**** Vancouver FAQ Thread **** A few updates in main post!
- Thread starter Lollipop's Mom
- Start date
mellers
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 4, 2007
If you have some starwood points, the Westin Bayshore is a mile from Canada Place, and it's a stop on the Quick Shuttle back to Sea-Tac--we're staying there for 4,000 pts. + $60.
RedSox68
Retired 2021 -- All the Time to Travel Now!
- Joined
- Mar 16, 2009
Just returned from a 20-day CruiseTour with Holland America (7-day cruise and 12 days on land up into the Yukon). I know Disney does not offer this, but I cannot recommend this type of trip highly enough. You will go places you could not go on your own (or would want to drive on your own I should say) and see things that are phenomenal.
Anyway, here's a synopsis of what we did and learned. Loved going in May -- lots of ice and snow still left and we did not experience any temps above mid-70's in any city or port.
AMTRAK: We flew into Seattle for one night and took Amtrak the next morning to Vancouver. I cannot say enough about this terrific ride. We did not buy business class, but were in line at the station by 6:30 a.m. for our 7:40 departure and got three seats together on the recommended left side (water views) with no problem. I will definitely say get there early though. We arrived at 6 a.m. when baggage check in opened and there was a line. As soon as we got our bags checked, we got in line at the booth that assigns seats, which opened a little before 7 a.m.
In Ketchikan we had opted to do a day on our own, but when we departed the ship (another non-rainy day for us), we saw an opportunity for a shuttle tour that was discounted by $10/pp and we were glad we took it. We were taken out to the totem poles, to a village and along the waterways where we stopped to watch harbor seals. It was a 4-hour tour and we had a great time with our local driver Justin.
Favorite port: Skagway. We did the full day excursion with Chilkoot Tours that started with the incredible/extraordinary/phenomenal ride on the White Pass Yukon Express (http://www.chilkootcharters.com/yukonrail.htm). We had the most beautiful day and could see for miles. The train ride is just so relaxing and full of views of wildlife, rivers, lakes, snowcapped mountains, etc. When we arrived at the end of the line, our bus driver met us (Terrell from Texas -- you were the best) and we continued on to Caribou Crossing Trading Post for our lunch and a visit with husky puppies! Now granted, the place looks like a western front for a movie, but it was fun and the food was delicious: BBQ chicken, baked potato, rolls, cole slaw and homemade donuts. Sodas were extra, but iced tea, coffee and tea included. We stayed there about 90 minutes because they also have a wildlife museum and a petting zoo (all included). Then we went on to Emerald Lake and Carcross and Lake Bennett. I loved this choice vs. the ship's excursion because Terrell would stop anywhere you wanted, pull over for pictures or animal sightings, and was so personable and knowledgeable. There were only about 18 of us and it was great fun. We left at 8 a.m. and returned at about 4 p.m. He made several stops dropped people off wherever they wanted in town, or taking them back to the ship. Worth every single penny.
Upon return we bought tickets ($5/pp) at the Red Onion Saloon for a tour and it was great fun -- lots of original wallpaper, dresses, etc. Then we walked back to the ship (a truly nice walk along a paved pathway) while Eagles flew overhead.
Juneau: Only excursion we booked through the ship (for the cruise portion) was Best of Juneau. What a terrific excursion. I must start out by saying that I have read voluminous reviews of this excursion with a lot of people complaining about there not being enough time at Mendenhall Glacier. I couldn't understand that statement as we felt an hour was more than enough time. Granted, we knew we were not going to walk to the waterfall, but there was an incredible waterfall fully visible from the land's edge next to the glacier! We spent about 40 minutes out at the glacier, walking around the viewing platforms and on the beach. We had 15 minutes to shop inside which was more than enough time. We felt very satisfied.
