Celebrity Endorsement

I recently enjoyed a stay at an exclusive hotel nestled in a privately owned hideaway on Canada's Vancouver Island. Perched in lush natural surroundings the Hotel D & D offers a variety of options for accommodations which are comfortably arranged to suit individual requests; including garden view rooms, themed guest cottages or private over-the-water bungalows with full kitchen and bath amenities. The hotel menu changes daily to incorporate fresh, locally grown foods, yet is nicely accentuated by delicious beverages which are imported from exotic lands. For example, carefully selected green coffee beans are roasted and ground on site to ensure the freshest and sweetest espresso in all of North America - if not the world. A variety of imported herbal teas and fine wines are also available.

While strolling through the grounds a glimpse of local wildlife is inevitable. Rare miniature Hintons, soaring vultures and mountain cats call the old growth forest home. As well, nearby aviaries house flocks of exotic birds which lull contented guests to sleep with their sweet harmonies and wake them to a new day of adventure with their happy melodies.

The D & D, named after the hotel's worldly and talented proprietors, is set comfortably away from the chaos of city life, yet only "20 minutes from everything."

Guests are just moments away from invigorating hikes leading to spectacular mountain views or
























stimulating cycles past quaint country markets bursting with fresh produce and rich confectioneries. An assortment of challenging sports such as technical tree climbing, sailing, kayaking, rock climbing, diving and unicycling are also available.

Once exhausted after a day of physical challenges, guests may enjoy a chauffeur-driven excursion in a classic Mercedes Benz to the heart of a cosmopolitan city immersed in culture and history. In the picturesque capital city guests will find a plethora of lovely establishments serving all types of fare, ranging from vegetarian to omnivorian. If choosing to dine alfresco guests will be surrounded by vibrant manicured gardens and scenic water features.

For those who prefer to stay within the hotel's relaxing atmosphere there is free wireless Internet, a library, and an extensive museum including themed artifacts, natural history and intriguingly unique antiques.

While lounging at one of two decks overlooking the grounds, guests are sure to be pleasantly surprised with subtle musical entertainment or the occasional wandering circus performer.

A splendid five star facility with exceptional hosts to match.

Definitely a five diamond resort.