THE ESTER HOUSE, Vancouver

The Kitsilano-area location offers a peaceful residential setting within walking distance of Spanish Banks Beach (19 min), and a short drive to the University of British Columbia (3 km), the Vancouver Maritime Museum (6 km), and Vancouver Coal Harbour Seaplane Base (9 km). Several restaurants, including Four Olives Restaurant and Gold Train Express, are within 0.5 km. The neighbourhood is known for its quiet streets and leafy surroundings, and street parking is available. The property's proximity to UBC and the beach makes it well-suited for academics, beachgoers, and those wanting a calm base away from the city core.

Accommodation consists of individually locked private rooms in a shared house. The Superior Quadruple Room is the only unit with a private en-suite bathroom and is the largest and most spacious option, with two queen beds. Other rooms - including double and economy double rooms - feature shared bathrooms located outside the bedroom. Rooms on the second floor tend to be quieter, while basement rooms may have less natural light and limited ventilation (windows that cannot open). Each room includes a washing machine, tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a dining area, a wardrobe, and a tumble dryer. Kitchens are fully equipped with a stovetop, refrigerator, dishwasher, and cookware. Some rooms have carpeted floors; bedding is provided but no in-room TVs are available. The property is older and plainly furnished; rooms are generally clean but can feel basic and compact, particularly the basement units.

Outdoors, guests can relax in the garden and on the terrace. The nearby Spanish Banks Beach (19 min walk) is suitable for beach walks and sunsets. Boating opportunities are available in the surrounding area. There is no pool, spa, gym, or dedicated wellness facility on site. The quiet neighbourhood and proximity to the beach make it a pleasant base for outdoor leisure.

Services include free Wi-Fi throughout, a shared kitchen with full cookware, and free laundry facilities (washer and dryer). The property offers private check-in/check-out and express check-in/check-out. A shared lounge/TV area is available. Safety features include CCTV in common areas and keypad locks on all room doors. The property is non-smoking and does not allow pets. No parking is available on site, but free street parking is sometimes possible. There is no on-site reception; all communication is via the host. Housekeeping is not daily and cleaning can be inconsistent; the laundry room is located near some bathrooms which can be uncomfortable during use. The property accepts debit cards.