The Magnolia Hotel & Spa
"It’s the little things that set apart this swanky spot abutting Victoria’s Inner Harbour and downtown. Like those trademark metallic tubes of L’Occitane products for weary business travelers (Lavender Sleep Well Kit? Yes, please), fluffy signature robes for which we’d happily jet cross-continent, and, of course, the bittersweet pillow treats in the minibar from local Rogers’ Chocolates that quickly diffuse any travel grumpiness. At just 64 rooms, this louche little boîte skews a tad small, but that’s what we like about it—no crowds, no confused or overwhelmed staff, and certainly no angling for speedy service. Rooms are spacious smoke- and pearl-hued confections as beloved for their chic, streamlined design as they are for their beds—it’s gonna take more than a free hotel breakfast to relinquish us from this plush, cloud-like heaven—though we suggest you splurge for a signature corner room, with high ceilings and a gas fireplace, and front-row views of the impressive, stone-clad Parliament building (especially charming when it’s lit up at night). The spa services are so expertly delivered that even the locals stop in every now and again. Take advantage of the free loaner bikes, and the new bike maps, to take a tour of the town, and eat up at The Courtney Room, which has won several awards since opening in 2018, including being a ‘100 Best Restaurants in Canada’ for 2019."
