The Fairmont Empress is stunning. It is a beautiful castle in Victoria exhibiting chateau style railway hotel building in Canada. My 5 year old son thought it should be in Paris!
Our stay at the Empress was really nice. It is pet-friendly and you feel as your pets are actually welcome. Dinner and service at Q at the Empress was delicious.
On stature alone, I'd rate the Empress a 10, but there are some areas that Fairmont could improve the overall experience. Check-in/ out was slow due to only one person working at the front desk. The rooms felt a little dated and could be better maintained. The beds are uncomfortable.