The Shangri-La towering above the skyline, to the right of the frame.
I reeeeeally hope it's not my last time staying in such an exquisitely appointed room... The Shangri-La brand -- owner and manager of hotels, resorts and recreational clubs -- is based in Hong Kong, and began in 1971. They are considered the largest luxury hospitality operator in Asia Pacific, with 65 hotels all over the world, including Asia, North America and the Middle East. Shangri-La Vancouver (opened Jan. 24th, 2009) is the brand's foray in to Canada, with a second slotted for completion in Toronto, at University and Adelaide, in 2012. (Take that Toronto! Though the West Coast does have a closer relationship with Asian tourism than the East.)
Another impressive number is Shangri-La's inventory of over 28,000 hotel rooms...and I stayed in one, a luxury one-bedroom suite to be exact.
My actual room!
Before I get to my riveting room tour, I'll tell you that the hotel itself is by no means opulent. Luxury at the Shangri-La is definitely more service-focused rather than bling, which I prefer. The building is a tall, modern tower, but surprisingly didn't feel like an ant farm full of decked-out cookie-cutter boxes. Two serene lobbies greet arrivals, one on a subterranean floor to receive drop-offs -- an example of how the chain thinks outside the box when city streets won't accommodate. The hotel was full, but at no point did I feel crowded by other guests.
The decor is very restrained; everything was tone-on-tone, lots of stone and natural materials, but while it took cue from the Zen style, the look had a strong touch of the traditional, pointing to the preferences of Shangri-La's foreign clientele.
But really, everything was in the details... Here is Part 1 of my stay as a wealthy woman, in which you will see my living area, terrace and bedroom. The bathroom -- the best part of all -- I've saved for last, to be posted in Part 2, tomorrow. Enjoy!
Just you WAIT till you see the bathroom... Do come back tomorrow for Part 2!
Related: