This is our second visit to Victoria and the Empress. Once in November with beautiful decorations throughout for the holidays. Just returned from our May anniversary trip. Both were outstanding and spectacular rooms and rest! We upgraded to the Gold Floor for May. It is worth the cost.....you check in at their desk, not downstairs. No waiting in line, and our welcome was most gracious. When we mentioned our anniversary, Salam moved us to a Harbor View with no extra cost. In both visits, our room and bed were amazing....we go to the gardens and enjoy the city, but next time I want to stay in and enjoy the ambiance of the room. The Gold floor had appetizers and full breakfast included in abundance with "living room," atmosphere. Liquor is not included, but offered and we enjoyed the wine. Unlike a bar, you could find a private spot, or mix a drink and return to your room. We love the Bengel Bar and Restaurant, but loved the bar offering on our floor more! Salam made our dinner reservation for us and checked on us several times. I felt pampered and spoiled by the personal service. We joined the Fairmont awards/points program because of this experience. Can't wait to go again. You will be pleased with either experience, but on a special occassion opt for the GOLD FLOOR. Amazing room, bath, linen, etc. ENJOY!!!!

Wonderful experience! Charming room with all amenities. The staff was so helpful
and friendly. Dining was elegent and excellent. We agree that the Empress will be the only hotel for us when visiting Victoria.

Third time at the Empress, this time I was on the top floor with a King size bed, very comfortable and good size bathroom, the hotel always has had a old type of smell to it but you get use to it in no time. This would never discourage me from coming back.
The Bengal lounge is excellent, the Indian buffet has been there for years and with the experience that they have had making it, it is always excellent.
Kings, Queens, Presidents and Prime Ministers have stayed at this hotel you can just feel it when you walk the hallways and lobbies.

The Empress is a beautiful, historic hotel. Personally, I think they need to do a renovation on the bathrooms as they do not meet the standard of the newer Fairmont hotels. Bathroom tile is old and discolored-looks dirty even though I am sure it is not! Not what you would expect for such a famous hotel. The afternoon tea is amazing and shouldn't be missed. The service is always top rate and it is walking distance to the shopping, restaurants and pubs. It is a lovely hotel, but I know that I would be disappointed if I was staying for a big anniversary or honeymoon and had an old bathroom like the few that we have stayed in. It just takes something away from the experience! We often stay there on business and I always enjoy my visit.