Advantages Of Using Travel Insurance Specialists – Forbes Advisor

The Best Hotels In Vancouver

As a stunning seaside city with nature nearby, there's something for every type of traveler in Vancouver, and if you plan your stay just right, you can do it all without a car. I was born and raised in this city, and rest assured, regardless of the season or the reason for your visit, Vancouver delivers. Adventure seekers can cycle around the Stanley Park seawall, take a trek through the trees, kayak along the coast, or hit the hills for a day of skiing. And for a more laid-back stay, city dwellers can shop the beautiful boutique-lined streets, or get pampered with a day at the spa.

Here, you can choose your own adventure, and it all begins with picking the best place to stay. Based on a mix of editor-loved properties, T+L World's Best Awards and It List winners, and my own personal picks as a lifelong local, here are the best hotels to book in Vancouver.

Why I'm the Expert

Bianca Bujan was born and raised in Vancouver, BC, and she still calls the city home, as she's currently living on Vancouver's North Shore. Bianca has spent much of her time experiencing the city as a tourist while conducting research – to date, she's contributed to five travel guidebooks for Lonely Planet where she highlights the best places to stay, eat, and play in and around Vancouver.

Courtesy of Accor Also available to book at Tripadvisor.Com Vancouver's "Castle in the City'' was recently recognized as a top readers' choice hotel on the T+L World's Best Awards list in 2023, and for good reason. Celebrating its 85th anniversary this year, this classic site is steeped in history, and it shows in the art deco decor and elegant finishes found throughout the property. If you can swing it, indulge in a stay in a newly-renovated heritage suite, found on the 14th floor. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth stayed here to commemorate the hotel's opening back in 1939, and while the spaces have been modernized, the details are reminiscent of the earlier eras (rich velvet couches and colorful carpets included). For the true royal treatment, high tea here is a must. Best of all, this hotel stands steps from the chicest shopping in the city, with galleries, museums, and cultural sites close by. The Details: Neighborhood: Financial District Nearby Attractions: Vancouver Art Gallery, Robson Street, Orpheum Theatre Accessibility: Accessible areas and ADA-compliant rooms available WiFi: Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel Loyalty Program: ALL, Accor's loyalty program Pet Policy: Pet-friendly, fee of $50 per night (max $100), dog beds and supplies provided Rates: Starting at $545 per night Booking Tip Opt for a higher floor for a quieter stay and better views from your room. Courtesy of Rosewood Hotel Georgia Also available to book at Hotels.Com The restored Rosewood has retained its 1920s look and feel, and just might be considered Vancouver's most fashionable hotel due to its swanky decor. You'll find several bars and restaurants here, including the Michelin-recognized Hawksworth Restaurant, and the standout spa and indoor saltwater lap pool make for a perfect respite from the bustling scene found outside. Recognized as one of the top 10 city hotels in Canada by T+L's 2023 World's Best Awards, the Rosewood's spacious rooms, stylish decor, and easy access to the city's shopping spots and cultural sites make it an obvious choice for a stay in the city. The Details: Neighborhood: Financial District Nearby Attractions: Granville Street, Vancouver Art Gallery, Canada Place Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible throughout WiFi: Free WiFi Loyalty Program: Rosewood Elite Pet Policy: One cat or dog welcome, one-time $75 pet fee Rates: Starting at $597 per night Courtesy of The Loden Also available to book at Tripadvisor.Com Included in T+L World's Best Awards in 2021 and 2022, the Loden Hotel is located in the Coal Harbour area of downtown Vancouver, and offers a more intimate stay in the city. From the complimentary coffee and tea to the pillow menu, it's the personal touches and attention to detail that visitors love here. Perfect for business travelers, ample workspace is available in the rooms, a VIP lounge offers a quiet place to work, and the Convention Centre is within walking distance. And if you're hungry, the award-winning Tableau Bistro serves up delicious French cuisine right downstairs. The Details: Neighborhood: Coal Harbour Nearby Attractions: Stanley Park, Canada Place, Convention Centre Accessibility: ADA-compliant rooms available WiFi: Free in-room WiFi for guests Loyalty Program: No loyalty program Pet Policy: Pets welcome Rates: Starting at $582 per night Courtesy of Accor Also available to book at Expedia.Com Fully committed to sustainability, the Fairmont Waterfront houses one of Vancouver's very first green roofs, which acts as a habitat for hundreds of honeybees that call the rooftop hives home. Tours of the property's garden and "bee and bee" pollinator hotel are offered during the summer months, followed by a special three-course pollinator menu, created by the chef using ingredients grown on-site. Vancouver views from all sides impress here, and the heated rooftop pool is the perfect place to soak it all in. The toughest decision you'll have is choosing from views of the shimmering city skyline, or water views with Stanley Park in the distance when picking your room. This hotel also landed a spot on our World's Best Awards list in 2022. The Details: Neighborhood: Coal Harbour Nearby Attractions: Canada Place, Convention Centre, Vancouver Art Gallery Accessibility: ADA-compliant rooms and suites, and most resort areas are fully accessible. WiFi: Available in-room (surcharge) Loyalty Program: ALL, Accor's loyalty program Pet Policy: Pets allowed, $35/night cleaning fee applies Rates: Starting at $619 per night Courtesy of Marriott Also available to book at Hotels.Com What We Like With its spacious rooms, proximity to attractions, and two pools (outdoor and indoor), this is the best choice for families.

