Canada's most westerly province, British Columbia is sandwiched
between the Rocky Mountains on the east and the mighty Pacific
Ocean on the west, bordered to the south by the USA and to the
north by the Northwest and Yukon territories. Its location on the
Pacific Rim ensures that British Columbia has a rich blend of
cultures, together with the area's own rich indigenous heritage,
this makes for interesting towns and cities with a cosmopolitan
ambience.
The combination of sea and mountains, together with the broken
coastline sporting hundreds of islands and inlets, gives the
province a diverse set of natural attractions and recreational
opportunities, from world-class winter sports to sailing or hiking
in tall forests. It is especially attractive to travellers who
enjoy the great outdoors, particularly because a good transport
infrastructure of ferries, charter boats, trains and
well-maintained roads makes it possible to access all the best
wilderness spots in British Columbia with ease and comfort.
British Columbia is home to four national parks, seven
provincial heritage sites, many nature reserves and the scenic
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. The coast has a number of beautiful
fjords, and is a popular destination for canoeing. The volcanic
mountains of Tweedsmuir Provincial Park provide trekking
opportunities, and the Kootenay Rockies boast some of the best
skiing and snowboarding in Canada.
The provincial capital of British Columbia is the city of
Victoria, situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, but its
largest and most populated city is Vancouver, known as Canada's
'emerald jewel' because of its green-blue vistas of mountains and
sea.
Climate Info
British Columbia's climate is very varied due to its diverse
topography.
The coastal region has a comparatively mild winter climate, with
lots of rainfall. November and February tend to be the wettest
months, while May and September are probably the best times to
visit the coast.
Vancouver enjoys a maritime climate, with relatively mild
winters and warm summers. Although winters can be notoriously
rainy, there are often long periods of continuous sunshine in the
summertime, when visitors come to explore the region's natural
beauty. Snowfall is rare in the city, but is more than adequate for
the ski slopes on the Coast Mountains to the north.
The interior to the east of the Coast Mountains has a much drier
climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The Rockies enjoy a
warm to hot summer from May to September, with heavy snowfalls
during winter. The northern part of the province has generally much
colder winters and cooler summers than the rest of British
Columbia.
Getting Around
The integrated Translink public transport system is both highly
efficient and good value. The computerised SkyTrain (light rail)
has underground downtown stops as well as an elevated track. Its
latest addition, the Canada Line, now connects downtown to
Vancouver International Airport. The Translink system also includes
buses; electric trolley buses; West Coast Express trains (weekdays
only); and SeaBus passenger ferries that connect downtown to North
Vancouver. The network reaches every part of the city, including
the beaches and ski slopes. After midnight the regular bus system
is replaced by a limited night bus service on main routes. Fares
are based on a zone system and tickets are valid for buses, the
SkyTrain and SeaBus with transfers valid for 90 minutes from the
time they are validated. Taxis are easy to come by at taxi stands,
hotels or by telephone, but can be difficult to hail outside of the
downtown area. Vancouver's traffic and road network is fairly
well-ordered, but hiring a car is not necessary in the city because
the public transport is more than sufficient.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Location
The airport is located eight miles (13km) south of
Vancouver.
Time Difference
GMT -8 (GMT -7 from the second Sunday in March to
the first Sunday in November).
Contacts
Tel: +1 (604) 207 7077.
Transfer terminals
A courtesy shuttle is available to the Airport South
terminal.
Getting to city
The Canada Line connects the airport to downtown Vancouver in
about 25 minutes. The service runs every 8-20 minutes. Scheduled
buses are available to downtown Vancouver, Whistler, Vancouver
Island and Washington State. Courtesy shuttles transport passengers
to the Long-Term Parking Lot, South Terminal, local hotels and
other destinations near the airport. Public bus services to
Vancouver, Richmond and further afield are available at the Airport
Station Bus Terminal.
Car Rental
Car hire companies Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National
and Thrifty are represented next to the terminal building on the
ground floor.
Airpor Taxis
Metered taxis are available around the clock outside the
terminals. Look for the green signs which indicate a taxi pick-up
position. Prices and journey time are higher during rush hour. A
tip of 10 to 15 per cent is expected.
Airport Facilities
The main terminal has ATMs, bureaux de change and a bank. There
is a selection of bars, restaurants and fast food outlets scattered
throughout the airport, as well as a variety of shops, including
duty-free, baggage storage and a medical centre. Children's play
areas are also available.
