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Autumn Getaway to St. Catharines: Hampton Inn Review, Fall Fashion & Skincare Routine
- Personal Stylist | Tonya J.
- Oct 16
- 8 min read
Updated: Oct 23
Hello, lovely ladies! Welcome to a very special feature from the RWS Autumn Collection. This week, I'm bringing you something different—a cozy autumn escape to beautiful St. Catharines, Ontario, where I've been treated to an impromptu getaway that has quickly stolen my heart. I believe that every modern Renaissance woman requires a break from their daily routine to recharge, refocus, and simply enjoy the changing over of seasons. This was that weekend for myself and my daughter.
Discovering St. Catharines: An Autumn Escape
As someone born and raised in Canada, I must admit—I had never visited St. Catharines until now. I recall as a child driving straight to Niagara Falls for a short day trip with family, but I had never intentionally stayed in the charming city of St. Catharines, which exudes a wholesome small-town atmosphere. Located just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Ajax by the Lake, this delightful destination has turned out to be the ideal quiet and cozy autumn getaway. The area where we stayed was relaxing, serene, and absolutely perfect for a few days away from our daily routines.
Where We Stayed: Hampton Inn by Hilton
We stayed at the lovely Hampton Inn, which is part of the Hilton Collection Hotels, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. This was my first time at this particular brand of Hilton hotels, and it exceeded every expectation I had. What I especially appreciate is that it offers cozy elegance without breaking the budget—perfect for those seeking an elevated autumn getaway that remains accessible.
From the moment we checked in, the service has been outstanding. The hotel rooms are cozy and tastefully furnished, adorned in warm autumn hues that perfectly complement the season. The breakfast spread was remarkable, offering a variety of options including fresh waffles, scrambled eggs, morning sausages, beans, bagels, English muffins, and fresh juices. Naturally, I've been savoring their delightful peppermint tea every morning; it's a must that I begin my autumn days with a fresh cup!
The Story Behind This Autumn Getaway
My daughter invited me to join her while she attended a workshop, and I immediately seized the opportunity. We both desperately needed this escape. Our schedules have been hectic throughout the year, and we didn't manage much of a summer vacation together. So, this short trip has been exactly what we needed—quality time, relaxation, and the chance to recharge before the winter season arrives. How do you enjoy your downtime during autumn? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Styling for a Country Autumn Escape
Our autumn getaway to St. Catharines offered a relaxed, country-inspired vibe, contrasting with the cosmopolitan feel of Toronto, which is only 45 minutes away from my home in Ajax by the Lake. Lakeside living shares similarities with country style, yet it also has its unique differences. It's important to plan your outfits in advance for your destination to avoid appearing like a tourist. The goal when exploring new and unfamiliar places, whether locally or internationally, is to maintain an effortlessly stylish look. This requires a tailored approach to dressing appropriately for the setting.
My Autumn Travel Wardrobe
For this trip, I'm embracing elegant, casual, elevated country chic with soft knits, cottons, denim, and leather accents. Today's outfit features:
A gorgeous wheat-cream ivory duster cardigan (perfect for the transitional weather)
A cotton ribbed scoop neck top in crisp winter white
High-waisted dark denim jeans from H&M (incredibly comfortable!)
A leather belt from The Bay (a treasured piece from the now-closed Canadian heritage brand)
My beloved Coach bag in deep chocolate and mocha brown with a burgundy lining—the essence of cozy autumn
I also packed a fluffy wool pullover from Giant Tiger (a surprise find that's become a favorite), though the weather proved warmer than anticipated, so it stayed at the hotel.
Aligning Your Style with Your Environment
Also, when traveling, I always encourage using your color palette to align your visual presentation with your surroundings. As an Eclipse Winter (a blend of Deep Winter and Clear Winter), I draw my autumn colors from the deep winter palette—rich creams, crisp whites, chocolate browns, and deep burgundies.
If you're new to color analysis, I highly recommend exploring this concept. Understanding your best color season helps you style yourself not just for personal preference, but for your entire lifestyle—including travel destinations. Whether you're visiting the countryside or a cosmopolitan city, your color chart can help elevate your visual presentation while remaining authentic to who you are.
Autumn Beauty: Makeup for a Country Retreat
I kept my makeup fresh and aligned with St. Catharines' elevated country vibe:
Lip (option #1): Conspiracy Metalized by Urban Decay—a gorgeous autumn brown with shimmer
Lip (option #2): Liquid Linen lip gloss blended with my lipstick for a rosy brown finish
Cheeks: A subtle highlight for that fresh, healthy glow
The key is keeping everything soft, natural, and in harmony with the environment. This isn't the time for dramatic cosmopolitan makeup—it's about enhancing your natural beauty with warm, earthy autumn tones.
Exploring St. Catharines
Charles Stanley Park: A Lakefront Lover's Dream
As a devoted lakefront enthusiast (I'm fortunate to live just a hop, skip, and jump from the lake back home), I was thrilled to discover Charles Stanley Park. Located just minutes from Niagara Falls, this park is absolutely stunning. The autumn foliage surrounding the lakefront creates a serene, peaceful atmosphere that speaks to the soul.
The park offered me exactly what I needed—quiet contemplation, natural beauty, and that special energy that comes from being near water. If you know me, you understand that lakefront spaces are my private happy place, and Charles Stanley Park delivered that experience beautifully.
