The Fairmont Hotel echoes the vibrancy of its home city. This gracious hotel offers guests the perfect blend of history and cosmopolitan panache. Grand and inviting, it has been a preeminent destination since 1939, when it opened to celebrate the royal visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. The guest rooms employ rich jewel tones and sumptuous fabrics to create a wonderful English castle ambience. The décor gives a nod to the past, but the dining and entertainment venues are cutting edge and are hotspots on the local scene. Business and fitness centers keep guests focused on goals, while world-renowned boutiques, including Louis Vuitton and St. John, tempt shoppers.

The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Amenities:

• 556 rooms, 14 story. Pets accepted; fee. Check-in 3 pm, check-out 11 am. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness room. Indoor pool, children's pool, whirlpool. Business center.