To the eyes of anyone who grew up in Vancouver decades ago -- like me -- the city has changed so much as to be almost unrecognizable.
Perhaps one of the most notable: The sheer number of world-class hotels. These days there are so many five-star accommodations, offering such a stunning array of luxury amenities, that it seems like they pop up on every block.
But which one stands out? I asked a few celebrities about their favourite places to stay when visiting the Best Coast.
Bif Naked, Musician (@bifnaked)
Favourite hotel: Wedgewood
"I have been a fan for over two decades, since I moved to Vancouver. As a young punk trying to navigate very grown up business meetings, I would often take meetings and interviews in the hotel's famous Bacchus Restaurant, and would linger for hours over their fine teas.
"As a vegan my life is often annoying, educating others on why I try and eat compassionately, and at the hotel they were always so respectful and bend over backwards to accommodate me. They have a salad with fennel, watermelon, and beets that they make vegan for me, and they always make me feel very respected and cared about.
"The rooms are magnificent, and the staff is utterly elegant. It is definitely a destination hotel and lucky for me, it's a few blocks from my Vancouver residence. We simply stroll down the street to this special place. A Vancouver treasure, founded by an incredible woman, the late Eleni Skalbania."
Mira Sorvino, Actress (@mirasorvino)
Favourite hotel: Sutton Place
"The rooms on the more residential side are ideal for medium-length shoots with the family, because they have nice modern kitchens. I also love the indoor pool, because you can use it in any weather.
"It is very centrally located, so you can walk out and be close to great dining and shopping. There is even an awesome community center with great dance and exercise classes, which is just half a block away.
"And the bar makes great cosmos!"
Cobie Smulders, Actress (@cobiesmulders)
Favourite hotel: Four Seasons Whistler
"When I get a chance to go to my home province, I love going up to Whistler. During both summer and winter, I find the Four Seasons to be such amazing spot.
"The staff is ridiculously accommodating. They are happy -- or at least, do a wonderful job pretending to be happy when you arrive with young humans. The food is delicious, and the beautiful mountains are right outside your door. Heaven."
Spencer O'Brien, Snowboard Champ (@spencerobrien)
Favourite hotel: Shangri-La
"My favourite hotel in Vancouver has to be the Shangri-La, located right downtown on Georgia Street. Large, elegant rooms with insanely comfortable beds and beautiful light-filled bathrooms.
"I never wanted to leave -- except to check out the outdoor pool with views of downtown Vancouver. And to dine at Market, of course, where the food is exceptional. I only stayed one night, but was ready to move in by check-out time."
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