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Stefanie Van Aken

Tag Archives: vancouver

fall travel : Seattle to Vancouver via Amtrack

31 Monday Aug 2015

Posted by Stefanie Van Aken (RSMLVTravel) in Featured, Fun, Travel Inspiration, USA

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Tags

Family Travel, Luxury Travel, seattle, vancouver

Summer is closing in on us, and the warm, spicy colors and fragrant fall is approaching. Fall travel is one of my most favorite things. I would classify this in my #100DaysofHappy to go anywhere in the fall. Crowds have subsided, the temps have dropped, local foods and drinks are warm and cozy, the colors are majestic. Some of the best travel plans are the ones that include a good healthy dose of reds, oranges, yellows and golds. May I recommend as you begin your travel plans, a look into traveling from Seattle to Vancouver via Amtrack?

There are many ways to cross the United States and Canadian borders, and I have tried three different ways: automobile, airplane and train. My top pick? By train, hands down.

The train departs Seattle from the King Street Station which is an excellent way to begin your journey. The station is gorgeous. Originally opened in May 1906, the station had undergone renovations throughout the 40s, 50s and 60s, modernizing the original ornamental plaster ceilings and glass ball light fixtures. A recent historical rehabilitation in 2013 has helped to create a look and feel as close as possible to when the doors opened in 1906. The waiting area is completely enclosed and the staff was very friendly and accommodating. We needed some handicapped assistance with my girlfriend who had broken her foot, and required a scooter. We were escorted through the lines, assisted with baggage, and seated comfortably while we waited for the train. There is also a restroom facility inside the station. However, grab your coffee before you get there, as no vending available. Departure time for Seattle to Vancouver happens pretty early in the morning, since it is about a 4.5 hour train ride. Don’t let the time discourage you because the ride is well worth it.

KINGS STREET STATION SEATTLE

During your stay in Seattle, take some time to head over to Pike’s Place Market and load up on some train snacks. We selected fresh cut meats and cheeses, baguettes, fresh fruits, and special French pastries from our favorite French bakery at the market, Le Panier. Don’t forget your coffee, water and maybe a little champagne! Our friend was celebrating her 40th birthday the same day as our train ride, so we brought along some bubbly to celebrate. There is a food car, however, selling drinks and snacks during the trip.

Pikes Public Market Seattle

We also upgraded our tickets to Business Class for the much appreciated leg room, and great window seats for some of the most picturesque views I have ever experienced. Lush, green forests, tiny friendly towns, like Edmonds, Mount Vernon and Bellingham, where folk stand near the railroad tracks to wave as the train goes by, rivers, lakes, and oceans. Truly, a breathtaking experience through the Pacific Northwest.

Seattle to Vancouver via Amtrack

Immigration services all done inside the train before your arrival into Vancouver, British Colombia. Relaxing. Easy Peasy.

Taxis are available once you arrive at the Pacific Central Station in Vancouver, B.C., but a word to the wise, everyone is coming off the train in search of a taxi. We met a very rude couple who walked right in front of everyone in the taxi queue and grabbed the first cab that appeared. Fortunately, several followed quickly and we didn’t have to wait long. To make the experience even more luxurious, consider hiring a car or limo to whisk you away to your hotel.

RockStarMom Recommends in Seattle

Seattle Collage

Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Seattle– Located conveniently near Pike’s Market Place, and other walkable downtown landmarks (also a Target close by for items left behind). The spa is one of the most relaxing spa experiences I have ever had. Rooftop pool is trendy, yet comfortable, with handcrafted cocktails and a sunset view over the Pacific you will never want to forget. You can never go wrong with a Four Seasons.

Eat: Savor Seattle Food Tours– Book a 2pm tour and don’t look back. Eat a decent breakfast, but skip lunch and enjoy all the delectable bites introduced to you on this one of a kind food tour through downtown Seattle. My girlfriends and I still talk about this tour, and is earmarked as one of our favorites.

For Kitsch: Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour– For the travel history buff, this tour takes you underneath the city of Seattle and talks everything from ghosts, to politics to poop. Seriously. An oddly fun tour and full of interesting tidbits on how Seattle came to be.

RockStarMom Recommends in Vancouver

Vancouver Collage

Stay: Fairmont Pacific Rim– I have stayed here twice now, once with my husband and kids, the other with my girlfriends. Both times very different experiences, but both times very phenomenal. Staff, rooms, and amenities are out of this world. Within walking distance to many spots in downtown Vancouver, and what you can’t walk to, grab a house car. Lobby Lounge + Raw Bar is always happening, and I still dream about giovane cafe + eatery + market. Click to read my review on the Fairmont Pacific Rim.

