The best city in the world is Vancouver, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. Factors that go into city "livability" include access to arts and culture, availability of goods and services, and low crime rates. Considering that Vancouver is the best city in the world, it's obviously a top city for a luxury vacation as well. With world-class restaurants and cultural activities, as well as the natural beauty of British Columbia, there is plenty for a luxury travel fan to do on vacation here. The best luxury hotels in Vancouver provide the accommodations and high quality amenities standard for 5 star hotels and resorts, each with their own unique, high-end service, architecture and interior design.
The Top 6 Best Luxury Hotels in Vancouver, British Columbia
- Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver, 791 West Georgia Street - The luxury brand is known throughout the world for its 5 star resorts and hotels. The Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver is no exception. Just renovated in November 2007, the hotel's new restaurant, Yew, is one of the best hotel restaurants in the city. The new, elegant lobby, relatively large rooms and suites, and first-class amenities all speak to the luxury accommodations at Four Seasons Vancouver.
- Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 West Georgia St. - A true classic, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is famous among downtown Vancouver. Luxury Travel was duly impressed with the gorgeous architecture (the weathered blue-green spires may as well be landmarks, they're so iconic) as well as Griffins, the sophisticated hotel restaurant. While this is a 5 star hotel inside and out, decent deals can be found to make it more affordable. The Fairmont chain, as an aside, is a leader in sustainable travel.
- Pan Pacific Vancouver, 300-999 Canada Place - Views of Stanley Park, Coal Harbour and Grouse Mountain are just part of the draw for this luxury hotel. People taking cruise vacations often stay here, as the ships dock right outside Pan Pacific. Now, this is one large hotel, with the convention center and the cruise ship terminal right there, so it's louder and busier than a boutique hotel. But with a slew of awards (Top 500 World's Best Hotels by Travel & Leisure, Best Hotels for Business Travelers by Conde Nast, etc), Pan Pacific is clearly onto something. The luxury accommodations are remarkable, with attention to detail, service, and the high-end amenities worthy of any 5-star hotel.
- Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, 845 Hornby Street - Here is the best luxury boutique hotel in downtown Vancouver. Conde Nast's Gold List and Travel & Leisures "Number One in Vancouver" (both 2007) indicate how respected Wedgewood in the world of 5 star travel. 2008 will see even more accolades for this hotel, as it joins Relais & Chateaux, a very discerning hotel association. Wedgewood does everything right, from its serene, pampering spa to its award-winning Bacchus restaurant - and of course, its accommodations. The 83 rooms and suites feature top of the line amenities, and the hotel website's promotional page offers discounts for hotel package reservations.
- Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard Street - Now, this is one sophisticated hotel, right in downtown Vancouver. Classy, elegant touches, such as the English afternoon tea, add to the personal feel here. Luxury Travel knows that several top Hollywood movie producers stay at Sutton Place Hotel while shooting movies in Vancouver; these high powered folk want to stay at the best 5 star hotel around, and this is it. The Fleuri Restaurant has a "Chocoholic Bar" three nights a week, along with the tea and Sunday Jazz Brunch. Luxury business travel never had it so good.
- Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver, 645 Howe St. - Luxury Travel loves the glamor and sleek style of the Metropolitan Hotel. The design may not be classic, but it sure is classy. If it's empty, ask if you can check out Halle Berry's preferred suite here. One of Vancouver's best hotel restaurants is Diva at the Met. Try to dine here regardless of where you stay; the locally caught seafood is outstanding. Decent deals can be found to get hotel reservations at a discount.
From small boutiques to large scale luxury hotels, these 5 star accommodations are all top of the line. A vacation in Vancouver, British Columbia would be enhanced by a stay at any one of them.
Jennifer W. Miner - Jennifer has years of travel writing experience, spoken at several national conferences, and more. See Jendeavor.com for more details.
