best place to stay in banff??? Vancouver???
 

Hi all, just wondering where the best place to stay in Banff would be? Also, any suggestions on accomodation in Vancouver? It is so hard trying to book accom. from another country when you don't know what is around. Any suggestions would be great.
Thanks, in anticipation, for all your help - it is greatly appreciated.

Do you have a price range or particular type of accommodation you prefer (e.g. boutique hotel)?

Can't help on you on Banff but I stayed at the new Loden hotel in Vancouver recently and really liked it. But there are lots of great hotels there, give us more info on what you're looking for and we can make more suggestions.

If your budget can afford it, ususally Banff Springs and the Rimrock get the highest recommendations in the Banff townsite.

Thanks for the replies - there are four adults going, myself and husband and my sister and her husband. We would probably like to be a little budget conscious in Vancouver and spend a bit more in the Banff area because of views, scenery, etc.
We don't mind sharing a room occasionally if need be. Will look up all your suggestions so far. Thanks.

Just to add my vote for the Banff Springs. Originally built by the Canadian Pacific RR in the 1880s and now part of the Fairmont group. Beautiful, classic "old world" hotel with some amazing views from the rear terrace. Lots of dining options and easy walk to town. Our room was spacious, very well appointed with unobstructed views of the mountains.

bront2 - can you tell us what your budget is per couple? we can be a lot more helpful then. "a little budget conscious" - doesn't tell us what you can afford.

Try the Blue Horizon on Robson. They have rooms with 2 queen beds and it's a moderately priced but well located hotel.

I use tripadvisor.com as a starting point and read travelers' reviews under their accomodations listings. Consistency in their comments plus lodging availability goes a long way toward narrowing the list to a select few.

Hotels are expensive in Banff. Expect to pay $250+ for double occupancy in a pretty standard mid-range hotel/motel room. All accommodation options for the area are listed at www.banfflakelouise.com .

Canmore is another town just outside the park gates, about 15 minutes drive from Banff; you might want to check out accommodation there.

B&Bs for both places can be found at www.bbcanada.com (also for Vancouver), and for Canmore, www.bbcanmore.com .

Information on purchasing your national parks pass can be found here - the good news is that if you are all in one vehicle, four people costs the same as two ($19.80 per day):
http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/bc/kootena.../visit23_e.asp

Hope this helps.

thanks for the tip re national park passes - great help