More like a resort than a hotel, the Westin Bayshore sits right on the waterfront, across from Stanley Park, and has all the amenities needed for the best Vancouver stay – especially when traveling with kids.

A pair of indoor and outdoor pools satisfy during the warmer months, and a top notch spa offers the perfect place to soothe your sore muscles after a day spent exploring the surrounding area. There are plenty of dining options here, too, from a casual eatery to a high-end restaurant where themed afternoon teas delight.

The Details:

Neighborhood: Coal Harbour

Nearby Attractions: Stanley Park, Vancouver Aquarium

Accessibility: Deluxe rooms are wheelchair accessible

WiFi: Free WiFi for hotel guests

Loyalty Program: Marriott Bonvoy

Pet Policy: Pets welcome (two-dog max per room)

Rates: Starting at $546 per night

Courtesy of Opus Vancouver With less than 100 rooms, this boutique hotel may be small, but it comes with big praise. Bright, colorful, themed rooms are covered in clever, contemporary designs (picture faux fur, Hollywood glam, and provocative art). Since its opening in 2002, OPUS has become a hot spot for tourists looking to stay close to the action, and you may even spot a celebrity during your stay here, too – Lady Gaga and Anthony Bourdain are among a long list of A-listers who have made this hotel their home base during stops in Vancouver. The Details: Neighborhood: Yaletown Nearby Attractions: Yaletown, BC Place Accessibility: Accessible rooms available WiFi: Free WiFi for hotel guests Loyalty Program: No Pet Policy: Pets welcome ($30 per stay) Rates: Starting at $527 per night Goran Kosanovic / Shangri-La Vancouver Also available to book at Hotels.Com Found in the bottom quarter of the city's tallest tower – a mixed-use building (retail, residential, office, and dining spaces are also housed here) – Vancouver's Shangri-La Hotel offers similar state-of-the-art features as its sister properties, like remote-controlled blinds and mirror-mounted TVs in most bathrooms. Located in the West End neighborhood, some of the best boutiques are within walking distance. Need to cool down after a day of shopping in the city? There's a rooftop pool for that. The Details: Neighborhood: West End Nearby Attractions: Canada Place, Robson Street, Vancouver Art Gallery Accessibility: General hotel areas wheelchair accessible, accessible rooms available WiFi: Free WiFi in public areas Loyalty Program: Shangri-La Circle Pet Policy: Cats and dogs are welcome, limit of one pet total ($60 per stay) Rates: Starting at $621 per night Courtesy of Marriott Also available to book at Expedia.Com One of two hotels located on the same site (the JW Marriott Parq also shares the space), The Douglas has more of a boutique feel, with nature-inspired design elements that remind you of your West Coast surroundings, like the giant Douglas Fir tree enclosed in a glass box that doubles as the hotel's reception desk. A rooftop park, eight restaurants and lounges, and a casino connect the two hotels in the center Parq complex. Fancy a late night cocktail? Head to the Hidden Lounge, housed behind a bookcase in D6 Bar & Lounge. The Details: Neighborhood: Yaletown Nearby Attractions: BC Place, Science World, Rogers Arena Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms and amenities WiFi: Available in-room for $14.95 per day Loyalty Program: Marriott Bonvoy Pet Policy: One pet allowed, $50 per stay Rates: Starting at $618 per night Courtesy of Wedgewood Hotel Also available to book at Expedia.Com This independent, female-owned boutique hotel resembles a European country house, but elevated with all the high-end luxuries that come with being a Relais & Chateaux property. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by friendly doormen dressed in top hats and long coats, and the elegance doesn't stop there.  Chandeliers, wood paneling, and thick throw rugs add to the European-inspired decor here, but while the hotel is glamorous, it's not stuffy. The rooms are surprisingly spacious, and the central location sets you close to the city's cultural attractions and big-name shops (Tiffany, Chanel, and Hermes are just around the corner). The Details: Neighborhood: Financial District Nearby Attractions: Robson Street, Vancouver Art Gallery Accessibility: One accessible room WiFi: Complimentary WiFi for guests Loyalty Program: No Pet Policy: Pets welcome ($50 per night, per dog) Rates: Starting at $495 per night Courtesy of Accor Also available to book at Tripadvisor.Com Luxury cars line the driveway, and the Lobby Lounge of the Pac Rim (nicknamed by regulars) is usually buzzing with locals and tourists who chat over cocktails and canapes while listening to live music on most evenings of the week. This is the place to hang out – whether you're an overnight guest or just popping in for a drink. You may even catch a celebrity sighting while you're here. Harbor views and a heated pool are just some of the highlights for guests who stay here, and the on-site restaurants, including the must-try Botanist Restaurant, where elevated and creative cocktails have earned the bar a Michelin Star. The Details: Neighborhood: Financial District Nearby Attractions: Canada Place, Convention Centre, Stanley Park Accessibility: ADA-accessible rooms available WiFi: WiFi available for a fee ($15 per day) Loyalty Program: ALL, Accor's loyalty program Pet Policy: Pets are welcome for no additional fee Rates: Starting at $682 per night Martin Tessler / The Burrard Also available to book at Hotels.Com This retro-chic boutique hotel is covered in quirky details, like the teal walls and rocking chairs found in the lobby, and the motel-style exterior corridors dotted with colorful doorways. Amenity highlights include access to a little free library and complimentary bike and ebike rentals, and there's a charming courtyard lined with palm trees here, too, with a ping pong table and fire pit – the perfect place to chill out. The Details: Neighborhood: West End Nearby Attractions: Davie Village, Vancouver Art Gallery, Sunset Beach Accessibility: Accessible rooms via exterior corridors WiFi: Free WiFi for hotel guests Loyalty Program: No Pet Policy: Dogs can stay for a fee Rates: Starting at $321 per night Courtesy of Granville Island Hotel Also available to book at Expedia.Com A waterfront wonderland for art lovers and culinary connoisseurs, Granville Island is a top Vancouver attraction, and the hotel by the same name is the best home base to experience it all. Plus, the marina, parks, and beaches found nearby provide the perfect starting point for adventures outdoors. The rooms offer magnificent marina views, and most come with balconies so you can step outside and take it all in when you get out of bed. For dinner, Dockside Restaurant is right downstairs, where an expansive patio wows with water views, and delicious food is served as you watch the sunset. The Details:  Neighborhood: Granville Island Nearby Attractions: Granville Island Public Market, Science World Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible WiFi: Free WiFi Loyalty Program: No Pet Policy: Pet friendly ($30 per room, per night) Rates: Starting at $440 per night Courtesy of Pan Pacific Vancouver Also available to book at Hotels.Com Located right on the water directly beside the iconic white sails of Canada Place, the views here can't be beat. The Pan Pacific Vancouver is a larger hotel with over 500 guestrooms, but the rooms are quiet and well-kept, and floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of Stanley Park and the marina, as well as the distant North Shore mountains and the city skyline depending on where you're positioned. The hotel houses three high-end restaurants and bars, as well as a spa, and a beautiful heated outdoor saltwater pool where you can take a dip while taking in the spectacular views from the hotel's rooftop. The Details: Neighborhood: Coal Harbour Nearby Attractions: Canada Place, Stanley Park, Gastown Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible WiFi: In-room WiFi available for a fee ($5.95 per day) Loyalty Program: Pan Pacific DISCOVERY Pet Policy: Pets welcome ($40 per stay, $15 for second pet, max 2 pets) Rates: Starting at $502 per night Also available to book at Expedia.Com This is Vancouver's first and only Indigenous-owned and operated hotel, run by the BC Indigenous Housing Society (BCIHS), where you can shop authentic Indigenous art at the on-site art gallery and participate in cultural experiences to learn more about the people who first called the land home. When you stay here, your dollars fund much-needed housing, and when you shop, those dollars go directly to support local Indigenous artists. And with only 18 rooms, each with custom-designed decor created in partnership with Vancouver's top hotel designers and local Indigenous artists, you really get that personalized boutique feel here. The Details: Neighborhood: Strathcona Nearby Attractions: Gastown, Chinatown, Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Garden Accessibility: Call for details. WiFi: Free in-room WiFi Loyalty Program: No Pet Policy: Pets not allowed Rates: Starting at $398 per night Also available to book at Expedia.Com Located steps from Robson Street, this is the best hotel for fashion-loving travelers who are looking to pick up a new outfit (or two) during a visit to Vancouver. The rooms are elegantly furnished and fairly spacious. Definitely make time to have dinner at Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar, where locally sourced seafood dishes like baked oysters and humboldt squid are served in a casual setting. The indoor pool means you can swim all year round, and on sunny days, you can pop out to the patio to catch some rays. The Details: Neighborhood: Financial District Nearby Attractions: Robson Street, Canada Place, BC Place Accessibility: Three ADA-accessible rooms WiFi: Free WiFi for guests Loyalty Program: RSVP Rewards Pet Policy: Pets allowed ($40 per room, per night to a max $175 per stay) Rates: Starting at $437 per night Know Before You Go Don't be afraid to visit during winter With three local ski hills accessed only 30 minutes by car from downtown, Vancouver can be a great city to visit during the winter months, too. The crowds may be smaller, but the offerings are just as big. Vancouver's year-round mild weather invites plenty of outdoor fun on and off the slopes, with hiking, biking, and even boating on offer. And the city is packed with cultural sites, award-winning dining, and endless shopping if you'd prefer to spend your time indoors. Don't forget to leave a tip Just like most places in Canada and the U.S., tipping is common here. For restaurants, it's customary to tip at least 15 to 20 percent if you find the service to be exceptional. Personal care and spa services tend to be the same, and taxis and rideshare tips tend to average around 10 to 15 percent depending on level of satisfaction. For housekeeping at hotels, the average tip tends to sit around $2 to $5 per day. Consider going car-free Vancouver is a great city to visit car-free, with safe and accessible transit options (including public buses, skytrains, and the SeaBus), an extensive network of bike lanes with a wide range of bike rental options, and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with easy access to the city's top sites found within walking distance from the hotel of your choice. And if you need to get somewhere on four wheels, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate here. How We Chose These Hotels With over 350 hotels in Vancouver, it can be tricky to choose the 15 best, so we combed through the ones that topped the T+L World's Best Awards, where the reviews of thousands of voters were taken into account. Our It List also showcases the best new hotels in the city, as visited and voted for by T+L's expert editors. Beyond the hotels that topped our awards lists noted above, we asked the author of this article, Bianca Bujan, to share her expertise as a lifelong local and award-winning travel journalist who has stayed at many of the hotels to review and experience them for her contributions to travel guidebooks on Vancouver, written for Lonely Planet, and articles on Vancouver written for other top-tier travel publications. And finally, as with all our lists of best hotels in a destination, our editors ensure all hotel recommendations align with our core T+L Hotel Values.