Car Parking
Vancouver International Airport offers a range of parking
options in the parkade directly opposite the terminals. Hourly
parking starts at C$8 per hour, but reduced daily and weekly rates
are also available.
Abbotsford International Airport (YXX)
Location
The airport is located two and a half miles (4km) from
Abbotsford city centre.
Time Difference
GMT -8 (GMT -7, March to
November).
Getting to city
Shuttle services are available to transport passengers to and
from the airport to the city centre. Shuttles can also be booked in
advance. Local bus and limousine services are also available from
the airport to the city centre.
Car Rental
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis,
Budget and National.
Airpor Taxis
Taxi services are available between the airport and various
points in southwestern British Columbia.
Airport Facilities
Airport facilities include a bar and bistro, shopping (including
a duty-free shop) and ATMs.
Car Parking
Short-term and long-term parking is available at the airport.
Short-term parking is available next to the terminal building and
offers travellers easy access to the airport. It can be used for up
to three hours and costs C$2 for the first hour and C$1 per hour
thereafter for a maximum of three hours. Long-term parking costs
C$9 per day and C$54 per week.
The airport is located six miles (9km) from Kamloops city
centre.
Time Difference
GMT -8 (GMT-7 from the first Sunday in March to
the first Sunday in November).
Getting to city
Taxis are available from the airport to the city centre. The
Airporter Shuttle also offers a door-to-door service to and from
the airport.
Car Rental
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Budget,
Enterprise and National.
Airpor Taxis
Taxis are available from the airport to the city centre and
surrounds via Kami Cabs and Yellow Cabs.
Airport Facilities
Airport facilities include a cafe, lounge and parking.
Car Parking
Short-term and long-term airport parking is conveniently located
near the arrivals and departures areas. Parking is charged at
C$9.50 per 24-hour period.
The pride of Vancouver's network of parks and gardens, Stanley
Park, covering 1,000 acres (405 hectares), is one of the largest
parks in any urban centre in North America. Situated in the heart
of Vancouver's densely populated West End, stretching out on a
peninsula and surrounded on thr
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The pride of Vancouver's network of parks and gardens, Stanley
Park, covering 1,000 acres (405 hectares), is one of the largest
parks in any urban centre in North America. Situated in the heart
of Vancouver's densely populated West End, stretching out on a
peninsula and surrounded on three sides by water, Stanley Park is
at once a refuge for visitors seeking a brief escape from the urban
jungle, a showcase for the natural beauty that surrounds the city,
and an entertainment centre. The park is criss-crossed through its
dense rainforest interior by miles of wide gravel paths surrounding
Beaver Lake and Lost Lagoon. It is home to hundreds of migratory
birds such as Canada geese, swans and ducks, and large populations
of racoons, squirrels, skunks and coyotes. The park has a miniature
railroad, putt-putt golf course, and an aquarium. It is also
possible to walk, jog, cycle or rollerblade around the long seawall
that encircles the perimeter.
In the west of Vancouver, at the University of British Columbia
on the cliffs of Point Grey, totem poles mark the way to the Museum
of Anthropology, world-renowned for its displays of Northwest Coast
First Nations art. One of its main features is the world's largest
collection of works b
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In the west of Vancouver, at the University of British Columbia
on the cliffs of Point Grey, totem poles mark the way to the Museum
of Anthropology, world-renowned for its displays of Northwest Coast
First Nations art. One of its main features is the world's largest
collection of works by internationally acclaimed Haida artist Bill
Reid, including his famous cedar sculpture 'The Raven and the First
Men'. In the museum's unique Visible Storage Galleries more than
15,000 objects and artefacts from around the world are arranged
according to culture and use. In the grounds of the museum are two
Haida houses to be admired, showing the dramatic beauty of
traditional Northwest Coast architecture.
Vancouver's Chinatown is not only a strong, established ethnic
community, but also a popular tourist attraction and prosperous
commercial district. Its bustling streets are full of colour and
commerce; even the pagoda-topped telephone booths add to the
atmosphere. Shop displays spill ont
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Vancouver's Chinatown is not only a strong, established ethnic
community, but also a popular tourist attraction and prosperous
commercial district. Its bustling streets are full of colour and
commerce; even the pagoda-topped telephone booths add to the
atmosphere. Shop displays spill onto the pavements, and tables
groan with the weight of exotic foodstuffs and the strange wares of
the Chinese apothecaries.
