The Honda brand has been built on reliability, value and style, thus when we were offered an opportunity to test drive the 2017 Honda CRV Touring, we came eager and with nothing but the highest of expectations. Does it deliver? You bet! Not only does it serve its purpose as a as a sports utility vehicle, but also a sleek and versatile everyday ride.

My first impression of the CRV Touring after having driven more compact offerings of late from the manufacturer, was that it seemed a bit daunting size wise initially. It is extremely spacious, everything supersized from its large perforated leather seats to its jumbo hatchback trunk. Everything about it including its movements felt that little bit bigger.  While this seemed a bit of an obstacle at the start, quickly I overcame this and navigating its extra size seemed like second nature to me.

The CRV Touring is pure power with its 1.5 litre, 15 valve, direct injection, DOHC, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 179-lb.ft. of torque. Acceleration feels effortless and response was remarkably quick on the brakes.

Fuel economy always is important for us and the CRV Touring has exactly this, tallying-in at 8.7/7.2/8.0 L/100 km (city/highway/combined).  A week’s worth of driving from the east to the west ends of the city, multiple times on the 401, came out to just over $40.00 only.  I was shocked as one would expect with its power and size it should have been a ‘gas guzzler‘ but it wasn’t. There also was an ECON mode option to save even more on fuel. That money could be allocated on drive-thrus at Starbucks with Billy… just because!

Morning coffee run in the amazing #HondaCRV… because we can! ☕

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Jul 4, 2017 at 5:12am PDT

One of the CRV Touring‘s defining features is its panaromic moonroof which was a pure delight to drive under this Canada Day/Queen’s Plate Festival weekend (more here). Our car was red even! How patriotic! 🍁  We don’t think we’ve ever seen one larger and our friends too were in awe! There always is the option to retract and cover that majestic moonroof with the ease of a button, but why would you ever want to?

While we have had some issues at times connecting our Android phone via Bluetooth with other cars from Honda, our connections with the CRV Touring were flawless, allowing us to enjoy music right off our phone. We also could field text messages from its sleek 7-inch touchscreen display panel. There are two USB charging ports, hence there is never a worry about not staying connected and believe me we are OCD about this! Sound was glorious on its 331-watt premium sound system with 9 speakers, including subwoofer.

One minor irritant was the driver’s seat position resetting every time I left the car, defaulting back to its original position, but a simple Google search helped me fix that quick! This small inconvenience easily was offset by the awesomeness that was its proximity key entry. That is, being right in front of the door with the key in my pocket or bag was enough to unlock the door. I didn’t need to fumble to get into/start the car for once in my life! Believe me, I am the worst at fumbling for my keys and this is refreshing in an era of a key and a password for EVERYTHING.

Safety always is a priority and while we’ve commented on how powerful this vehicle is, it really is intuitive especially when it comes to detecting blind spots and lane departure – all without being overwhelming about it. You also are protected with front (iSRS) and side (SmartVent) airbags,  front collision warning and tire pressure monitoring. We’ve experienced flat tires before (twice in a year once!) and appreciate the value of having the latter feature.

What an amazing adventure with the #HondaCRV this past week! Swipe left to see it in all its glory!

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Jul 6, 2017 at 3:58pm PDT

Learn more about it here.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

What a week it’s been!  Although many were looking forward to this past Easter weekend, I was looking forward to it nearing an end as it was a hectic one.  When holidays really aren’t! You know what we mean!

With it being the start of the 2017 racing season at Woodbine, the Sovereign Awards, a couple big names in town, plus also an endless list of errands to run, I really couldn’t have done it without the super-stylish 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport edition, which I had the pleasure of being paired with for the week.

You know already how much we love our Hondas but it is as if we were matched-up via the algorithms of a dating app, we were so compatible.  Within gas prices on the rise, we appreciate so much its fuel economy at a combined 7.3L per 100 km, plus its Eco Assist feature which makes us better, more responsible drivers.  Our drives from the east to the west ends of the City were long ones and we spent a reasonable $60 on gas total, lasting us eight days.  The 2017 Civic Hatchback Sport is empowered with a state of the art engine: 1.5-litre, 16-valve, Direct Injection, DOHC and turbocharged 4-cylinder.  We certainly were not short on power – acceleration and deceleration were were quick – the drives were smooth like the fine milk chocolate of an easter egg.

In addition to innovation and style, the car is all about comfort.  A friend noted right away sitting in the passenger’s seat how she felt nestled-in.  Did we mention there are heated seats on both driver and front passenger’s seats too?  Don’t be jelly. With many errands to run, its spacious trunk also served purpose and is ideal for every day life no matter what demands life throws our way. We know it’s a small detail, but we adore that there are rear-window wipers for unpredictable Toronto spring weather!

Honda‘s bluetooth-connected HandsFreeLink™ system allows us to field calls and read text messages with the touch of a finger and we love that it’s both Apple and Android-friendly. A USB port placed alongside the all-important beverage holder, ensures we always have battery. The Sport Touring edition of the car at a premium comes even with wireless charging. The Honda Civic Hatchback Sport‘s audio system includes a 180-watt AM/FM audio system comes with eight speakers.

Side airbags, anti-theft protection and an automatic emergency response system also highlight some of the all-important safety benefits of the vehicle, plus that handy rear-view camera makes for flawless parking and reversing.

I mean, see below!

The 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport sure is a popular ride. Wasn’t hard spotting others. In fact, here’s two in blue, side-by-side!

These 2017 #HondaCivic Turbos are pretty popular. Sandwiched by two of them in blue! What an awesome, compact ride. Loving every adventure.

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 11, 2017 at 8:29am PDT

Opening weekend at Woodbine, including our namesake A Pic by Mrwill’s (@APicbyMrwill) 2017 debut! Hover your mouse over left/right of photos below to navigate the complete albums.

(Swipe left!) What a wonderful opening day at Woodbine yesterday! Loved seeing so many smiling faces and couldn’t be happier with @apicbymrwill’s performance! Special shoutout to my young reader Bennett from the 705 who loves reading about all my star adventures! If you are there today, don’t forget there are 2 for 1 #QP17 tickets today only on the 2nd floor! See you there and Happy Easter! 🐣 #BetWoodbine

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 16, 2017 at 6:49am PDT

Sovereign Awards (with Frank and Belinda Stronach)

 

(Swipe left!) #SovereignAwards 2016 Photo Gallery 1.

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 14, 2017 at 12:37am PDT

(Swipe left!) #SovereignAwards 2016 Gallery 2.

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 14, 2017 at 12:46am PDT

Some names in town last week:

Mornings with IISuperwomanII, back to her hometown for her new book, How to be a Bawse! #LillySingh #iisuperwomanii #BawseBook #BawseTour

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 7, 2017 at 6:06am PDT

Proud of my Hong Kong roots! Was completely chaotic and three hours behind schedule, but awesome attending the 2017 TVB Fairchild Party tonight. Got to meet stars #BenWong #RaymondWong #RosinaLam and Actress/Miss Hong Kong/Miss Chinese International #GraceChan. Have fun in Canada guys! #TVB #Fairchild #HK #HongKong #黃智賢 #林夏薇 #陳凱琳 #黃浩然

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 8, 2017 at 8:19pm PDT

#AlecBaldwin a bit late, but made it in town for rapidfire signing in support memoir #Nevertheless at Indigo Manulife.

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 10, 2017 at 6:10pm PDT

Happy Easter! 🐣 OMG! Finally tried the #CadburyCremeEggFrappucino. (Swipe left to see!) Love being able to do it drive-thru style in the #HondaCivic!

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on Apr 16, 2017 at 8:54am PDT

Learn more about the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback starting at $21,490 CAN here.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

My mind was completely blown getting the pleasure of test-driving the 2016 HONDA CIVIC TOURING.  Sleek, stylish and luxurious, this Sedan is just as spacious in size as it is large in value.

Starting at just $27,155 CAN, the TOURING‘s is equipped with a1.5-litre, 16-valve, Direct Injection, DOHC, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, operating at a stellar 174 horsepower.

What makes the TOURING next-level is that not only does its front-seat passengers benefit from heated seats, but so do those in the back!  The Driver’s Seat is adjustable in – count ’em – eight ways, while passengers get four ways to position themselves. Backseat passengers also get their own vents, so everyone stays cool in the scorching summer heat and grueling Canadian winters. Gorgeous leather seats remind us that it’s all in the details.  Did we mention that the windshield wipers have rain sensors? Rain sensors!

The Audio System is a superb 450-watts with 10 speakers including subwoofer and having our favourite, SIRIUS XM is a must. We love SIRIUS HITS XM  and those same few songs they play repeatedly. We wouldn’t have it any other way!  One bonus is, if you love that song you heard, you can always skip back and play it over and over. This is our kind of a car.

We enjoy that the TOURING is with the times and connecting to the vehicle’s system is a breeze  through Bluetooth. We could receive our texts (transcribed and read out to us for safety), make and receive phone calls and also sync with the Spotify app on our phone effortlessly.

