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Thanks for joining us on Collingwood Days! The rain won't dampen our parade! We had a great time at our booth meeting everyone and taking some amazing photos! Coming Soon! We also got to introduce our new concept of C! We are so excited to embark...

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Thanks for joining us on Collingwood Days! The rain won't dampen our parade! We had a great time at our booth meeting everyone and taking some amazing photos! We also got to introduce our new concept of C! We are so excited to embark on our new...

Read more

Do you like it HOT? Ebesse Hot Sauce fires up our throats... Edmond Segbeaya is the man behind the “Hottest Sauce in the World.” Ebesse Zozo Hot Sauce. It is a West African Hot Sauce. Edmond hails from Togo and is now based on in Nelson, BC. His sauces are fiery...

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Fresh baked goodness, Granville Island and dining out Are you visiting beautiful Vancouver for a few days, or maybe even one day? Do you want to jam pack tons of activities to get the most out of your stay here? Do  you prefer to stray off the beaten tourist...

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Thanks for joining us on Collingwood Days!

Rooms Division Posted by Rooms Division | Posted in Secrets Of Vancouver | Posted on 29-05-2010

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The rain won’t dampen our parade! We had a great time at our booth meeting everyone and taking some amazing photos!

We also got to introduce our new concept of C! We are so excited to embark on our new rebranding journey to bring CULTURE, COMMUNITY and CONTENT to all our guests! Keep your eyes peeled and check back with us for updates on our new brand and renovations. Soon we will be introducing a brand new website and blog as well to offer travel resources and  information about our beautiful city and neighborhood.

UPDATE: Our new website is about to be up and running! www.hotelc.ca

Follow us on TwitterLike us on Facebook to get future discounts and information about all the exciting new changes!


Hotel C

Promote Your Page Too

Looking for your photos?

Your photos are now ready! Click on the link below to download your photo to share with you friends and family. Please email communications.hotelc@gmail.com with any concerns and questions, or if you can’t find your photo. Please also inform us if there are any tagging or spelling errors.

UPDATE: Click Here for your Photos

Photo Contest

Don’t forget about our photo contest. If you are a winner, you will be contacted via Email! Winners will be announced and contacted soon! Keep your eyes peeled.

Photo Contest

Want to use your Promo Code?

Do you want to use your Promo Code that we gave out on Collingwood Days? Receive 20% off on your room for a one night minimum booking. We want our great local community to experience our hotel and our service. You don’t have to go far to have fun. Relax after a night on the town, just get some time away from your daily grind (or the kids! We love them too but mommy and daddy need some time off too), or take your special someone for a movie at Silvercity Metropolis or dinner at one of the amazing local restaurants then unwind for the night. Valid until June 30th, 2010.

CLICK HERE and enter your code for your room. And we hope to see you soon!

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Have a “Wild Party!” Pint Size Tall Theatre Society brings you an untamed 1920s Bathtub Gin Soiree

Rooms Division Posted by Rooms Division | Posted in Secrets Of Vancouver | Posted on 25-05-2010

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What is bathtub gin? Sounds a little daunting and unsanitary to me. And the director of the show advised me to only have one glass… or two max if not driving. I’m a little scared. But intrigued.

So, this is what Wiki says: Bathtub gin refers to any style of homemade spirit made in amateur conditions. The term first appeared in 1930, in the prohibition-era United States, in reference to the poor-quality alcohol that was being made. Many other cocktails owe their life to bathtub gin, as they were also created in order to mask the awful taste.

Should I be worried? But my life motto is to try anything and everything once in my life. This is going to be my one time.. having bathtub gin. Bound to be a truly “Wild” party. If you’re brave like me, join me on this adventure. You may ask me now, “What is this “Wild Party” you keep on talking about? I’m now dying of curiosity and am almost jumping through my computer screen to shake some sense into you!” Ok, maybe you’re not thinking exactly that.. but I’ll fill you in anyhow.

The Wild Party is a broadway musical based on the gritty 1928 poem by Joseph Moncure March which ran on Broadway in 2000. It’s a risque,  skanky, boozcan piece. I love it already and now more excited than ever to watch it while sipping that gin that originates from the oh-so-alluring bathtub. Director and executive producer Chris Shyer is staying here with us at HotelC (and did you know he was Marcus: Anna’s second-in-command in charge of operations on the TV series V) and we got the honor and pleasure of having a chat with him.

