Students from the Toronto School of Management’s (TSOM) Hospitality and Tourism programs recently participated in an exclusive educational visit to the renowned Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer, located in the heart of the city’s Entertainment District. This immersive experience offered a behind-the-scenes look at a boutique hotel recognized for its personalized service, architectural elegance, and family-run legacy.
Led by Jean-Philip Dupré, General Manager, and Friedrich Wolf, Guest Services Manager, the students were welcomed with a guided tour highlighting key aspects of the hotel’s operations. Divided into two groups, they explored various facilities, including executive and standard suites, the refined lobby, multifunctional event and library areas, and wellness amenities.
Throughout the visit, students were introduced to the hotel’s philosophy of offering a “Peaceful Urban Oasis in Toronto,” a concept reflected in both its design and guest experience. Tour leaders emphasized the hotel’s use of rich wooden interiors, smart technology integration, and warm, minimalist aesthetics—elements designed to create a sense of comfort, sophistication, and a true “home-away-from-home” atmosphere.
The tour also featured an in-depth Q&A session, where Mr. Dupré and Mr. Wolf generously shared insights into the hotel’s history, operational structure, and core values. Topics discussed included staff recruitment and development, internal communication, guest experience management, and sustainability practices. Students also gained valuable insights into competitive positioning within the luxury hospitality market and learned how the hotel’s marketing strategy supports its brand identity and boutique model.
The visit concluded with an opportunity for students to network, enjoy refreshments, and receive curated gifts from the hotel—a thoughtful gesture that reflected the hotel’s guest-centered approach.
Special thanks to Dr. Rasmi Kokash, TSOM faculty member, for organizing and accompanying the group, and to the exceptional team at Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer for their hospitality and generosity in sharing their expertise.
This unique field experience not only enriched students’ academic journey but also deepened their understanding of a growing and highly specialized sector within the hospitality and tourism industry.
