TOurISM vICTOrIa’ S
Travel Trade Planner 2010-2011 W W W. T O u r I S M v I C T O r I a . C O M / T r a v e lT r a D e
Balmoral Group
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www.balmoralgroup.com
Victoria — Full of Life
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Our Services
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Transportation
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Gardens
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Culinary Tourism
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Outdoor Activities
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Heritage, arts and Culture
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Shopping
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Christmas
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Educational Tours
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Calendar of Events
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Maps
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Contents
Tourism Victoria’s Travel Trade Planner is published by: Page One Publishing Inc. 2nd Floor, 1322 Government Street Victoria, BC, Canada V8W 1Y8 Tel: 250-595-7243 Fax: 250-595-1626 info@pageonepublishing.ca www.pageonepublishing.ca Cover (Clockwise from left): istock, Robert Gubiani/Tourism Victoria, Page One Publishing Inc., Mike Cluasen/Tourism Victoria and Christina Craft/Tourism Victoria
Page One Publishing inc.
No part of this publication may be reprinted without written consent from the publisher. Both Tourism Victoria and Page One Publishing have made every effort to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate, but cannot guarantee the correctness of all information or the absence of errors or omissions and will not be held responsible.
Page One Publishing inc.
Printed in Canada. Free distribution only.
For more information Tourism Victoria Travel Trade Department 4th Floor, 31 Bastion Square Victoria, BC, Canada V8W 1J1 Tel: 250-414-6999 Fax: 250-361-9733 traveltrade@tourismvictoria.com www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
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5 Harbour Air
Victoria — Full of Life Victoria is where old-world charm meets new-world experiences. Our guests are rejuvenated by fresh ocean air and inspired by our warm, island welcome and year-round beauty.
Natural Beauty and Climate — The Pacific Ocean, old-growth forests, lush gardens, magnificent mountains, sweeping views and the mildest climate in Canada — Victoria is a spectacular city in every season.
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▲
Don MacKinnon/Tourism Victoria
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REASONS
Culinary — Victoria’s hot, young chefs and the island cuisine they create have garnered Victoria and Vancouver Island a coveted place on the world’s culinary map. Activities and Attractions — World-famous
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Unlimited
Butchart Gardens, outdoor ecoadventure activities such as whale watching, kayaking and salmon fishing, museums, art galleries, afternoon tea, world-class shopping and year-round golf — it’s all here in Victoria, all year long.
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DeDDeDa STeMler/TOurISM vICTOrIa
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▲ Superior Service — victoria is world famous for exceptional service and warm hospitality — it’s an island destination with all the amenities of a big city.
▲ accessibility — victoria is easy to get to from anywhere in the world whether by air or by ferry. Moreover, victoria is a great walking city, ideal for group tours and individual exploring.
TOurISM vICTOrIa
VISITORS LOVE VICTORIA
nICK reDDInG/TOurISM vICTOrIa
an aWarD-WInnInG CITY victoria and vancouver Island are consistently named among the best cities and islands in north america by the readers of Condé nast Traveler and Travel + leisure magazines. In fact, vancouver Island was ranked as the top island in north america by Condé nast Traveler’s readers’ Choice awards for nine consecutive years! Many of victoria’s hotels are also recognized by the readers of these prestigious publications as being among the best properties in Canada and the u.S.
Travel TraDe Planner 5
Our Services Want to learn more about our destination? Let Tourism Victoria's Travel Trade department help. Our team can assist you in creating unique itineraries and world-class experiences for your customers. The Travel Trade department is here to provide Travel Professionals with detailed information about Victoria, sample itineraries, new product updates, pre/post cruise activities and supplier contact details to assist you with your planning. We can help you coordinate familiarization tours and send sales support materials. www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Travel Professionals Visiting
What's New in Victoria E-Newsletter
Travel professionals can sign up online for the What’s New e-newsletter, a quarterly publication full of the latest information on our destination. Looking for ideas?
Victoria
Check out our Sample Itineraries
Travel agents and tour operators are welcome to Tourism Victoria’s Attraction Pass. The Attraction Pass offers travel professionals the opportunity to build upon their product knowledge and visit some of Victoria’s mustsee attractions. Contact Tourism Victoria for qualifications.
One of Victoria’s greatest strengths as a tour destination is its versatility. With so many great options to choose from and minimal distance between sites, it is easy to plan exciting, interesting and varied tours. To give you some ideas, sample itineraries including sightseeing, culinary, multigenerational, golf and Christmas are listed at www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade.
