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For those looking for a place to stay in Vancouver – for business or pleasure — we’d recommend the picturesque Westin Bayshore, which checks all the boxes; close to everything, incredible view, and comfort.

Located on the scenic Coal Harbor, The Westin Bayshore is just steps away Stanley Park, the Seawall, great shopping on Robson Street, cafes and restaurants, a Canucks hockey game at Rogers Stadium, high tea at the Vancouver Fairmont Hotel or the newest exhibit at the Vancouver Art gallery.

To capture the spectacular view, the rooms offer floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors to reveal the stunning views of the harbor, mountains, and city skyline. Every morning, you can wake up to this view though in winter it’s occasionally obscured by clouds and fog.

Author's view from the hotel.

Author’s view from the hotel.

As with all Westins’, it offers the usual amenities, such as the ‘Heavenly Bed’ in their spacious rooms, a spa and work-out area, plus their new program the ‘Gear Lending’ where they provide workout gear that is too bulky to pack, ie. running shoes. Conveniently, the seawall provides the perfect running path, winding through the 1,000 acre Stanley Park.  (The hotel offers three- and five-mile RunWESTIN™ running routes, designed in partnership with New Balance. Go it alone, or join a group run led by their ‘Run Concierge.’)

Even if you don’t take a run, walking around the park (it will take just over an hour) is a must-do, with it’s gorgeous views and Instagram-worthy photo opps.

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Back to the rooms, which are roomy, comfortable and offer free wifi for SPG members who book through their website, and updated bathrooms, with wood features and spa-like products. Try and book in the ‘Tower’ though all rooms promise views. Seawall Bar and Grill, the hotel’s restaurant offers healthy, tasty cuisine, again with breath-taking views. Locals also flock to the spot, so best to make a reservation. (The lobby lounge was under construction while we were there.) Sam Cheng, the Marketing & Communications Specialist for the Westin, said the  property was also popular with business guests because of the expansive conference center.)

In the summer, the outside pool looks tempting but in the cold weather months, after a brisk outing, we were glad of the inside pool and jacuzzi. Also in the summer, the harbor cruises are just steps from the hotel.

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Though it rarely snows it downtown Vancouver, you’re always guaranteed of snow on the mountains that overlook the City and in 20 minutes from the hotel you can be in the winter-wonderland known as Grouse Mountain. Ski, sleigh, skate, snowshoe and enjoy a nosh and a hot toddy at the lodge. There’s even a mountain but it was closed when we were there due to weather.

Author, Evan Hosie, and her daughter, Mackenzie, at Grouse Mountain.

Author, Evan Hosie, and her daughter, Mackenzie, at Grouse Mountain.

Room rates are very reasonable — from about $189 CAD (and the US dollar is right now 30% higher.) If you live in L.A., it’s a short and easy flight up the coast (approx. 2 and 1/2 hours) and a perfect three-day weekend getaway. You already have the prefect place to say so what are you waiting for?

 

 

About The Author

Administrator

Evan Hosie has worked as a Women's Lifestyle editor/writer (expert in the beauty and fashion vertical); created the Pop Culture section for Radaronline.com; never met a gadget she didn't want; and spends too much time on Social Media.

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