Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver
 

We are visiting our daughter at BCU next week and she suggested the Sylvia Hotel. I know she's past her prime (the hotel, not our daughter)but does anyone have any info on it?

Maybe your daughter has told you this already, but it's an ivy-covered brick building right near English Bay. It's close to Denman Street and Davie Street, both of which have a variety of places to get reasonably-priced food. It's also close to Stanley Park.

There is a new high rise wing constructed around ten years ago but it's still only 2-3 stars at best. Still the location is great for experiencing the real Vancouver. But what, may I ask, is BCU?

The Sylvia Hotel is a Jem of Vancouver and your daughter is right on the money to suggest her. Yes she is an old, ivy covered brick building but she oozes old world charm that is not to be missed if you can live without 20th century glitz. Her rooms are quaint and charming (I must confess I've never been in one of the newer rooms), the dining room is great with the days menu posted in the lobby, the bar is superb and full every night I've been there. I would give the old girl a two thumbs up for ambiance, but you really need a car to get around. Another jem of Vancouver that is just around the corner from the Sylvia Hotel is one of Vancouver's best restaurants, the Rain City Grill which you should try. Hope this has helped sway you to the ol'girl...enjoy your visit to Vancouver no matter where you decide to stay!

Whether you will need a car depends how comfortable you are with walking and public transit. There are convenient bus routes nearby, and many downtown attractions would be within a 30-minute walk or less. You can also take the ferry across to Granville Island and the Planetarium from nearby sites. This is an absolutely lovely area to take a long stroll.