The first North American property for Shangri-La brings with it all the style and service for which this Asian hotel chain is famous. At 62 stories, it’s the tallest building in Vancouver, and has become the anchor for the city’s new high-end boutique and restaurant row along Alberni Street, thanks in part to its own restaurant, MARKET by Jean-Georges (as in Vongerichten). The Shangri-La public spaces are all cool, airy, and serene, with floor-to-ceiling windows, blond wood, golden furnishings, and ornate Chinese screens. Guest rooms are large and furnished in contemporary style with sumptuous bathrooms and Asian accents like the bamboo-patterned gold brocade bedding or paintings of goldfish or cherry blossoms. Some rooms have interesting city views; unfortunately, though, the best views are from the top floors, which are the private residences. Still, it’s a lovely place to stay. Be sure to visit Chi, the hotel’s beautiful Asian-themed spa, with its menu of unique body treatments such as the martial arts-inspired Wushu.