You know how much we love staying charged and connected with our smartphone.  Situated conveniently within reach is a charging plate which charges super-fast.  No more clumsy USB cables! Score.

Safety always is first and reversing as always with Honda is a breeze with a fantastic rear-view camera and blindspot assistance.  We love lane-departure warning for those long days and we feel secure knowing there are both front and side airbags.

We admit it, we’re stingy.  Our favourite thing about the TOURING is its fuel economy at 6.7L/100 km. When we drive, we drive far.  We love that on less than $40, we were able to fill our tank after about five days of driving.

We definitely would not complain if we were to be paired again with this gem!

 Learn more about the 2016 HONDA CIVIC TOURING right here.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

$20,000 doesn’t buy you a lot in this day and age, but at that price point you could own an economical, best-in-class take on Honda’s widely-popular CR-V, the HR-V. Yes, you read right. This is not a typo, as many of my friends thought when I posted on Social Media I was test-driving it this past weekend.

Style, performance, safety, connectivity and most importantly value are crucial to me in a car and the HR-V hits all those marks.  The four-wheel drive EX-L NAVI model I drove was nothing short of powerful with its 1.8L engine, 16-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, operating at 141 horsepower.  I drove one coloured a regal Misty Green Pearl which had ladies on the street literally stopping and admiring; the crème coloured leather-trimmed seats.  With temperatures definitely below normal for spring, those front heated seats certainly came in handy. The dual-zone air filtration system also customizes temperatures for both passenger and driver because we’re not all the same and the HR-V respects that. The HR-V – keeping families and friends together!

Lane departure and forward collision warnings kept me focused and safe without being overbearing. The last thing we need is too much over-sensitive beeping every time a squirrel hops by when we’re trying to enjoy  Sirius XM on that six-speaker 180-watt audio system!  Connecting music on my phone however, proved a bit troublesome though to the system. The HONDA Link system enables me safely to make phone calls through the car’s speaker system. Keeping my phone charged always is super-important and there are an array of outlets tucked out of sight under the ultra-stylish gear shift to stay connected.

The HR-V captures the comfort and roominess of the CR-V without the price and we love this. Also, a moonroof is requisite for us and the HR-V delivers this ambiance. We appreciate also the rear window wipers especially in our unpredictable weather. The rear-view camera and LaneWatch made reversing, parallel parking and backing-in a real breeze, its ease truly – pardon the pun – unparalleled.

A combined 8.1 L/100 km fuel efficiency makes driving affordable and we love the Econ button which works optimally in city driving, keeping money in our pockets.

My only critique is that the gas/brake pedal needed a bit more of an effort to be exerted in acceleration and slowing down versus other Honda greats (i.e. The Pilot!!!) but this is something that one can learn to work with.

To learn more about the HONDA HR-V EX-L NAVI, click here.

See our HONDA HR-V Snapstory:

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

We’ve had the joy of driving an array of vehicles from Honda Canada over the past few years, but hands down the best we’ve tried ever is the 2016 HONDA PILOT TOURING.  Styled like an SUV and spacious like a Mini-Van, we are in awe at the automotive excellence we drove for the past week. We normally find it hard enough already to part with our Hondas at the end of the Test Drive, but this time we were particularly emotional having to part ways.

Let’s talk about the experience driving the Honda Pilot Touring. Zipping through the City with my BFF to our Christmas Dinner, the first thing he said was “Is this car even on?  It’s so quiet!” – of course we were fully moving, but something is to be said about its beautifully-engineered i-VTEC V6 engine.  The car operates  so quietly, you literally can have a full conversation at speech level effortlessly as music blares through its 10 540-watt speakers.

The car glides smooth like silk and I cannot describe the level of confidence you feel in the driver’s seat.  The ever-powerful Honda Pilot truly puts you in control of the road with its commanding presence – steering wheel-free mind you – something I value much in unpredictable and sometimes scary Toronto weather.  I’ll admit the Engine Idle-Stop still takes a bit of getting used to, but its benefits certainly were reflected in  spending about $50 only to fill its tank on 12.4/9.3/11.0 (L/100 km) city/highway/combined fuel efficiency ratings, lasting me about five days of long commutes aka Holiday shopping and gift drop-offs.

