Our Thoughts
Located inside the Vancouver International Airport just above the U.S. departures terminal, the Fairmont Vancouver Airport is a reliable upscale option for travellers flying in or out of Vancouver.
On our recent trip to Hawaii (the first one we have taken in three years), we elected to fly on Hawaiian Airlines out of Seattle. This meant a 6:00 a.m. departure from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), so we decided as we have done in the past to stay at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport. The hotel was built in 1999 and recently renovated in 2019.
Airport hotels aren’t usually known for their luxury. But the Fairmont Vancouver Airport–the only hotel located directly within YVR–ups the comfort for guests in transit.
Check-in was quick and efficient, and as a bonus we were offered two free cocktail drinks; always a great way to start a vacation.
Situated above the U.S. departures terminal and only a short walk from baggage claim, the Fairmont offers soundproof floor-to-ceiling windows, minibars, Le Labo bath amenities and flat-screen TVs.
When you’re not sleeping off jet lag, we recommend kicking back at the Globe@YVR restaurant. Floor-to-ceiling windows put you right in front of the departing planes, while a Pacific Northwest menu designed by Executive Chef Nandakishore Ranga, will fill you up for the journey ahead.
We booked a high floor room which was well furnished with King size bed, and featured soundproofed floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms were clean, spacious, and well-fitted with separate showers and tubs.
If you’re looking for a little pre- or post-vacation rejuvenation, recent visitors recommend a treatment at the Absolute Spa, which offers over 120 aesthetic, beauty and body treatments and therapies including facials, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, massage, body scrubs, manicure and pedicures. Absolute Spa also offers a signature line-up of jetlag recovery treatments, for those who are on a layover and looking to ease sore muscles and reinvigorate the body.
If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, we suggest Jetside Lounge for its local wine selection.
Though the hotel’s comfort and convenience comes attached to a hefty price tag, you can earn airline miles and perks if you’re a member of the Le Club AccorHotels program.
If you (like us) prefer to sleep longer on an early morning departure a stay at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport is a great way to start.
TLW tip: As the hotel is located inside YVR International Airport terminal, face coverings are mandatory at all times in public spaces in accordance with the Government of Canada’s public health measures at the time of writing.
Andrew Taylor
For Andrew, travel is so much more than just learning history or taking photos. Rather, the value of travel is witnessing a lifestyle, bonding with locals, and gaining rich cultural experiences. That’s why he founded the Luxury Wanderer; a place to share itineraries, offer advice, swap stories, and foster a like-minded community of curious travellers.
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