Victoria, British Columbia

A short ferry ride from Port Angeles, Washington, gets you to the quaint, yet modern, city of Victoria. The capital of British Columbia is housed on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, making it a busy port town for both visiting tourists and resident federal employees. Named after the British queen, Victoria has kept a lot of its regality, but shines with far less pomp and circumstance than in its historic past. Boasting the second largest China Town in North America (the first being in San Francisco) and roots dating back to 1843, Victoria is part history lesson, part cultural experiment. You can see a likeness of the young queen herself cast in bronze in front of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, just across the street from the ferry terminal.

Spend your time lingering around the port, watching the water planes land, being entertained by the street performers, or browsing the pop up market stands. There is also the well manicured Fairmont Empress Hotel, otherwise known as Canada’s Castle on the Coast, just across the street, still as impressive today as it was in 1908. With an 80 million dollar renovation recently completed and the chance at high tea, it might just be your first choice at how to spend a hot afternoon. But if it’s just an hour that you’re looking to pass, head upstairs to Q’s bar and have a drink amidst the splendor of this iconic property.

Don’t miss the chance to walk down Fan Tan Alley as you make your way through to China Town. The small boutiques make for interesting window shopping and the alley has an ambiance all its own. On the way back, hit the shops to pick up your syrup, maple cookies, and Canada wear. Stop by Migration for a well curated look at Victoria’s largest collection of local designers and grab a bite at The Tapa Bar before calling it a night.

Gardeners and nature lovers alike will be tempted to flock to Butchart Gardens. Having never been there myself, my aim is not to deter you from visiting. There is, however, a mighty fine free park right in the heart of Victoria, within walking distance of the port. At Beacon Hill Park, you can play with newborn goats, admire the peacocks, and sit by the fountain on the lawn without the half hour bus ride or drain on your funds.

STAY- Embassy Inn, Victoria Harbor. Includes free breakfast, parking, and WiFi. A three star hotel just a few blocks from the ferry dock and downtown area.

EAT- The Tapa Bar in Trounce Alley off of historic Government Street. Small plates and a full bar with gluten free and vegan options. The Bent Mast (512 Simcoe Street) is another quaint eatery with outdoor seating, housed in a house from the 1880’s and serving local craft brews alongside Canadian fare and burgers.