The Days Inn is fine, nothing special, but clean and okay. The Laurel Point is really nice, and just renovated and sometimes you can get a good deal. I wouldn’t bother with the Hotel Grand Pacific or the Empress, very antique-y and over priced. If you go a little further into downtown from the water there is a Travelodge and a Mariott. Both good chains.

Oh, the Empress could be considered to be "antique" but that is the basis of it’s charm. It is the "grand dame" of hotels in Victoria but you do pay for the privilege. I have stayed there a few times over the years when I can afford it. The Grand Pacific is newer and quite nice but also expensive. I generally stay at the Chateau Victoria however their rooms do not have built in air conditioning which is their main problem. They have portable air conditioners in the suites, not sure about the standard rooms since I stay in their suites. It is not fancy but it is comfortable.

Now, I’m not sure what you think about victoria, or where you are coming from but I have never stayed anywhere claiming to be a hotel that does not have indoor plumbing. Also, you are hard pressed to find an air conditioner in Victoria. We simply don’t need them.