Familiarization TOURS
New Product
Looking for some assistance with planning your fam trip to Victoria? Tourism Victoria is your one-stop shop. If you need help with ways to travel to Victoria, itinerary options, including complimentary or discounted admission to local attractions and sightseeing tours, we’re the ones to call on.
The travel trade team can provide you with new itinerary ideas for group, FIT and special interest groups. We have complete information on the newest products in our destination, who to contact and advice on how they can fit with your customer demographics.
Sales Support Materials We have a variety of sales support and promotional materials including: ❚ An image bank of download-ready, high resolution photos and a DVD
Malcolm MacBride/Tourism Victoria
❚ Official Vacation Guide ❚ Victoria Visitor Map ❚ A colour-illustrated lure brochure For more information or to order the items listed, go to: www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
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www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Transportation Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is easy to
• BlueBird Cabs Ltd. www.taxicab.com
get to from anywhere in the world. Transportation choices include
• Big Bus www.bigbusvictoria.ca
non-stop flights from major North American cities, quick connecting
• CVS Cruise Victoria Ltd.
flights from Vancouver and Seattle and many other travel options by air and sea that make getting here an exciting part of any visit.
Non-stop flights arrive at Victoria International Airport from several major centres, including Vancouver, Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Seattle and San Francisco. Flights to Victoria from major international airports in Vancouver and Seattle take approximately 30 minutes, making connections between Victoria and virtually anywhere in the world easy. In addition to scheduled commercial flights, regular floatplane and helicopter services are available to downtown Victoria. Chartered flights for groups, tours and sightseeing can be arranged.
• Air Canada www.aircanada.com • Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air www.alaskaair.com
• Harbour Air Seaplanes www.harbourair.ca
• Helijet International Inc. www.helijet.com
State mainland with scheduled service for vehicles (including buses) and passengers on large ferries and passenger-only service on high-speed catamarans. Numerous sailings are available every day from the mainland. Terminals are located in Sidney, which is 30 minutes north of downtown Victoria, and at the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria.
Black Ball Ferry Line — Vehicle and
Victoria Clipper — High-speed, passenger-only catamaran service between Victoria and Seattle. www.victoriaclipper.com
Victoria Express — Passenger-only service between Victoria and Port Angeles and Seattle. www.victoriaexpress.com
• Salt Spring Air www.saltspringair.com
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
• WestJet www.westjet.com FERRY SERVICE
Victoria and Vancouver Island are well connected to the B.C. and Washington
•L A Limousines & Transportation Tours www.lalimo.ca • Pacific Coach Lines Ltd. www.pacificcoach.com
• Via Rail/E&N Railiner www.viarail.ca
Vehicle and passenger service between Sidney and Anacortes, WA. www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries
• West Coast Air www.westcoastair.com
www.greyhound.ca
• Tofino Bus www.tofinobus.com
• Pacific Coastal AirLines
www.victoriaairport.com
• Greyhound Vancouver Island Coach
Vehicle and passenger service between Victoria and Vancouver. www.bcferries.com
Washington State Ferries —
• Victoria Airport Authority
www.graylinewest.com
British Columbia Ferry Services
• Orca Airways Ltd. www.flyorcaair.com
• United Airlines www.united.ca
• Gray Line West, Victoria
• Regent Limousine Service
• Kenmore Air www.kenmoreair.com
www.pacific-coastal.com
www.gowestcoach.com
passenger service between Victoria and Port Angeles, WA. www.cohoferry.com
Victoria San Juan CRUISES — Seasonal passenger-only service between Victoria and Bellingham. www.whales.com
• Hyack Air Ltd. www.hyackair.com
• Go West Coach Lines
www.regentlimousine.bc.ca
• West Coast Trail Express Bus Inc. www.trailbus.com
• Wilson's Transportation
www.wilsonstransportation.com
For more information on transportation, go to www.tourismvictoria.com.
BC Ferries
Air Service
www.cvscruisevictoria.com
Once in Victoria, there are many options for getting around: public bus transportation, scheduled coach service, train service, car rentals, taxi and limousine services, bike and scooter rentals and tours by bus, doubledecker bus, horse-drawn carriage and boat. Bus service from Vancouver (including Vancouver International Airport) and Seattle is also available.
• Akal Airport Shuttle
www.victoriaairporter.com
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Gardens Victoria is Canada’s Garden City and draws garden enthusiasts from all over the world who come to see the resplendent beauty of the public and private gardens, flowering plum and cherry trees and flower baskets cascading from downtown lamp-posts. Guided tours, horticulture seminars and garden events round out an itinerary.