Eat: I can’t choose, so I’ll give you my top three:

Joe Fortes Seafood and Chophouse for oysters and champagne

Coast for the delicious lobster poutine and seafood dishes

Hawksworth Restaurant for fine dining, eclectic dishes and sophisticated setting located in the Rosewood Hotel Georgia

Play: No trip to Vancouver is complete without a tour through Stanley Park. There are different ways to do this, but my favorite, we hired a driver to take us through a guided tour, pointing out historical landmarks and details about the park. The Vancouver Aquarium, also located inside Stanely Park, is impressive as well.

Disclaimer: As a member of the press, I was offered spa services at Four Seasons Seattle, and a media rate at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. All opinions in this article are mine.

hotel review: Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver, British Columbia

24 Monday Aug 2015

Posted by Stefanie Van Aken (RSMLVTravel) in Featured, Fun, International, Travel Inspiration

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Family Travel, international travel, Luxury Travel, vancouver

This post, written by Stefanie Van Aken, originally appeared on TravelingMom.com.

The Fairmont Hotel Group is known around the world for its iconic royal treatment, service and design elements second to none. One of its newest properties is the Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Just a few steps away from some of the most important landmarks in Vancouver, and a few city blocks from even more, the Fairmont Pacific Rim promises to offer a modern luxury dedicated to the sophisticated family traveler.

Fairmont Hotel by James KM Cheng Architects; Westbank

Fairmont Hotel by James KM Cheng Architects; Westbank

What Works for Families

Admittedly, I was a bit nervous not having stayed at a Fairmont with our family before.The Fairmont Pacific Rim put me right at ease as soon as the doorman helped us out of the car and greeted us, and the children (ages 10 and 8), in a most charismatic way. It is always a relief when your children are treated in the same manner, or better, than their parents, as guests of the hotel. I knew right away the kids would love it here, as would I, and make our stay that much more pleasurable.

The kids were each handed a Fairmont Kids backpack, which had a coloring book, crayons and a stuffed toy. The Doorman entertained the kids while my husband and I checked in. Anything we asked for or about in reference to our children’s comfort and safety were answered right away and without hesitation.

Fairmont Pacific Rim Photo Courtesy of Fairmont Pacific Rim

Fairmont Pacific Rim Photo Courtesy of Fairmont Pacific Rim

During our visit, we stayed in a one bedroom suite with a private outdoor fireplace and patio. Rooms are spacious, room service accommodating for various palates and abundant amenities (roll away beds, pack-n-plays, high chairs, mini bath robes, and umbrellas) all made our stay so comfortable we did not want to leave. Some specific highlights we enjoyed as a family at the Fairmont Pacific Rim:

One- and two-bedroom suites are available
Suites with patios and outdoor fireplaces
Suites contain full kitchen perfect for storing leftovers, grabbing groceries
Suites also contain dining room tables easy for family meals
Order meals for room service via iPad connectivity
Some suites offer private outside areas with tables and fireplace
Some suites also offer easy access to outdoor pool and spa
Complimentary BMW House Car available for Fairmont Gold Level guests
BMW bikes available through concierge
Kid’s Menu available In-Room Dining
At all Fairmont hotels, kids 5 and under eat free off the children’s menu while kids 6-11 eat for half price off the regular menu.
The Family Affair Vancouver Vacation Package provides extra room for half the price! Families who travel together can save together when they book one room or suite, and get the second room at 50% off.

What Doesn’t Work for Families

Honestly, it was difficult to find anything that did not work for families. The Lobby Lounge + Raw Bar is a lobby bar located at the entrance of the hotel. It is the place to be for happy hour and on the weekends in downtown Vancouver. This may be the only thing that might take away from the family friendly experience. My kids are used to that kind of scene, as they are at hotels on the Las Vegas Strip often. No major concerns for us, but there is live music and crowds towards the weekend.

The Details

The Fairmont Pacific Rim, 1038 Canada Place, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, VC6 0B9, sits on the corner of Burrard and Cordova Streets, overlooking the Coal Harbour. It is across the street from the Winter Olympic Torch from the 2012 games, which makes for excellent family photos, as well as a keen spot for whale watching and looking for other marine life. The hotel also enjoys the excitement of being located in happening downtown Vancouver, making it easy to access all major points of interest and venues.

