(Courtesy Hilton Worldwide)

TORONTO - Travellers looking for a hotel that caters to family needs might want to check out Homewood Suites by Hilton.

Rated Best Value Chain (2007, 2008, 2009) in a Zagat survey (just one of many accolades), this upscale, all-suite, residential style hotel, is not as expensive as you might expect.

The new Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn by Hilton Toronto Airport Corporate Centre Hotel for example, has rates starting at $189 per night for a one-bedroom suite with a fully-equipped kitchen. the hotel's Endless Summer weekend rates start at $143.65 for a studio suite with a king bed, and there is a Canada's Wonderland package (from $239) that includes one night's accommodation, two adult tickets to Wonderland, hot buffet breakfast and Welcome Home reception. Kids under 16 stay free in their parents suite and children's Wonderland passes can be bought at reception.

This is the first time Homewood and Hampton have paired up in Canada. Operated by the same owner, both are geared to corporate and leisure travellers and offer similar rates.

In addition to a pool, putting green and fitness centre at this location, you might be surprised at all the complimentary extras, which are available at most of the 300-plus properties in the U.S., Canada (eight hotels) and Mexico (two hotels).

These include full hot breakfast daily, "light dinner" from Monday to Thursday, (dinner on the day of my visit was actually quite hearty: Clam

chowder, salad, breaded cod fish, vegetables and dessert), daily newspaper, gym, grocery shopping service, high-speed Internet access in suites, and use of the 24-hour business centre.

There is also an online check-in and room selection service through a web-based room selection tool, an industry first.

Friendly staff and unexpected treats, such as hot beverages and cookies in the lobby during the evening, combine to make guests feel at home. The Toronto hotel also offers free local calls and shuttle service to businesses within a 8-km radius.

For more, check homewoodsuites.com or call 1-800-Call-Home.