#FIRSTLOOK: “GO PLACE” 東方匯 IN MARKHAM

GO PLACE is an experience meant originally to have been launched late 2019, but with after some delays through the Pandemic, Toronto finally gets a chance to enjoy this palatial oasis of relaxation located just north of the City.

Formerly Cineplex at First Markham Place, there only remain small remnants of what this space was in a former life, as it had undergone the most gorgeous of transformations in its new incarnation. Benefitting from a great amount of height in this open concept 68,000 square foot venue, you realize you are in for something special for the senses the moment you walk in.

With an elegant and thoughtful layout, guests get to enjoy a variety of baths, treatment rooms, hot and cold saunas, a gym, dining room and lounges. Masseuses also are available by appointment as well for a variety of different options including couples massages, hot stones and specific individual needs. While the setting is very much Asian-inspired, Go Place‘s clientele are a diverse set and all are welcome to share the experience.

For a daily flat rate of $59.00 (adult rate for those 16+), you can stay for an entire day as they are open 24 hours, and you can enjoy a stay overnight for an additional $15.00 if you are staying after 2 AM. Go Place even has a restful lounge for you to catch a nap on a reclining chair. This literally is like an escape from the City, without having to go very far away at all.

You navigate Go Place wearing a tappable wristband which collects your tab. Note that taxes and gratuities are added-on automatically. You tap your wristband to open and close your assigned locker, and your food and drink orders also are connected to your wristband as well.

The dining and drink options which span a variety of different Asian cultures, are a huge draw here and very reasonably-priced actually. We were able to preview some of their most popular menu items including Sushi (the Snow White Roll is great) and Sashimi which were cut generously, Beef Teriyaki (which can be ordered a minimum Medium-Well), Crispy Fried Shrimp Balls and also their Lemongrass Pork Chop Rice. No alcohol is served on premises as this understandably is a wellness experience, but their smoothies and juices (Dragon Dragon and Green Juice are guest favourites) are widely-enjoyed. They even have Bubble Tea, which shows is true understanding of Gen X and Y tastes and draws. My favourite was their Iced Lychee Rose Tea which was refreshing and mysterious. You can even bring your drink around with you throughout the facility as many guests did. The dining facility also has a VIP Room for special events and functions if you wanted something more private for you and your guests. Come to think of it, celebrating a milestone here would be an inspired choice. So often we center celebrations around “doing something”, but how about celebrating by relaxation? I’m sure many are on-board with this.

The masterminds behind Go Place understand that we are an Instagram/TikTok generation and love to chronicle our lives. Yes, you absolutely need a Selfie by their centerpiece Dragon Chandelier. A must.

The Saunas are rather popular here and shared facilities do have signage encouraging safe distancing. My favourites were the Salt and Agate Rooms, the latter adorned in an agate motif, set at the perfect temperature. Saunas can help fight viruses that attack your body, detoxify, increase circulation to the skin and ease muscle stiffness. It is recommended not to sit any longer than 10-15 minutes at a time and if you need to cool off, their is one cooling room which was marvelous.

Massages are very much in demand here and you need to secure a appointment in advance. I had the pleasure of experiencing a one-hour Relaxation Massage (approximately $90) performed in a tranquil, dimly-lit room. I admit I am very squirmish about being touched, but my Masseuse was very gentle and accommodated me well. I left feeling relaxed and “light” and wowed by the attentive detail to care by staff and the jaw-dropping amenities.

You must witness their Jacuzzis and Bathing facilities which are sleek and ambient. Bath robes are available at an extra $5, but all guests receive a cozy uniform and slippers to wear for their visit, and access to towels. A note to be mindful of some areas where phones and photography are permitted and not. Masks also are required throughout the premises. And also, proof of vaccination and approved ID (Canadian passport, Canadian citizenship card, foreign passport, driver’s license, permanent resident card) need to be presented at check-in.

To learn more about the magical Go Place (3275 Hwy 7 Unit 2, Markham, ON), their facilities, services and dining/drink options visit their website here.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)