Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre

This hotel is a popular choice for travelers seeking a convenient stopover, particularly due to its strategic location right off the highway and the added benefit of an attached restaurant. Guests frequently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness, the comfort of its accommodations, and the generally friendly demeanor of its staff. While its proximity to the highway can lead to some noise, the hotel's accessibility and amenities make it a practical option. It is well-suited for families exploring local attractions like Castle Fun Park, pet owners due to its accommodating policy, and business travelers attending events at its conference facilities. To ensure a quieter stay, guests are advised to request a room located away from the highway side.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest stays. A highlight for many is the indoor pool and hot tub, which are generally described as clean, heated, and spacious enough for groups. A fitness center is also available, though some guests find it small or crowded. Parking is ample, with both surface and underground options, though spots can become limited during large events hosted at the hotel's conference and event center. Wi-Fi is provided, though some guests report occasional connectivity issues. Elevators are available for easy access to all floors, and coffee is offered in the lobby, though its quality receives mixed reviews.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the cleanliness of the rooms and common areas, often noting recent updates that contribute to a fresh feel. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most, though some found them to be too firm. Rooms are generally spacious and well-equipped with amenities such as fridges, microwaves, and Keurig coffee makers. Hot water and good water pressure in the bathrooms are also appreciated. However, a significant recurring issue is noise, primarily from the adjacent highway, which can be quite loud, even with windows closed. Some guests also report hallway noise, elevator noise, or disturbances from construction. Other minor issues include small TVs, non-working safes, or a lack of bathroom fans.

Dining & Food Quality
A significant convenience for guests is the attached White Spot restaurant, which provides easy access to meals without needing to leave the premises. While breakfast is not complimentary, hotel guests receive a discount on meals, including a larger percentage off for breakfast during specific hours. The food quality at the White Spot is generally well-received, with many finding it a good option, though some consider the prices to be on the higher side. The hotel also provides coffee in the lobby, which is a welcome touch for many. For those attending events, the banquet food served at the hotel's conference facilities consistently garners high praise for its quality and selection.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location directly off the Trans-Canada Highway 1 is a major advantage, making it an excellent choice for travelers needing a convenient stopover or easy access to surrounding areas. It offers easy access to the Sumas border crossing and is well-situated for travel to or from Vancouver. Guests appreciate its close proximity to various shopping centers, gas stations, and numerous food options, many of which are within walking distance. The nearby Castle Fun Park also makes it a suitable destination for families. While the highway proximity can contribute to noise, its convenience for travel and access to amenities is widely highlighted. Parking is generally plentiful, with both surface and underground options.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff frequently receives high commendation for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests report quick check-in processes and appreciate the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as moving rooms to mitigate noise or allowing early check-ins. Staff members are often described as going "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, particularly in handling event services. However, some guests have reported instances of poor front desk service, citing unhelpful or unaccommodating responses, especially concerning payment policies or complaints about construction noise. There have also been isolated issues with lost items or a perceived lack of follow-up from management in resolving concerns.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has undergone renovations, and while many areas are updated, some parts may still appear dated or be actively under construction, potentially leading to noise disturbances during daytime hours. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is highly valued by guests traveling with animals, although some have noted confusion regarding pet fees or finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. A significant point of contention for some guests is the hotel's strict requirement for a credit card for check-in, which has resulted in refusal of service for those attempting to use debit or prepaid cards, even if their booking was pre-paid. The hotel is a popular venue for events and conferences, which can impact parking availability and contribute to increased noise levels in certain areas.