Then we went on the whale watching vessel which was a surprise to all of us as we didn't expect it to be so big and comfy. It sets more than 400 and has huge windows on both floors and we were very satisfied even sitting in the middle row because you are constantly getting up and down. We spent a good 3 hours onboard plus another hour at the Orca Lodge for lunch. Now let me tell you, this lunch was awesome. It was a beautiful pavilion with views all around of the water and the beach. They had chicken skewers, salmon, rice, potato salad, rolls and brownies. Lemonade, ice and hot tea and coffee were included. Sodas and alcohol were extra.
Vancouver: We stayed at the Pan Pacific Vancouver for our pre-cruise nights. We had opted for the harbor/mountain view and it was so so worth it. We watched seaplanes taking off and landing and our room was literally right above where the ships dock. So we could look down onto the pool decks of the ships as they docked and got ready for their next departure. The hotel is gorgeous, the rooms were large and very well decorated. We did not eat in any of their restaurants as they were pricey, but there is a food mall underneath the hotel that can be reached by inside escalator.
What was so convenient about this hotel is that the entrance to the cruise terminal is a ride down in their elevator to the basement! We called a porter to come and get our luggage and he told us you will see it in your stateroom. We then took the elevator and got off and there it was -- no having to go outside or call a cab or anything. They had reps all along the way directing us to the HAL check in.
Now here is where Disney could REALLY learn something about embarkation. Once you checked in, a rep took you to the waiting room next door where you were directed to the next empty row of seats, which you filled in from end-to-end. Within 10 minutes, a rep comes and starts directing the rows to go onboard. So organized, no hassle, no clogs of crowds blocking doorways and no tripping over people and suitcases. We were onboard by 11:30 a.m.!
Anyway, while in Vancouver we bought the Big Pink Bus tickets (they are merged with the Big Red Bus). The station stop was right outside the Pan Pacific main door! We always tried to get the pink bus though as they had a live narrator whereas the red buses were pre-recorded narrations that never seemed to be on the right area when we passed. The combo ticket for two days was so reasonable. The first day we just rode the bus the full route, and then got off at Granville Island. We then got back on and took it to Chinatown where we did the gardens and then had dinner at Hon's on the recommendation of our driver. The next day we took it to Stanley Park and then inside the park took the (included) park tour on a different bus. Very convenient. When done, they dropped us off at the bus stop and we waited for the red or pink bus. On the way back to town, we jumped off at Gastown and did a little touring there and watched the steam clock, then went up into the tower there (similar to the Seattle Needle type of thing). There were some terrific restaurants across the plaza from the hotel that we ate in (one Italian, one Irish) and they were very good and reasonable. For breakfast try Scoozie's on Howe street -- Greek restaurant with amazing breakfast dishes.
I can also highly recommend the Fairmont Airport Vancouver Hotel. We were put up there by HAL on the last night of our land tour. What a gorgeous hotel. Our room had a view of the mountains and runway. Totally sound proof (never heard one plane coming in or taking off). And the hotel entrance goes right down into the airport with a short distance to the food court. We really liked that the food court at this airport was BEFORE security. We had lunch (chinese) and dinner (burgers) there. If we ever fly into Vancouver, I would definitely stay here again.
In Seattle we stayed at the Inn at the Market pre-cruise -- literally at the top of the hill of the Pike Place Market. It was a townhouse (all they had available for three) and was beautiful. The beds were comfortable and the views of the city and Pike Place were great. Very convenient for the area and we were able to finish the market that day before leaving the next morning. The people there were very helpful and kind. No complaints about this place either.
For the four nights post-trip we stayed at the Silver Cloud Inn at Lake Union. We found this hotel to be one of our top favorites for all that was included with such a reasonable per night price. Our room was a lake view and on the top floor so that you could see the seaplanes taking off and the boats and yachts coming and going. They also provide a free extensive continental breakfast that includes hot items like scrambled eggs, sausage, waffles and ham, plus toast, bagels, cereals, yogurts, etc. They also provide a free (although we tipped the driver each time) shuttle to and from three drop off points in town -- the Needle, Pioneer Square and Pike Place. All you had to do was call them when you were ready to be picked up. They ran from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. We were also within walking distance of the boat harbor and ate at Duke's on the water for lunch one day. We were also able to walk to the Marriott around the corner to rent a car for one day to drive to Oregon. They provide free parking and the garage is inside with access to both the upstairs elevator or the lobby without having to go outside.
