The Hotel Grand Pacific
on Victoria's Inner Harbour
By Barbara Ballard
With its four star rating, the Hotel Grand Pacific has been, since 1989, a first class downtown place to stay. Now, it's extra special and totally updated with a major expansion. Formerly one street back from the harbour, the hotel acquired the property in front of it, demolished it, and opened the view to the Inner Harbour by adding a new wing and grand entrance. There's a patio for watching the world go by and splashing water features. From the upper floors, there are views not only of the harbour but also of the Gorge Waterway and Washington State's Olympic Mountains.
A grand 3000-square-foot ballroom and 13 meeting rooms cater to conventions and companies. In the basement, the Grand Pacific Athletic Club features a 25 metre ozone swimming pool with special lanes set aside for swimmers. This is a great plus for those of us who like to swim, not play around, in a pool. A whirlpool and sauna for relaxation are provided after a game of squash or a cardio or weight workout. An August 2001 opening is planned for an Aveda concept spa with traditional Japanese design.
The 308 new rooms (there are 148 original ones in the 1989 wing), all of which have balconies, are done in soft greens and roses and come complete with all modern amenities: internet connection, video games, hair dryer, irons, minibar, desk with light, reading lamps over the beds and computerized security system. Bathrooms have a complete line of toiletries and a coffee brewer for in-room early morning 'cuppa'. I have not stayed in this hotel, so cannot personally comment on the comforts of the beds, room service, etc., but every indication is that they are four star.
For those who can afford it, the ninth floor suite is quite dramatic. With several balconies looking over the city and harbour, a dining and sitting area complete with gas fireplace, bedroom with king size bed, and bathroom with soaker tub and heated towel rack, it's the ultimate honeymoon or special occasion get-away.
Feng Shui believers will be happy to note that the hotel incorporates its design principles. The entire hotel is fully air-conditioned, a feature not found in all Victorian accommodations. Best of all, the hotel is offering special rates until the end of September to celebrate its new look: US$120.95 (regular rate $329). So here's your chance to live the life.
Essential Information
Hotel Grand Pacific
463 Belleville St.
Victoria, BC
V8V 1X3
Tel. 250 386-0450
Fax. 250 380-4475
Toll free reservations: 1-800-663-7550
14 rooms for the physically challenged.
Non-smoking and smoking rooms available.
Underground parking provided.
Restaurant (see separate article)
Website: www.hotelgrandpacific.com
Email: reserve@hotelgrandpacific.com
©2000 by Barbara Ballard. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part, including images, and reproduction in electronic media, without documented permission from the author is prohibited.
Questions?
If you want more information about this area you can email the author or check out our North America Insiders page.