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H: Tell me a little bit more about the show.

Chris: It’s the first musical that I’ve directed. I’ve been in business since about 1985 and I had met Stellina Rusich my co-director in ‘88 at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. We were both from diverse backgrounds. Originally it was supposed to be held at Maxine’s Hideaway, which was a perfect fit for the cabaret and burlesque nature of this show, but unfortunately Maxine’s has been torn down. The current location is at ANZA club at 3 West 8th, Vancouver. ANZA originally a road house but we have outfitted the place to feel like a 20’s style speakeasy or cotton club. You not only get to watch the show, which is about 140 minutes long (we are trying to cut it down to 130 minutes), but you get to enjoy a pre-show and an after-show. The pre-show starts 1 hour before curtain. You will be able to try bathtub gin and other authentic drinks as well as join in on a Blackbottom dance off.

*I know, I know.. I’m learning new things in this interview too.. Blackbottom dancing is apparently a dance popular during the flapper era and includes “ Hopping down front then Doodle back, (Doodle means slide). Mooching to your left then Mooching to the right, Putting your hands on your hips and do the Mess Around, and Breaking a Leg until you’re near the ground (Break a Leg is a hobbling step)” Ahh.. yes, now I see. Not. I guess I have wait and see. ”

H: So what other forays have you taken into the entertainment industry other than directing risque musicals?

Chris: Well, I started out as a performer, in musical theatre, plays, films and TV. I went back to the theatre after TV and did Mama Mia on Broadway in New York as Sam Carmichael. I also worked on a short in the Crazy 8s Event with a one hour film called Stupid Chainsaw Tricks. I was the executive producer and director. Recently, I  worked on the show V as Marcus.

H: That show did really well! Do you think that they will be filming a new season soon?

Chris: I’m not sure but hopefully in mid June or July.

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H: So after all the different areas of the entertainment world that you’ve experienced, where does your passion lie?

Chris: Well, that’s a very hard question. I’m going to have to think about it. I would have to say that directing has its highs and lows. It’s kind of like having to lead the ship. It’s great but at the same time, you have to make sure that everyone’s contributions are acknowledged, be compassionate but also not a softie. As a director you also have to lead by example, and a lot of things are easy to say but of course actions speak louder than words. Now after experiencing being a director, I look back on everything and think that as an actor, what a son-of-a-gun I was. It’s really opened my eyes and I’ve never had the same approach to acting since.

H: So as Pint Size Tall Theatre Society’s first production, did you face any major challenges?

Chris: Well, we were working with the Indie Policy which is a part of the Canadian Actors Equity and allows artist driven projects with lower budgets to work with the union. The actors receive a small salary but on the condition that the production agrees to promote them. So in this spirit, the actors were to write their own bios, and with 17 actors, finessing their bios, signing out drafts and printing, unfortunately, the programs were not available during the first week of the show.

Another forward move in media through the Indie Policy is the allowance of journalistic cameras behind the scenes of production. this is meant to get the word out and promote the film even before opening night. But of course there are always some problems with new elements and people who prefere the traditional way of doing things.

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H: So how did the promotions go?

Chris: Great! We had a sold out opening night. Unfortunately, the great Vancouver weather may be giving us a hard time as everyone’s wanting to spend time outside in the sunshine. But I think we are doing very well with the show. Of course our audience is restricted because we are serving alcohol but we are planning to have a sober sunday without any alcohol on premises. In any case, it’s not just that attracting the crowds, it’s mainly the allure of what the show promises.

H: Speaking of the weather, how are you enjoying Vancouver?

Great. I have lived here before for about 6 years as well. I love the weather, West Coast and the outdoors. The mountains, fresh air and ocean. The vibe here is great. I’m living in Toronto right now and the feel is definitely different. I do love the friends and actors I have met here! I think that it feels like a “large town” with a lot of friendships and connections. When I’m here though, I’m mostly working, on set or directing and don’t have as much time to experience everything I would love to see.

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So, me and the girls at HotelC are planning to head out to the show this month and have a little girls’ night out with some “Gin,Sin and Skin!” Exciting much? Updates to come on our adventure into the world of bathtubs full of gin and mooching, doodling and messing around to the Blackbottom dance!





