With summer just around the corner, we’re all dreaming of dashing off on an exotic getaway.

Although this year, many of our vacation plans have been rescheduled as international travel has slowed to a halt, this doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a local vacation retreat and rediscover the beauty of our own city.

After working from home for extended periods of time, weekends started to blend into weekdays. For some of us, the struggle to separate between work time and downtime can take a toll on our mental well-being. As rules begin to ease, now is the time to consider taking a relaxing and restorative break and return feeling recharged, refreshed, and ready to dive back into your usual grind.

Whether you are thinking of taking an urban excursion or immersing yourself in nature, our list of top 5 luxury hotels and resorts below will cater to your needs for the perfect staycation.

EMBARK ON AN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE || FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCE WHISTLER

If your dream staycation involves connecting with nature and being active outdoors, then the Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Whistler is perfect for you. At Four Seasons, your day will be filled with exhilarating adventures on Whistler, such as outback rafting, fishing, bungee jumping, jet boating and more.

When it’s time to relax, return to their comfortable, intimate lodge featuring newly renovated rooms, suites, and residences. You can take in the majestic mountain views over a glass of wine on your furnished balcony or enjoy a nice dip in the pool or hot tub (maximum capacity and social distancing in place) after an activity-filled day.

You also have the option of enjoying summer cocktails at the resort’s famous Vintage Patio Camper on a breezy summer night. Take advantage of the Four Seasons’s Whistler Summer Staycation offer, with exclusive room rates, upgrades, and late check-out, while looking after four-legged family members too. They have also launched a Lead With Care program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit their website for more details.

ENJOY A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY || JW MARRIOTT PARQ VANCOUVER

For food lovers, the perfect staycation is rest, relax, and enjoy great food that is only a few steps away from their comfy bed. At JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, every meal during your mini-vacation is taken care of. With easy access to eight world-class restaurants and lounges, you have a wide array of options that will take you on a journey through different cuisines and cultures.

In between meals, indulge in personalized treatments such as aromatherapy, stone massages and intensive muscle release massages at the Spa by JW Marriott on the 17th floor of the hotel, overlooking BC Place and breathtaking False Creek.

Follow up with a visit to their Makeup and Blowout Salon, The Glamoury, to get you ready for the evening with friends at one of the lounges in JW or other dining options near the hotel. After a night out, unwind in their exquisite luxury rooms or suites; you are guaranteed a good night’s rest in their ultra-comfy beds. JW Marriott’s planned reopening date is July 26, visit their website for the most up-to-date information.

AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE || SEASIDE HOTEL NORTH VANCOUVER

This is a new boutique hotel situated at the heart of North Vancouver’s most vibrant neighbourhood– The Shipyards District of Lower Lonsdale. Its strategic location by the waterfront makes for breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and North Shore mountains.

Guests can soak in this magnificent view as they rest in their modern rooms, thoughtfully designed to echo the beauty of the surrounding natural world. At Seaside, you can also get pampered at their spa or enjoy a delicious West Coast dining experience at the Seaside Provisions restaurant.

This boutique hotel is only steps away from the Lonsdale Quay Market, a must-visit where you will find over 80 specialty shops, fresh food vendors, retail shops, unique boutiques, and restaurants. For outdoor adventures, explore the Capilano Suspension Bridge, golf at Furry Creek, or ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride.

INDULGE IN EXTRAVAGANT “ME TIME” || PAN PACIFIC VANCOUVER

Located at the downtown waterfront of Vancouver, Pan Pacific is the divine escape for some much needed “me time”. This luxury hotel’s rooms and suites offer unparalleled comfort with sweeping city, harbour or mountain view, as well as spacious living and dining areas.

At Pan Pacific, you can truly treat yourself to some of Vancouver’s best restaurants offering local and regional flavours. To experience the ultimate relaxation during your stay, visit Spa Utopia where you can enjoy an extensive directory of spa and salon services for men and women, private treatment rooms, relaxation lounges, lavish VIP suite and more.

ENJOY A BIT OF EVERYTHING || The Listel Hotel

Known as “Vancouver’s most art-full” hotel, The Listel Hotel located right in the centre of urban life provides an elegant and inspired retreat amidst the energy of downtown Vancouver. Take your pick from the Modern Art Floor rooms, Museum Floor rooms, or other themed boutique rooms and suites featuring original and limited edition art from curated artists around the world.

The Listel is also home to Forage, showcasing Chef Welbert Choi's award-winning, sustainable fare. For those looking to do some shopping to refresh your summer wardrobe, this prime location is located right on the vibrant Robson Street shopping corridor. Nearby, you can also explore Gastown, where you’ll find unique pieces from some of the city’s best boutiques. For those looking to spend the day relaxing on the beach, you can head to the English Bay Beach which is within walking distance from The Listel Hotel.

Which will you choose? A staycation in the heart of the city or a further visit that lets you get away from it all? Whatever you choose, a staycation is top of mind for travellers who are itching for a change of scenery after the months spent at home.

We hope you enjoy your getaway!