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If there is an Amtrak next year, I'm almost definitely gonna take the Empire Builder out to Seattle and then head up to Vancouver for an Alaska cruise. I've decided on a cruise because I won't have time to do the ferries and see much of anything; simply cannot spend that much time away. Anyway, I will need to stay in Vancouver the night before the cruise, and also the night of my return (the day after which I would be taking the bus to Victoria). Does anyone have any recommendations on a hotel in downtown Vancouver convenient to the train, bus, and cruise ships? We have no problem taking a taxi, just don't want to spend a fortune on one. Hotel should be a nice normal one, chain hotel is fine, not more than about $150 American dollars. Thanks!
chrisg Member # 2488
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This is where I stay. Right off the Skytrain a couple of blocks and is reasonable priced.
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If you do make a side trip to Victoria, I would suggest either the Days Inn or Best Western. Both are within a block of the inner harbor and the BC parliment building. There is a pretty decent museum a block further out, and just beyond that (probably 3 blocks total from the hotels) is the bus station. Be careful, both chains have hotels further out too.....make sure you're getting the one nearest the harbor.
The bus from Vancouver is like a 'mini-cruise' when it goes on the ferry.
My wife and I spent three nights in the Best Western in April 2004. That was the 'shoulder' rate season with higher prices kicking in about two weeks after our stay. Seems like after factoring in the exchange rate and a 'special' for booking on-line (expedia), that our room cost us in the neighborhood of $79.00 - $85.00 USD per night.
And.......if there isn't an Amtrak, Heaven forbid, fly to Winnipeg and catch the Canadian...I know, easier said than done.
While I'm on my soapbox, If Amtrak is substantially gutted, I'm planning a letter to representatives and senators who do not support Amtrak telling them how many tourist dollars I will not be spending in their state or district because I can no longer get there by train or ride a train while I am there.
Enjoy your trip!!!!!
David Pressley
Kiernan Member # 3828
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Buchan Hotel. Near Stanley Park.
David Member # 3
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Although it will cost a bit more than your preferred amount, the former Canadian Pacific (now called Fairmont) Waterfront Hotel is across the street from the Cruise Terminal in Vancouver. Some cruise lines have lower rates negotiated with this hotel; perhaps your travel agency can help. For a grand experience, there is the same chain's lovely Hotel Vancouver. It is a few blocks up from the harbour, but if you have a modest amount of luggage you can even walk from the hotel to the pier - it's downhill.
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