VICTORIA AND VANCOUVER ISLAND - British Columbia: Including the Alaska Highway - page 175

In the oldest section of downtown, surrounded by the city's best dining and shopping,
is the Bedford Regency (1140 Government St., 250/384-6835 or 800/665-6500,
www.bedfordregency.com , $159-219 s or d), featuring 40 guest rooms of varying configur-
ations. Stylish, uncluttered art deco furnishings and high ceilings make the standard rooms
seem larger than they really are. A better deal are the deluxe rooms and suites, which
provide more space and better amenities for only slightly more money.
If you're looking for a modern feel, centrally located M Swans Suite Hotel (506 Pan-
dora Ave., 250/361-3310 or 800/668-7926, www.swanshotel.com , $199-359 s or d) is an
excellent choice. Located above a restaurant/pub complex that was built in the 1880s as a
grain storehouse, each of the 30 split-level suites holds a loft, full kitchen, dining area, and
bedroom. The furnishings are casual yet elegantly rustic, with West Coast artwork adorning
the walls and fresh flowers in every room. In the off-season, all rooms are discounted up to
40 percent.
$200-250
Very different from Victoria's traditional accommodations is the contemporary Parkside
Hotel & Spa (810 Humboldt St., 250/716-2651 or 855/616-3557,
www.parksidevictoria.com , starting at $249 s). Within walking distance of the Inner Har-
bour, the guest rooms have a contemporary ambience, and each has one or two bedrooms,
a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and large, wall-mounted TVs. Rooms on the
upper floors have city views. Other highlights include a fitness room, indoor pool, theater,
and underground parking.
Similar in style and amenities is Oswego (500 Oswego St., 250/294-7500 or 877/
767-9346, www.oswegovictoria.com , from $245 s or d). Rooms on the upper floors have
water views, including the two three-bedroom penthouse suites. Amenities include a fitness
room, underground parking, and a contemporary bistro, all within walking distance of
downtown.