The Fairmont Empress, Victoria

This elegant exterior was touted and recommended by many from Vancouver to be the best. These folks are all over 70 and more than likely stayed in it during its glory days. Those days are long gone. My fiance booked 2 nights as a surprise gift for me. I used to travel frequently between Hawaii and BC. The junior suite was not clean, cheerios or some sort of cereal was visible in the hallway bet CR and bedroom. To enhance the pleasure even further, no robes were in the closet, only slippers. After a semi pleasant chat with the rude front desk staff, robes were given, but the cereal remained. Nothing was provided or given as a consolation to the mishap, and one of the reasons why I have remembered to write this wonderful review. The Crown Plaza St. James in London was by far friendlier, better appointed, and just as tricky to find your room. The common areas are indeed very nice, bkfst was wonderful, tea time well worth it, but will never recommend or stay in it again because of the challenge exhibited by the staff to otherwise provide basic attitude and taking care of several problems that would have been forgiven. Yes, the outside looks and feels impressive, the pool is marginal, and the price is similar to the Hotel Grand Pacific, the real gem of Victoria, stay there instead for a luxurious pampering.

I can't say too many bad things. It's a pretty building in a good location but the service is worst I have ever experienced. Empress, you may be old but that doesn't give you any rite to sit and ignore clients. Rude at checkin, Got lost in their maze they call a hotel, found the room to be extremely small & dated. Promised Airconditioned room when I booked. Told at check in that airconditioning doesn't exist at the hotel. Lied to. Can not reccomend this hotel.

this was a very disipointing stay with filthy rooms and horrible service, i don't recomend anyone going through the experience of staying here. the rooms were disgusting, the windows would not shut, we were ignored by managment, the wait for food was never ending, and the food was cold mediocore and overpriced.

This place has charm pooring out the walls, being a old hotel, it delivers warmth and charm. You can sit down and look at history. Having tea at high tea time is so charming. It gives you a chance to reflect on the day at hand. Their service is one of their better aspects, fast and pleasing people work their. When you have had a delicious dinner, a short walk around is pleasant. Your rooms are comfy and very clean. If you have any requests all you do is call the front desk and they are sure to help you if it is in their means. They go beyond the word of helping, they are plain right out friendly people. I have returned may times and have told others of the hotel and I know for sure they have told their friends of this charming hotel. Word of mouth is a good way of advertising.

It was a treat, something that I never thought we would be able to do....but we just said to heck with it and splurged....yes it was more money than we could afford but what the heck....the memory will last a very long time. The room was elegant, the staff treated us like royalty...I felt like a moviestar.

Elegance and ultimate comfort and class. The very best Canada has to offer can be found at the Empress in Victoria, BC The location is right next to waterfront and steps from fine restaurants and shops. The parliament buildings are nearby. High tea at the Empress can't be missed and all will enjoy their experience and cherish all.

We had a great stay, the food was awesome, the beds are great, the service is top notch, everything from the bell hops to the concierge service was #1.

The location right on govt street is ideal. The spa has everything, use of the pool. Its own herbal spa, everything there for your needs. Plus the message itself was awesome. The whole treatment was ideal spa day.

My husband and I arrived when the Festival of Ships were docked in the bay outside of the Empress Hotel. We enjoyed just walking around the bay and when the Government complex across the street lit up that evening, it was breathtaking. We also took a tour of the Butchart Gardens outside Victoria which are the most beautiful garden we ever saw.

I think it is a unique and wonderful place. In my opinion, everybody should go and visit this place.It is good for both i.e., singles and with family.