Imagine walking through one of the forested paths that encircle Vancouver wishing for a tree house to rest and thoroughly take in the surroundings. Your dreams have come true at The Douglas, a recent addition to the Autograph Collection of boutique properties by Marriott.
The Douglas, this silvan gem, is an ode to all of nature’s arboreal splendor. The unpretentious design statement of this property begins at the lobby where the front desk greets you with the simple splendor of a giant Douglas Fir horizontally placed to support your check in procedure.
The awe-inspiring clean lined, spacious interior is a further nod to nature’s own quiet grandeur. As you exit the elevators and walk down the quiet, carpeted hallway passing wooden doors and soft lighting, you wonder what lies within.
Each of the 188 rooms and suites at the Douglas features huge windows with stunning vistas, natural, locally-sourced materials, LEED Gold standards with green initiatives throughout, Aesop toiletries, and an Illy coffee service. Thoughtfully placed digital plug-ins and easy, straightforward lighting make this a comfortable space to call home.
The D/6 Bar and Lounge located on the lobby level invites you to relax indoors or patio side with a bar, pool table, intimate, cozy seating areas and live music most evenings. The location is ideal–being near Yaletown and adjacent to the JW Marriott, BC Stadium, Vancouver’s largest Casino and easy access to the Ferry and Sky Train.
The enormous fitness center and expansive rooftop space with aqua lounge offer opportunities for exercise and relaxation while the Spa by JW beckons with an array of treatments from an express 12-Minute Massage to a myriad of indulgent, calming, invigorating and renewing experiences. My intensive Muscle-Release Massage was the perfect ending to an active day of exploring the city and getting ready for a night on the town.
Among the many dining options on the property at the Douglas the restaurant called The Victor, which offers inspired Pacific Northwest seafood and steaks in a sophisticated, spacious fine dining venue. Located on Parq Vancouver’s rooftop, The Victor overlooks the scenic 30,000 square foot urban park with atmospheric landscaping, lighting and water features.
At The Victor we started with one of their signature cocktails and expertly prepared sushi rolls from the raw bar helmed by a Japanese sushi master.
We then devoured Crispy Shrimp Tempura, seared Quebec Foie Gras, an inspired BC King Salmon with Maple Soy Glaze and a Rib Eye that was utter perfection. The Crème Brulee Donuts enrobed in maple spun sugar provided the palate pleasing finale to this memorable meal fit for a victor!
Vancouver’s many neighborhoods provide endless hours of strolling, browsing and food sampling. Try one of the current favorites of Mount Pleasant, Burdock & Co. This compact, lively spot is part of Main Street’s popular local food scene. The menu is thoughtfully created to represent the best examples of what the area is currently growing with ample selections for various dietary preferences.
At Burdock & Co. dishes are small plates intended to be shared family style, and wine pairing is ably suggested by the servers to complement the preparations. Highlights of our meal included noteworthy renditions of Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Confit Duck Leg, Pork and Fennel Fettuccini, and Dark Chocolate Pot de Crème.
Besides the food, the convivial atmosphere at Burdock & Co lends itself to easy conversation between tables. You may have arrived as a newbie, but you are likely to leave as a member of their repeat customer base eager to return for more delectable local fare.
The Douglas Autograph Hotel is currently the newest accommodation in a city known for its choice in lodging. It has raised the bar on hospitality and is sure to please its international clientele with its location, ambiance, décor and excellent customer service.