Last-minute, Low-cost Tips For West Coast Travel

It's already mid-July and you haven't booked anything but still want to go on vacation.

The good news? With its stunning landscapes, cities and diverse attractions, the West Coast of the United States and Canada offers plenty of opportunities for last-minute, budget-friendly travel.

Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a spontaneous adventure, here are some tips to help you plan an affordable getaway.

1. Use budget airlines

One of the best ways to save on last-minute travel is to take advantage of deals from airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Alaska Airlines often have discounted fares for spontaneous travellers.

Flexibility with your travel dates and times can lead to significant savings. Keep an eye on their websites and subscribe to fare alerts to catch the best deals.

READ MORE: How to find cheaper flights: The WCT Travel Guide

2. Consider road trips

If flying isn't an option or if you prefer to travel at your own pace, consider a road trip. The West Coast is renowned for its scenic drives, with breathtaking views and countless attractions along the way.

Renting a car or using your vehicle can be a cost-effective way to explore. Some of the most iconic routes include the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 101 and Highway 1, boasting stunning coastal views while passing through quaint towns and beautiful parks.

READ MORE: Cruising the coast: Epic roadtrip explores West Coast's iconic Highway 101

3. Stay in budget accommodations

Accommodation costs can quickly add up, but there are many budget-friendly options available. Hostels and motels often offer lower rates compared to hotels.

Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo also have affordable vacation rentals, especially if you're traveling with a group. For a truly budget-friendly experience, consider camping. The West Coast has numerous campsites, from beachside locations to forest retreats, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while saving money.

READ MORE: 5 affordable ways to travel the West Coast and beyond

Siwash Rock in Vancouver's Stanley Park – one of the city's most renowned attractions.