The Sam Kee Building in Pender Street is listed in the Guinness
Book of World Records as being the narrowest building in the world,
at only six-foot (two metres) wide. This was the result of a local
property owner reacting to the expropriation of most of his land in
1912 for the widening of the street: Chang Toy decided to build
what he could on the remaining tiny strip.
Another main attraction in Chinatown is the Dr Sun Yat-Sen
Classical Chinese Garden, enclosed behind high walls, that was
built in 1986 at a cost of C$5.3-million with the craftsmen and
materials all imported from China. It is a quiet haven of walkways,
pavilions, gnarled trees, water features and natural rock
sculptures. Next door to the Garden is the Chinese Cultural Centre
with its elaborate gated entrance hand-painted in traditional
colours.
The fascinating little historic enclave of Gastown, in the
central core area of Vancouver, alongside Chinatown, transports
visitors back in time to envision the city in days of old, with its
cobbled streets, antique gaslights, Victorian architecture and maze
of narrow alleys, courtyards
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The fascinating little historic enclave of Gastown, in the
central core area of Vancouver, alongside Chinatown, transports
visitors back in time to envision the city in days of old, with its
cobbled streets, antique gaslights, Victorian architecture and maze
of narrow alleys, courtyards and passages wherein hide boutiques
and restaurants.
Gastown was named after Vancouver's first settler and saloon
owner, Jack "Gassy" Deighton, whose historic hotel was destroyed in
the Great Fire of 1886 along with much of the city. The fire swept
through the town in less than an hour, leaving only two of the 400
or so houses standing.
"Gassy" Jack has been immortalised with a statue in Maple Tree
Square in Gastown. Another point of interest is the Lamplighter Pub
in the Dominion Hotel, which was the first Vancouver inn to serve
alcohol to women. The Europe Hotel was the first fireproof building
in western Canada, having been built just after the fire in 1892.
Gastown keeps time with the world's first steam clock, which plays
the Westminster chimes every 15 minutes on five brass steam
whistles inside its cast bronze case.
On Vancouver's north shore, just a 15-minute drive from the
downtown area across the Lions Gate Bridge, is the year-round
mountaintop playground of Grouse Mountain. Ascending the mountain
is part of the adventure in the Super Skyride, a passenger tram
that glides up the steep mountain sl
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On Vancouver's north shore, just a 15-minute drive from the
downtown area across the Lions Gate Bridge, is the year-round
mountaintop playground of Grouse Mountain. Ascending the mountain
is part of the adventure in the Super Skyride, a passenger tram
that glides up the steep mountain slopes carrying visitors up
3,700ft (1,100m) above sea level in just eight minutes. At the top,
apart from magical views of the city below, is the 'Theatre in the
Sky', which offers a high-tech presentation about Vancouver. There
is also a cedar longhouse called the Hiwus Feasthouse that offers
the chance to experience native West Coast culture with displays of
dancing, storytelling, chanting and native cuisine. There are
hiking trails up the side of Grouse Mountain and on the east side
one of them features the Grouse Grind, which is billed as the
world's biggest stair-climb. Mountain biking is also a popular
pursuit on the mountainside, as is, of course, skiing and
snowboarding in the winter months.
Transformed from an ugly stone quarry in the 1950s, the
exquisite Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver now boasts lush gardens
bursting with flowers, live theatre, the Bloedel Floral
Conservatory, a restaurant, a Pitch and Putt course and much more.
The park receives about six million visit
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Transformed from an ugly stone quarry in the 1950s, the
exquisite Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver now boasts lush gardens
bursting with flowers, live theatre, the Bloedel Floral
Conservatory, a restaurant, a Pitch and Putt course and much more.
The park receives about six million visitors annually who come to
enjoy a 360 degree view of Vancouver from its highest point, 505
feet (167m) above sea level. The Bloedel Floral Conservatory, with
its characteristic geodesic dome, is home to more than 100 species
of tropical birds that roam free in the area, as well as hundreds
of species of exotic plants and flowers. Other highlights of the
park include the Quarry Garden, J. Seward Johnson's sculpture 'The
Photo Session', the Lions Clock and the arboretum, with its fine
examples of indigenous trees from across Canada. Spring is an
excellent time to visit the park as it becomes a riot of colour,
with white and pink cherry blossoms and all sorts of flowers
displaying their finest.