Review: Debauchery’s delovely in carnal carnival The Wild Party

Do you like it HOT? Ebesse Hot Sauce fires up our throats at Hotel C

Rooms Division Posted by Rooms Division | Posted in Secrets Of Vancouver | Posted on 24-05-2010

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Edmond Segbeaya is the man behind the “Hottest Sauce in the World.” Ebesse Zozo Hot Sauce. It is a West African Hot Sauce. Edmond hails from Togo and is now based on in Nelson, BC. His sauces are fiery hot, but full of flavor. With various degrees of hotness, you can use Ebesse Zozo Hot Sauce on any type of foods. We got a chance to talk with Edmond while he was staying with us here at Hotel C and learnt more about his business. We also got samples of his sauces and awesome bright T-shirts. Thanks, Edmond!

For the fourth year running, becoming something of a tradition, Nelson, B.C.’s “hot sauce guy” burns the competition at 2 major internationals zesty foods contests once again. Edmond competed with over 600 other entrants in the 2006 America Best Zesty Professional Foods Contest to win First place for his HOT Hot Sauce, in August in Anaheim, California. He went on to win Second place for his NEW EBESSE ZOZO CAYENNE TINCTURE in October in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the 2007 Scovie Awards (www.fiery-foods.com)

Ebesse Zozo Hot Sauce: 1st Place – Hot Sauce XXX no extract category (2006 America Best Zesty Professional Foods Contest: www.abfevents.com/winnerscircle.html)
Ebesse Zozo Cayenne Tincture: 2nd Place – Hot Beverage Habanero base category (2007 Scovie Awards: www.fiery-foods.com

H: How did you like staying here?

Edmond: I like it a lot; it is a very nice and cool place with a great ambience and atmosphere. And of course all of the girls at the front desk are great! Ha-ha. I always drive by here, but this is the first time that I booked here.

H: How often are you in Vancouver?

Edmond: It depends but at least 10 times a year. In fact I was in Vancouver for 3 weeks during the Olympics.

H: That’s great! I’m so glad that you got to experience that wonderful atmosphere and festivities during the Olympics. How did you enjoy the Olympics here in Vancouver? Did you get a chance to take part in any of the festivities?

Edmond: I was pretty busy doing demos for Whole Foods, Capers, and Granville Island. When I am here, I usually meet a lot of people from outside of the country. But on the day I took a break and was having a meal at Earls in Burnaby, I got a chance to meet the #7 women’s hockey team gold medal winner: Cherie Piper. I even got to hold the medal and it was so heavy.Another time, while out with a good friend, I also met the 4 time female world luger champion and 30 time Alberta champion.

H: So how did Ebesse Zozo hot sauce come to be?

Edmond: I started in 2002 and it was actually an accident. I had just moved here from Germany and was looking for white peppers to make the sauce for my family. I couldn’t find it anywhere. Finally I found a carton at a Kootenay Co-op store in Nelson. The next week I went back and bought another carton, and the next. I was making this for my own use and to share with friends and family. So the produce manager at the store asked me why I was buying so much and I brought a sample for him and his coworkers. They loved it and found it unique, flavorful and hot and gave me some feedback as well. And they asked me if I wanted to sell it and I said “How?” So on April 2nd my sauce was introduced in their deli and eventually I started packaging it. Originally it was in frozen form but it had a shorter shelf life of about 3 months. And eventually, I started to improve the packaging. At that time I was a Business admin student when I started to package and sell my sauce.

And one day, I was contacted by Chile Pepper Magazine to enter the 2004 Fiery Food Challenge in Texas. I called my uncle in Orange County and after doing some research, he called me back and told me that if I want to promote and sell my hot sauce, that is the best place to be. I was lucky because out of the contest of 803 competitors in different categories, and 200 in the international category that I was in, I won 3rd place. Every year I go to different exhibitions and competitions all over the place. In 2005, I won first place for People’s Preference Award Category at Chile Pepper Zest Fest and 3rd place in the Condiment Dipping Sauce Category.

H: Where can I buy more of your sauce here in Vancouver?

Edmond: My sauces are available mostly in Canada. Alberta, BC, Newfoundland, Ontario, Saskatchewan. There is also a specialty store in Ohio called Jungle Jim’s, which carries it. In Vancouver, you can buy the sauce at Whole Foodsin West Vancouver, Robson, Cambie and Kitsilano. Capers also carries Ebesse Zozo Hot Sauce. Other locations include, Fresh Is Best on West Broadway, Edible BC at the Granville Island Public Market, and Jamaican Pizza Jerkon Commercial Drive. Soon, my sauce will also be available at Urban Fares around Vancouver. You can of course find my sauces online on my website and on the Dragon’s Den website. I have shipped my sauce all over the world from online orders; to Japan, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Many people order during Christmas time as well.

H: What kind of exposure have you had for your sauces?

Edmond: I was on City Cooks with Simi Sara and she had to have a glass of milk on the side because it was too spicy! Ha-ha. I was also on Urban Rush and the Morning News. There were also two documentaries and one of them was filmed by CBC , entitled “Territoire del’autre” (Territory of the Other) featuring myself in the community of Nelson. I have also been featured in major newspapers like the Vancouver Sun, and magazines like BC Business and Kootenay Business Magazine.

I showcase my sauce at various trade shows all over North America and Europe. I have also been at the Taboo Naughty but Nice Show here in Vancouver. I have also been at Eat Vancouver; the Food and Culinary Festival for 5 years and may be there on the upcoming event as well.

The best opportunity I have had is to be on the Dragon’s Den. I was actually away in Europe when they tried to contact me and when I came back, people were saying that Edmond, you have to do a speech for the Dragon’s Den and I was selected as one of the 5 people to be on the show. This was out of 60 people who spoke. My episode was aired during the 4th Season on the 2nd episode. In fact, you can still purchase my sauce online through their website as well. For my pitch, I brought exotic dishes for the dragons to try with my sauce. I knew that Arlene Dickinson did not eat hot food so I recommended the extra mild sauce for her but she insisted on having the hot flavor. In the end she was crying and they even had to redo her makeup. My target was Kevin O’Leary and he smartly chose to try the medium flavor. As for Robert, he tried my hot sauce and said it wasn’t hot. He said he wanted more so I gave him a liquid form of my sauce and that finally got to him. Brett Wilson said that it was the hottest thing he’d ever tasted. In the end, I didn’t come out with a deal. But it was great exposure and one of my best experiences ever. The dragons were very nice as well.

H: Wow… Your sauces seem really hot. Even the Dragons couldn’t handle it! Will it be too hot for me? What levels of spiciness do your sauces have?

Edmond: There are 4 kinds: Hot, Medium, Mild and Extra Mild.

H: Great! I’m excited to try it now, but what can I eat your sauce with?

Edmond: You can eat it with anything. You can put it on eggs, barbecue, spaghetti, couscous, etc. Some people have actually submitted recipes to me on my website. For example, some people have put the hot sauce on ice cream! One interesting recipe is to put the sauce with some oil and make a spicy popcorn topping! If you Google my sauce, you can find many recipes as well as reviews. In fact, if you search on YouTube, you can even find an 11 yr old girl who drinks a bottle of my sauce.

H: Yum… So, what’s the secret ingredient?

Edmond: There is no secret ingredient! All the ingredients are listed on the bottle. But you could have all the ingredients and never make it like my sauce. It’s an old, old family recipe passed down from my grandmother and mother. My grandmother told me I’ve been eating hot foods since I was 2 months old.

Fresh baked goodness, Granville Island and dining out

Rooms Division Posted by Rooms Division | Posted in Secrets Of Vancouver | Posted on 23-05-2010

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Are you visiting beautiful Vancouver for a few days, or maybe even one day? Do you want to jam pack tons of activities to get the most out of your stay here? Do  you prefer to stray off the beaten tourist path?

Have no fear! Vancouver is full of unique activities and attractions that you can experience, even in just one day! Here is an example of a unique one day itinerary that you can try.

I started off my day at the Vancouver Bakers Market. Running every Saturday from March till May 8th, and less than a 15 minute drive from the hotel, this is the ideal place to satisfy your sweet tooth. And it’s indoor with free parking… go rain or shine.  With vendors like Sweet Thea Cake Company, Yaletown Brownies, Sweet Naturally Bakery and many more..

Missed it? Not to worry, there are many farmers markets around town that are perfect for trying local and organic foods such as the Granville Island Farmers Market. Find other markets HERE.

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You can also try samples of pretty much EVERYTHING from the vendors at the Bakers Market before you buy! I suggest making one round while trying all the samples, remembering the ones you love. Then make a second round to buy your faves! That’s what I did. Then I took my goodies to Granville Island, cus it was such a beautiful sunny Vancouver day (although a bit windy, but I can deal. You take some and you leave some =P) to join me on a little picnic.


Now, Granville Island on a nice day, is just heaven. Bring your cameras because you don’t want to miss out on the awesome photo ops! I decided to take my little cupcake lollies on a photo shoot. Definitely hit up the public market for fresh and local produce, meats, cheeses and MORE yummy bakery treats. The food court has so much to choose from, I could barely decide what to get. In the end we got Hungarian cabbage rolls, chick pea soup, beef stew pot pie and refreshing lemonade! Of course, for dessert the macaroons and cupcakes from the bakers market. YUM.


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My Life is Now Officially Complete (for the next 101 days)

Cassandra Hotel Posted by Cassandra Hotel | Posted in Local Attractions Vancouver, Secrets Of Vancouver, Vancouver Cultural Perspectives, Vancouver Family Fun, Where To Eat Vancouver | Posted on 19-09-2009

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As a Front Desk Agent at Cassandra Hotel, I love to recommend great places to eat in Vancouver to our wonderful guests! Especially since I LOVE to eat and dine out myself! Now I have a whole new list to try that all our guests at The Cassandra Hotel can also check out for ideas!

Vancouver Magazine has compiled a list of 101 Best Things to Eat and Drink in Vancouver. I have no more excuses to be bored in the upcoming Fall and Winter what with 101 new things to try… My head is dizzy with the promise of all these interesting foods to come. OMG!

From the “mouth-watering”,

to the “huh?-It’s-so-strange-I-just-HAVE-TO-try-it”,

to the “one-single-thing-you’ve-been-searching-for-your-whole-entire-life-and-would-have-fought-in-a-gladiator-battle-to-the-death-for-it” (OK… maybe that’s just me, but you get the point)

For example:

To Drool For!

Fricassé. To Drool For!

Fricassé

You may know Medina Café for its excellent coffee and dense, chewy waffles (topped with decadent syrups like lavender milk chocolate and raspberry caramel). But that’s just for openers. Savoury breakfasts like the fricassé (two fried eggs, melt-in-your-mouth braised short ribs, roasted potatoes, caramelized onions, arugula, and applewood cheddar) are the real deal here. Medina Café, 556 Beatty St., 604-879-3114. Medinacafe.com

Interesting...

Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies

Double-smoked bacon from Dickison’s (the butcher next door) is caramelized and crumbled into a luscious cookie mix, which is dotted with chunks of milk and semi-sweet Belgian chocolate from Callebaut. Well-Seasoned, 302c-20771 Langley By-Pass, Langley, 604-530-1518. Wellseasoned.ca

.

.

Two Blocks from Cassandra

Two Blocks from Cassandra

Paan

This South Asian delicacy, which is usually served after meals and on special occasions, consists of chopped areca nuts wrapped in betel leaves along with grated coconut, flower petals, or any number of other flavourings. It has a mild stimulating effect like coffee but works marvellously well as a way to freshen your breath or help digest your curry. Jambo Grill & Goodmorning Paan, 3219 Kingsway, 604-433-5060. Jambogrill.ca

If you’re at Cassandra Hotel and not feeling the need to travel far, we are proud to say that Jambo Grill (just two blocks from Cassandra Hotel) is ALSO featured on this list! What luck!

Jerky

Singapore-Style Jerky

Singapore-Style Jerky

This beef jerky (pork is also available) is made fresh daily and packed to order. Moist, smoky, and sweet—just one bite and Oberto will be nothing but a distant memory. Bee Kim Heng, 4149 Fraser St, 604-677-5303

If you didn’t know before… This is like my favorite thing in the world and have been looking for it FOREVER! When I used to live in Singapore, I LOVED special occasions when there was like a pound of this stuff in the house (eventually ending up in my tummy). And the last two times I’ve visited Singapore, I’ve actually used a large portion of my luggage weight allowance to smuggle some back home. SHHH! Keep it on the down low, haha, I don’t want to be on a blacklist at the airport.

And NOW, FINALLY, I know where to buy this.. I’m going to be addicted and if I become morbidly obese, VanMag, thank you. It’s like I’ve died and gone to heaven…..

I feel like a kid in a candy shop with a million dollars pocket money and permission from my parents to eat as much sugar as my body can handle…. OK, I’ll stop now.

I’m glad to say that I can cross off 8 items that I’ve already tried before! 93 to go.

If you are staying at Cassandra, ask our front desk for the link to the list at our lobby computer, take a random pick out of the massive number of choices and your taste buds are sure to thank you.

