The Fairmont Pacific Rim in Coal Harbour is one of Vancouver’s newest hotels. It’s a real beauty with a slick, cosmopolitan vibe that makes one feel like they could be anywhere in the world. That is, any place other than Vancouver. Despite its views and proximity to the ocean, it doesn’t scream “local” in the same way that, say, Yew does in the Four Seasons. Be that as it may, any coddling, anonymous cloister can be a wonderfully enabling thing. Indeed, the main floor Lobby Lounge makes for the perfect venue to slip into whenever you either want to be left alone or are just keen to pretend that you’re somewhere else. It’s open, airy, littered with orchids and punctuated by a Fazioli piano, which is brought to life on most evenings by talented jazz or classical musicians. The service is also spot on.

The Drink | Crafted in celebration of the Vancouver Art Gallery’s excellent Grand Hotel Exhibition, The Grand Hotel cocktail is made with Grand Marnier, Cognac, house-made sweet vermouth and house-made, barrel-aged bitters. It’s pricy at $16, but it’s fantastic on the tongue and very well made. What’s more, putting a price on anonymity or fantasy – should you require either – sort of ruins the game.

The Lobby Lounge | The Fairmont Pacific Rim | 1038 Canada Place | WEBSITE