Getting Groovy in Victoria at the Hotel Zed

Ever since my grandfather moved to Sidney, we try to see him at least once or twice a year and turn it into a bit of a holiday for the kids. Sidney is gorgeous and the kids could plouter at the beach there for days. This time we (my mom and I) thought we would let them explore Victoria a bit more so we decided to stay to look at accommodation there instead of in Sidney.  And weren’t we lucky that the fun people behind the brand new Hotel Zed offered to set us up for the night.

People who visit Victoria can forget that there is a lot more to see and do beyond the inner harbour. This is also the main area for hotels and motels that are scattered around the Empress at the centre.  But like all tourist towns, if you head slightly further of the main drag so to speak, you will find far more options when it comes to hotels and motels and this is where you will find the Hotel Zed.

The property is on Douglas and Finnlayson.  Right across the Mayfair shopping mall.  Douglas takes you right to all the main tourist spots in Victoria, including shopping, China Town, the Royal Museum, the Empress,  etc.    For my son, it was the dream hotel.  Not only did it have an AMAZING pool and PURPLE waterslide, but KFC is right next door, as are a few affordable family restaurants including Denny’s.  (they are slated to be getting their own eats soon too).

Hotel Zed does everything right.  The staff is charming.  The rates affordable ($100 to $149).  Some of the rooms (ours was a suite) have a kitchenette.   The decor is gorgeous and the retro vibe is just a delight.

Yes, there are comic books in the rooms!!  And yes, that IS a rotary phone.  That and the clock beside it had my kids mesmerized.

The lounge/lobby is a hoot.  They have two old typewriters set up so you can send Hotel Zed postcards home.  There is a working record player with an awesome collection of vinyl to check out, board games and a ping-pong room as well as a Wii!!  They also have a fabulous Keurig coffee and tea bar set up which kept us fueled.

The beds are lovely and comfortable, even the sofa bed that Adam and Tara shared and there was more than enough towels for all of us.

One of the best features of the Hotel and their amazing  staff is Stan and Doris. Doris is that groovy VW van in the photo. Stan is the delightful driver who happily ferries guest to and from the hotel.   Doris gets noticed all over town and we had to wave and be photographed where ever we all went. The kids LOVED this. And was great to not have to worry about parking when exploring Victoria.  They also have bikes available too.

I would highly recommend checking them out for your next trip to Victoria.  Our stay there was the highlight of the adventure and we can’t thank our hosts enough for their kindness and willingness to share such a fun experience.