What was once a run-down industrial area in Vancouver is now a
thriving entertainment and shopping centre, with a vibrant market
central to the island's activities, as well as the Emily Carr
Institute of Art and Design, a theatre and brewery. The island is
easily accessible, located in t
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What was once a run-down industrial area in Vancouver is now a
thriving entertainment and shopping centre, with a vibrant market
central to the island's activities, as well as the Emily Carr
Institute of Art and Design, a theatre and brewery. The island is
easily accessible, located in the middle of Vancouver under the
Granville Street Bridge on the south shore of False Creek, and
linked by a road to the city, barely seeming like a separate
entity, but a relaxing 'city break' nonetheless.
The public market is a riot of colours, smells, tastes and fresh
produce, fresh meats and fish, flowers, tasty treats, crafts,
clothing and souvenirs are all on offer. The separate Kids Market
is a must for children, with toy stores, games and more, and the
Maritime Market is a showcase for boat-builders, with a museum and
tours, as well as appropriate boating clothing and supplies. Visits
to the Granville Island Brewing Company and taste-tests of their
brews are possible, or, for something more cultural, one can catch
a show at the Island's theatre or enjoy a student art show at the
Emily Carr Institute. The island has the biggest free waterpark in
British Columbia, open May to September. Perhaps the best way to
enjoy the island, however, is to grab something to eat from one of
the many stalls, choose a table outside and watch the people go by,
or take a self-guided tour, being sure not to miss the picturesque
houseboats.
Granville Island is accessible by car, bus, on foot, or
by Aquabus or ferry. The #50 False Creek bus travels from Gastown
in the downtown area, along Granville Street, stopping just off the
island
Situated in North Vancouver, Lonsdale Quay offers spectacular
views of downtown Vancouver and its harbour, as well as the north
shore mountains, and a variety of shops, restaurants and an
excellent public market.
The best way to experience the quay is to catch the SeaBus from
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Situated in North Vancouver, Lonsdale Quay offers spectacular
views of downtown Vancouver and its harbour, as well as the north
shore mountains, and a variety of shops, restaurants and an
excellent public market.
The best way to experience the quay is to catch the SeaBus from
Waterfront Station on Cordova Street in downtown Vancouver, a
fifteen-minute ride that allows one to relax and enjoy the view,
watch seaplanes land and see what cruise ships are in the harbour,
before embarking on some retail therapy. The market, though
slightly smaller than that of Granville Island, boasts
mouth-watering fresh goods, from seafood to fresh fruit and
vegetables, pastries and sweets, and there is a wide range of
restaurants available, including Mexican, Greek, Japanese, Indian
and more. There are also a variety of stalls selling all sorts of
arts and crafts, souvenirs and clothing, and the retail level
boasts plenty of boutiques, a kids play area and specialty kids
stores, topped by the Lonsdale Quay Hotel. A climb up the quay's
signature red tower with its large Q on top is a good way to work
off all the delicious food and to enjoy spectacular views of the
city and mountains.
Built in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of
Vancouver's oldest and most popular tourist attractions, with
plenty of activities and sights in the park for visitors to enjoy,
besides the bridge itself. Stretching 450 feet (137m) across and
perched 230 feet (70m) above the Capil
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Built in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of
Vancouver's oldest and most popular tourist attractions, with
plenty of activities and sights in the park for visitors to enjoy,
besides the bridge itself. Stretching 450 feet (137m) across and
perched 230 feet (70m) above the Capilano River, the bridge was
originally made of cedar planks and hemp rope, but is now a more
sturdy construction of reinforced steel and concrete; though still
not for the faint-hearted. A recent addition to the park is the
Treetops Adventure, where elevated suspension bridges allow
visitors a spectacular view of the rainforest, while they walk
above the forest floor between Douglas Fir trees. Other attractions
in the park include a story centre, a First Nations Cultural Centre
where visitors can see carvers, weavers and beaders at work, a
large collection of First Nations Totem Poles, and guided tours of
the rainforest. Admission includes all these sights and activities,
and there are also several food options and a shop.
Established in 1931, the Vancouver Art Gallery boasts thousands
of national and international exhibitions by a range of artists,
sculptors and photographers, housed in a turn-of-the-century
heritage building in the centre of downtown Vancouver. The building
also houses a cafe and shop. N
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Established in 1931, the Vancouver Art Gallery boasts thousands
of national and international exhibitions by a range of artists,
sculptors and photographers, housed in a turn-of-the-century
heritage building in the centre of downtown Vancouver. The building
also houses a cafe and shop. National and international touring
exhibitions take place regularly at the gallery, from Picasso to
Rodin, Andy Warhol and others. Whether you prefer the Old Masters
or more contemporary artists, the Vancouver Art Gallery is well
worth paying a visit. Check out the official website listed below
for details on current temporary exhibitions.
