Places we've stayed: Opus Hotel

Driven - November 2004

It's where the most delicious superstars bed down in Vancouver. J.Lo sIept over. Shakira rested her pretty head there. And Christina spent the night.

And though Opus has a dedicated following among the sexiest celebs, it's also the most desired place to stay among business travellers to Canada's West Coast.

In the heart of Yaletown, a trendy loft district that a few years ago was nothing more than abandoned warehouses, Opus is a boutique hotel that works. It's functional, yet practical while being comfortable and design rich. And unlike big box chains, Opus has style and substance.

For three nights I lived as Susan, or rather, in a room inspired by "Susan," a fictional Toronto fashionista. Of Opus' 96 rooms and suites, there are five unique design schemes that partner with a one-of-a-kind, online "Lifestyle Concierge" to guide clients to restaurants, attractions, nightlife and shopping that fit the personality of the guest.

Susan's room is splashed in cool periwinkle blue, and like all Opus rooms, features heated bathroom floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, an oversized rain-style shower, and a stock of L'Occitane en Provence bath goodies. It felt like staying with good friend who had left the keys for the weekend along with a note that said, "Make yourself at home."

That feeling carried over throughout the hotel with personal treatment from the friendly staff who offered to chauffeur the hotel's Mercedes limousine to a nearby shopping centre, to exceptional brunch service at Elixir, the hotel's bistro-inspired restaurant, 24-hour room service and perfectly shaken cocktails at the hotel's contemporary lobby bar. Opus may be fit for stars, but even everyday guests get treated like celebrities.

When you go Guest rooms at Opus start at $189, and summer rates start at $239 CAD. Visit www.opushotel.com or 866-6426787 for reservations.

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