The Honda Pilot Touring is pure luxury and sophistication with an elegant design combined with great practicality.  Did you know it seats seven people and the middle row of passengers also enjoy the option of seat heaters (and coolers!)?  I took my team of Writers out for a Holiday Dinner last week and back to their homes respectively. One of them exclaimed, “This is the car I’m gonna buy!”, toying with the Honda Blu-ray Rear Entertainment System and headphones.  It was raves all around as we listened to Adele blaring through the vehicle’s – again, count ’em – 10 speakers, viewing the moonlit sky under not one, but two moonroofs!

Despite some issues playing music I actually paid for off my Android via Bluetooth (although songs stored on my USB played like a charm!), I was able to stay connected and charged with a whopping three USB charging ports, not to mention more charging outlets in the middle row of the vehicle for passengers!   The perforated leather seats also were phenomenally-cozy and none of my passengers can disagree with that.  Honda pulls-out all the stops here in terms of detail. Floormats even come with turnable knobs which secure them down.

Safety is a priority with the Honda Pilot Touring.  Its Blind Spot Information System is intuitive without being overbearing and intrusive, while also being very aware of cross-traffic from the rear of the vehicle.  Auto High Beam kicks-in when we are forgetful and maybe a bit too focused driving in the dark, keeping the roads lit and drivers safe. All three rows of seating come with Side Airbags in event of an accident and its Lane-Keeping Assist System keeps us safe and centered while driving.

  The 2016 Honda Pilot Touring is priced at a highly-reasonable $52,364.75.

Learn more about it here.

I know what I want for Christmas this year.  Do you?

And did we mention pets love it too?

The #HondaPilot is real pet-friendly. #Honda #Pilot @hondacanada

A video posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on Dec 14, 2015 at 8:19am PST

Wonderful afternoon with Billy in #Unionville finishing-up #ChristmasShopping on #MainStreet. We couldn’t have done it without the amazing #HondaPilot!

A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on Dec 18, 2015 at 9:53am PST

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Misfortune strikes occasionally and although I’ve never had anything but a glowing review for HONDA CANADA – over the years having driven multiple variations of the Accord, Civic and Fit – I was unlucky for the first time in my life to experience a Flat Tire.

The night was perfect.  I had just finished covering and presenting at an Awards Ceremony, was dressed my best, enjoying the most decadent of meals.  I was exhausted after a long day and looked forward to bedtime, with an early rise the next day.  While driving along the Gardiner Expressway, I started noticing the 2015 HONDA Fit I was Test Driving had began to vibrate.  I simply had thought that the roads needed to be paved (typical Toronto!) with several construction signs abound.  Surely it couldn’t have been the Fit, which in my previous experiences, drove like a charm.   After hitting a smooth patch on the Highway, I noticed the shaking intensify further. I grew fearful that something  was terribly wrong. Was I in trouble? I found the first Exit I could and pulled-over.  Upon leaving the Vehicle, the worst had gone through my mind and my suspicions were confirmed when I saw the Driver’s Side tire blown. It wasn’t pretty. The wheel was flapped over the rim pretty much.

I panicked. How is it that in my many years of driving I’d never experienced this before?  What was I to do?  Quickly dialing-up my Contact from Honda Canada – which I felt terrible about as it was 12:30 AM – I was reassured everything would be fine.  I was directed over to Honda Roadside Assistance who quickly picked-up the call, verifying a bit of information about the Vehicle and assured me in calm fashion someone would be on the way shortly.  Unfortunately, it was one of those nights when accidents on the road were a plenty, with few Tow Truck Drivers available. My expectations were set that this would be minimum three hours, which helped me manage my time, although there were limited options where to find a temporary shelter in the wee hours of the morning.  I walked for a bit, charged my Phone, exchanged pleasantries with drunk people in Entertainment District, stopped for a Selfie with a Celeb (Jonathan Kite from 2 Broke Girls, which actually was fitting in hindsight!), before the kind people at a nearby Hotel in the area let me wait in their lobby.

The hours passed before my mechanic outfit-wearing Knight in Shining Armour, Simon, arrived in his Tow Truck.  We made plans to deliver my beloved Aegean Blue Honda Fit to a HONDA Dealer  up closer my way where it would be given the proper care it deserved.   Simon was awesome, kind and offered even to drive me home, going above and beyond, as we chat about Game of Thrones.  Yes, it was about 7 AM by the time I got to see my bed, but I got there safe and sound and for that I am grateful.  What would I have done without Honda Roadside Assistance?

