BEST OF: SHANGRI-LA HOTEL VANCOUVER

If there’s a little slice of heaven right in the heart of the city, you’re probably talking about the Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver. It’s kind of a secret sanctuary nestled in the city’s skyscrapers between the mountains & the sea.

One of my favourite things to do in the city is to plan little staycations throughout the year. It’s a chance to unplug, unwind, relax and experience everything the hotel is known for.

I recently checked into the Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver for an overnight stay when the boys were away and took advantage of some me time — took a bubble bath, got a restful night’s sleep in their big cozy beds, ordered room service, caught up on some work at the desk in my room overlooking the city skyline, relaxed by the pool and spent the day at CHI, The Spa. Not bad for 24hrs huh? It’s not my first time at the hotel, and it certainly won’t be my last.

I penned some of my favourite things about the Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver below in case you’re planning a visit soon:

The hotel:
Located one block from the hustle & bustle of Robson street, the hotel is steps away from the city’s best shopping and restaurants. Inside, the ceiling-high windows and gold highlights through the gorgeous lobby set the tone for a soothing and rejuvenating stay. Also located on the property; library, Theater, fitness centre, outdoor rooftop pool, five-star restaurants, spa, and business rooms. So, basically everything you could ever need.

The food:
MARKET by Jean-Georges is a real treat. Nothing but the best from internationally-acclaimed Michelin three star-chef. If you don’t get a chance to stay at the hotel, come by for a meal! It would also be a great choice for a special occasion that deserves only the highest regard.

For breakfast, instead of going out I made the executive decision to order room service in bed with my laptop. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent stack of pancakes or a healthy spread of fruits, yogurt and smoothies, there’s something for everyone.

The rooms:
The rooms are beyond luxurious, complete with the coziest beds, lots of natural light – but also automatic blackout drapes should you need to take a nap – complementary wifi access, iPod docking stations and in-suite Nespresso machines.

In the bathroom, all marble everything! First off, the views from the bathroom were insane. Not only did it come with a huge soaker tub and plush robes but was very high-tech with a LCD tv inside the mirror and filled with luxury brand products like L’occitane. Does it sound like I’m talking about heaven? ….k, that’s what I thought.

The spa:
Before checking out, I wanted to make sure I spent some downtime at CHI, The Spa — hands down a favourite of mine because every tiny detail is so carefully thought out, from start to finish. The treatments at CHI highlight British Columbia’s indigenous well-being traditions & the treatment rooms are beyond breathtaking. Each room has a private washroom, steam shower, infinity bathtub and vanity table.

The pool:
In case you weren’t aware, there is a rooftop pool & hot tubs off the 5th floor where the spa and health club is. Sitting in these cute little cabana chairs sure make you feel small being surrounded by skyscrapers. I love to enjoy this space to read, swim or hang out before/after my treatments. There’s also a health bar where you can order drink and smoothies to bring by the pool.

CHI, The Spa aims to encourage guests to commit to wellness and consider CHI, The Spa their personal sanctuary and wellness destination — Something I can get behind.

From rejuvenating massages and detoxifying body treatments to refreshing facials, CHI checks all the boxes. There are a handful of really good spas in the city but this one has got to be one of the very best. Every detail executed perfectly, for the most incredibly relaxing experience.

The Shangri-La Vancouver is currently offering two new lifestyle programs: 

+ CHI Lifestyle Program
Enroll in the Lifestyle Program at CHI, The Spa & enjoy 12 spa experiences throughout the year, plus access to exclusive offers, and VIP events.

+ Series at CHI, The Spa
Enjoy savings with two bundle options of six treatments.
Visit Shangri-La.com for more info

We want to extend an invitation for you to visit CHI, The Spa at the Shangri-la Hotel Vancouver and indulge in a Vinoperfect Hydrating Facial! I’m giving away this amazing treatment to one lucky winner over on my Instagram (if you haven’t seen).

Here’s how to enter:

+ Follow @shangrila_van + @theworkinggirl.ca on Instagram
+ Leave a comment on my IG post telling us you want to win!
+ Tag a friend in the comments to double your chances (no limit)
+ For another bonus point, sign up for Shangri-La Vancouver’s newsletter here

Winner will be announced on my Stories on Friday!

Thank you to Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver for the stay!
Photography by Melissa Skoda.