Perhaps one of the best ways to begin one's visit to Vancouver
is with a trip up the Harbour Centre Tower to the Lookout, where
one can enjoy a 360 degree view of the city, Greater Vancouver, the
North Shore mountains and on a clear day, even neighbouring
Vancouver Island.
Perhaps one of the best ways to begin one's visit to Vancouver
is with a trip up the Harbour Centre Tower to the Lookout, where
one can enjoy a 360 degree view of the city, Greater Vancouver, the
North Shore mountains and on a clear day, even neighbouring
Vancouver Island.
A 45-second trip in the outdoor glass-fronted Skylift elevator
delivers visitors to the Lookout and informative signs point out
key attractions in the city and surrounds. As tickets are valid for
the entire day and evening, visitors can also enjoy a cup of coffee
while watching the sunset from the Lookout or see the lights of the
city begin to twinkle below. The tower is also home to The Top of
Vancouver Revolving Restaurant, and visitors can enjoy the unique
experience of dining above the city while the restaurant completes
a full revolution every hour. The Skylift to the restaurant is
free. The Harbour Centre itself is home to part of the Simon Fraser
University campus, several shops and a food court.
With 22 hectares (55 acres) and roughly 11,000 different plant
species, VanDusen Botanical Garden is a spectacular showcase of the
natural world, right in the heart of Vancouver. Landscaped gardens
are laid out exquisitely and specific areas are cultivated to
demonstrate botanical relati
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With 22 hectares (55 acres) and roughly 11,000 different plant
species, VanDusen Botanical Garden is a spectacular showcase of the
natural world, right in the heart of Vancouver. Landscaped gardens
are laid out exquisitely and specific areas are cultivated to
demonstrate botanical relationships or geographical origins, such
as the popular Rhododendron Walk or the Sino Himalayan Garden.
One of the most popular events held in the garden is the annual
Festival of Lights, when the beauty of the flowers is matched by
over a million dazzling lights, set up in order to celebrate the
festive season. Choirs and carol singers, visits with Santa, a
Dancing Light display on Lake Island in the park, the Golden Chain
Walk, magicians and tasty treats are all part of this family
favourite, running from 9-31 December each year. Daily walking and
cart tours are available in the garden from April to October at 2pm
and also at 11am on Wednesdays.
#17 Oak bus from downtown Vancouver to West 37th
Avenue
Opening Time
Opening times vary according to season, with slightly
different hours every month - check the official website for
details.
Admission
October to March C$8.25 (adults), C$4.25 (children aged
3 - 12); April to September C$11.25 (adults), C$5.75 (children aged
3 - 12). Concessions available.
Commercial Drive is as non-commercial as it gets, one of
Vancouver's most eclectic, and increasingly trendy, neighbourhoods.
What started out as a skid road for the lumber industry in the late
1800s, swiftly became a neighbourhood of English tradesmen and
shopkeepers with the birth of th
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Commercial Drive is as non-commercial as it gets, one of
Vancouver's most eclectic, and increasingly trendy, neighbourhoods.
What started out as a skid road for the lumber industry in the late
1800s, swiftly became a neighbourhood of English tradesmen and
shopkeepers with the birth of the interurban railway. World War I
brought an influx of Chinese, Italian and Eastern European
immigrants, and World War II saw a vast increase in the Italian
population, earning the drive the moniker 'Little Italy' for many
years.
Diversity and energy are still the hallmarks of this area, and
an afternoon is well spent exploring its various treasures, from
all types of food to chic boutiques, second-hand stores, live music
venues and more. Go ice-skating at the Britannia Community Centre
rink or bowling at the Grandview Lanes, enjoy a delicious Italian
gelato or espresso, or simply grab a table at one of the many bars
or restaurants, and people watch. There are always plenty of
festivals and events going on, too, such as the Parade of Lost
Souls on the Saturday before Halloween, the Stone Soup Festival in
May, and the Eastside Culture Crawl in November.