Misfortune aside, I have high praise for the 2015 Honda Fit. For the tiny Vehicle it was, it sure was loaded with some serious starpower – all 130 Horsepower of it with a 1.5L i-VTEC, 4-Cylinder EarthDreams Engine. It accelerated and responded quickly, was spacious and more importantly, its built-in EcoAssist System meant unparalleled Fuel Economy.  In two days, driving a fair distance, I used less than a bar of gas on its Fuel Indicator. Furthermore, the multi-angle Rearview Camera made parking a breeze while its Display Audio and HONDALINK were amazing, easily working together with my Phone so that I could remain connected (and fully charged) at all times.  I still would drive it again. Definitely a lot more value than the Fit‘s economy price would suggest.

Learn more about the 2015 Honda Fit here.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

I recently had the pleasure of Test-Driving the HONDA CIVIC TOURING and once again the Automaker has schooled its competition with a Master’s Class in value with this spacious, sporty and elegant Sedan.  The classic retro-brown on the Vehicle I drove may not sound or look ideal on-paper, but its stunning beauty certainly needs to be witnessed in-person to be appreciated.  After having test-driven the equally-impressive 2013 HONDA ACCORD SEDAN SPORT a couple years back – my last time test-driving a Honda actually  – I will say that for the super-reasonable $25k Asking Price  for the Civic Touring, you are getting a caliber of Car well-above its listed price.  Everything down to the smart metallic-finished Switch Gear, to the sophisticated touch-screen Dashboard options suggest pure luxury.

Let’s talk about the experience of sitting in the HONDA CIVIC TOURING.  The Leather Seats are phenomenally plush, making me feel nestled-in and supported.  I appreciated the Driver’s Seat’s height adjustment which gave me an optimal view while driving, customized specifically to me.  The glamorous Moon Roof draws-in a lush ambiance and my only regret is it wasn’t warmer out to fully be able to enjoy it!

Having the need to constantly remain connected, the Vehicle catered to my every obsession with not one, but TWO USB inputs and options to connect my USB Key to enjoy my favourite Music and also charge my Phone.  The Dashboard had a litany of Audio options to personalize my listening experience with iPod, Phone, AM/FM Radio, HDMI, CD and my Fave SIRIUS XM among the options to savour.  The six-speaker Sound System was absolutely glorious and a must for any Audiophile.

The multi-angle Rear-View Camera is super-handy, giving you that extra bit of view of oncoming Pedestrians and Vehicles from all corners – although a mild Audio Alert might have made this feature a bit more optimal. Uniquely, the Camera activates also when changing lanes and making turns, giving you that extra bit of awareness to prevent that accident ever from occurring.  As well, rear-window Windshield Wipers would have been handy in these snowy conditions.

The Drive in my HONDA CIVIC TOURING literally was smooth as butter, navigating turns and bumps with great precision.  The ultra-comfy Passenger’s Seat was  Billy-approved as he snored the drive away in Doggy Dreamland! At 143 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque, its output is unquestionable.  And amidst a Snowstorm we experienced here in Toronto, I never for a moment doubted that I was safe and sound, driving along with a hitch or a slip.

And did I mention the Car’s Fuel Economy?  Literally I drove a week to and from work and even an hour north of the City on less than half-a-tank of Gas, an even bigger victory considering recent lowered gas prices. I do love that ECON button, which not only is a Fuel Saver but a Dollar Saver.

Would I drive the HONDA CIVIC TOURING again?  You bet!  I might even want to own one.

There’s gotta be a reason why the Honda Civic remains Canada’s top-selling Car 17 years in-a-row!

To learn more about some of HONDA‘s 2015 Models, click here.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

It was another star-studded Super Bowl and more than ever Companies are hoping for Big Ticket Stars to push sales of their Products through the roof with the power of Celebrity Endorsement. The likes of Scarlett Johansson, Ellen DeGeneres, Bruce Willis, U2, Tim Tebow, Laurence Fishburne, Bob Saget, John Stamos, David Coulier, David Beckham, Sarah McLachlan, Stephen Colbert, Terry Crews and several more graced our Television Screens this year as we watched the Seattle Seahawks demolish the favoured Denver Broncos.

Here are some of this year’s more memorable TV Spots:

Ellen DeGeneres dresses-up as Goldilocks for newly-launched Beats Music. Watch here.

David Beckham for his H&M Bodywear Spring Collection. Watch here.

A young Girl is told she soon will be a Big Sister, but not without a cost to her Parents.  Watch the Cheerios Commercial here.

Stephen Colbert for Wonderful Pistachios.  Watch here.

U2 for Bank of America in support of the RED Campaign.  You can download their new Single Invincible free on iTunes for 24 hours. Watch here.

