[trip style = staycation]
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You know those weekends when you can't seem to peel yourself away from in-town responsibilities, but you still want an escape-like experience? If you've only got a half day, but want some extreme, vacation-like relaxation, check out your favourite local hotel's pool---it may just offer day-rates for use!
The Staycation Pool Experience Taking a cue from destinations like LA and Palm Springs, there's a growing 'staycation' trend where hotels are offering use of their pools to non-guests for a fee. Understanding that it's easier for people to spare a few hours than an entire weekend, hotels are embracing the 'poolcation'.
Vancouver Hotel Poolcations Last May I heard the Fairmont Pacific Rim might allow day use of their pool to paying non-guests, but alas, it never happened. Shame--it's a gorgeous location with cabanas, views, a bar and more. (Just suggest your out-of-town friends stay there and get pool access through them!)
Fairmont Waterfront Located right across from the cruise ship terminal, the Fairmont Waterfront offers a $15 daily rate for non-hotel guests looking for an outdoor poolcation.
The Westin Grand Vancouver Each Sunday afternoon, the Westin Grand hosts free pool parties for non-hotel guests. The price is right... The hotel just emailed me and has updated the price to $10/person due to high demand. Pan Pacific & Westin Bayshore (spa required) Although pool-entry for non-hotel guests requires a treatment in each hotel's spa, a massage + day lounging in the sun may be just what the doctor ordered.
ps - If the hotel poolcation isn't up your alley, try one of Vancouver's 5 outdoor pools for a cheaper price. My hands-down fave is the Second Beach Pool in Stanley Park. Located on the outer western edge of the park, this beachside, gradual entry pool overlooks Burrard Inlet and UBC. Open until Sept 6th, 10am-8.30pm daily. Trip Styler Tip: for a more relaxed pool-time experience, go from 10-noon or 6.30-8.30pm, when there are fewer people and the weather is still warm!
[photo credit: westin bayshore]