Hope

Contact Us

Cassandra Hotel
3075 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, Canada V5R 5J8
www.cassandrahotel.com
Tel: (604) 430-3441
Fax: (604) 430-8594
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-2532
email: reservations@cassandrahotel.com

Hot Sushi, Cold Turkey &*Save Ferris

Cassandra Hotel Posted by Cassandra Hotel | Posted in Local Attractions Vancouver, Secrets Of Vancouver, Vancouver Family Fun, Vancouver Girls Nite, Where To Eat Vancouver | Posted on 03-09-2009

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In my M.I.A. days I’ve been out and about, since there’s so much to do in Vancouver. Did I mention, I love this city? If you’re staying with us at Cassandra Hotel and looking for something to do/eat/play, maybe my adventures can spark some ideas for you as well.

Adventure Day 1.

Clubhouse Sandwich

Fraser View Golf CourseClubhouse Sandwich

Ham/Turkey/Swiss Sandwich and Calamari with Tortilla Chips

Fraser View Golf CourseSandwich and Calamari

The club house at Fraser View Golf Course (only about a 10 minute drive from Cassandra) is a great, low key place to relax and grab a beer and some appies or burgers and sandwiches… Even if you had no intention of using the greens like me. They have a great patio with a close up view of one of the holes so you can get some live golf action while you eat. I’m not a golfer myself but it was fun to watch them play.

We had the Calamari (which came with tortilla chips to my surprise), the clubhouse sandwich and a turkey, ham and Swiss sandwich which I cannot remember the name. I gave in to the beer trend (I wanted something else but I also wanted to fit in, I never knew golf was a beer sport haha) and got some kind of honey lager… not a fan. But the portions were SO big.. In the end when we packed the food up, we pretty much had one full sandwich and fries left. Should have just shared one. Now we know..

Wheeee =]

Wheeee = pLaYLaNd @ PNE

Then after a SUPER filling lunch we went to PlayLand (btw. the Cassandra Hotel is just 10 minutes from pLaYLaNd a the PNE) . NOT a good idea. Reader advisory: walk off the food before going straight onto the rides. No body likes a mess. There I am riding on the swinger with the stuffed pig that I won. I was almost pressured into returning him because one of his legs was falling off. NEVER! If I return him, no one else will want him or love him =[. Poor piggy. So I kept him and I love him all the more for his three-leggedness.

Adventure Day 2.

I love the bustling city life, the people and the energy. But sometimes, we all need to unwind. If you are living here and need a break like me, or visiting our beautiful city but want a change in scenery, check out Harrison Hot Springs. In about a 2 hour drive, you can go from

Vancouver

Vancouver Skyscrapers. lol


TO

TO HERE

Harrison Hot Springs +HERE

It was sooo sunny, perfect for just lying on the beach and soaking it in. Be sure to hit up the hot springs pool for the therapeutic sulfur water, cute restaurants all along the beach and you can even rent a little cart to cycle around in. How cute. We also had a fancy dinner at the Copper Room which is like a traditional ball room with a live band and dance floor in the middle of the restaurant. If you want to go there though, make sure you dress up. They have a dress code. No Jeans, no running shoes, no T-Shirts. Or something like that. Food was good, a little pricey of course, but we went for the set menu which was a good deal. It was too fancy of a place for me to look like a dork and take pictures of the food… *sad*.

Adventure Day 3.

Decided to spend a day wandering around Kitsilano area just for fun. Cool shops and restaurants to look at and browse in. Definitely recommended in Vancouver if you are looking for a chill day without spending too much energy.

Volcano Roll

Volcano Roll

Drunken Monkey Roll

Drunken Monkey Roll

Battered Prawns

Battered Prawns

Ate at The Eatery a Japanese Sushi Bar in Kitsilano! Apparently have the funkiest Japanese food in town. Definitely  have funky decor. The entrance is lit up with neon signs reading “Miso Hungry” and “Miso Horny”. Haha loves it. I had a super hard time deciding because they have super interesting appies and side orders (Tuna drops: Deep fried tuna! I didn’t get to try that, next time) and almost 3 pages of super interesting rolls. We had the Volcano and Drunken Monkey ( inspired by the “Paul Frank” monkey) rolls. I cannot remember now what was in them. Overall good. One complaint, the tuna in the volcano roll was kind of mushy. Everything else was good. I just like my fish firm.