Audi delivers the laughs with a fictitious Dober-huahua Breed of Dog. Even Sarah McLachlan joins-in on the fun! Watch here.

Laurence Fishburne takes us back to The Matrix for Kia. Watch here.

Terry Crews & The Muppets for Toyota. Watch here.

Budweiser salutes a Hero with a big, warm Welcome Home.  Watch here.

Budweiser melts our hearts with a Golden Retriever Puppy and a Clydesdale Horse.  Watch here.

Doritos takes us on a journey through time in a Time Machine.  Watch here.

Doritos pays homage to The Lone Ranger. Watch here.

Oikos reunites John Stamos with Full House Co-Stars David Coulier and Bob Saget.  Watch here.

Heinz makes us happy with their original glass bottle. Watch here.

(Photo/video credit: NFL.Com)

TIFF ’13 certainly was one of our most star-filled Festivals yet and we wouldn’t have made it through without the generosity of our Partners.  A warm-hearted thank you goes to Hotel Novotel Toronto Centre, Honda Canada, Out There with Melissa DiMarco, Grosch Film Works Open House, eOne Live, Mongrel Media, Touchwood PR, Remstar Films, CP24, George Stroumboulopoulos’ Made in Canada Lounge, Olympus, Samsung Canada, Nella Bella and H&M Canada for their amazing generosity.

HOTEL NOVOTEL TORONTO CENTRE – with a classic European charm and situated right in the heart of Downtown Toronto (close to the action of the Film Festival!), I enjoyed my stay immensely in my Executive Suite.  The Staff were amazingly-attentive and friendly and the biggest plus of all is that they are Dog-friendly, alleviating a lot of my stresses as it enabled me  to check-in on Billy throughout the day.  Billy and I already miss our spacious suite, extremely-cozy bed, large-screen Television at our desk. We  hope certainly to visit again soon!  And did I mention the amazing Breakfast Buffet?  They understood fully my need for Caffeine, giving me my own Coffee Carafe! I soon discovered for myself why it is that  Café Nicole is known for having the “best bread in the City” and once you see for yourself their  Bread Counter, you too will know why!

HONDA CANADA – this was my first opportunity driving the 2013 Honda Accord Touring and it was amazing. I made full use of its Econ button and made it through the Festival on less than $30 in gas. Comfy leather seats, a USB port to charge my phone and listen to my MP3s through the superb sound system, plus lightning quick response places this Vehicle at the top of its class. The customizable temperature for Driver and Passenger also came in ultra-handy. And did I mention it’s quite a Looker too?  Stunning.

OLYMPUS – although I struggled with the Selfies on this slippery and fast, state-of-the art Camera, several were happy to help me snap my Photos with the Stars.  Of the Photos I did take on it, the resolution (16 MP) and clarity were astounding.  It was remarkably quick to get the Shot under every varied degree of lighting in which it was tested. I am proud of the Photos the Olympus PEN E-PL5 took for me during TIFF ’13 and it is a great median for those of us who demand more than the quality of a Point-and-Shoot, yet are turned off from the lack of discreteness of a full-on SLR.  Review some of my awesome Snaps here.

H&M CANADA – it definitely was chilly this TIFF on the whole, but I managed to be dressed for the weather in my Cardigans from H&M’s Fall 2013 Collection. I am proud to say that in one of my appearances on CP 24, super-popular Television Personality Stephen LeDrew took a moment to praise my style on- air and I definitely couldn’t have earned that without H&M!

MONGREL MEDIA – for the first time, my Readers were given a chance to get the VIP Experience including Passes to their Premieres and annual TIFF Party, thanks to one of Canada’s most important Film Distributors. John Curran‘s Tracks easily was one of my fave TIFF ’13 Films and I look forward to supporting some of their exciting new releases!

SPOKE AGENCY & eONE LIVE – having just launched in time for TIFF, eOne Live takes Film Fans on a digital experience behind the scenes at TIFF unlike any other. Where else can you snoop what Celebs took in their Tim Hortons’ Coffee? Thanks to eOne Live, Mr. Will Readers got into the Red Carpet Premiere of Enemy seeing Jake Gyllenhaal up-close and personal and also the well-received Documentary One Chance! We love eOne Films and are mega-excited about eOne Live!

TOUCHWOOD PR & REMSTAR FILMS – Mr. Will Readers went berserk for the chance to attend the Red Carpet Premiere of Don Jon with Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Scarlett Johansson and we owe them a huge thanks for the opportunity! We are thrilled to partner and spread the word about their exciting slate of Films including TIFF-premiered Oscar Contender Dallas Buyers Club!