Tucked in the Strait of Georgia, in between Vancouver Island and
the mainland, are the picturesque Gulf Islands. More than a dozen
of these long, thin islands, and numerous islets, can be found on
Canada's West Coast and each island has its own character and
beauty, making them well wort
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Tucked in the Strait of Georgia, in between Vancouver Island and
the mainland, are the picturesque Gulf Islands. More than a dozen
of these long, thin islands, and numerous islets, can be found on
Canada's West Coast and each island has its own character and
beauty, making them well worth a visit. Originally home to the
Coast Salish First Nations, the Spanish and English soon followed,
laying claim to the island chain. Nowadays, the islands are home to
artists, writers, retirees and those seeking a more community-based
lifestyle, and many Vancouverites escape to holiday homes tucked in
among the rainforest. Large parts of the islands have been
designated as Marine Parks, preserving the land for the numerous
birds and animals that also call the islands home.
Bowen Island is only a 20-minute ferry ride from West
Vancouver's Horseshoe Bay and visitors can enjoy a stroll from Snug
Harbour, past the historic Union Steamship Company store, grab a
bite to eat or take a walk in the Crippen Regional Park. Galiano
Island is the second biggest of the group, and is about the size of
Manhattan Island in New York. Only 50 minutes away on the Tsawassen
ferry, on the Lower Mainland, Galiano Island draws all sorts of
visitors who come to picnic in Bellhouse Park; take a walk through
the lush rainforest up to Bluffs Park to enjoy spectacular views of
neighbouring Islands; indulge in a spot of fishing, kayaking or
golf; or visit one of the local galleries or shops. Many of the
islands host events and festivals each year, where the community
spirit and laid-back atmosphere typical of the Gulf Islands is
evident.
With well over a million visitors a year, the hundred-year-old
Butchart Gardens remain a favourite, and one of Vancouver Island's
principal attractions. Situated about 14 miles (21km) north of
Victoria, the gardens were begun in the early 1900s by Jennie
Butchart (wife of industrialist R
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With well over a million visitors a year, the hundred-year-old
Butchart Gardens remain a favourite, and one of Vancouver Island's
principal attractions. Situated about 14 miles (21km) north of
Victoria, the gardens were begun in the early 1900s by Jennie
Butchart (wife of industrialist Robert Pim Butchart) in an
abandoned limestone quarry owned by the family, and their fame soon
spread, attracting thousands.
Now, 55 acres are open to the public to be explored, and
visitors can wander the paths through exquisitely laid out gardens,
including the Sunken Garden (the original garden started in the
quarry), a Japanese Garden, Rose Garden and Italian Garden. Spring
and autumn are perhaps the best times to visit, when the gardens
become a riot of colour, though winter and summer hold their own
delights. Every Saturday, from the beginning of July to the end of
September, the Gardens are transformed by a dazzling fireworks
show, as well as a recital on the self-playing, rare Aeolian Pipe
Organ and the Night Illuminations light display. Other attractions
and events in the park include an ice-skating rink and Twelve Days
of Christmas display in December, and afternoon and evening shows
and concerts in summer.
Opening times and admission costs vary according to season -
check the official website listed below for details.
One of the iconic images of Victoria is the much loved and
well-visited Fairmont Empress Hotel, a fully restored Edwardian
treasure that has seen visits from royalty, celebrities and
travellers from around the world. Set on the banks of Victoria's
Inner Harbour, the Empress is a grand an
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One of the iconic images of Victoria is the much loved and
well-visited Fairmont Empress Hotel, a fully restored Edwardian
treasure that has seen visits from royalty, celebrities and
travellers from around the world. Set on the banks of Victoria's
Inner Harbour, the Empress is a grand and majestic building full of
stories, retaining its British heritage through its traditional
Afternoon Tea - a popular 'event' with tourists and locals alike
that began when the hotel opened in 1908. Reservations are
essential up to a week or two in advance and the dress code is
smart casual. The Empress is centrally located, close to the
Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, the Victoria Convention
Centre and various shops and attractions, and now boasts a spa
centre and golf course. This 'Jewel of the Pacific' is a definite
highlight of any visit to Victoria, and for those who can afford
it, it is well worth a stay - you may even receive a visit from one
of the hotel ghosts.
Built in 1893, the British Columbia Government Parliament
Buildings were initially criticised as an unnecessary expense, but
now constitute a major tourist attraction in Victoria, as well as
serving as the legislative centre for the province.
