In April 2007, Judith and Bob Lovett, of Essex, England, were staying at the Pacific Palisades Hotel before departing on a three-day trip to Victoria to visit their son and his family. Judith has Multiple Sclerosis and relies extensively on her scooter for mobility.

On their second day in Vancouver, Judith experienced a mechanical problem with her electrical scooter in the hotel lobby. The ignition barrel came apart, the locking nut became unscrewed, and an electrical wire became detached—rendering the machine useless. Without her scooter, she would be marooned to her hotel room and unable to travel around Vancouver or Victoria.

Judith asked the front desk staff if there were any electricians near to the hotel that would be able to provide her with any mechanical assistance. Ildiko Herr, a guest service representative, informed her there was a maintenance unit within the hotel that could assist her. Within minutes, Dan Nguyen from the maintenance department appeared with his expertise and tools.

Dan took the whole scooter apart and managed to repair it within twenty minutes. During the operation, Dan remained upbeat with his good sense of humour, and he and Judith discussed differences and similarities between England and Canada.

Judith insisted on reimbursing Dan for his service, but he cordially declined to accept any form of payments or gifts. He simply and professionally replied, “It was all part of the job.” She was so impressed with his attitude that she thought it deserved recognition for his efforts.

All in all, Judith and Bob Lovett were very impressed with the Pacific Palisades Hotel and its wonderful staff. They have stayed in many hotels throughout Europe and across the world, and both of them consider the Pacific Palisades outstanding. When they visit Vancouver again, they will stay at the Pacific Palisades, and would recommend their friends and relatives to do the same.

Nominator’s Name:
J. Lovett
Essex, England