Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Most hotels offer auto association members an automatic 10 percent discount, and
whereas senior discounts apply only to those over 60 or 65 on public transportation and at
attractions, most hotels offer discounts to those over 50, with chains such as Best Western
also allowing senior travelers a late checkout. “Corporate rates” are a lot more flexible
than in years gone past; some hotels require nothing more than the flash of a business card
for a 10-20 percent discount.
When it comes to frequent flyer programs, you really do need to be a frequent flyer to
achievefreeflights,butthevariousloyaltyprogramsofferedbyhotelsoftenprovidebene-
fits simply for signing up.
BED-AND-BREAKFASTS
Bed-and-breakfast accommodations are found throughout both cities and across Van-
couver Island. Styles run the gamut from restored heritage homes to modern townhouses.
Theyareusuallyprivateresidences,withuptofourguestrooms,andasthenamesuggests,
breakfastisincluded.Ratesfluctuateenormously.InVancouverandVictoria,forexample,
they range $60-180 s, $70-210 d. Amenities also vary greatly—the “bed-and-breakfast”
may be a single spare room in an otherwise regular family home or a full-time business in
a purpose-built home. Regardless, guests can expect hearty home cooking, a peaceful at-
mosphere,personalservice,knowledgeablehosts,andconversationwithlike-mindedtrav-
elers.
Reservation Agencies
The British Columbia Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers Guild ( www.bcsbestbnbs.com ) rep-
resents more than 100 bed-and-breakfasts across the province. The association produces
an informative brochure with simple descriptions and a color photo of each property, and
manages an easily navigable website. This association doesn't take bookings—they must
bemadedirectly. Bed and Breakfast Online ( www.bbcanada.com ) doesn'ttakebookings
either, but links are provided and an ingenious search engine helps you find the accom-
modation that best fits your needs.
BACKPACKER ACCOMMODATIONS
Budget travelers have a few options in Vancouver and Victoria, but most backpackers
gravitate to the stability of Hostelling International properties, of which five are located
within the two cities. This organization also has a property in Whistler. Privately run hos-
tels fill the gaps. Either way, staying in what have universally become known as “back-
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