They also have an indoor pool and jacuzzi, and a business center where you can go on the computers to print out documents and boarding passes -- also free. And FREE INTERNET. That was a huge plus for us.
Of all the hotels we stayed at, this would be a no-brainer one if we go back to Seattle. The thoughtful layout, convenience, decor, ambiance and outgoing staff were wonderful. When we checked in and got to our room, we were disappointed with the view as there was a building obstructing the lake view. I called down to the desk and they immediately told us to come back down and they would prepare a room on the upper floors. They took all our luggage and we walked down the street for lunch. When we returned, the room was ready and our luggage was moved. I honestly have nothing bad to say about this place and would highly recommend it. With all they provide for FREE (highly unusual these days), it was a gem find for us.
Can't think of anything else, but please feel free to ask questions or pick my brain!
I slam dunked this down in writing very fast so that I wouldn't forget anything. I apologize in advance if it is confusing or slightly out of order!
Anyway, here's a synopsis of what we did and learned. Loved going in May -- lots of ice and snow still left and we did not experience any temps above mid-70's in any city or port.
AMTRAK: We flew into Seattle for one night and took Amtrak the next morning to Vancouver. I cannot say enough about this terrific ride. We did not buy business class, but were in line at the station by 6:30 a.m. for our 7:40 departure and got three seats together on the recommended left side (water views) with no problem. I will definitely say get there early though. We arrived at 6 a.m. when baggage check in opened and there was a line. As soon as we got our bags checked, we got in line at the booth that assigns seats, which opened a little before 7 a.m.
In Ketchikan we had opted to do a day on our own, but when we departed the ship (another non-rainy day for us), we saw an opportunity for a shuttle tour that was discounted by $10/pp and we were glad we took it. We were taken out to the totem poles, to a village and along the waterways where we stopped to watch harbor seals. It was a 4-hour tour and we had a great time with our local driver Justin.
Favorite port: Skagway. We did the full day excursion with Chilkoot Tours that started with the incredible/extraordinary/phenomenal ride on the White Pass Yukon Express (http://www.chilkootcharters.com/yukonrail.htm). We had the most beautiful day and could see for miles. The train ride is just so relaxing and full of views of wildlife, rivers, lakes, snowcapped mountains, etc. When we arrived at the end of the line, our bus driver met us (Terrell from Texas -- you were the best) and we continued on to Caribou Crossing Trading Post for our lunch and a visit with husky puppies! Now granted, the place looks like a western front for a movie, but it was fun and the food was delicious: BBQ chicken, baked potato, rolls, cole slaw and homemade donuts. Sodas were extra, but iced tea, coffee and tea included. We stayed there about 90 minutes because they also have a wildlife museum and a petting zoo (all included). Then we went on to Emerald Lake and Carcross and Lake Bennett. I loved this choice vs. the ship's excursion because Terrell would stop anywhere you wanted, pull over for pictures or animal sightings, and was so personable and knowledgeable. There were only about 18 of us and it was great fun. We left at 8 a.m. and returned at about 4 p.m. He made several stops dropped people off wherever they wanted in town, or taking them back to the ship. Worth every single penny.
Upon return we bought tickets ($5/pp) at the Red Onion Saloon for a tour and it was great fun -- lots of original wallpaper, dresses, etc. Then we walked back to the ship (a truly nice walk along a paved pathway) while Eagles flew overhead.
Juneau: Only excursion we booked through the ship (for the cruise portion) was Best of Juneau. What a terrific excursion. I must start out by saying that I have read voluminous reviews of this excursion with a lot of people complaining about there not being enough time at Mendenhall Glacier. I couldn't understand that statement as we felt an hour was more than enough time. Granted, we knew we were not going to walk to the waterfall, but there was an incredible waterfall fully visible from the land's edge next to the glacier! We spent about 40 minutes out at the glacier, walking around the viewing platforms and on the beach. We had 15 minutes to shop inside which was more than enough time. We felt very satisfied.
