Fairmont Waterfront

The Fairmont Waterfront has gone above and beyond to provide a quintessential Vancouver experience, which isn't always the case in this corporate-friendly brand. Extras here include a well-liked restaurant that serves local produce and goods, a focus on fitness and health, sustainable business practices such as full compost and recycling throughout the hotel, and -- of course -- grand views of the North Shore mountains. The hotel has made it a top priority to capitalize on those the views, whether it's from accessible terraces or from oversized windows in many of the guest rooms. Drawing inspiration from these views, a west coast theme is carried throughout the hotel's decor with, light tan stone and wood making frequent appearances alongside gray and blue accents used liberally in guest rooms, ball rooms, and the lobby. The large hotel restaurant, ARC, deviates from the color scheme, but is a classy and popular place, maintaining the hotel's emphasis on the Canada's west coast with seasonal local fare and craft beers. Given the kid-friendly perks like welcome gifts, the brand name, and the business-ready extras, this hotel has broad appeal. 

As the name suggests, this hotel sits along Vancouver's harbor in downtown. The Convention Centre, Canada Place, and the cruise ship terminal are also directly across the road, meaning guests who are departing Vancouver by ship may get a sneak peak of their vessel from their hotel room. If you plan on staying in Vancouver and taking in the city's sights, major downtown attractions are within walking distance, while the historic charm of Gastown is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The city's 22 kilometer-long (14 mile) seawall is just across the road and continues all the way to Stanley Park. A jog around the seawall at Stanley Park is a must-do for fitness buffs, and is 25 minutes away walking or 12 minutes away if you're running. For culture and shopping, the Vancouver Art Gallery and Robson Street shops are only a 15-minute walk from the property. The hotel is linked to the city's rapid transit network through the basement level, and the airport is only a 30-minute train ride away.

Like much of the rest of the hotel, rooms are tastefully designed with muted tones of brown, tan, and blue in the carpets, bed linens, and drapery. The look is handsome, if not exactly stylish or packed with personality. However, one of the Fairmont Waterfront's best features are the oversized windows that -- in many (but not all) units -- have excellent views of Vancouver's harbor or the downtown skyline. A big effort has been made to keep surfaces in rooms clutter free through innovative solutions such as connectivity hubs that are integrated into desks, allowing guests to hook up their electronics to the large flat-screen TVs. Guests can find sustenance in the minibars and coffeemakers with free coffee, and all rooms include air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. However, the latter is only free by joining the hotel's loyalty program. Bathrooms continue the use of browns in solid-surface countertops, tiled rainfall shower/tub combos, and flooring. The premium Le Labo bath products are a brand standard and welcome extra. Upgraded room options, such as the Fairmont Gold Suites, offer access to additional amenities and perks including private concierges, breakfasts, and a canape hours.

Features at this property are on par with those expected of the Fairmont brand, though the lack of a spa may be a surprise -- especially given the local competition. Otherwise, it's all about the central Vancouver setting here. For instance, if your room doesn't have a view of the mountains and harbor, you can still score those from many spots throughout the property. The pool deck and surrounding garden terrace are one of the best places to do this and are open late. Adjacent to the pool is a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center with free athletic wear available for guests to borrow. If you'd rather run outside, the hotel has guided routes that can be downloaded to any smart phone. Other locally sourced extras include a beehive and herb garden. That ethos continues at ARC restaurant, which offers west-coast fare with an emphasis on locally caught and grown produce and meats. They serve local wines and craft beers as well. The Fairmont has 14 meeting rooms that are flexible in their size and arrangement. Unfortunately, parking costs extra and can be pricey, though this is standard in downtown Vancouver. Other perks, like free Wi-Fi, are only available to members of the hotel's loyalty program. Bikes are free to borrow and a great way to explore the region, and the hotel offers welcome gifts to children.