After a pleasant voyage across the Strait of Georgia on BC Ferries, we drove to the Hilton Metrotown.
We were lured by a bargain rate that's allowing to scrape under the wire with the final stay needed to re-qualify for Hilton Diamond in 2012. So far we're very pleased with the property.
In our experience, Hilton doesn't upgrade even Diamonds routinely, so we can't help but be impressed by our upgrade to a two-room suite on the 15th floor.
The view out our window this rather lovely December day does reveal there really exists a "beautiful downtown Burnaby," that punch line favored by snide Vancouverites.
We'll check out the Executive Lounge later.
Morning update:
It's a beautiful morning as we gaze out toward Grouse Mountain and the other North Shore Mountains within view.
The lounge met our needs perfectly last night, with a choice of three hot appetizers and a variety of cold items. Kathy is still fighting the same bug and this provided a convenient and pleasant alternative to going out.
This morning the continental breakfast included waffles and scrambled eggs, along with fruits, yogurts, a variety of muffins and other baked goods, and a coffee machine that produces double-shot espressos on request. Warning: The cappuccino comes out pre-sweetened but that's a minor complaint. The same friendly young attendant we met last night was on duty (she works a split shift twice weekly) and we enjoyed chatting with her as well.
We're now relaxing before heading back home. We're definitely adding this property to the list of good places to stay in this neighborhood.
Kathy and Brian
Two retired educators alternating joyfully between seeing the world and enjoying our eight grandchildren (in order of birth), Jake, Avery, Taegan, Lily, Peyton, Riley, Blane, and Jace.
Kathy and Brian met in the clarinet section of the University of California (Santa Barbara) Symphony Orchestra several decades ago.
Brian's Western Canadian roots and Kathy's Colorado ties resulted in their making beautiful music together along with producing a cross-border crop of descendants.
Kathy spent a year studying in Vienna at the Institute for European Studies and the University of Vienna.
Brian started the school band program in Hope, British Columbia, and later became the high school's vice-principal for 6 years and subsequently principal for 15 years before retiring in 2001.
Kathy, in between raising our three children, taught kindergarten and first grade, middle school, and high school - mathematics, computer studies, ESL, and her first love, band, before retiring in 2001.
We enjoy sharing our travel experiences and providing the odd travel tip to friends, relatives, and visitors.