Contemporary Chateau Claims Coastal View By Donna & Rob Munro Contributors to Travelink Publishing Nature’s blanket of towering evergreens embraced winding Marine Drive en route to our Palms GuestHouse destination. Upon arrival, our hostess, Heidi Schmidt, welcomed us into the opulent cathedral glass entrance which was flanked by the auspicious trademark of potted palms. After a tour of this sophisticated chateau, we joined her for coffee in the upstairs living room, where she shared information about West Vancouver’s nearby ‘places to visit’ including popular bistros, Park Royal Shopping Centre, and Ambleside’s scenic sea wall. Through the living area’s floor to ceiling window frontage, we marveled at the panoramic view stretching over English Bay’s ever-changing scene of activity, past the tip of Point Grey to the islands beyond. Lush vegetation of the manicured gardens reflected in the home’s interior as well, where green foliage graced every corner. Emerald Persian carpets warmed maple hardwood, and traditional furnishings were tastefully combined with an eclectic array of antiques to create a dignified ambiance. The same fabulous view from our Ambassador Suite’s private balcony changed to a kaleidoscope of twinkling city lights while we relaxed in the warm pulsating waters of the two-person Jacuzzi. The glow from the flickering fire danced on the surrounding mirrored walls reflecting this incredible vista before us. Rich forest-green overtones, decorated this spacious ensuite which also featured an exquisite brass and glass two-headed double shower. The common guest area offered a bar fridge with a selection of beverages, and before retiring under our eiderdown-draped four-poster king, we enjoyed one of our favourite herbal teas. Additional amenities included built-in televisions, telephones, and classical music from the in-house stereo system. The Palms also features three other elegantly appointed guest-rooms, each having an individual secluded deck, sharing that spectacular ocean view. The sunny yellow ‘Governor Room’ with its alcoved window seat reminded us of bright spring mornings. ‘The Duchess’ is romantically furnished in French decor, and ‘The Princess Room’ accommodates with a choice of twins or a king, both of which are draped with beautifully embroidered quilts. Heidi’s gracious hospitality is another key ingredient to this B&B’s success and was once again evident during our breakfast experience the following morning. Our elegant meal started out with yogurt and fresh fruit compote and an assortment of flaky pastries. It was followed by an entree of French toast accompanied by tasty breakfast sausages and served with rich, aromatic coffee. As a grand finale, ‘The Royal Hudson’ sounded its whistle and chugged right by the edge of the property. Originally built in 1940, this completely restored steam engine ventures up and down the Pacific Coast daily, offering moonlight dinners, old-world orchestras and other mellow antiquities. The soft murmur from the track brought back fond childhood memories and feeling satiated and satisfied in this blissful setting, we enjoyed the blend of history with the sophisticated contemporary surroundings of this great ‘us’cape. If You Go The Palms Guest House B&B 3042 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC Canada V7V 1M5 Phone: 1-800-691-4455 or: 604-926-1159 Fax: 604-926-1451 email: info@palmsguesthouse Web site: www.palmsguesthouse.com For our State-side Neighbors: Through Blaine, taking either the Douglas or Pacific border crossing. Vancouver and other lower mainland travelers: Take either Lions Gate or Second Narrows Bridge. Follow signs to West Vancouver To Marine Drive and 30th Street.