Built in 1893, the British Columbia Government Parliament
Buildings were initially criticised as an unnecessary expense, but
now constitute a major tourist attraction in Victoria, as well as
serving as the legislative centre for the province.
Designed by 25-year-old architect Francis Rattenbury (who also
designed The Fairmont Empress Hotel), these beautiful buildings and
exquisite grounds are situated at Victoria's Inner Harbour, close
to many of Victoria's other main attractions. Various performances
routinely take place in the grounds and visitors can enjoy the
spectacular sight of the buildings at night, when more than 3,000
lights outlining the buildings create a fairy-tale picture. Tours
of the buildings are available daily, at regular intervals,
throughout the year, and visitors can observe the House in session
from the public galleries.
The San Juan Islands form one of the best boater paradises in
the world. The hundreds of islands are separated by nationality but
are part of the same scenic and rugged archipelago, located off the
northwest coast of Washington State. Much of the area is in a rain
shadow behind Vancouver
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The San Juan Islands form one of the best boater paradises in
the world. The hundreds of islands are separated by nationality but
are part of the same scenic and rugged archipelago, located off the
northwest coast of Washington State. Much of the area is in a rain
shadow behind Vancouver Island, making a surprisingly dry and sunny
reprieve in the northwest. Little island communities, great
wildlife and the open water provide a real and intuitive disconnect
from the mainland.
Frequent government ferry services connect the mainland and
larger inhabited islands to each other, but scores are only
visitable by smaller shuttle boats and yachts. Friday Harbour is
San Juan's largest town and an enchanting tourist destination,
seemingly out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Anchorages are
bustling throughout summer, but largely empty in other seasons.
Yacht charters are available out of Bellingham.
Home to a vast array of aquatic mammals and animals, at the
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre you'll find sea otters,
penguins, dolphins, sharks, whales, sea lions and many more
exciting creatures.
Exhibits, displays and programmes are geared towards kids,
including Cl
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Home to a vast array of aquatic mammals and animals, at the
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre you'll find sea otters,
penguins, dolphins, sharks, whales, sea lions and many more
exciting creatures.
Exhibits, displays and programmes are geared towards kids,
including Clownfish Cove, with small animals, play areas, and
costumes aimed at teaching children about the natural world and the
importance of marine conservation. The aquarium features a gift
shop, cafeteria, and wheelchair access. Visitors of all ages should
enjoy a trip to this well-organised and large aquarium, which
consistently receives rave reviews from travellers.
Animal lovers of all ages will have a fabulous time exploring
the Greater Vancouver Zoo. Boasting more than 500 animals from
about 140 species, including lion, giraffe, black bear, bison,
spider monkeys, coyotes, cheetah, hippo, lemurs and caracals, just
to name a few. Children will simp
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Animal lovers of all ages will have a fabulous time exploring
the Greater Vancouver Zoo. Boasting more than 500 animals from
about 140 species, including lion, giraffe, black bear, bison,
spider monkeys, coyotes, cheetah, hippo, lemurs and caracals, just
to name a few. Children will simply love watching all the animals
and naming the ones they know. Kids can enjoy meeting a selection
of reptiles, taking the safari mini train, listening to an
educational talk or even watching the lions and tigers being fed.
Refreshments are available from kiosks and restaurants so nobody
will go hungry. Allow at least a few hours to explore the zoo
properly.
Just outside the town of Hope, about an hour's drive east of
Vancouver, lies the Coquihalla Provincial Park, home to the
celebrated Othello Tunnels.
This quintet of railway tunnels, which traverse the spectacular,
steep-sided Coquihalla Gorge, were built for the Kettle Valley
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Just outside the town of Hope, about an hour's drive east of
Vancouver, lies the Coquihalla Provincial Park, home to the
celebrated Othello Tunnels.
This quintet of railway tunnels, which traverse the spectacular,
steep-sided Coquihalla Gorge, were built for the Kettle Valley
Railway, and today offer visitors both a fascinating insight into
the history of the area, and a wonderfully scenic and unique hiking
experience. While the Othello Tunnels themselves are dark and dank
(flashlights are recommended), the two-mile (3.5km) old railway
trail also crosses above thundering rapids, and cuts through
impressive, nearly 1,000-foot (300-metre) granite rock faces. The
Othello Tunnels are an accessible and highly rewarding day trip
from Vancouver, offering visitors of all ages a great mix of
exercise and adventure.
Address
Just outside Hope, BC – about 95 miles (150km) east of
Vancouver