Then we went on the whale watching vessel which was a surprise to all of us as we didn't expect it to be so big and comfy. It sets more than 400 and has huge windows on both floors and we were very satisfied even sitting in the middle row because you are constantly getting up and down. We spent a good 3 hours onboard plus another hour at the Orca Lodge for lunch. Now let me tell you, this lunch was awesome. It was a beautiful pavilion with views all around of the water and the beach. They had chicken skewers, salmon, rice, potato salad, rolls and brownies. Lemonade, ice and hot tea and coffee were included. Sodas and alcohol were extra.
Vancouver: We stayed at the Pan Pacific Vancouver for our pre-cruise nights. We had opted for the harbor/mountain view and it was so so worth it. We watched seaplanes taking off and landing and our room was literally right above where the ships dock. So we could look down onto the pool decks of the ships as they docked and got ready for their next departure. The hotel is gorgeous, the rooms were large and very well decorated. We did not eat in any of their restaurants as they were pricey, but there is a food mall underneath the hotel that can be reached by inside escalator.
What was so convenient about this hotel is that the entrance to the cruise terminal is a ride down in their elevator to the basement! We called a porter to come and get our luggage and he told us you will see it in your stateroom. We then took the elevator and got off and there it was -- no having to go outside or call a cab or anything. They had reps all along the way directing us to the HAL check in.
Now here is where Disney could REALLY learn something about embarkation. Once you checked in, a rep took you to the waiting room next door where you were directed to the next empty row of seats, which you filled in from end-to-end. Within 10 minutes, a rep comes and starts directing the rows to go onboard. So organized, no hassle, no clogs of crowds blocking doorways and no tripping over people and suitcases. We were onboard by 11:30 a.m.!
Anyway, while in Vancouver we bought the Big Pink Bus tickets (they are merged with the Big Red Bus). The station stop was right outside the Pan Pacific main door! We always tried to get the pink bus though as they had a live narrator whereas the red buses were pre-recorded narrations that never seemed to be on the right area when we passed. The combo ticket for two days was so reasonable. The first day we just rode the bus the full route, and then got off at Granville Island. We then got back on and took it to Chinatown where we did the gardens and then had dinner at Hon's on the recommendation of our driver. The next day we took it to Stanley Park and then inside the park took the (included) park tour on a different bus. Very convenient. When done, they dropped us off at the bus stop and we waited for the red or pink bus. On the way back to town, we jumped off at Gastown and did a little touring there and watched the steam clock, then went up into the tower there (similar to the Seattle Needle type of thing). There were some terrific restaurants across the plaza from the hotel that we ate in (one Italian, one Irish) and they were very good and reasonable. For breakfast try Scoozie's on Howe street -- Greek restaurant with amazing breakfast dishes.
I can also highly recommend the Fairmont Airport Vancouver Hotel. We were put up there by HAL on the last night of our land tour. What a gorgeous hotel. Our room had a view of the mountains and runway. Totally sound proof (never heard one plane coming in or taking off). And the hotel entrance goes right down into the airport with a short distance to the food court. We really liked that the food court at this airport was BEFORE security. We had lunch (chinese) and dinner (burgers) there. If we ever fly into Vancouver, I would definitely stay here again.
In Seattle we stayed at the Inn at the Market pre-cruise -- literally at the top of the hill of the Pike Place Market. It was a townhouse (all they had available for three) and was beautiful. The beds were comfortable and the views of the city and Pike Place were great. Very convenient for the area and we were able to finish the market that day before leaving the next morning. The people there were very helpful and kind. No complaints about this place either.