NELLA BELLA – my one trusty Sidekick this TIFF was my amazing and spacious Stockholm Bag by Nella Bella. The Canadian-made, Vegan-material Bag endured super-long days, gruelling wear-and-tear, plus torrential rainfall, protecting my all my important gear.  It also saw its share of  Stars along the way! Stockholm, you’ve been promoted to my permanent Bag of Choice!

OUT THERE WITH MELISSA DiMARCO – we were extremely well-cared for by the Team behind this wonderful Entertainment Staple (now seen on FOX in the U.S.!) during TIFF ’13, an Oasys amidst the chaos. Thank you Team Out There for your hospitality and thanks for giving Mr. Will Readers a chance to be on the inside at your amazing Hospitality Suite!

SAMSUNG CANADA – A big part of the Mr. Will TIFF Experience is the Social Media aspect and if you spotted me at some point during the Festival, I probably was buried in my Smartphone Instagramming and Tweeting away. I wouldn’t have been able to survive the long 20-hour days with any less a Smartphone than the Samsung Galaxy S4.  When I didn’t have enough time to grab for my Camera, the S4 was there to get the Snap in amazing 13 MP-resolution! Its remarkable style, large touchscreen and super-fast processing speed make it the only possible go-to for days as draining as TIFF.  It certainly has the goods to back-up its self-proclamation as a “Life Companion”!

GROLSCH FILM WORKS OPEN HOUSE – Although I’m not a huge Beer Drinker, there is only one thing and one thing only htat I wanted after standing on-foot for hours on-end in the sun… some ice-cold Grolsch Lager – the official Beer of TIFF. Thank you Grolsch Film Works Open House for the refreshment and some relaxation away from the bustle!

GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOS’ MADE IN CANADA LOUNGE – It’s always been a dream of ours to visit a TIFF Gifting Lounge and this year we went straight to the top, getting an exclusive invite into Canadian Icon George Stroumboulopoulos’ highly-coveted Made in Canada Lounge where we got to enjoy some of the amazing homegrown products which several A-Listers like Joseph Gordon-Levitt took home.  We will never forget.  Thank you Best PR Boutique for the hospitality.

CP24 – Last but not least, thank you to the Team at CP24 for having me again this year, providing me an Outlet to share my TIFF Excitement with all of Southern Ontario!  I look forward to TIFF ’14 already!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all official Mr. Will Partners.

…until next TIFF!

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Together over the years we’ve built a Brand which has become synonymous with Celebrity Culture, Entertainment and Toronto.  We’re thrilled about all the possibilities which this year’s Toronto International Film Festival holds and with the enthusiasm of a Child, we count down the hours till it all kicks off.

Having already previewed a fair number of this year’s Marquee Films receiving their Premieres here including hotly-tipped Opening Night Gala The Fifth Estate, I can say this is definitely one of the strongest Festivals in recent years not only in terms of quality of Films, but also the Star Power.  And you know how much we love those Stars!

Please join us here at Mr. Will Wong over the next two weeks  as we preview and review some of the most buzzworthy Films to make  a splash at TIFF ’13.  In addition, you know you can count on us to spot both A-List and Up-and-Coming Talent in town in their most candid moments with Fans.

In addition to being present and visible here, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, I will be allover your Television Screens as I partner once again with CP24 as their TIFF Correspondent before upwards of three-million people in Ontario who watch the Channel on a weekly basis.  Be sure to follow my every step online as you won’t want to miss a beat!  My first appearance is scheduled for Thursday, September 5, 2013 at 12:15 PM EST, followed by various appearances throughout the Festival to be looped throughout the day.  I will be capping it all off with an appearance on CP24 Breakfast Live on Saturday, September 14, 2013.

I would not be able to survive the grueling 18-20 hour days that come with TIFF without the generosity of  our official Partners. With gratitude I thank our Friends who kindly have shown their support:

MONGREL MEDIA who for the first time are giving Mr. Will Wong Readers a chance not only to win Red Carpet Premiere Passes, but also access to their mega-exclusive TIFF Party.  I look forward to partying with my lucky Readers!  And just so you know, it’s still not too late to enter here.  Mongrel Media‘s Line-up is fantastic this year, including Only Lovers Left Alive (Tilda Swinton, Tom Hiddleston), The Past (Bérénice Bejo), Tracks (Mia Wasikowska, Adam Driver) and The Face of Love (Annette Bening, Ed Harris).

