Traveller's Inn a Great Value
Usually when I stay in Victoria, I choose a hotel close to the Inner Harbour so that my room has an ocean view.
However, for my last trip, I thought I would try a place a little closer to the office, and booked a room at the Traveller's Inn.
Another reason I wanted to stay at the Traveller's Inn was that it has been rated as having "The Best Hotel Value" by Victoria News for 7 years in a row. I didn't know this at the time, but the Traveller's Inn has 11 locations in Victoria, so I got a bit confused when I arrived as to which one I was staying at.
So, what do you get for $49.95 a night? The staff at the front desk were casually friendlier than most front desk hosts I have come across, which I liked, and and my room was clean, quiet, and comfortable. However, it had two king-sized beds, which felt a bit cramped, and my bathtub was "apartment-sized", which made it a bit awkward to soak, read, and relax for too long. But beside those two comments, I had a good night.
Before booking, check the amenities at all locations. For example, I thought I had free internet access in my room, but at the location I was at, the internet access is only in the lobby. I did get free parking though. Other properties have pools, waterslides, karaoke, fireplaces, and/or a pub. Their website currently gives guests $20 off for online bookings.
Countdown untill the 2010 Winter Games
Three years from today (February 12), Vancouver will be the focus of the world when the 2010 Winter Games start. To mark the occasion, VANOC unveiled a countdown clock in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery today at lunchtime. It was packed with people so I couldn't get too close yet, but it looked very nice from a distance. Every day when I walk by it on my way to work I'll be reminded that the excitement of the event is only 1096 days or less away.