Milner Gardens and Woodland Located in Qualicum Beach, two hours north of Victoria, this property features 60 acres of woodland and 10 acres of gardens surrounding a heritage house. Open late April to late October. Reservations recommended. www.milnergardens.org
Point Ellice House — Rambling Gardens
Glendale Garden and Woodland
Abkhazi Garden — This unique oneacre garden has received international recognition for its outstanding design and romantic history. Afternoon tea, tours and gift shop. http://blog.conservancy.bc.ca /properties/vancouver-island-region /abkhazi-garden
Lovely gardens set in a conservation park with nature trails, wetlands and bird watching sites. Tour the Winter Garden, Japanese-style Takata Garden, Zen Garden, Rhododendron Garden, Heather Garden and Trial Dahlia Garden. Home to the accredited Pacific Horticulture College and provides gardener workshops and community education. Tours by request. www.glendalegardens.ca
Beacon Hill Park — On the edge of downtown, this is Victoria’s oldest park and features walking paths, gardens and ponds, as well as Mile Zero, the starting point of the 8,000-km-long (4,971 miles) Trans-Canada Highway. www.beaconhillpark.ca
The Butchart Gardens — A designated National Historic Site, the world-famous Butchart Gardens features 55 acres of magnificent gardens, including the Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, Italian Garden, Star Pond and elaborate fountains. Lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are available, and special events and entertainment take place year round.
Tourism Victoria
www.butchartgardens.com
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Government House Gardens Ten gardens of various styles surround this historic mansion and are open daily to the public. The residence, which is closed to the public, is the home of B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor. www.ltgov.bc.ca
Hatley Park — The gardens surrounding turn-of-the-century Hatley Castle feature Japanese, Italian and rose gardens, as well as heritage trees within the park that forms the campus of Royal Roads University. Garden and castle tours, garden workshops, museum visits and visitor programs are available. www.hatleypark.ca
Italianate house featuring a beautiful heritage garden where tea is served in the summer. www.pointellicehouse.ca
Swan Lake/Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary — Two distinct ecological areas make up this park: 47 hectares of fields and hedgerows surrounding Swan Lake and 11 hectares of rocky hilltop and Garry Oak forest on Christmas Hill. Ample opportunities for bird and freshwater wildlife watching. www.swanlake.bc.ca
University of Victoria Finnerty Gardens — A major collection of more than 200 azaleas and rhododendrons, along with an extensive planting of hybrids, forms the nucleus of this active garden. Blooming season is mid-January until late June, while a variety of perennials and companion plants extend the season through most of the year. www.uvic.ca/garden
Victoria Butterfly Gardens — Enter a lush atrium where hundreds of butterflies fly amidst a kaleidoscope of flowers and tropical greenery. Visitors are
Garden Tours
Cruise Victoria — Narrated coach tours to the Butchart Gardens are available several times daily, year-round. www.cvscruisevictoria.com ITT Wilson's — Custom tours for groups of all sizes including year-round tours by coach to Butchart Gardens and Butterfly Gardens. www.wilsonstours.com Gray Line West, Victoria — A variety of guided tours featuring gardens, including Butchart Gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Beacon Hill Park, as well as sightseeing and city tours. Motor coach, horse-drawn carriage, trolley, classic car and yacht tours. www.graylinewest.com
Victorian Garden Tours — These guided, narrated tours feature several of Victoria’s glorious gardens. Tours include
Hatley Park Garden, Saxe Point Park/ Point Ellice House, Glendale Gardens and Woodland, Abkhazi Garden and Government House gardens. Special interest tours are available. www.victoriangardentours.com
Victoria Horticultural Society: Home Garden Tours — Tours of home and hobby gardens are offered in every season, as well as information seminars yearround. http://vhs.homestead.com
Capital Regional District Parks and Gardens — A host of nature/ botanical programs are available year-round, from nature rambles to see wildflowers to special activities. www.crd.bc.ca
Royal BC Museum Interpretive Programs — The native plant gardens that surround the Royal BC Museum provide the setting for interpretive programs. Special interest tours can also be arranged by request. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
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invited to take a close-up look at abundant species of butterflies and moths. Private tours are available. Located two minutes from the Butchart Gardens. www.butterflygardens.com
Average Maximum Temperatures
Page One Publishing inc.
Month
Internationally renowned as the City of Gardens, Victoria has been a destination for garden lovers for more than a century. The Butchart Gardens, the city’s most famous horticultural masterpiece, is a National Historic Site of Canada.