For the four nights post-trip we stayed at the Silver Cloud Inn at Lake Union. We found this hotel to be one of our top favorites for all that was included with such a reasonable per night price. Our room was a lake view and on the top floor so that you could see the seaplanes taking off and the boats and yachts coming and going. They also provide a free extensive continental breakfast that includes hot items like scrambled eggs, sausage, waffles and ham, plus toast, bagels, cereals, yogurts, etc. They also provide a free (although we tipped the driver each time) shuttle to and from three drop off points in town -- the Needle, Pioneer Square and Pike Place. All you had to do was call them when you were ready to be picked up. They ran from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. We were also within walking distance of the boat harbor and ate at Duke's on the water for lunch one day. We were also able to walk to the Marriott around the corner to rent a car for one day to drive to Oregon. They provide free parking and the garage is inside with access to both the upstairs elevator or the lobby without having to go outside.
They also have an indoor pool and jacuzzi, and a business center where you can go on the computers to print out documents and boarding passes -- also free. And FREE INTERNET. That was a huge plus for us.
Of all the hotels we stayed at, this would be a no-brainer one if we go back to Seattle. The thoughtful layout, convenience, decor, ambiance and outgoing staff were wonderful. When we checked in and got to our room, we were disappointed with the view as there was a building obstructing the lake view. I called down to the desk and they immediately told us to come back down and they would prepare a room on the upper floors. They took all our luggage and we walked down the street for lunch. When we returned, the room was ready and our luggage was moved. I honestly have nothing bad to say about this place and would highly recommend it. With all they provide for FREE (highly unusual these days), it was a gem find for us.
Can't think of anything else, but please feel free to ask questions or pick my brain!
I slam dunked this down in writing very fast so that I wouldn't forget anything. I apologize in advance if it is confusing or slightly out of order!
mellers
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 4, 2007
We've had very good luck staying locally at the Silver Clouds as well. One thing I would add is that the hotels (at least the Redmond one) also has free laundry. Our friends who came into town loved that fact.
aboveH20
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 9, 2010
We'll be sailing out of Vancouver and have decided to arrive the day before since we're coming from NY and want to make departure time!
Any suggestions for hotels? (We have Holiday Inn points and would love to stay, but can't figure out which one, but aren't commited to HI.)
If we book a hotel on our own I guess we're responsbile for fare from airport to hotel and hotel to pier?
THANK YOU!
Any suggestions for hotels? (We have Holiday Inn points and would love to stay, but can't figure out which one, but aren't commited to HI.)
If we book a hotel on our own I guess we're responsbile for fare from airport to hotel and hotel to pier?
THANK YOU!
If you are only coming in the day before the cruise, you might want to consider staying at the Fairmont Hotel at the airport. DH and I stayed there about 5 years ago, and it was really wonderful. It is considered to be one of the best airport hotels. Completely soundproof, never heard any of the airplane take offs or landings.
On the other hand, Vancouver is a really beautiful city. If this is your only chance to see even a small part of it--stay at a hotel downtown, and enjoy!
As for the fare from the airport to hotel and the hotel to pier, DH and I found taxi fare quite reasonable compared to fares where we live--but our home city is notorious for the high taxi fares (and poor service), so YMMV.
On the other hand, Vancouver is a really beautiful city. If this is your only chance to see even a small part of it--stay at a hotel downtown, and enjoy!
As for the fare from the airport to hotel and the hotel to pier, DH and I found taxi fare quite reasonable compared to fares where we live--but our home city is notorious for the high taxi fares (and poor service), so YMMV.
jilljill
<font color=blue>Collects Disney men!<br><font col
- Joined
- Jan 21, 2003
We'll be sailing out of Vancouver and have decided to arrive the day before since we're coming from NY and want to make departure time!
Any suggestions for hotels? (We have Holiday Inn points and would love to stay, but can't figure out which one, but aren't commited to HI.)
If we book a hotel on our own I guess we're responsbile for fare from airport to hotel and hotel to pier?
THANK YOU!
Lots of info in the posts before your's. The first post has some good info as well.
