons high tea is served; and each property hosts Midnight Suppers. Bedding, towels, and robes are adorned with a diamond pattern, a nod to Caroline Astor’s jewel fixation. Although the St. Regis heritage defines the brand, this is its first foray into the Canuck market, and many of the design details are nods to either Toronto or Canada. The bronze fireplace in the Astor Lounge, for instance, is inspired by the character of Queen Street, while the ceiling feature in the lobby references Ontario’s topography. One thing St. Regis guests can’t buy is time, which is why butlers are there to make guest stays effortless. Butlers unpack luggage, press clothes, arrange transport, obtain impossible reservations, and take care of any of the annoying planning that eats away at the day. At the end of all guests’ stays, the butlers will even pack guests’ bags for them. The hotel has fast become a favorite with the A-list set, who rave about the 189-sq. m (2,035-sq. ft.) John Jacob Astor Suite. Even standard rooms are a generous 51 sq. m (550 sq. ft.). All rooms have touch-control panels that automate everything from the lights to the curtains at the swipe of a finger. Pillowtop mattresses are swaddled in Italian linens. Bathrooms in the suites come with luxurious tubs and mirror-set flatscreens; some even boast excellent views. Leaving the comfort of your ultra-luxe room to dine in the 31st-story restaurant Louix Louis might seem like an onerous task, but trust me, it's worth it. The restaurant's dark spirit list is one of the deepest in the city, with over 750 bottles on offer, and the Franco-American food is top-tier.