˚C
˚F
January
7
44
February
8
47
March
10
50
April
13
55
May
16
61
June
19
67
July
22
71
August
22
71
September
19
67
October
14
57
November
9
49
December
7
44
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Culinary Tourism Award-winning wines, handcrafted ales, local produce,
Wine Islands Vintners Association — Representing vintners
organic meats, edible flowers and herbs, ocean-fresh seafood,
on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, collectively known as the Wine Islands. www.wineislands.ca
gourmet delicacies – Victoria offers a feast of unique, delicious experiences. Build a multi-day gourmet itinerary from this menu
Brewpubs and Microbreweries
of options, or incorporate one or two activities into another tour.
Canoe Brewpub, Marina and Restaurant — Restaurant and
Wineries, Cideries and
Merridale Estate Cidery — Ciders
Distilleries
made from apples grown on the estate. Restaurant and cider shop. Daily tours and sampling. www.merridalecider.com
Cherry Point Vineyards — Wine tasting, tours, picnics, wine shop, wine patio and Cherry Point Bistro open seasonally. www.cherrypointvineyards.com
Church & State Wines — Tours, tastings, seasonal restaurant for lunch and gift shop. www.churchandstatewines.com
Executive Wine Tours — Cowichan Valley wine tours departing from Victoria. Gourmet lunch included. Custom tours available. www.executivewinetours.com
ITT Wilson's — Custom Cowichan Valley tours for groups of all sizes. www.wilsonstours.com
Lizard Adventure Wine Tours — Custom winery tours for
Vancouver Island Wine Tours — Day tours from Victoria to
Tourism Victoria
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Driftwood Brewery — Classic world styles of beer but with a northwest twist. Brewery tours available upon request. www.driftwoodbeer.com Phillips Brewing Company — Seventeen different types of beer in their repertoire. Tours of the brewery can be arranged. www.phillipsbeer.com
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub —
the southern Vancouver Island wine region. www.vancouverislandwinetours.com
Verjus Wine Tours — A choice of three
Canada’s oldest licensed brewpub features a traditional artisan brewery, restaurant, separate malt-vinegar brewery, brickoven bakery and full sausage kitchen and smokehouse. www.spinnakers.com
vineyards either on the Saanich Peninsula or in the Cowichan Valley. www.verjuswinetours.com
Swans BrewpuB — Restaurant, pub, beer
Victoria Spirits — The only producer
and wine shop specializing in house-brewed beers and ales. www.swanshotel.com
of premium, handcrafted gin in British Columbia. www.victoriaspirits.com
Vancouver Island Brewery — Guided one-hour tours include sampling and a souvenir pint glass. www.vancouverislandbrewery.com
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groups. www.lizardadventuretravel.com
Sea Cider Farm and CiderHouse Certified organic orchard, cider house with ocean and orchard views, sampling and tours. www.seacider.ca
lounge with a selection of handcrafted beers. www.canoebrewpub.com
Chef’s Table — Chef David Feys cooks for six to 30 guests in his catering kitchen. www.feysandhobbs.com Cowichan Valley — Winery, cidery and
Tourism Victoria
Culinary and Farm Tours
farm tours, as well as markets and restaurants specializing in local fare from this bountiful region. www.cowichan.bc.ca
Feast of Fields on Vancouver Island – Annual culinary event held in September featuring top chefs, wineries and micro-breweries. www.feastoffields.com
Sooke Harbour House: Wine Cellar and West Coast Cooking International reputation for Pacific Northwest cuisine and wine. The kitchen garden provides over 400 varieties of herbs, salad greens and edible flowers. www.sookeharbourhouse.com
Travel with Taste Tours — Lavish
Tourism Victoria
Tourism Victoria
foods and outstanding local wines. Meet chefs, growers and vintners. Six-day, sevennight guided tours as well as day tours. www.travelwithtaste.com
With the 2nd highest number of restaurants per capita in North America, Victoria is a culinary paradise. Many of the city’s top chefs focus their menus on products grown on Vancouver Island.
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Outdoor Activities Ocean coastlines, old-growth forests, abundant marine wildlife and thrilling adventures make Victoria and Vancouver Island the
easy beach strolls to half- or full-day adventures in the region’s parks and even challenging multi-day treks with camping.
ideal destination for outdoor adventurers. And because of our
Kayaking — A wonderful way to explore
mild climate, most outdoor activities can be enjoyed year round. Boat Tours — Some of the region’s most stunning scenery can only be viewed from the water. A variety of boat charters and tours, including wildlife viewing, sunset cruises and harbour tours are available.
Cycling/Mountain Biking — Victoria is the Cycling Capital of Canada and an excellent destination for year-round cycle touring. Mountain biking is also a major sport here and the rugged terrain around Victoria is perfect for it. Cycle tours and rentals are available.
