Photo courtesy of Shangri-La
This article appears in Upscale Living Magazine. Link here.
Vancouver has always been a fascinating seaside city with sweeping views of its coastline from upscale high-rise hotels. The city’s splendor is on epic display with the Shangri-La Hotel’s three-night signature guest experience – Luxury at New Heights. The package, designed to celebrate the hotel’s 15th anniversary, combines the best of adventure and relaxation.
The unique adventure begins at the Shangri-La with five-star accommodations in the well-appointed Orchid Balcony Suite. Upon arrival, in-suite afternoon tea and a VIP gift await guests. Day two is all about wine. Guests, accompanied by a personal photographer, are whisked away for a full-day exclusive excursion to Phantom Creek Estates via Skylux Luxury Helicopter Charters. The third day is devoted to a spa retreat like no other. There is no rush to depart; a late check-out allows guests to explore more of Vancouver. Memorable keepsakes included in the package make for the best souvenirs from the trip.
Skylux Helicopter Charters
Private air travel has never been more accessible, with flights departing from downtown Vancouver’s picturesque harbor. The helicopter has luxurious leather interiors and panoramic windows for magnificent views on the one-hour flight over British Columbia’s breathtaking mountain peaks and sparkling lakes, ending with an aerial tour of Phantom Creek’s vineyards.
Founder’s Cellar Gourmet Lunch with Wine Pairing Experience
Phantom Creek Wine Experience
A fantastic VIP experience, guests arrive at Phantom Creek Estates via helicopter. The Director of Farming gives visitors a private tour of the vineyards before moving on to an exclusive wine tasting hosted by their world-class winemaking team. Next is a tour of the winemaking facilities, where traditional methods and modern technology are displayed. A rare opportunity, guests will also be treated to a straight-from-the-barrel tasting of the winery’s upcoming releases.
Phantom Creek’s hospitality continues with an epicurean multi-course feast in the glass-walled Founder’s Cellar dining room featuring an opulent Imperial Topaz glass chandelier by the famed artist Dale Chihuly. The culinary team prepares courses comprising fresh, in-season ingredients from local producers and some of the estate’s best wines.
The picture-perfect day ends with creatively curated keepsakes, including a personalized Phantom Creek Vineyard Cuvée signed by the winemakers, a photo album documenting the extraordinary experience, and a recommended wine pairings list for home-hosted dinners.
Four-Hour CHI Spa Treatments for Two
Pampering for two at Shangri-La’s CHI spa is a 240-minute escape with the Alchemist Retreat package. Guests begin with a nectar soak in an infinity bath and a renewing body exfoliation. Next, a thermal mud with marine minerals is applied to relax the body. Senses are aroused with an aromatic steam shower followed by a warm candle full body massage with vanilla, rose, and precious wood extracts to nourish the body. The ultimate ending to the four-hour haven, a customized facial energizes and relaxes all tensions, leaving guests wholly balanced in mind, body, and spirit.
Afternoon tea at Phantom Creek, photo by Priscilla Pilon
Afternoon Tea Treat
Afternoon tea is a unique in-suite amenity that is included with the Luxury at New Heights package to delight the taste buds. It is perfect for keeping the post-spa euphoria going or choosing to have it on arrival day. Served on a Blue Willow China three-tier display, the delicious selection of savory sandwiches and sweet treats pairs well with specialty teas. The staff will gladly set it up for guests on the balcony or dining room, which is your choice.
Suite Dreams
Three nights in the sophisticated 1,395 square-foot Orchid Balcony Suite is a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or a girl’s getaway. The suite’s design vibe is a residential oasis from city life. The open-concept living room and dining room with sweeping landscape views provide guests with a beautiful area for relaxation or entertaining. Key to the expansive yet intimate setting is the closed-off kitchen with a service entrance for privacy. The suite features a guest half-bath, handy when entertaining, and an oversized bathroom with a soaking tub, large walk-in shower, double vanity, and separate make-up station. Boasting a king-sized bed with a canopy and incredibly soft high-end Frette linens, the bedroom also has a large walk-in closet.
View from Granville Island, photo by Priscilla Pilon
Exploring Vancouver
Spending time at the Shangri-La and Phantom Creek are the highlights of the getaway, and exploring Destination Vancouver museums, parks, and beaches is a must-do while visiting this vibrant city. Visitors flock to the famous Granville Island marketplace to discover artisan one-of-a-kind textiles and pottery, local foods, and art galleries. Stanley Park is a 1,000-acre green space haven with pristine beaches, gorgeous gardens, walking and biking trails, and is home to the internationally acclaimed Vancouver Aquarium. The best street for upscale shopping on Alberni Street is conveniently located around the corner from the hotel. Featured within a block of the hotel, cosmopolitan dining is steps away – most notably the Kobe beef-certified Black+Blue, a traditional steak house with modern flair. For a northern Italian feast, try Carlino, which is accessible from inside the hotel. They specialize in Friulian, Veneto, and Trentino dishes. The best brunch option is at Provence Marinaside, where creative mimosas accompany authentic French baguettes and omelets well on a sunny day perched on the patio across from the waterfront.
Experiencing Luxury at New Heights is for discerning travelers who want a bespoke luxury experience curated for adventure seekers and those who appreciate the art of relaxation equally.