OLYMPUS who generously have provided me their state-of-the-art E-PL5 to photograph with this Festival. That tiltable Monitor excites me and I can’t wait to capture some unforgettable Selfies and candid moments with the Stars. Its Small Target AutoFocus and Fine Detail Processing will ensure that I get that Snap with great precision.  Did I mention it also photographs in phenomenal 16 MP quality?  More on the E-PL 5 here.

HOTEL NOVOTEL TORONTO CENTRE who amazingly are sponsoring my stay for the most hectic part of the Festival.  I know extremely well the importance of a good night’s rest if even just a Power Nap to recharge just in time to capture more of the Celebrity madness.  Located right at the heart of Downtown Toronto and only a short distance from some of the most glamorous Red Carpet Premieres in the City, I will make a point of making time for their Indoor Pool, Gym, Restaurant and free WiFi!  Cannot wait to see the beautiful scenic view from my window, the Hotel overseeing the bright lights and heights of our fabulous City.  If you’re looking for an affordable option with charm and convenience, there is no better value  than Hotel Novotel.  More here.

HONDA CANADA who as always are wonderfully supportive.  This TIFF, I will be driving the gorgeous and amazing 2013 Honda Accord Sedan which not only boasts superb Fuel Efficiency but also exciting Performance, much needed as I’ll be zooming from venue to venue effortlessly. Its compact style is perfect from City Living (…and parking!). Learn more about the Accord here.

SAMSUNG CANADA who graciously are empowering me with a Samsung Galaxy S4 this TIFF!  Its full HD 1080p Display gives me something to look forward to with great excitement as does its dual front (2 MP) and rear (13 MP) Cameras which give me no reason to  not snap that perfect Selfie with a Celeb!  Its spacious 5″ Display will equip me with the ability to properly type, text and navigate as I communicate with my Readers and Followers throughout the Festival!  More importantly, its extended Battery Life of up to 17 hours Talk Time and 8 hours Internet Usage on the LTE Network will help me get through each long day where others before have failed me.  More on the Samsung Galaxy S4 here.

H&M CANADA who have been amazing these past few TIFFs in fashioning me with some of their latest looks. The Mr. Will Look generally is low-fuss and more about comfort and practicality, especially with the unpredictable weather we get in September. I know I’ll be Camera-ready for TV and my moments with the Stars with my Pieces (especially excited about my Cardigans!) from the H&M Fall 2013 Men’s Collection. Nobody understands the synergy between Celebrity and affordable Fashion like H&M with several exciting Collaborations in recent memory with the likes of Beyoncé, David Beckham, Kylie Minogue, Madonna, Lana Del Rey, Joel Kinnaman and more!

NELLA BELLA who are so thoughtful to provide me with one of their signature Bags to use this Festival.  How else would I survive the day without sophisticated, sturdy and stylish storage for all my gear?  This Canadian Handbang Maker offers sleek looks and durability. Above all else, they are made with Vegan Materials!  I look forward to my treasured Accessory this TIFF, the Stockholm Bag (see above). Check-out their entire Collection here.

OUT THERE WITH MELISSA DIMARCO who so kindly is giving my Readers a chance to visit her TIFF Interview Studio and Hospitality Suite at InterContinental Centre Hotel this year.  We all know her on Television  for her stunning beauty and big heart! I myself look forward to visiting her Oasis amidst all the bustle and am excited for my Readers to get to mingle with Industry and Media Types, not to mention some awesome Food and Drink.  Learn more about the Contest here.

GROLSCH OPEN HOUSE PUBLIC FESTIVAL LOUNGE who are giving Festival Goers an opportunity for refreshment from Friday, September 6 – Monday, September 9, 2013 with amazing Eats, Art Installations, intimate Musical sets from DJs and emerging local Acts… and of course,  Grolsch Premium Lager – the official Beer of TIFF. Do not forget to check it all out at the corner of  Pearl x John!   We’ll definitely see you there. More here.

Bookmark Mr. Will Wong in your Browser and remember to follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for frequent exciting updates this TIFF.

See Mr. Will‘s most Must-See TIFF ’13 Film List here.

See which Stars will be in the City for TIFF here.

Happy Movie-watching and Star-spotting, Wongsters!

(Photo credit: Hotel Novotel/Honda Canada/Samsung Canada/Melissa DiMarco/Olympus/Nella Bella/Grolsch Film Works/H&M Canada/Mongrel Media)

For advertising opportunities, e-mail: mrwillwong@mynkmediagroup.com