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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Enjoying Canada’s West Coast: A Visit to British Columbia

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Shouldering the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Canadian Rockies to the east, British Columbia is perhaps Canada’s most scenic province and, every year, visitors flock to its diverse environments and populations.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy skiing in the legendary Rocky Mountains, hiking the majestic wilderness of the Kootenays, and sailing the temperate waters surrounding Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, while those with sophisticated tastes are drawn to the world-class vineyards of the Okanagan and the province’s fascinating cities. Vancouver and Victoria in particular offer excellent cultural and sightseeing opportunities, and the former—along with Whistler—welcomed the international community to its midst as the host of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

The Sunshine Coast and Fraser Valley each boast spectacular scenery and small-community hospitality within close proximity to the lower mainland metropolis. Less populated, but no less interesting, Central and Northern BC are known for their excellent hunting and fishing opportunities and offer a glimpse into the aboriginal and rural cultures of Canada. For information about nearby destinations, visitors can also see the travel guides for Alberta, Yukon, Alaska and Washington State.

Considered by many to be a piece of Canadian paradise, Vancouver Island is known for its laid-back artistic culture, stunning coastal scenery and flowers, which are in bloom year round. Known simply as ‘The Island’, this sought-after destination is separated from southwestern mainland BC by the Straight of Georgia and is accessible via ferry from Vancouver. At the southern tip of the Island is BC’s capital city, Victoria, a city whose streets and lanes are dotted with pubs and gardens, lending it a reputation of being a little piece of Britain. Historic Nanaimo is the second largest city and gives way to the picturesque Oceanside Region. Campbell River is a famous whale watching spot, while the waves of Tofino and Ucluetet are not to be missed. Strathcona Provincial Park, located near Comox and Courtenay, is considered to be the Island’s wilderness gem. The Island is one of those rare places where one can both ski and golf in the middle of winter, so it’s no wonder many visitors never leave.

Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city, and is known worldwide for its temperate climate, stunning coastal setting and awe-inspiring visitor attractions. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria enjoys mild temperatures year-round, which means the flowers are always in bloom. Be sure to check them out at the Butchart Gardens, a 130 acre country estate that has something going on every season of the year. Or check out the flora and fauna below the ocean’s surface at the Pacific Undersea Gardens, located in the picturesque inner harbor. This energetic city remembers the past of both its Native and transplanted citizens, and a quick stroll along Government Street will reveal storefronts packed with British imports alongside Aboriginal crafts. Discover the history of planet earth at the renowned Royal British Columbia Museum, also located near the inner harbor. Victoria is just a short ferry ride from the city of Vancouver, and is easily accessed from the Gulf Islands.

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