1015 Burrard (Century Plaza Hotel) or 1335 Howe (Quality Hotel-Inn at False Creek)? Not too far from one another on a map, is either location (the area) safer, quieter than the other? Or is there no marked difference? Any opinions on the hotels are welcome, as well. My research says both are fine, but that's all done on the Net.

Flip a coin-really no significant difference.

Ask for a room that doesn't face the street-both Burrard and Howe are busy during the day.

I think Sam is right - neither has a big advantage but here are some considerations/differences:

The Century is very close to a hospital so you may have more sirens than normal. However, it is closer to the "sights" downtown which would be a bit of a hike from False Creek. It is almost across the street from the Sheraton Wall Centre - a 4-star hotel - and there are a few other hotels close by. The Century also has a car rental place on site which is kind of convenient (can't remember which one but it's a big name - Thrifty, I think).

Quality is close to a bridge/overpass with lots of traffic. But, it is closer to the water at False Creek, the boats, Granville Island and the seawall which are all nice during the day. You can walk along the seawall through the marinas, downtown and all the way to Stanley Park.

Both are fine, I think. Just try to get a high floor and a quiet room.

I went by both places today as part of an errand, and I would choose the Century Plaza if they are the same price. I don't like how close the Quality Hotel is to the onramp for the Granville Street bridge. Century Plaza is closer to Denman, Davie, and Robson Street. But I have to admit, it probably would not make much difference and I would probably go with the cheapest one.

Thanks to all the Vancouver responders. By the way, the Empire Landmark was a good hotel, but I have moderate standards. Anyway, I enjoyed the city very much. It was very clean and I liked the architecture and how it takes advantage of all of its natural beauty. That is something that American cities can learn from.

The city did not have very many people of African descent, but I still felt comfortable. The people were very hospitable. It's very laid-back, which is kind of like where I live now in the U.S.

I'll go again one day, but I think I'll try Montreal next and then Toronto.

We like to stay in the English Bay/West End area and liked the Coast Plaza - large suites with kitchen and great location - short walk from STanley Park and the buses and trollys that can take you anywhere in Vancouver are nearby.