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Review of the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver
22 December 2011
If in real estate it is location, location, location, what I want in a
hotel is location, service, room quality. I have recommended this hotel
for years because when I lived in Vancouver my parents always stayed
there when visiting me (I had a teensy apartment, not a bad daughter)
and I saw their rooms. The rooms they had always were lovely, a bit
quirky compared to a chain hotel in a positive way, and comfy, clean,
spacious, and with windows that open to your view of English Bay. They
would not have stayed anywhere else.
I was back in Vancouver recently and of course stayed at the Sylvia. I
booked very late and got a bit of an unusual room. Mostly it was fine -
like being able to open the windows and have the ocean breeze flutter
the ivy around the window, but the bathroom was barely okay, and frankly
a bit strange and smelly.
Still, anytime I go back to Vancouver, I would stay there with no
question - even in the room I had this time. If it was fully booked I
would have serious issues finding something even close to what I like -
there is nothing else like the Sylvia. Love the location (location,
location), great people, and the homely/homey feeling.
Review of the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver
17 December 2011
On the fringe of the urban core this is classic and classy Vancouver
heritage hotel. Stunning views, cosy pub, good dining room. Close to
ocean-side walks and the walkers' pathway through Stanley Park. A quick
walk to Lions Gate Bridge and the downtown area through side by side
ethnic restaurants. A unique experience in an urban location!
Review of the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver
17 December 2011
Nice old-fashioned but clean hotel, without that lingering cigarette
smoke odor so many old/historic hotels are plagued with. Great value at
a very reasonable price, and lots of far-batter restaurants within just
a couple of blocks. Staff was fantastic.
Review of the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver
14 December 2011
My partner and I have been staying at the Sylvia for over thirty years.
We've always loved the friendly staff, clean rooms, and fantastic
location. Thirty years ago budget was as issue, and we were happy to
find such a great hotel at a moderate price. Thirty years later I'm
earning a lot more money and could well afford a "luxury" hotel
downtown, but you know what--we still stay at the Sylvia. I love getting
up in the morning, having coffee, and walking on the beach which is
right across the street from the hotel. The staff is so friendly and
accommodating whether it be storing our bicycles, handling luggage, or
offering help. The hotel may not be for everyone because of its age and
lack of some modern "comforts" , but I'm always very comfortable there
and sleep like a baby.
Review of the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver
23 November 2011
Stayed at the Sylvia numerous times over a couple or three decades and
two words come to mind: Authenticity and tradition. While thoroughly
modern in its amenities, you are quickly reminded that generations have
stayed here. But there is no kitch sentimentality in the decor, no
quaint shabbiness. The place is very well run. Some of the rooms are
huge. The views of the bay stunning. Slip down on the terrace and
people-watch the waterfront promenade and, enjoying a gin and tonic,
pretend you are Graham Green thinking up his next novel. In winter,
after a walk in Stanley Park in the blustery weather, snuggle in the bar
for a hot cup of clam chowder or hot buttered rum. Stay in for dinner,
the menu is elegant without being pretentious; and the wait staff is
discrete but attentive. In other words, it makes my stay in Vancouver
that much more enjoyable. |