Cupcakes

Cupcakes in Kitsilano

Yum!

Cupcakes, sweets, Yum!

Time for Dessert! Walking down Kits, I’ve always walked by Cupcakes in Kitsilano, and the one downtown too. But I never went in. I’m not a big fan of icing. But finally decided to give it a try. Definitely super CUTE! Love for the blueberry and chocolate ones. No love for the plain cake ones, the mint and the coffee ones. I’m picky like that.

Time for the beach!

Pretty

Pretty 'Kits beach" view

Vancouver

Vancouver "kits beach"

Ferris Wheel

Ferris Wheel at PNE pLayLaNd

When it was almost getting dark, headed over to Kitsilano beach.(aka. “kits beach” to Vancouverites) I LOVE the beach at night. And I LOVE silhouette pictures. So pretty and romantic. Love, love, love, amour.

And just to end the day off right, we went to the Fair at the PNE. I love browsing and looking at random stuff. So many stands and games and so much more rides than pLaYLaNd at PNE (Carnie rides! haha). The Ferris Wheel at night is beautiful. *Swoons*

Don’t forget to hit all these must see places while you are visiting us in Vancouver! Recommended by yours truly. Hope.

Contact Us

Cassandra Hotel
3075 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, Canada V5R 5J8
www.cassandrahotel.com
Tel: (604) 430-3441
Fax: (604) 430-8594
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-2532
email: reservations@cassandrahotel.com

* “Ferris Bueller is a bad influence on the student body… the sporto’s , bloods, geeks… they all adore him – they think he’s a righteous dude.”

Craving Sushi at Cassandra?

Cassandra Hotel Posted by Cassandra Hotel | Posted in Secrets Of Vancouver, Vancouver Family Fun, Vancouver Girls Nite, Where To Eat Vancouver | Posted on 20-08-2009

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My primary food group for the last two days has been Sushi. It’s not a well rounded diet, but you can’t really say its unhealthy. Staying at the Cassandra, you definately have a HUGE selection of restaurants and types of food to choose from. Even I can’t decide sometimes. But on those days you feel like me and want to go on a sushi binge, check out these recommendations.

Japan House

Ok.. so I am horrible with directions and could not possibly remember the address of this place to save my life. Apparently they  have no website. C’mon people, we live in the 21st century… where is the technology?? We are supposed to have robots and flying cars by now! Maybe some kind soul will supply me the address or a very well hidden website.

Japan House - House Roll

Japan House - House Roll

The place is an old building. Apparently it has been there forever and been through many changes in ownership.  We ordered the House Roll, Agedashi Tofu and Chicken Ramen. Only the House Roll was special enough for some camera time. I guess we were too hungry at the time. Roll was pretty good. Ramen was just like any other ramen but the heat from it PLUS the hot tea was making me overheat. Not to mention it was a pretty hot day, the light is shining near my face…. Needed a moment to cool down while eating. I actually didn’t try the tofu, somehow it didn’t catch my attention until I was too full.

The rest of the menu looked interesting but didn’t get a chance to try any others, maybe next time or someone can try the other choices and let me know how it is.

Sushi Oyama – Japanese Dining House (sounds fancy already)

5152 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5H 2E8

Sushi Oyama
Pretty

Sushi Oyama

I have been looking at this place since it opened and FINALLY got a chance to go. It not only sounds fancy but also looks fancy from the outside and still has its Grand Opening banner outside (though its been a while.. how long is an opening supposed to last?). So if you’re looking for a gigantic sushi house on Kingsway, you can’t miss it. To be honest, that building has been there forever but I have never noticed what it was. It must’ve been another restaurant which I used to completely ignore.

Very nice patio area, especially on a nice sunny day in Vancouver like today. Sipping a drink on a patio weather. I love Vancouver. Anyway, I chose to sit inside, though, just to check it out and its very nice, Asian contemporary, but didn’t get to see the second floor :(   The garden outside is very nice, looks like someone takes good care of it. When walking in we saw someone (owner?) tending to the garden. So charming.

Ok… lets get to the food. My favourite part.

They seem to have a few interesting special rolls. Wanted to try all as usual, but stomach can only take so much. Had the chicken karaage, a little oily but not too much batter which is a plus for me. We tried the Mangodise Roll (Mango, Crab, Shrimp on top) .. yum. Perfect summer roll, sweet, light and refreshing. Feel like I just needed a cool ice tea or lemonade to finish it off. Also tried the Red Roll (Scallop inside, spicy tuna outside) so different. Spicy. But also good. I approve. And definately a large portion of sashimi.. more than enough for two.

