I embarked on a journey to Calgary, Alberta, Canada, a city renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. During my stay, I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in Calgary’s rich cultural tapestry, exploring museums and attending captivating performing arts events. Join me as I share my extensive experiences at three distinguished places I stayed during my trip, offering detailed insights into their services, specific hotel names, locations, discounts, prices, recommendations, my check-in experience, transportation from the airport and train stations, booking platforms, and a comprehensive comparison of these three establishments.
Day 1-2: The Fairmont Palliser – Timeless Elegance
Hotel: The Fairmont Palliser
Location: 133 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2M3
Services: Luxury amenities, dining options, spa
Price: Starting from $200 per night
Discounts: Frequent Fairmont guest discounts available
Recommendation: 4.5/5
Upon landing in Calgary, I made my way to The Fairmont Palliser, an iconic luxury hotel in the heart of the city. Located in downtown Calgary, this historic gem exudes timeless elegance and offered a perfect introduction to my stay.
Check-in Experience: The check-in process was smooth and efficient, with the friendly staff providing a warm welcome and offering information about the hotel’s facilities.
Transportation from the Airport: I took a taxi from Calgary International Airport to The Fairmont Palliser, which took around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. It cost approximately $40.
Booking Platform: I reserved my room through the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts website, which allowed me to select my preferred room type and view special offers.
My stay at The Fairmont Palliser was nothing short of exceptional. The hotel’s luxurious amenities, including fine dining options and a rejuvenating spa, made it a haven of comfort and relaxation. While the price was on the higher side, the frequent Fairmont guest discount helped offset the cost. The central location also made it convenient to explore Calgary’s downtown attractions.
Day 3-4: The Homewood Suites by Hilton – Comfort and Convenience
Hotel: The Homewood Suites by Hilton
Location: 711 4 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0N7
Services: Complimentary breakfast, kitchenette in suites
Price: Starting from $130 per night
Discounts: Hilton Honors member discounts available
Recommendation: 4/5
For the next leg of my journey, I opted for The Homewood Suites by Hilton, a comfortable and convenient choice located near downtown Calgary. This all-suite hotel offered a range of amenities that suited both business and leisure travelers.
Check-in Experience: Checking in was hassle-free, and the front desk staff was courteous and provided information about the complimentary breakfast.
Transportation from the Train Station: I arrived at Calgary’s Greyhound Bus Terminal, which was a short taxi ride away from the hotel. The journey took around 10 minutes and cost approximately $15.
Booking Platform: I made my reservation through the Hilton Honors app, as I am a member of their loyalty program. This allowed me to earn points for my stay.
The Homewood Suites by Hilton provided a comfortable stay, complete with a kitchenette in the suite, making it ideal for longer stays or guests who prefer to prepare their meals. The complimentary breakfast was a nice touch and added value to the stay. While not as luxurious as The Fairmont Palliser, it was a practical choice for those seeking comfort and convenience at a more moderate price point.
Day 5-7: The Post Hotel & Spa – Mountain Retreat
Hotel: The Post Hotel & Spa
Location: 200 Pipestone Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Services: Spa, gourmet dining, outdoor activities
Price: Starting from $300 per night
Discounts: None
Recommendation: 5/5
To cap off my Calgary adventure, I ventured into the breathtaking mountain region and stayed at The Post Hotel & Spa in Lake Louise, a luxurious mountain retreat nestled in the Canadian Rockies.
Check-in Experience: Check-in was seamless, and I was greeted with a glass of champagne, setting the tone for a remarkable stay.
Transportation from Calgary: I rented a car at Calgary International Airport and drove to Lake Louise, which took approximately 2.5 hours through scenic mountain roads.
Booking Platform: I made my reservation directly through The Post Hotel & Spa’s official website, where I could select from various room types and packages.
My stay at The Post Hotel & Spa was nothing short of enchanting. The serene mountain setting, gourmet dining experiences, and rejuvenating spa treatments created a perfect retreat. While it was the most expensive option, the experience was worth every penny. The hotel also offered a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and canoeing, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Rockies.
Comparative Overview:
Each of these three accommodations offered a unique experience tailored to different preferences and budgets. The Fairmont Palliser provided a luxurious and central stay, ideal for those seeking a grand experience in the heart of Calgary. The Homewood Suites by Hilton catered to travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability near downtown. The Post Hotel & Spa in Lake Louise was a dreamy mountain retreat for those who crave nature, gourmet dining, and spa indulgence.
My accommodation choices in Calgary and Lake Louise were reflective of the diverse experiences that this region has to offer. Whether you prioritize luxury, convenience, or natural beauty, there’s an accommodation option to suit your preferences. My journey through these three distinct stays enriched my overall experience in Calgary and the Canadian Rockies, leaving me with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for this enchanting part of the world.