Diving — The wealth of natural dive sites,
Fishing — Victoria and Vancouver Island have had a reputation for outstanding fishing for more than a century. Saltwater and freshwater fishing adventures are available.
Golfing — A premier golf destination, Victoria and Vancouver Island offer an outstanding selection of superb year-round golf facilities, including two courses designed by the legendary Nicklaus Golf group.
Hiking — Guided hiking tours can be customized for any group and range from
Sailing — Rugged coastlines, tree-covered islands and islets, idyllic coves and bays, and protected marine parks — the Victoria and Vancouver Island waterways are a destination for sailing adventures. Guided tours, lessons, and courses are available. Surfing — For the thrill of surfing in the rugged wilderness, Sooke/Port Renfrew and the Pacific Rim are Vancouver Island’s most popular surfing areas. Lessons and equipment rentals are available. Walking — The most common way to explore Victoria’s magnificent setting is
Doug LInton/Tourism Victoria
Frank Leung/Tourism Victoria
shipwrecks and artificial reefs in Vancouver
Island waters are renowned among divers. Guided adventures and lessons are available.
the scenic splendour of Victoria’s shorelines, kayaking is a very popular year-round activity. Guided tours can be tailored to suit any group.
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undoubtedly on foot. Walking tour themes include ghosts, gardens, heritage and more.
Tourism Victoria
Whale and Wildlife Viewing — The waters surrounding Vancouver Island are home to some amazing marine wildlife. Almost 100 orcas (killer whales) live off Victoria's coastline and are the focus of thrilling wildlife tours, especially between May and October. Minke, grey and humpback whales may also be sighted, along with many bird species. From September to May, California and Stellar sea lions are frequently in these waters. Porpoises and harbour seals are seen year-round. Ziplines/Recreation Parks — Eco
Garry Woodburn/Tourism Victoria
Bear Mountain Resort
adventure parks offering thrilling outdoor experiences such as bungee jumping, ziplines and tree-top obstacle courses are excellent group and family activities.
According to the Government of Canada, Victoria is Canada’s Fittest City and the Cycling Capital of Canada. with our mild climate and the spectacular natural beauty of our great outdoors, Victoria’s outdoor activities are pursued in every month of the year.
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Heritage, Arts and Culture Exploring art galleries and museums is a fascinating way to experience Victoria. The ancient culture of the First Nations, tales of European and Asian pioneers and the creations of internationally acclaimed artists past and present — all are presented in captivating exhibits that highlight our heritage as well as our modern society. Museums/Attractions
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Canadian Scottish Regimental Museum — Displays include material
One of the finest art museums in Canada, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria holds a permanent collection of 15,000 objects d’art. www.aggv.bc.ca
from the earliest days of the regiment to participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations. www.islandnet.com/~csrmuse
B.C. Forest Discovery Centre —
is the birthplace and childhood home of Emily Carr, one of Canada’s most famous artists and authors. www.emilycarr.com
An outdoor museum and park presenting the past, present and future of forestry. Steam train rides, picnic area, activities and walking trails. www.bcforestmuseum.com
Bamberton Historical Society
Tourism Victoria
Exhibit tracing the history of the cement industry at Bamberton from 1904 to 1982. www.bambertonhistoricalsociety.org
Carr House — Built in 1863, Carr House
Chinatown — Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Highlights include the Gate of Harmonious Interest, all kinds of shops and restaurants, Dragon Alley and Fan Tan Alley, Canada’s narrowest street. Walking tours are available; see page 15. Craigdarroch Castle Historic House Museum — An 1890s mansion with
Old-fashioned museum and historic buildings are exhibited with farming equipment in a park setting. www.shas.ca
Maltwood Art Museum and Gallery — Featuring the University of Victoria’s permanent collections, as well as special exhibitions. www.maltwood.uvic.ca
Maritime Museum of B.C. — Three floors of exhibits on the Pacific Northwest’s rich maritime heritage. www.mmbc.ca
Naval and Military Museum at CFB Esquimalt — The rich maritime history of the naval base at Esquimalt, as well as the military heritage of southern Vancouver Island. www.navalandmilitarymuseum.org
Point Ellice House — A nationally designated 19th-century home considered Western Canada’s finest collection of Victoriana in its original setting. www.pointellicehouse.ca Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre — A traditional
exquisite stained-glass windows, woodwork and period antiques. www.thecastle.ca
native Cowichan experience. Tours, multimedia presentations and authentic cuisine. www.quwutsun.ca
Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse — A pioneer-era home and
Royal BC Museum — The displays at
schoolhouse built in 1856 exhibits life as it was in early Victoria. www.conservancy.ca
Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites — A century-old coast artillery fortification and the oldest lighthouse on Canada’s West Coast. www.pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill
Hatley Park National Historic Site — Museum, garden and castle tours of the former estate of coal and railway baron James Dunsmuir. www.hatleypark.ca
Helmcken House — A pioneer doctor’s home, built in 1852, located at its original site near the Royal BC Museum. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
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Heritage Acres: Saanich Historical Artifacts Society —
this famous museum provide an examination of the human and natural history of the province. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
Royal London Wax Museum — The famous and infamous, from royalty to rogues with the real and the unreal. www.waxmuseum.bc.ca St. Ann’s Chapel and Interpretive Centre — Victoria’s first Roman Catholic chapel (1858) and the 1910 auditorium in this magnificent building is fully restored. www.stannsacademy.com
Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre — Award-winning aquarium and education centre in Sidney showcasing the extraordinary marine life in the Salish Sea bordering southern Vancouver Island. www.oceandiscovery.ca
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Sooke Region Museum and Info Centre — A 40-minute drive from Victoria, this charming museum is located in the natural splendour of Sooke. www.sooke.museum.bc.ca Cultural/Heritage Walking Tours
Architectural Institute of B.C. Guided walking tours of downtown Victoria focusing on heritage architecture. www.aibc.ca
Ghostly Walks and Chinatown Walks — Chinatown, Old Town, ghosts, Tourism Victoria
history and heritage neighbourhoods are the themes of these year-round guided tours. www.discoverthepast.com
Old Cemeteries Society — Themed tours of Victoria’s heritage cemeteries highlighting people and events from the city’s past. www.oldcem.bc.ca
Travel With taste Culinary Walking Tour — See the sights with a delicious culinary focus. www.travelwithtaste.com
Victoria Bobby Walking Tours Take in the sights around town with a bobby as your guide. www.walkvictoria.com
Victoria Civic Heritage Trust
STEP-ON GUIDES/MULTILINGUAL SERVICES
ITT Wilson's — Guided, customized sightseeing tours in Victoria and on Vancouver Island. www.wilsonstours.com Redbud Step-On Guides — Guided tours to landmarks and gardens in Victoria. Serving bus tour and travel companies since 1980. www.steponguideservice.ca Wilson’s Transportation and Victoria Tour Guides —
Information on a variety of heritage tours available in Victoria. www.heritagevictoria.org
Knowledgeable, friendly guides providing step-on services in a variety of languages. www.wilsonstransportation.com
Walkabouts Historical Tours
GALLERIES/STUDIOS
Guided heritage tours, including the Fairmont Empress. www.walkabouts.ca
For a complete list of art galleries and studios, visit www.tourismvictoria.com.
Tourism Victoria
Parliament Buildings — These majestic buildings overlooking the Inner Harbour were built in 1898 and are the centre of provincial politics. Tours available. www.leg.bc.ca
Victoria has a variety of impressive sights to include on a heritage tour: Canada’s oldest Chinatown, narrowest street, oldest licensed brewpub and second greatest collection of Asian art.
Travel TRADE Planner 15
Shopping Victoria is a paradise for shoppers! Whether you are window
Fort Street
quaint shops, local markets and major shopping malls. The city’s layout encourages strolling and exploring the many side streets at an easy pace. Government Street
LoJo
Browse the 19th-century shops in and around Government Street, one of downtown Victoria’s most famous shopping districts. Victoria’s British heritage is apparent in the store windows along Government Street, which display woolens and bone china from England, tartans from Scotland and Irish lace. Stop to sample handmade chocolates or the perfect cup of tea or coffee. Native art, jewellery, fashion, Christmas and souvenir shops also flourish along the bustling sidewalks.
Visit Lower Johnson Street, known as “LoJo,” between Wharf Street and Douglas Street in the heart of Old Town. While LoJo is characterized by colourful heritage buildings, the shopping experiences are fresh and hip. Storefronts primarily feature locally designed fashions, but also house restaurants and other offerings.
Trounce Alley and Bastion Square
Victoria’s Chinatown is small, but is the oldest in Canada. Once home to opium dens and gambling halls, Chinatown now mixes stores and live-work condos with traditional Asian markets and diners. Visitors can stroll historical Fan Tan Alley — the narrowest street in Canada. Victoria’s Design District incorporates Chinatown into its parameters stretching from Market Square to Herald Street and boasts numerous furniture and home décor stores.