Prices are very good. Special rolls are around 5 – 6 dollars for about 8 pieces. Lots of combos for good prices too. Definitely a recommendation while you are here. Interested? Ask Front Desk for directions, or just go for a drive down Kingsway in Burnaby and look for the house with pretty gardens.

Chicken Karaage

Chicken Karaage

Mangodise Roll

Mangodise Roll

Red Roll

Red Roll

Salmon Sashimi

Salmon Sashimi

Jeux Police Pompiers (World Police And Fire Games) Biathalon Event (FRENCH) PART 2

Cassandra Hotel Posted by Cassandra Hotel | Posted in Guest Pictures | Posted on 14-08-2009

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Jeux Police Pompier Vancouver 2009 at the World Police And Fire Games PART 2

YouTube Biathlon (Rowing) : World Police Fire Games in Vancouver 2009

(WPFG) Première victoire en place Biathalon et la deuxième place en aviron. Vidéo de la Biathalon événement. Ils ont été nos hôtes à l’Hôtel Cassandra.

First place win in Biathlon and second place in Rowing. YouTube Video of the WPFG Biathlon event (High Quality).

The team stayed in Vancouver at the Cassandra Hotel. Rested up nicely. Uploaded PART 2 of their preparation and day at the rowing competition.

Contact Us

Cassandra Hotel
3075 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, Canada V5R 5J8
www.cassandrahotel.com
Tel: (604) 430-3441
Fax: (604) 430-8594
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-2532
email: reservations@cassandrahotel.com

Jeux Police Pompiers (World Police And Fire Games) Biathalon Event (FRENCH) PART 1

Cassandra Hotel Posted by Cassandra Hotel | Posted in Guest Pictures, Vancouver Cultural Perspectives, Vancouver Events | Posted on 11-08-2009

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Jeux Police Pompier Vancouver 2009 at the World Police And Fire Games PART 1

YouTube Biathlon: World Police Fire Games in Vancouver 2009

(WPFG) Première victoire en place Biathalon et la deuxième place en aviron. Vidéo de la Biathalon événement. Ils ont été nos hôtes à l’Hôtel Cassandra.

First place win in Biathlon and second place in Rowing. YouTube Video of the Biathlon event. The team stayed in Vancouver at the Cassandra Hotel. Rested up nicely. Uploaded PART 1 of their preparation and day at the competition.

Contact Us

Cassandra Hotel
3075 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, Canada V5R 5J8
www.cassandrahotel.com
Tel: (604) 430-3441
Fax: (604) 430-8594
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-2532
email: reservations@cassandrahotel.com

World Police And Fire Games – France Victory – 2 Gold medals

Cassandra Hotel Posted by Cassandra Hotel | Posted in Guest Pictures | Posted on 07-08-2009

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World Police And Fire Games – France Victory in Boxing! 2 Gold medals

The Boxing Team from France stayed at the Cassandra Hotel for two weeks and won 2 Gold medals in Boxing at the World Police and Fire Games (WPFG 2009 Vancouver) here in Vancouver. We made sure there was plenty of strong coffee in the morning, and worked on our French conversation while they were here. Here are some of the celebration pics when they came back to the hotel, from a nite of celebration. Really great guys and a pleasure to have them stay with us. We’ll send them the pictures right now…

Police et d’incendie Word Games – Victoire en France de Boxe! 2 médailles d’or

L’équipe de France de Boxe séjourné à l’Hôtel Cassandra pour deux semaines et a remporté 2 médailles d’or en boxe lors de la World Police and Fire Games (WPFG Vancouver 2009), ici à Vancouver. Nous avons fait en sorte il y avait beaucoup de café fort le matin, et a travaillé sur notre conversation en français alors qu’ils étaient ici. Voici quelques photos de la célébration à leur retour à l’hôtel, d’un nite de la célébration. Vraiment génial les gars et un plaisir de les faire rester avec nous. Nous allons leur envoyer les photos dès maintenant …

Félicitations pour votre victoire!

Contact Us

Cassandra Hotel
3075 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, Canada V5R 5J8
www.cassandrahotel.com
Tel: (604) 430-3441

Fax: (604) 430-8594
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-2532
email: reservations@cassandrahotel.com