The Fairmont Empress Hotel overlooks the inner harbor of Victoria so you can walk to many amazing restaurants, enjoy the culture that the city offers, and rest in the gorgeous parks and gardens. I was astonished by the quality of the hotel and the hotel’s philosophy — to turn every moment into memories — rang true with my stay at the hotel.

My experience at the hotel started with a professional outgoing doorman who explained everything I needed to know about the valet parking and checking in with the hotel. The luxury experience begins with the massive lobby where there is a two ton chandelier that represents the flowers of Victoria. Then I was greeted by the canine ambassador Winston. He is a friendly three-year-old Labrador retriever cross named after Winston Churchill and hotel guests can take him for a walk. Winston has his own Instagram account @winstonattheempress with 5,743 followers.

There are no two rooms alike. If you want to experience the best of the best, you can book the Fairmont Gold which is a hotel within the hotel with many exclusive features. Other unique aspects of the hotel include afternoon tea at the Empress which has been ongoing since 1908. One of the pleasures of staying at the Empress is the easy access to the totally refurbished Willow Stream Spa. Or unwind after a day at the harbor in the Q lounge. Try the distinctive Empress 1908 Gin which has a remarkable indigo hue through the infusion of butterfly pea blossom.

When you venture out of the hotel to the inner harbor, you are extremely close to both the British Columbia Parliament buildings and the Royal B.C. Museum. Or you might want to start your tour with a vintage carriage tour that includes sightseeing to Beacon Hill and James Bay for 30 to 90 minutes. You are also close to some very good restaurants, such as Ferris Oyster Bar (I would recommend its oyster burger), The Olo Restaurant is in the heart of Chinatown and has farm-to-table cuisine, or you can enjoy quality Italian food at Zambri’s.

A “must visit” is Butchart Gardens which is about a 30-minute drive. It is a breathtaking 55 acres of gardens that have been developing for over 100 years. There are also many outdoor ventures during your stay in Victoria, such as whale watching, ziplining through treetops, kayaking, hiking, cycling, or golfing some of the most scenic golf courses in Canada.

-Daniel Stephen