Tourism Victoria
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Four blocks along Government Street, turn right into Trounce Alley, one of Victoria's bestkept secrets. Fashion and gift shops await. Across the street from Trounce Alley, find Bastion Square, once the site of Victoria’s Court House, Law Chambers, a brothel and several hangings. Bastion Square is now animated with shops and restaurants. In the summer, take in the Bastion Square Festival of the Arts, a bustling market, where vendors and local artisans sell their handmade arts and crafts.
Chinatown
16 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Only in Victoria will you find a street devoted to antiques and collectibles. Fort Street, a one-way street leading out of downtown Victoria, is known as Antique Row. Shop after shop lure the antique collector into a world of rare china, silver, toys, furniture and other treasures. North Fort Street is another shopping hot spot, where Antique Row mingles with fresh new fashions. The Bay Centre
Great shopping is part of a great vacation, so make sure to visit The Bay Centre, downtown Victoria’s premier shopping destination. Covering one full city block in the heart of town, The Bay Centre has a mix of over 90 street front and interior shops where you’ll find unique, quality brands, scrumptious dining and exceptional service.
Jo-Ann Richards/The Bay Centre
shopping or on a major shopping spree, in Victoria you can browse
Christmas Christmas is a magical time in Victoria, celebrated in a traditional fashion. Enjoy carollers, ice skating, concerts, festive events, sparkling lights and decorations. Downtown, retailers add their own creative flair to the historic and modern storefronts.
Annual Ships Christmas Lighting Contest — The Canadian Pacific Naval Fleet decorates its ships as a fundraiser for a local food bank. At least eight ships are decorated, as well as the gate and the admiral’s residence. www.forces.gc.ca
BEAR MOUNTAIN POLAR BEAR ICE FESTIVAL — Eat, skate and be merry at The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa and help raise funds for children’s charities. www.bearmountain.ca
Bearwear at the Hotel Grand Pacific — As a fundraiser for the Queen Alexandra Foundation for Children, teddy bears are dressed up and arranged in settings created especially for the holiday season. www.queenalexandra.org
Christmas at the Butchart Gardens — From December through the first week of January, a special show of Christmas lights, displays and decorations. An outdoor skating rink adds to the fun; skate rentals are available. Christmas meals and afternoon teas. www.butchartgardens.com
Christmas Pops Special — Traditional musical celebration presented by the Victoria Symphony Orchestra. www.victoriasymphony.bc.ca
Discover the Past Heritage Tours — Christmas walking tours, including Christmas in Old Town, Ghosts of Christmas Past and Chinatown Christmas Walks. www.discoverthepast.com
Emily’s Victorian Christmas — From mid-December until December 30, Emily Carr House is decorated and open for tours, tea and readings by actress Molly Raher Newman as Emily Carr. www.emilycarr.com
Island Farms Santa Claus Light Parade — Annual evening parade that starts at the Parliament Buildings and finishes with a celebration with entertainment and prizes. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
Lighted Ships Parade — Decorated boats sail into Victoria and Oak Bay to celebrate the festive season. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
The Nutcracker — Tchaikovsky’s classic Christmas ballet is presented at the Royal Theatre. www.dancevictoria.com Oak Bay’s Victorian Christmas Street performances, music, carriage tours and carollers on several December afternoons. www.oakbaybia.ca
Point Ellice House — Through December, this historic waterfront home dons its Christmas finery. Special Christmas teas are available. www.pointellicehouse.ca
Sidney Santa Claus Parade and Lighted Sailpast — The township
sponsor and decorate dozens of trees that deck the halls of the Fairmont. www.bcchf.net/FOT
of Sidney celebrates the festive season with a parade along Beacon Avenue and decorated boats sailing in the harbour. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
Gallery Walk — Five of Victoria’s art
Tally-Ho Horse-Drawn Tours
Festival of Trees — Local businesses
galleries open new exhibits and serve gourmet refreshments. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
Beacon Hill Park, historic James Bay and Victoria’s waterfront are featured on 45-minute horse-drawn wagon tours. www.tallyhotours.com
Christmas Butchart Gardens Bus Tours — Motor coach operators
Gingerbread Houses at the Inn at Laurel Point — An amazing display
such as Pacific Coach Lines and Wilson's offer tours to see the Christmas displays at Victoria’s most famous gardens. www.wilsonstransportation.com and www.pacificcoach.com
of gingerbread houses raises funds for Habitat for Humanity. www.laurelpoint.com
Walking tours through historic Old Town highlighting Victoria's Christmas past. www.walkvictoria.com
Gray Line WEST Christmas Tours — City lights and Butchart Gardens
Victoria Carriage Tours —
Christmas at Craigdarroch — In December, this 1888 castle is decorated in the Victorian style and features displays of period costumes and toys. www.thecastle.ca
tours by coach departing from downtown. www.graylinewest.com
Handel’s Messiah — The Victoria Symphony Orchestra presents this Christmas classic. www.victoriasymphony.bc.ca
Helmcken House — An old-fashioned Christmas where visitors discover the traditions of early Victorians while enjoying an authentic festive atmosphere. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
Victoria Bobby Walking Tours
Experience a Victorian Christmas in an elegant horse-drawn carriage. www.victoriacarriage.com
Victoria Harbour Ferries — Inner Harbour tours available in December. www.victoriaharbourferry.com
Walkabouts Historical Tours — The Fairmont Empress Hotel Christmas Tours Past and Present. Christmas is a magical time to tour this historic hotel. www.walkabouts.ca
Travel TRADE Planner 17
Educational Tours As the capital city and the seat of government for the province of B.C., Victoria is a prime destination for educational programs and a variety of technical and professional tours. The city is the home of an agricultural research centre, Canada’s western naval base, a booming biotech industry and several exceptional educational facilities.
