[trip style = luxury + urban]
{Editor's Note: Hovering somewhere between a boutique property and urban resort, the Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver's got it, but doesn't need to flaunt it. Recently I was invited to reacquaint myself with the property---an invitation I gladly accepted given I used to do a lot of business with the hotel in my former life. As in years passed, the facilities, food and guest services approach receive an A on my report card. Here's why:}
What When a hotel has amenities like a Jaguar car service, Frette bathrobes and Molton Brown bath products, you know it's going to be discerning. And it is. Locals call it The Met, visitors call it their contemporary, asian-inspired home away from home. Two black stone lions quarried in China usher you from street to lobby. Inside, something grabs you. A calm sets in. No wonder; the hotel was originally built with the help of a Feng Shui master and constructed in the shape of a fan {though sadly, this is not totally distinguishable from the street}.
Where In the nerve centre of Vancouver's downtown, across from Pacific Centre mall, one hundred steps from The Vancouver Art Gallery, two blocks from Robson Street and near public transit.
When Summer is Vancouver's peak season, but it's during the festive season the hotel gets all dolled up. Perfect as a place to rest your head and feet after a Christmas power shopping session, or refuel over bubbles and molecular cuisine at Diva, the hotel's signature restaurant.
Who/Why You are polished and well-rounded, and you expect the same standard from your hotel. You appreciate discreet service, excellent cuisine and a well-tended facility to sculpt your body.
Cost From $175/night; includes a Jaguar car service in the downtown area, wifi in both public areas and guest rooms, a squash court, pool {excellent for laps}, whirlpool and gym. Note that the following packages sweeten the deal: Long Weekends At The Met - Turn any weekend into a long weekend. Pay for a Fri/Sat night or a Sat/Sun night and get third night free! Rates start at $195/night for the two weekend nights. Out On The Town - In town for a holiday performance, concert, Canucks game or...? Just show your tickets when you check in to get a rate as low as $155/night with complimentary valet parking and late check-out.
More Roam+Board Custom Hotel – LAX Bitter End Yacht Club – BVI Sleep On The Water – London A Woodsy Hideaway – Big Sur, CA
[photos assembled by @tripstyler via The Metropolitan Hotel + Diva]