Stay & Play

The Fairmont YVR
Gold Level Soars Above Expectations

by Susan Campbell

Airport hotels aren’t typically designed with luxury in mind, but when it has the name Fairmont on it, you know it’s going to be a real treat. And as luck would have it, I arrived on the very day they were launching their newly renovated Gold Level on the 14th floor. So, I opted for Gold Level King Room to check out the $1.8million renovation, and it was a real treat, indeed!

Severely jet-lagged from a 12-hour flight, the champagne welcome at their private check-in and fabulous refreshments in their newly refreshed private lounge took the edge off. But it was the deep soaking marble jacuzzi bathtub in my room that really did the trick. And lux bath amenities with my name actually printed on the labels also seriously impressed. How very Fairmont!

After my soak, I enjoyed the incredible view. My room overlooked the tarmac with a backdrop of the mountains, and they also supply you with a telescope. But if it weren’t for the actual sight of the planes, you’d forget you’re in an airport as the soundproofing is incredibly efficient.

The Gold Floor operates as a ‘hotel within a hotel’ and has all you need for a seriously stellar stay. But the offerings below on the ground level are also a must visit. Their award-winning @GlobeVR dining spot and Jetside Bar are as popular with locals as they are with travellers for the nightly live music and excellent locally sourced fare. I enjoyed it all thoroughly, and I highly recommend this spot, even if you’re not flying anywhere!

www.fairmont.com/vancouver-airport-richmond