The Empress Hotel
By Patrice
Raplee
Spring is arriving and the heady smell of early blooming flowers amidst
the warm afternoon sunshine beckons to the sense of wanderlust in each
of us.
Considering the innumerable options for a travel adventure in the
Pacific Northwest, the task of choosing and executing a trip can sometimes
foil a spontaneous excursion. To offset this dilemma, here is an ideal
destination for a spring sojourn; the magnificent Empress Hotel in Victoria,
BC. Located a scant two hours from Seattle's pier 69 via the Victoria
Clipper, the Empress presides over Victoria's inner harbor. This 92
year-old stately hotel is a marvel from a bygone era of regal elegance
and old-world stone architecture. Restored and renovated in the '90s,
the hotel has moved into the realm of what Conde Nast Traveler deems
as one of "the best places to stay in the world."
A portrait of a young King George V hangs over an ornamental fireplace
keeping vigilance over the Empress' Tea Room. Swathed in pale rose and
soft gray tones, the afternoon Tea Room is perhaps one of the most popular
aspects of the Victorian Hotel. Visitors come from all points on the
map to experience the sumptuous tea treats and lavish surroundings that
create a unique and authentic era Afternoon High Tea.
The Empress is an oasis of beauty. Every ballroom, formal dining room,
or guest room is attended to with superb attention to detail. The hotel
is filled with antiques, original art work, period paintings and even
upscale designer shops. The carved wood banisters, Grecian ionic columns,
and molded ceilings are apparent in every step taken through this exquisite
hotel.
To pamper yourself completely, consider staying in one of the Entrée
Gold rooms. The amenities that are provided with this particular service
are truly splendid. Concierge Rick Boomer, (one of the Empress' greatest
assets) will take care of any detail you might have and personally show
you the Entrée Gold Lounge. He will even serve you a cup of coffee
or tea in Royal Dalton China, while you sit in a high-back leather chair
enjoying the opulent, yet serene surroundings.
Highly recommended is the 5:30 p.m. complimentary hors d'oeuvres; take
this time to obtain a window seat and watch the sun slip down behind
the Olympic mountains, while gazing out across a stellar view of Victoria's
inner harbor. Entrée Gold service also provides a scrumptious
continental breakfast, with scones, jersey cream, gourmet Danish and
a variety of tempting waffles and muffins. There are many other amenities
offered from the Entrée Gold Service; take a moment to inquire
about specific details if you truly want an exceptional experience!
The guest rooms are a statement of sheer luxury, with over 472 rooms,
with 90 of them in different configurations; the choices are virtually
unlimited. Whether you are partial to graciously sized marble bathrooms
or suites with a view of the harbor, the Empress staff can help you
choose the perfect abode for an enchanting and memorable stay.
The rates for the Empress vary with the season, but are reasonable
given the caliber of the hotel; the price is even more appealing given
the generous exchange rate. For further information call the Fairmount
Empress Hotel, Victoria, BC 250-384-8111 or check out www.fairmont.com
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