Quebec Ice Hotel in 2010
Having stayed at Quebec’s Ice Hotel after it first opened in 2001, I was quite impressed with the latest improvements. I guess re-building the hotel every year for 10 years has taught the designers a few things.
Not to mention international PR exposure, numerous design awards and national sponsors certainly didn’t hurt.
One of the most important changes is the location for 2011, which will be moved closer to Quebec City. The new location will allow closer access to Quebec’s renowned hotels, not to mention Quebec’s Winter Carnival, held in February each year.
Since opening in 2001, Quebec’s Ice Hotel has welcomed over 700,000 visitors, including 30,000 overnight stays. Not bad for an unheated hotel that is only open for three months of the year!
One important change I noticed was that the Absolut Vodka Bar had changed to the Pinnacle Ice Cider Bar, a Quebec specialty. Instead of enjoying this sweet nectar on the rocks, it is served in a square glass made of ice, i.e., ice cider in the rocks.
I also noted that the room décor was much more elaborate than in 2001. Local Quebec artists had designed the rooms in snow and ice, creatively using LEDs to add color to the room.
Greek Suite at Quebec's Ice Hotel
Rooms ranged from very basic to themed suites, and finally, themed suites with fireplace and private spa. Hotel guests could opt for an outdoor dip under the stars in the Artic Spas.
For a shorter freezing experience, you can simply sip an ice cider martini at the Pinnacle ice cider Bar and get a guided tour. Either way, you’ll marvel at the Quebec ingenuity for creating such a unique and wildly successful experience. (Open January 7, 2011)
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