Cab fare from airport to hotel won't be that bad. We paid around $35 from the port to the airport and our taxi ride from our hotel to the port was around $10. Much cheaper options than DCL's transport, especially when paying for 3 people.
bumbershoot
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2007
We've been to Vancouver quite a bit recently, and figured I might have good info, so I'm reading the thread from the back to the front. 
It IS a good hotel.
However, they are ever-so-slowly renovating it, and it's possible (especially if you're booking a bargain rate) to get a non-renovated room. Now, there's nothing wrong with the non-renovated rooms, *as long as you don't see* the renovated rooms, LOL.
Either way, good hotel, incredibly friendly staff, and easy walking distance to, well, everywhere. Plus, go out on Burrard, face north, and look at the mountains down the city street-scape...sigh....
Every taxi I've taken in Vancouver, since '01, has been clean, friendly, and good.
It IS a good hotel.
However, they are ever-so-slowly renovating it, and it's possible (especially if you're booking a bargain rate) to get a non-renovated room. Now, there's nothing wrong with the non-renovated rooms, *as long as you don't see* the renovated rooms, LOL.
Either way, good hotel, incredibly friendly staff, and easy walking distance to, well, everywhere. Plus, go out on Burrard, face north, and look at the mountains down the city street-scape...sigh....
Every taxi I've taken in Vancouver, since '01, has been clean, friendly, and good.
bumbershoot
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2007
We seem to only use one machine in Vancouver. It's a "Green Machine" ATM, on Burrard just before Robson. Good rates, low fee. We bank with Chase and a WA credit union, and it has been good for both of those cards.
It's just down (towards Canada Place) from the Sutton Place Hotel, by the way.
********
In case people are interested....
We love going to JapaDog. We are vegetarian so we get the veggie dogs, but they'll do most of their dogs veggie-style. Very tasty. When it's just DS who wants one, though, since he gets them plain with mustard we go to the Yves stand on Burrard and Robson, just outside of Blenz on the corner, because the veggie dog there is cheaper than the plain JapaDog veggie dog.
The JapaDog stand near Canada place can be very very busy! (it can also be invisible, as they sometimes pack up and go when you're least expecting it) It's right in front of the A&W burger/float place, so if you have people not interested in a Japanese style dog, they can run in there.
JD doesn't take cards, FYI, but they will, if necessary, take US$.
Lastly, get a crepe! DS would live off of Cafe Crepe's nutella crepes if we'd let him. So tasty. And there are a ton of different storefronts for that company.
Not-so-lastly, it turns out. If you like a family style restaurant, Red Robin is good for that. And if you want take-out pizza, MegaBytes is tasty.
It's just down (towards Canada Place) from the Sutton Place Hotel, by the way.
********
In case people are interested....
We love going to JapaDog. We are vegetarian so we get the veggie dogs, but they'll do most of their dogs veggie-style. Very tasty. When it's just DS who wants one, though, since he gets them plain with mustard we go to the Yves stand on Burrard and Robson, just outside of Blenz on the corner, because the veggie dog there is cheaper than the plain JapaDog veggie dog.
The JapaDog stand near Canada place can be very very busy! (it can also be invisible, as they sometimes pack up and go when you're least expecting it) It's right in front of the A&W burger/float place, so if you have people not interested in a Japanese style dog, they can run in there.
JD doesn't take cards, FYI, but they will, if necessary, take US$.
Lastly, get a crepe! DS would live off of Cafe Crepe's nutella crepes if we'd let him.
So tasty. And there are a ton of different storefronts for that company.Not-so-lastly, it turns out. If you like a family style restaurant, Red Robin is good for that. And if you want take-out pizza, MegaBytes is tasty.
bumbershoot
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2007
Another FYI is *pay attention to emails/calls from Amtrak* in the days before your train trip, and check the website.
