From tree houses for grown-ups set in the middle of a Canadian rainforest to boutique art-hotels, fun-loving travelers don't have to settle for generic chain names in Vancouver.
In fact, whether it's sculptures in bedrooms or beach volleyball courts out front, quirky accommodation can be easily found and can transform a typical city break into a mini adventure.
Nestled among the towering trees of the rainforest of Vancouver Island, the Free Spirit Spheres offer guests the chance to get back to nature and sleep in specially-designed, eco-friendly and fun tree houses.
The unique accommodation is located on private property some 30 kilometres north of the town of Parksville, with the quiet setting and the way the three wooden spheres sway in the wind, making it an ideal choice for visitors keen to unwind or take part in relaxing activities such as healing, meditation or natural photography.
On a more practical note, facilities at this fun hotel option include washrooms, a sauna and barbecuing facilities, while each of the spheres is even equipped with electricity and speakers for those guests bringing their own music systems.
Free Spirit Spheres
420 Horne Lake Rd.
Quallicum Beach, BC V9K 1Z7
Canada
001-250-757-9445
freespiritspheres.com
Located in the bustling heart of downtown Vancouver, the Listel Hotel prides itself on giving its guests an unforgettable stay amidst stunning works from the contemporary north-west coast arts scene.
Through the hotel's partnership with the University of British Colombia's Museum of Anthology, the hotel's Museum Floors, including the boutique bedrooms, are full of works by some of the world's leading artists.
Meanwhile, the Listel's status as one of the coolest hotels for culture-lovers is further enhanced by the fact that it hosts live jazz concerts in its basement bar and restaurant seven nights a week.
The Listel Hotel
1300 Robson Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 1C5
Canada
001-604-684-8461
thelistelhotel.com
A budget option for those visitors to Vancouver who would rather spend their vacation money on having a good time than a five-star bed for the night, the Jericho Beach Hostel is located just 20 minutes from the beating heart of the city.
Offering guests both private rooms and the chance to save cash by sleeping in a dorm, the cheap choice is also perfectly-placed to enjoy some of the most-fun activities in Vancouver, including wind-surfing, kayaking, beach volleyball and walking and biking in Stanley Park.
Additionally, the nightlife of the main University of BC campus, as well as downtown Vancouver, are just a short bus ride away.
Jericho Beach Hostel
1515 Discovery Street
Vancouver, BC V6R 4K5
Canada
001-604-224-3208
hihostels.ca
Located in the trendy Yaletown neighbourhood, the boutique Opus Hotel is a popular choice among hipsters keen to enjoy some contemporary cool.
As well as its chic interior design, with its 96 luxury guestorooms all boasting unique colour schemes, ranging from minimalist to modern eclectic, the hotel's One Hundred Days restaurant and bar has been rated as one of Vancouver's best locations for a night out by Zagat.
For those guests keen to explore the local area, they will find the bustling bars of Yaletown on their doorstep, while the city's central entertainment district, Stanley Park and the docks are all a short walk way.
The Opus Hotel
322 Davie Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 5Z6 Canada
001-604-642-6787
opushotel.com