4. Visit free attractions

Many attractions across the West Coast are free to visit, making it easy to enjoy your trip without spending a fortune. Cities like Vancouver, B.C., Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles offer a variety of free activities. In San Francisco, you can explore Golden Gate Park, walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, or visit the historic Fisherman's Wharf. Seattle's Pike Place Market is a must-see, offering a vibrant atmosphere and unique local products. In Los Angeles, you can hike to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and the famous Hollywood Sign.

In Vancouver, make sure to visit Stanley Park and Granville Island and in Victoria, there's Beacon Hill Park, not to mention numerous hiking, biking and beachcombing opportunities.

5. Eat local

Eating out can be one of the most significant expenses while travelling. To save money, try dining at local food trucks, farmers' markets and inexpensive eateries.

These options offer delicious and authentic local cuisine but also provide a more affordable alternative to traditional restaurants. Farmers' markets are especially great for picking up fresh, local produce and snacks for a picnic or on-the-go meals.

Travelling the West Coast on a budget is entirely possible with a bit of planning and flexibility. By taking advantage of budget airlines, considering road trips, staying in affordable accommodations, visiting free attractions and eating locally, you can enjoy a memorable and budget-friendly adventure, and often soak in more of the authentic culture.

For more detailed travel guides and local insights, check out more at WestCoastTraveller.Com!

Plan your adventures throughout the West Coast at westcoasttraveller.Com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller. And for the top West Coast Travel stories of the week delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Armchair Traveller newsletter!

North Vancouver Home Show Makes An Exciting Return In March

The ultimate home improvement hub offers innovation and exclusive deals after a four-year hiatus for homeowners on the North Shore

The North Vancouver Home Show offers an ideal venue to find a diverse collection of home improvement products and services.

Returning to the Karen Magnussen Arena from March 22-24, 2024, the North Vancouver Home Show makes a highly anticipated comeback after a four-year break, offering homeowners a unique, pressure-free environment to explore a vast assortment of home improvement options. 

The event offers a one-stop shop showcasing everything from innovative home products to exclusive show specials, making it an essential destination for those looking to enhance their living spaces. Visitors can browse a diverse collection of products and services conveniently under one roof, including windows, doors, heating and cooling systems, and more.

"We're thrilled to be back, offering a mix of long-term businesses and fresh faces to the community," says Darcy Hope, president of Evergreen Exhibitions.

Beyond offering a wide range of products and services, the North Vancouver Home Show plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses, serving as a vibrant platform for both established companies and newcomers to showcase their offerings to an enthusiastic and receptive audience.

Enjoy a no-pressure shopping experience The event offers something for everyone from furniture to construction supplies to hot tubs. Photo via: Evergreen Exhibitions.

Hope emphasizes the relaxed atmosphere of the show: "It's like a mall for home building, renovation, and decor."  

The easily accessible, widespread setup allows visitors to interact with contractors and service providers in a neutral environment. Unlike typical sales situations, the Home Show offers a chance to compare and shop without the pressure of salespeople in your home.

The show also provides a treasure trove of innovations, showcasing products and services that might be new to visitors. From furniture to roofing and even outdoor living essentials like barbecues and hot tubs, you're sure to find everything you need to transform your space into the home of your dreams.

"It's an excellent opportunity to explore and discover things you didn't know you needed," Hope describes.

The best part? Attendees can expect exclusive deals and specials only available at the Home Show, making the event a prime destination for those looking to cash in on significant savings on home improvement projects. 

"Exhibitors often run show-specific specials, offering unique products and pricing," Hope says.

Attendees can expect exclusive deals and specials only available at the North Vancouver Home Show. Photo via: Evergreen Exhibitions. Exciting door prizes and contests

In addition to the wealth of products and services, the Home Show offers various door prizes and contest entries, including gift baskets and discounts on key services. 

"We're also hosting a grand prize draw for a trip for two to Puerto Vallarta," Hope says.

The Home Show is not just an exhibition; it's a community event designed to be as accessible as possible. Offering free admission and parking all weekend, visitors can more easily explore, learn, and return if something catches their eye.

As the North Shore gears up for the return of this much-anticipated event, the community can look forward to a comprehensive, hassle-free experience for all their home improvement needs. 

Whether for a simple decor update or a major renovation project, the North Vancouver Home Show is the ultimate destination for homeowners in the region.

To learn more, visit: www.Homeshowtime.Com/spring-shows/north-vancouver-home-show. 

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