Lobby-Bar-at-Fairmont-Pacific-Rim

Getting There

The easiest way to get to the Fairmont Pacific Rim is by vehicle. The closest airport is the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). It is approximately 14 miles away, and about a 30-minute ride to the hotel. Just take note of heavy traffic times which may cause for some delay. There was also a bit of construction near the hotel during our visit, which also forced a bit more travel time. Otherwise, a very simple and beautiful drive over the Arthur Laing Bridge, and down some famous Vancouver streets. Valet and Self Parking is available for various rates and fees.

Fairmont-Pacific-Rim-Hotel-Details

The Hotel

When Vancouver was selected as the host city of the 2012 Winter Olympics, the city began to prep to receive the tremendous amounts of visitors set to attend the games. The Fairmont Pacific Rim was one of the projects set forth to accommodate a discerning crowd. Beautifully designed to appeal to the modern eye, yet with a hint of comfortable sophistication, the silvery colors set in a natural ambiance creates an air of approachable luxury. Location is perfect- situated downtown, across from Canada Place, around the corner from Stanley Park and The Vancouver Aquarium, and within walking distance of trendy Robson and Burrard Streets. True to its eco-conscious Vancouver roots, the Fairmont Pacific Rim was awarded the 5-Green Key rating during its first year of operation. Modern and hip, it is the spot in Vancouver for some of the best restaurants like Oru, and giovanne, and amazing views from the rooftop pool offering cabanas, hot tubs and fire pits.

Vancouver-Sites

The Rooms

Though we had the opportunity to stay in a one-bedroom suite, the Fairmont Pacific Rim has many options to choose from to welcome families of all sizes, including a single King bed or Queen/Queen bed layout. There are also several view options like city, pool, Coal Harbour, Stanley Park and North Shore Mountains or Canada Place. Additionally, there is the newly introduced Fairmont Gold Level, for even more exclusivity and conveniences. This is similar to what we call in America, a Concierge Level where continental meals are served throughout the day, and other amenities are offered. What we loved about the rooms:

  • Stearns and Fosters luxury beds with Mascioni 100% cotton linens, down comforters, pillows
  • Plush Mascioni towels embroidered with iconic Fairmont logo
  • iPad connectivity for room temperature, lighting, window treatments, In-Room Dining
  • Well appointed, very comfortable couches. Everything full sized to accommodate family of 4 or more.
  • Comforts like outdoor fireplace to enjoy outdoor space even in cool temperatures.
  • Robes and slippers available in-room. For children on request.
  • Over-sized shower and luxurious shower heads
  • Shower and Tub separate
  • Over-sized bath tub
  • 42″ Flat Screen TV with latest movie selections, children channels and game consoles on request
  • Media connectivity to TV and alarm clocks

fairmont-pacific-rim-pool-area

Amenities

With so many amenities at the Fairmont Pacific Rim from the moment you step onto the welcome mat, to the moment you say good-bye, it is hard to pinpoint the best ones. Some of our favorite amenities that top our list:

  • Complimentary use of umbrellas
  • Complimentary use of BMW house cars for Fairmont Presidential guests
  • Complimentary use of BMW bicycles
  • Rose 31 bath gel, shampoos, conditioner and lotions by Le Labo

giovanne-cafe-vancouver

Dining

Some of the best meals to be had in Vancouver are had at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. For starters, Oru offers a farm-to-table menu with savory flavors found up and down the Pacific Northwest. Hands down, giovanne cafe + wine bar, was my family’s favorite. By day, a coffee shop with signature roasted coffee and hand-crafted espresso drinks, decadent pastries and healthy options like fresh juices. By night, a savvy little Italian eatery with a wine list to die for and exceptional culinary delights like house made pastas and antipasto dishes. A fun candy wall connects the coffee shop to the wine bar. It’s very lively and inviting. The Lobby Lounge offers a Raw Bar and Afternoon Tea. Just be sure to check with the concierge as children are not allowed in the Lobby Bar after 9 pm. Biggest plus to dining at any Fairmont hotel? Children under 5 eat free off the children’s menu, and children 6-12 can select items off the regular menu and receive a 50% discount.

As a member of the press, I was not offered any special discounts or room upgrades or tickets for anything mentioned in this post. All opinions are my own.

Stefanie Van Aken Luxury Travel Designer
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Stefanie Van Aken Luxury Travel Designer
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E: Stefanie@RSMLVTravel.com
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