After an unconvincing stay at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, I decided to spend my last night in Vancouver at a nearby hotel, the Residence Inn By Marriott Vancouver Downtown.

Also classified as Category 6 in the Marriott Bonvoy program – like most Vancouver hotels – the Residence Inn Vancouver Downtown hotel is accessible from 40,000 points per night.

For this COVID-19 pandemic stay, I preferred to pay for my night at a cost of $140 with my Marriott Bonvoy^MD American Express^MD* Card. That’s how I got 5 points per dollar.

As in all the hotels visited, the Residence Inn Vancouver Downtown took care to establish different rules regarding COVID-19: the reception desk oversees the hotel entrance, floor markings indicate where to stand, and Plexiglas protect the employees at the desk.

A market is available to the right of the reception, which is convenient for a snack.

At the reception level, several computer stations are accessible (with printer) and there’s a rather pleasant lounge with large screens, as well as a fireplace.

Before my arrival, I reached out to the reception desk at the Residence Inn Vancouver Downtown via the Marriott Bonvoy application. As everything is in the art of negotiation when you have a Marriott Bonvoy status, I wanted to get the best room possible.

The hotel informed me that the 1 Bedroom Penthouse Suite was unfortunately not accessible, so I ended up in the Studio Two Queens, which was very comfortable for my stay with a friend in the city.

The bedroom, with two queen size beds, is modern and pleasant.

Residence Inn hotels are known for the comfort of their facilities, especially for families. Each room has a fully equipped kitchen and a desktop area.

In the closet, there is a safe and an ironing board.

As a welcome gift, the hotel offered us a bottle of Pinot Noir. Very appreciated gesture!

Although I’m not the biggest fan of the bath/shower combo, the showerhead was modern, and the bathroom had lots of towels.

The gym is open even during the COVID-19 pandemic. But half of the devices were blocked off to ensure social distancing.

Close to the gym are a swimming pool and whirlpool, also open. I can imagine families with children having fun here!

Actually, I think that on a future family trip to Vancouver, this hotel will be on my short list (with The Westin Bayshore Vancouver).

I had an early flight at Vancouver International Airport. Breakfast was therefore taken quickly thanks to the “Grab and Go” formula.

A plastic bag is provided, and you can take everything you want with you to your bedroom. And there’s no shortage of choice!

I had an excellent stay at Residence Inn By Marriott Vancouver Downtown. I recommend it when visiting Vancouver, especially for families because of its facilities.