We were in Vancouver, expecting a lovely ride home on Amtrak. I wasn't paying any attention, and when we got to the station (with minimal food and water b/c I was expecting to use the Club Car) we found out that there had been a slide almost 48 hours before. When there's a slide, putting dirt/mud on the tracks, they shut it down for 48 hours to make sure it's stable. This one was just outside of White Rock. When there's a slide, you get to be on a bus. And while I hear the actual Amtrak buses aren't bad, when it's a situation like that, they charter buses, and they aren't that nice.
No food, no water, and you have to stop at the border, wait, get out when told, and then stand in line with your carryons to go through customs. NOT as nice as being on a train at all.
As we were coming into Seattle, the conductor announced that fact, and told the people who were taking a day trip down to Seattle that the schedule going back up that evening would be *on the train*, since it would have passed 48 hours by then. If he had told us *in Vancouver* that it would be clear-for-the-train that evening, we would have waited in Vancouver and taken the TRAIN.
So be on the lookout for landslide info, know when it happened, and if you're looking at a bus ride instead of the train, ask if it will be clear later on and if you can get on that instead.
If we had booked Business class they would have refunded that upcharge, by the way.
bumbershoot
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2007
I've seen requests for info on hotels that can sleep more than 4. While this *can* be expensive, we once found a great deal through hotels.com for it...
It's connected to the Sutton, and it's called La Grande Residence Vancouver at The Sutton Place Hotel. I don't know if it's apartments or timeshares or what, but it's awesome. It's like being in an apartment, with a full kitchen and a dining room table and a living room, it's lovely. You also get housekeeping and shampoo and whatnot. You can use the Sutton pool (and the Sutton umbrellas if you need one, LOL), etc etc.
When we first stayed at the Sutton (with a great deal) we remember looking out of our hotel room at someone standing on a balcony on a building that looked like it was connected to the hotel. We were jealous. Then we figured out that it was La Grande Residence, and stayed there, and WE got to be the ones out on the balcony.
It's also fabulous to stay there, because you can look down and see if there's a huge line for Japadog.
It's also just a crosswalk away from the IGA grocery store for whatever you might need (except for alcohol! no beer, wine, or liquor at grocery stores!), and immediately downstairs is a wine (and a few beers) shop.
It's connected to the Sutton, and it's called La Grande Residence Vancouver at The Sutton Place Hotel. I don't know if it's apartments or timeshares or what, but it's awesome. It's like being in an apartment, with a full kitchen and a dining room table and a living room, it's lovely. You also get housekeeping and shampoo and whatnot. You can use the Sutton pool (and the Sutton umbrellas if you need one, LOL), etc etc.
When we first stayed at the Sutton (with a great deal) we remember looking out of our hotel room at someone standing on a balcony on a building that looked like it was connected to the hotel. We were jealous. Then we figured out that it was La Grande Residence, and stayed there, and WE got to be the ones out on the balcony.
It's also fabulous to stay there, because you can look down and see if there's a huge line for Japadog.
It's also just a crosswalk away from the IGA grocery store for whatever you might need (except for alcohol! no beer, wine, or liquor at grocery stores!), and immediately downstairs is a wine (and a few beers) shop.
mellers
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 4, 2007
I wouldn't plan on flying out before 12 p.m. from Vancouver or before 5 p.m. from Seattle. If you need transportation to the Vancouver airport, there's always Disney Transportation, or http://www.ridebooker.com/ if you have a large group. Somebody earlier posted a direct recommendation for a transportation company--you might want to check that out as well.
If you are planning to go to the Seattle or Bellingham airport, you can either rent a car or there is direct transportation available from the cruise terminal to Sea-Tac via QuickShuttle. Their check-in point is right next to Disney's transportation at Canada Place, with a MUCH shorter line--that is how we came home from the cruise last week. Their prices are quite reasonable.
