A Toronto hotel that specializes in a Zen approach to service has been named one of the world's hottest new inns by an influential travel publication.

The Cosmopolitan Toronto Hotel made the Cond¿ Nast Traveller Hot List 2006, which focuses on 60 brand-new locations. It is the only Canadian hotel on the list.

Cosmopolitan Hotel

Built for $40-million, the Cosmopolitan is owned by Zen enthusiast Gil Blutrich and his Skyline International company, which also owns the Pantages Suites Hotel and Spa in Toronto. It opened last year on Colborne Street, between Yonge and Church streets.

Cosmopolitan features 97 suites, each of which comes with a Yoga mat, a list of incense and energy gemstones, floor-to-ceiling windows to create "light energy" and a natural gemstone fountain, all designed by Sylvia Noble, known as "the energy consultant to the stars."

The design is based on Zen, a belief of Mahayan Buddhism that focuses on the positive properties of meditation, intuition, tranquility and minimalism.

Dalia Blumenthal, public relations manager for the Cosmopolitan, told CBC News Online on Tuesday that making the Cond¿ Nast list "puts us on the international map."

The Cosmopolitan is currently filled to 70 to 80 per cent capacity, depending on the time of year.

"We are right in the financial district, so we get a lot of the corporate business, and on weekends a lot of the leisure travellers," Blumenthal said.

The Cond¿ Nast Traveller list, compiled by undercover reporters who visited each location, recognizes hotels and resorts for design, service and ambience.

with files from Canadian Press