Fodor's Expert Review Sylvia Hotel

This Virginia-creeper-covered 1912 heritage building is continually popular because of its affordable rates and near-perfect location: a stone's throw from the beach on scenic English Bay, two blocks from Stanley Park, and a 20-minute walk from Robson Street. The rooms and apartment-style suites vary from tiny to spacious. Many of the basic but comfortable rooms are large enough to sleep four, and all have windows that open. Weekly and monthly stays are available. The place has such charm and character that to stay here in June through August you must book at least six months ahead. If you've walked the seawall, Sylvia's Lounge is a great pit stop for afternoon tea or a cocktail.