PORT ALBERNI, BC – Minutes from downtown, yet world’s away from the hustle, Chims Cabins has evolved into one of Port Alberni’s most unique accommodation options. “We built Chims Cabins for the way people actually travel,” explained co-owner Naomi Nicholson, who manages the property full-time.
Located on a compact one-acre property, Chims Cabins is a family-owned and operated enterprise featuring six fully self-contained cabins, each equipped with a full-size kitchen, a private covered deck, Netflix and satellite television, and full access to dedicated guest laundry. Whether travelling for work or pleasure Chims Cabins’ unique approach to travel accommodation offers the comforts of home, packaged in a rustic and peaceful setting – an experience unlike any ordinary hotel room.
Whether you’re staying one night or several months, having your own kitchen, outdoor space, and room to spread out makes all the difference,” Nicholson said.
One of the many things Chims Cabins is known for is the immaculate way each of the cabins is kept
Each cabin is named after wildlife that are native to Vancouver Island – including Bear, Wolf, Raven, Eagle, Hummingbird and Butterfly – in tribute to the natural beauty surrounding the property. Cabin layouts accommodate from one to five guests with one to four beds, allowing families, contractors and work crews to share accommodations (and often save money) when compared to booking multiple hotel rooms.
The property has become the destination of choice for contractors, healthcare professionals, government employees, corporate travellers and many others working in the Alberni Valley. Provincial Government rates and corporate rates are also available, making Chims Cabins an economical option for organizations with employees working within the region. Short and long-term stays are available, making the property ideal for project crews, medical professionals and businesses with employees working away from home.
The cleanliness of the property is one of the most common thing visitors mention. “We live where we work, so every guest experience matters. When you’re a family-owned business, your reputation isn’t managed from another city – it’s built every single day by the people who own and operate the property,” she said.
As a designated BC Green Business, sustainability is part of Chims everyday operations. Each cabin is equipped with recycling bins, and guests are encouraged to sort their waste just as they would at home. Providing full-size kitchens naturally creates more recyclable materials and food waste than would be found in a typical hotel room, making responsible sorting even more important.
Unlike a typical hotel room, each of the Chims Cabins comes with a full-size kitchen
This year, guests will also notice significant improvements around the property, including new illuminated highway signage that makes Chims Cabins easier to find. Each cabin is also receiving a custom sign featuring the wildlife it’s named after, crafted to celebrate the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, and a memorable first impression for guests.
Only a 10-minute drive from shopping, restaurants, hospital, major employers and most attractions in Port Alberni, Chims Cabins offers travellers a convenient base for both work and leisure. Located on the west side of the city means guests can also avoid much of the downtown traffic as they enjoy the quieter setting – a perk appreciated by contractors who travel with tools, trailers and work vehicles.
“Online travel agencies like Expedia, Booking.com and Airbnb are great for researching where you want to stay, but many people don’t realize those platforms typically charge accommodations between 15 and 38 per cent in commissions,” Nicholson explained.
“If you find a property you like, rather than using a mainstream booking site why not visit the property’s own website and see if you can book directly? It helps support local businesses, provides more direct communication with the property, and in some cases may even save you money.”
The facilities at Chims Cabins have proven popular with construction workers and commercial clients
She also notes there are important differences between staying at a professionally operated commercial accommodation, and booking a private home. “When you stay at a commercial accommodation, you’re staying somewhere with trained staff and established cleaning protocols. COVID reminded all of us just how important proper cleaning practices are. While vacation rentals certainly have their place, many travellers don’t realize they may have different standards and insurance coverage than a licensed commercial accommodation.”
Port Alberni is in many ways the ideal jumping off point for anyone wanting to explore Vancouver Island – with its central location, affordable accommodation prices and extensive range of resources and services – especially when compared to the prices typically found on the west coast. “You can often stay here for several nights for the price of one night during peak season on the west coast. We’re only about 10 minutes from most places in Port Alberni and an easy drive to Sproat Lake, Tofino, Ucluelet and the Pacific Rim National Park’” she said.
“If you appreciate exceptional cleanliness, friendly local service, your own private space and the convenience of a full-size kitchen, our motto says it best: Stay Here, Travel There.”