They are also very good about last-minute changes--my husband had a bad blood-pressure episode on our last cruise
, and we had to take him home right after the cruise to see his cardiologist, cutting out our planned post-cruise stay. We changed our QuickShuttle departure time to 9 a.m. on debarkation day, and our departure location to Canada Place via email the day before, figuring we would certainly be off the ship by then, but no such luck--there was a huge slowdown in unloading the cruise. By the time we were off the ship, the 9 a.m. bus had left, and it was well past 10 a.m. They quickly rebooked us on the 10:45 a.m. bus, and we were dropped off in downtown Seattle (the bus continues to Sea-Tac), home (across Lake Washington), and sitting in our comfy chairs by 3:30 p.m. They never charged us for any of the changes, even though we were originally scheduled to take the bus from the Westin Bayshore rather than Canada Place. They even made arrangements for my wheelchair. We were quite pleased. Kudos to the Westin Bayshore as well for cancelling our reservations online quickly, and the staff at the medical center for getting my husband's blood pressure under control so he could at least enjoy part of his cruise. 
Hubby has clean bill of health from doc and is now fine.
kgsmith
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 12, 2010
TLPL said:
We had no trouble making our 12:00 PM flight from Vancouver International. We let DCL know our flight time, and they put us in one of the first groups to leave the ship (so we weren't able to eat breakfast at our assigned time). Our DCL bus to the airport left fairly quickly once we were off the ship.
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TLPL
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Dec 24, 2005
I guess a 11:15 flight from Vancouver will be cutting too close?
We are from Niagara Falls, so it will take like 4.5 hours + 3 hours different = we will get home really late. Flying home from Seattle will be an overnight flight.... that doesn't sound too good anymore.
Also, Air Canada VS Westjet which airline would you prefer?
Thanks for answering my questions.
We are from Niagara Falls, so it will take like 4.5 hours + 3 hours different = we will get home really late. Flying home from Seattle will be an overnight flight.... that doesn't sound too good anymore.
Also, Air Canada VS Westjet which airline would you prefer?
Thanks for answering my questions.
disneyholic family
disney on my mind....
- Joined
- Jan 31, 2002
here's a hotel to add to your list of Vancouver hotels.
It's within walking distance of Canada Place, but with luggage, you'll need to take a cab.
This is the nicest hotel in Vancouver in my opinion - it's a boutique hotel.
It has free breakfast, free wifi and free international telephone calls (a big plus for us).
It's called the St. Regis Hotel.
It's currently ranked #7 on trip advisor and won the 2012 Traveler's Choice award for best service (and indeed, their service is amazing).
Here's the website:
http://www.stregishotel.com/
.
It's within walking distance of Canada Place, but with luggage, you'll need to take a cab.
This is the nicest hotel in Vancouver in my opinion - it's a boutique hotel.
It has free breakfast, free wifi and free international telephone calls (a big plus for us).
It's called the St. Regis Hotel.
It's currently ranked #7 on trip advisor and won the 2012 Traveler's Choice award for best service (and indeed, their service is amazing).
Here's the website:
http://www.stregishotel.com/
.
mellers
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 4, 2007
I wouldn't, but if you try, I'd suggest you walk off the ship with all your luggage at the earliest possible time, book it through customs and catch a taxi (if there are two of you) or arrange for a car (if there are more of you). I would also make sure you have travel insurance which covers a missed connection which is that tight.
There was a delay in deboarding on our last Alaska cruise, and I don't think you would make it if something similar happened to you.
son3disfan
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 24, 2006
http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/vancouver/yvrdt/hoteldetail
Here is another hotel I found downtown for a family of 5..( or 6 )
HOLIDAY INN AND SUITES
1110 Howe street
Would love to hear any reviews from someone in Vancouver...
Reviews online were all favorable.
Pretty good rate( considering the area) using the entertainment card.
Here is another hotel I found downtown for a family of 5..( or 6 )
HOLIDAY INN AND SUITES
1110 Howe street
Would love to hear any reviews from someone in Vancouver...
Reviews online were all favorable.
Pretty good rate( considering the area) using the entertainment card.
son3disfan
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 24, 2006
FYI,
This hotel is giving me a rate of $275 a night.... For 2adults .
That's pretty steep. In fact more then Pan pacific
Did you get a better rate closer to the date?
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