The Farmer's Market Adventure
Unfortunately, the farmer's market was closed during our weekday visit. This has inspired me to plan our next trip for a long weekend when more local attractions will be open. St. Catharines has definitely grown on me in just a day and a half—the combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and genuine warmth makes it a local destination I'm already planning to revisit next autumn.
Hotel Amenities: The Pool Experience
One of the unexpected highlights was the hotel's pool area. We visited during the early evening hours and had the entire space to ourselves—there's something genuinely luxurious about that kind of privacy. The water temperature was absolutely perfect, that ideal lukewarm temperature that makes you want to linger well beyond your anticipated swimming time (which we did, staying about 15 minutes longer than planned).
I also noticed during my property tour that the hotel offers light aquatic aerobics classes, which speaks to their thoughtful approach to guest wellness. Whether you're seeking relaxation or gentle exercise, they've considered both needs.
My Essential Autumn Skincare Products
My autumn skincare routine centers on four transformative products that prepare my skin for winter's harsh conditions. I begin with COSRX Gentle Cleanser, a Korean brand that's perfect for sensitive skin and incredibly light when applying—it soothes and refreshes beautifully as you transition from summer's intensity into autumn's gentler energy.
Once a week, typically on Sundays, I treat myself to the Dermalogica Skin Mask, which I swear by; it's so good that I roll up the tube to extract every last bit. It has a refreshing minty, tingly sensation, and after 15-20 minutes, your skin feels as though a layer has been removed in the best possible way—your skin literally feels like it's breathing fresher air afterward.
For intensive nighttime hydration, I've recently introduced COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin Power Essence, a game-changer that's similar to hyaluronic acid but with exceptional moisture-locking properties that leave my skin feeling plump, luscious, and perfectly hydrated each morning.
During the day, I reach for Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum, a gorgeous product I've been using for over a year that envelops you in the most beautiful rose scent—like walking through a garden of fresh red roses—and puts you in a state of serene feminine energy. This serum is lighter than the snail mucin, providing a beautiful dewy, moisturized feeling without weighing down your skin, achieving that perfect balance of deeply hydrating yet remarkably light.
Additional Evening Skincare Essentials
For nighttime, I layer these products strategically to maximize hydration and repair while I sleep. The combination of gentle cleansing, targeted treatment with the mask (weekly), and intensive hydration with serums creates a comprehensive approach to autumn and winter skincare.
Ladies, the key is consistency and understanding that seasonal transitions require adjustments to your routine. What works in summer won't necessarily serve you in autumn and winter when the air becomes drier and harsher on your skin.
Our room at the Hampton Inn - Extremely cozy and those beds were heaven
Essential Autumn Rituals for Renaissance Women
This trip has reminded me of the importance of incorporating regular getaways into our seasonal rituals. Getting away from our usual environment offers more than just rest—it provides:
Perspective and renewal: Stepping out of your daily routine helps you return refreshed and inspired.
Opportunities for creative expression: Traveling encourages experimentation with new outfit combinations and color palettes.
Quality time: Whether with loved ones or in solitude, travel creates space for meaningful connection.
Self-care investment: Prioritizing these experiences demonstrates commitment to your wellbeing
Creating Your Own Autumn Escape
You don't need an elaborate plan or significant budget to create a memorable autumn getaway. Consider:
Proximity over distance: St. Catharines is just two-and-a-half hours from home, yet it feels worlds away.
Budget-friendly elegance: The Hampton Inn proved that comfort and style needn't be expensive.
Flexibility: Our trip was impromptu, reminding us that spontaneity can be elegant and beautiful.
Simplicity: We didn't manage to do everything planned (like the winery tours), yet the experience was perfect.
Investment Pieces for Autumn Travel
If you missed my previous video (click below) on investment pieces every renaissance woman should own during the cozy autumn-to-winter transition, these are the types of items that make travel styling effortless:
Quality knitwear in your signature colors
Well-fitting denim in classic cuts
A versatile leather bag
Comfortable yet elegant footwear
Layering pieces like duster cardigans
A statement leather belt
These pieces work together to create an elevated, elegant look without overdoing it—perfect for short getaways where you want to look polished while remaining comfortable.
Reflections on This Autumn Journey
St. Catharines has exceeded every expectation. What began as a simple accompaniment to my daughter's workshop evolved into a meaningful autumn experience that I'll treasure. The combination of natural beauty, comfortable accommodations, serene atmosphere, and quality time has created the perfect autumn memory.
Oh, I almost forgot! Our last stop before returning home was a delightful dinner at an unexpected hidden gem of Mexican cuisine, called Patio Andaluz, situated by the stunning lakefront in Port Dalhousie, St. Catherines. It was an incredible dining experience, and we intend to visit again on our next trip. Check out the full video to find out what we ordered.
As renaissance women, we understand that self-care extends beyond skincare products and pretty outfits—it encompasses the experiences we create, the environments we choose, and the intention we bring to caring for ourselves holistically.
Your Autumn Journey
Now I'd love to hear from you:
Have you visited St. Catharines during the autumn season?
What are your favorite autumn rituals for treating and indulging yourself?
How do you incorporate seasonal getaways into your self-care routine?
What skincare adjustments do you make as you transition into autumn and winter?
Remember, creating a life of elegance, beauty, and intention doesn't require perfection—it requires presence, thoughtfulness, and a commitment to honoring yourself through every season.
Have a lovely weekend, and may your autumn be filled with cozy moments, beautiful experiences, and the kind of self-care that nourishes your soul.
Until next time, ladies—stay elegant, stay inspired, and embrace the beauty of this magnificent season.
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