Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Whether you're looking for a luxurious room in a high-rise hotel or a downtown dorm,
Vancouver has accommodations to suit all budgets, many of which were renovated prior
tothe2010WinterOlympicGames.Downtownhotelroomratesfluctuate greatlydepend-
ing on supply and demand, much more so than bed-and-breakfasts and motels in suburban
locations. In Vancouver demand is highest in summer and on weekdays, so if you're look-
ing to save a few bucks, plan on being in town in the cooler months (May and September
are my favorite times to be in Vancouver), or stay at a business hotel as part of a weekend
package. One word of warning: If you plan to have a vehicle, prepare yourself for park-
ing fees up to $35 per day in the downtown area; ask if weekend rates include free park-
ing—they often do.
The following recommendations reflect my favorites in various price categories
throughout the city. You won't find every downtown hotel mentioned here, and outside of
downtown only convenient and good-value choices are included.
Under $50
As you may imagine, the only downtown accommodations in this price range are back-
packer lodges. For those on a budget, they are a great way to stay in the heart of the action
and to mingle with like-minded travelers from around the world.
HI-Vancouver Downtown
(1114 Burnaby St., 604/684-4565,
www.hihostels.ca
;
dorm:members$35,nonmembers$39;privateroom:$92-102sord)istypicalofthenew-
lookfacilitiesoperatedbyHostellingInternational,theworld'slargestandlongest-running
networkofbackpackeraccommodations.Thecomplexoffersalargekitchen,library,game
room, public Internet access, a travel agency, bike rentals, bag storage, and a laundry. The
dormitoriesholdamaximumoffourbedsbutaresmall.Ratesincludealightbreakfastand
wireless Internet.
Oncetheentertainment centerofthecity,GranvilleStreetisstilllinedwitholdtheaters
and hotels. Many of these facilities have been renovated, including the Royal Hotel,
whichisnow
HI-Vancouver Central
(1025GranvilleSt.,604/685-5335or877/203-4461,
www.hihostels.ca
;
dorm: members $37-47, nonmembers $40-52), complete with its own
downstairs bar with nightly drink and food specials. As you'd expect, it's more of a party
