Mr. Media: Isadore Sharp, founder, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Special

If you could afford to stay at any hotel on a business or pleasure trip, I can’t imagine choosing anywhere other than a Four Seasons Hotel or Resort property.

Granted, I’m a little prejudiced. In 2007, I had the good fortune to spend a month doing interviews and background research for Isadore Sharp, founder and chairman of Four Seasons, as he finished his autobiography, Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy.

This assignment afforded me a behind-the-scenes look at how the Four Seasons became the ultimate brand in luxury hotels and just how seriously the Toronto-based company takes the happiness of its guests. I also spent time with many of the chain’s executives and managers from around the world and learned first-hand of the pride they take in the brand. But best of all was the time I spent with Mr. Sharp and his lovely wife, Rosalie. Everything they do, they do with class. They’re kind, warmhearted and delightful dinner companions. And now, with publication of his book about the making of the Four Seasons, they’re both acclaimed authors.

DigitalJournal.com Four Seasons Hotels Inc. will run the $500-million hotel in Toronto's Yorkville district. The 265-room hotel is scheduled for completion in late 2011. image:53270:8::0