Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown

Formerly the Cascadia Hotel And Suites, this 21-story Residence Inn in the West End neighborhood of downtown Vancouver is now the hotel-of-choice for all types of travelers. Past guests are in near agreement that the hotel's modern facilities (including a heated pool and 24-hour fitness center), well-equipped suites, friendly and professional staff, and remarkable free hot breakfast make it one of the best hotel picks in the area. And that area by the way is notoriously expensive -- Residence Inn provides great value for downtown Vancouver by way of its reasonable rates, free and extensive breakfast buffet, and in-suite kitchens, which include full fridges, microwaves, and even dishwashers. The suites and common areas (like the on-site laundry room and outdoor terrace with grills) are designed for longer-stay guests, but the hotel has proven popular with cruisers in town for a night before or after sailing, as well as weekenders, mother-daughter trips, business travelers, and families with young children.

Residence Inn is located on Hornby Street, one of the main thoroughfares of downtown Vancouver. It's on the western edge of downtown Vancouver, so plan on a 25- to 30-minute walk (or 10-minute drive) to the waterfront and Gastown. The distance to Canada Place is a little under a mile, and many guests on their way to their departing cruise ship simply make the 20-minute walk with their luggage, as the street is flat or slightly downhill. Going the other direction, it is about a 10-minute walk to the pier where the waterbus to Granville Island departs. The hotel is 13-minute walk to the Yaletown-Roundhouse SkyTrain station, and a 10-minute drive to Stanley Park. The hotel is 30 minutes from Vancouver International Airport by car. Keep in mind that homelessness is an issue throughout Vancouver, and this is visible in the streets around the hotel.

Starting at 420 square feet, Residence Inn's suites are spacious, modern, and fully equipped for long stays. The decor isn't exactly striking, but it's unobjectionable: all rooms have textured beige carpeting, tan and brick-colored walls, and earth-toned furnishings with jolts of red from the bedskirts, accent pillows, and ottomans. The highlight are the kitchens, which come with full-size LG fridges with freezers, two-eye stovetops, Panasonic microwaves, coffeemakers come, and even mini dishwashers with dish soap and pods. The hotel offers grocery-stocking service. Free popcorn, Heritage Company coffee, Twinings tea, and two bottled waters are provided. Cupboards contain toaster ovens, electric kettles, dishes, and stemware. There are bins for recycling and even compost. Two-stool breakfast bars separate the kitchens from the sitting areas, which have writing desks with USB hubs, arm chairs and coffee tables, and Smart TVs that can enable Netflix and Hulu. Studios and One-Bedroom Penthouse Suites have couches in addition to armchairs. Most rooms have king-sized beds; some have one or two queens. Every room has individual climate control and a private balcony with a table and four chairs.Bathrooms have walk-in showers (no tubs) and water-conserving toilets, as well as Paul Mitchel bath products (two soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion). Full-size eco-ceramic hairdryers, bathrobes, and slippers are all provided. In the closets are free safes and ironing equipment. Wi-Fi is free in the rooms. Housekeeping is provided daily. Cribs and playpens are available on request.

Free chain-hotel breakfasts rarely inspire gushing praise, but the one at this Residence Inn comes pretty close. Past guests commend the free breakfast for its variety and attentive staff who replenishes everything before it runs out. The buffet features scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, make-your-own waffles, and baked goods (croissants, toast, bagels) with butter, cream cheese, and jam. Cold items include cereal, fruit, and yogurt. Guests can eat indoors or on the outside garden terrace. The space is open all day and features barbecue grills and a fire pit. There is also a lobby minimart selling soda, bottled water, and snacks, and the hotel offers pre-stocking grocery service for the in-room kitchens for free.The hotel's indoor pool is heated and has a neighboring whirlpool for those who want even more warmth. Next door to the pool is a fitness center with cardio and strength-training machines, free weights, and yoga mats. There is a coin-operated laundry room; guests can also opt for the hotel's laundry and dry cleaning service.There are five meeting rooms totaling 3,400 square feet of space. The flexible conference/event spaces are equipped with AV equipment and LCD projectors. Computer stations are set up in the lobby for guest use. Residence Inn's pet policy allows for two pets for rooms on two floors of the hotel, for a non-refundable fee. Weight restrictions apply. The underground parking garage comes with a daily fee, but there is one charging station for electric cars that is free to use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.