Going to B.C. in March. Anyone have any info. on the following? All input much appreciated. Looking to stay at Chateau Victoria a suite for $95. a night, Residence Inn by Marriott in Whistler and the Delta in Vancouver, the new hotel not the suites. Also looking for a place for one night in Nanaimo. Where can we do high tea in Victoria besides Empress? Did that a couple of years ago and was very disappointed by price and amount of food, we left hungry.

In Victoria there are teas at Mattick's Farm, Blethering Place and James Bay Tea Room. Your best bet though might be at the White Heather Tea Room in Oak Bay. I hear the Holland House Inn has high tea, but I've not tried it and don't know if it's just for guests.

Rather than stay over in Naniamo, can I suggest driving 20 minutes north to one of the seaside resorts in Parksville. In March you can probably get a good rate for a what will be special night.

Be sure to stop in Nanaimo,great waterfront walkway with shops and coffee houses. Hotels in central Nanaimo are the Coast Bastion and BW Dorchester. A new 4Points Sheraton on Rutherford Rd, close to residential areas. There is also the Ramada at Long Lake. I have stayed at the Chateau Victoria and Marriott in Whistler, both excellent choices. Enjoy !

I would second April's suggestion of the Blethering Place if you're not looking for anything too fancy.

Residence Inn at Whistler is nice. I've stayed there a few times. However, you should be aware that the hotel is actually on Blackcomb mountain and not within walking distance of the Village (unless you walk up and down the mountain, which you won't want to do with snow). The hotel used to have a shuttle to the village, but I'm not sure whether it still has one. <BR>Instead of Nanaimo, try the Yellow Point Lodge around 20 minutes away. All inclusive place, many different types of lodging. It is rustic with no tv's or telephones in the rooms. Miles of walking trails, free use of kayaks and mountain bikes, all meals and snacks included. Beatiful views. Very difficult to get in, but put yourself on the waiting list.

Also, the Chateau Victoria is nice and in a good location.