Vancouver's seaport is operated by Port Metro Vancouver. It serves both industrial and cruise shipping. Hotel choices abound in the area around the port, and the historic neighborhood offers travelers plenty of choices.
The Waldorf Hotel originated in 1947 and is an all-in-one venue, combining bedrooms with services, music and food. The Waldorf is within walking distance of the Vancouver seaport. The Waldorf has modernized rooms with wireless Internet and standard amenities, plus you can purchase a snacks and drinks package for your room. All rooms are non-smoking and boast allergen-busting linens. Room sizes and styles vary, and some feature original decor, including old-fashioned baths. You can arrange a business meeting here, plus there's access to a photocopier and printer. Pets are allowed. The hotel has two dining options: its traditional dining room serves gourmet, international cuisine, while Cafe Nubba provides a more modern setting for Lebanese food and drinks. The Tiki Bar is a venue for drinks and music. In the basement is a recreation room for reading, music and relaxation; the hotel also provides an on-site hair salon and gift shop.
The Empress Hotel is a grand old Victorian hotel that's owned and operated by Fairmont. It commands views of the harbor and has a long-standing tradition of afternoon tea. The on-site restaurant specializes in locally-raised food and you'll have no shortage of accommodation choices, given the almost 500 rooms and suites. These range from "standard" guest rooms, luxurious all by themselves, through suites and the top floor, or Fairmont Gold, level. Regular rooms have a sitting area, hold up to four, and some are wheelchair-accessible or have room for a crib or roll-away bed. Deluxe rooms step it up, holding up to five, and are a little larger. All standard rooms come with bathrobes; options include cribs, a decorative fireplace and sofa beds. Dining options include the Bengal Lounge, which specializes in Indian food and martinis, and the Empress Dining Room with a choice of 800 wines. Other amenities here include a full service health club, spa and salon, babysitting and concierges.
Built in 1914, the Budget Inn provides cheap and cheerful rooms on the edge of downtown, less than one mile west of the Vancouver seaport. An on-site brewpub, Pat's, offers microbrews and food. All rooms are non-smoking and there are three styles: budget, standard and deluxe. The rooms differ in terms of size and view; all have private, though sometimes tiny, bathrooms. If rooms are too small for your luggage, the hotel can store it elsewhere. Parking is extra, albeit relatively inexpensive, but the wireless is free. During summer, continental breakfast is free, too, but rates are higher. There's a laundry room on-site.
The Keefer Hotel is a four-suite, top-of-the-range boutique hotel on the edge of Chinatown. It's less than one mile west of the seaport. Each suite has private access and 2,400 square feet of art-filled living space. Long stays are welcome, but prices start at $500 per night. The penthouse suite, with a rooftop pool, is the most expensive of all. The building was once a warehouse. An on-site cocktail bar is a place to drink and be seen. Suites have a fully equipped "gourmet" kitchen, black out curtains, private spa, entertainment system and mini-gym. Each has a washer-dryer and private balcony. The decor is modern and features polished wood and brick.
