OPUS HOTEL VANCOUVER
A few years ago, five fictional guest “muses” — from Parisian food critic Pierre to Toronto fashion executive and yoga fan Susan — inspired the 1970sglam, color-intensive revamp of Opus Hotel Vancouver. Today, it remains a hidden rainbow in the city’s brick-clad enclave of Yaletown, with up-to-the-minute technology (in-room iPads, loaner Samsung Galaxies) and a timeless approach to personal service. The setting: Across the street from trendy Yaletown’s warehouse-reclaimed pubs, restaurants and health food hangouts — plus a Sky Train subway station with direct access to the airport — Opus also lies two blocks away from the False Creek waterfront, with ferries to Granville Island’s Public Market and the Science World museum. The appeal: Well-placed launch pad with cheery hues and thoughtful touches. Opus ensures relaxing starts and ends to busy days exploring Vancouver. Enjoy a glass of rosé at check-in and catch up on the news via the iPad’s Pressreader app; turndown service offers a retro candy (think Pop Rocks) that varies nightly. Rooms feature bold colors, local artwork, plush beds and spacious bathrooms; some provide great cityscape views, too. Insider’s tips: Pop down Mainland Street to Minami, specializing in aburi (flame-seared) sushi, with a pretty trellised patio for warm-weather dining. Provence Marinaside, overlooking False Creek, also offers a pleasant patio, plus an extensive list of wines by the glass and local seafood. Enjoy Sunday brunch and people-watching at the hotel’s in-house La Pentola restaurant. Good to know: Easy breakfast options are at hand just off the lobby at Opus Bar (a hopping spot with live music Wednesday nights), or neighboring Caffe Artigiana, a local coffee chain. It’s easy to get around by foot, public transit or the complimentary house car — currently a Jaguar, but switching to Tesla in October. Opus also supplies free cruiser bikes, but consult the concierge for hill-avoiding routes. Rates drop significantly in October (from $208). Details: 322 Davie St., Vancouver, British Columbia. (866) 642-6787, www.opushotel.com. From $330.