• King George International College www.kgic.ca
• Royal Roads University www.royalroads.ca/mba
• St. Margaret's School www.stmarg.ca
• Stewart College of Languages www.stewartcollege.com
TECHNICAL AND INDUSTRY TOURS
Royal BC Museum — Group visits to
Tourism Victoria can provide you with information and contacts for a variety of tours ranging from forestry, fishing, agriculture and technology to cooking, gardening and art, including educational and exploratory content. Contact Tourism Victoria at 250-414-6999 or email traveltrade@tourismvictoria.com for more information.
this award-winning museum are available. Exhibits feature the history of the province. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
Agricultural Tours — Tours are available of a wide variety of types and sizes of agricultural operations. www.agf.gov.bc.ca
City Hall — Victoria City Hall can assist with various technical tours. Cost is minimal. www.victoria.ca Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Free guided tours of Canada’s historic west coast naval base are available. www.navy.forces.gc.ca/marpac/0/0-w-1_ eng.asp
SHAw Ocean Discovery CenTre Award-winning aquarium and education centre in Sidney showcasing the extraordinary marine life in the Salish Sea bordering southern Vancouver Island. www.oceandiscovery.ca Schools, Universities, ESL, Learning Classes
•C amosun College Department of Tourism www.camosun.bc.ca
• University of Victoria www.uvic.ca
•U niversity of Victoria English Language Centre www.uvcs.uvic.ca/elc
• Victoria International Academy www.eslschoolcanada.com
•V ictoria International High School Programs www.studyinvictoria.com
•W est Coast Eco-Adventure at Pearson College www.pearsoncollege.ca/eco
• Continuing Studies www.uvcs.uvic.ca
• Faculty of Business www.business.uvic.ca
• GEOS Language Academy www.geosvictoria.com
Forestry Tours — Forestry
Page One Publishing inc.
Royal BC Museum
and mill tours are available in various locations around Vancouver Island. www.timberwest.com/woodstour.cfm
18 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Calendar of Events VICTORIA WHISKY FESTIVAL A premier annual gathering of whisky aficionados. www.victoriawhiskyfestival.com
FEBRUARY
SWIFTSURE INTERNATIONAL YACHT RACE Oldest and largest annual yacht race in the Pacific Northwest. Six different races over four separate courses. www.swiftsure.org
JUNE
CHINESE NEW YEAR Ring in the New Year with this festive annual party in Chinatown. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
VICTORIA JAZZFEST INTERNATIONAL Musicians from around the globe perform jazz, blues and world music on multiple stages in downtown Victoria. www.jazzvictoria.ca
VICTORIA FILM FESTIVAL Ten days of screenings showcasing the best in Canadian and world cinema including feature films, documentaries and shorts. www.victoriafilmfestival.com
TELUS WORLD SKINS GAME (2010) Top names in golf compete at The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa to benefit the Queen Alexandra Foundation. www.telusskins.com
VICTORIA TEA FESTIVAL Tea tastings, workshops and opportunities to purchase teas, tea wares and delectable teafood selections. www.victoriateafestival.com
TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL (2011) Returning in 2011, the city’s maritime heritage is commemorated with the historic visit of various tall ships from around the world. www.tallshipsvictoria.ca
DINE AROUND AND STAY IN TOWN (FEBRUARY & MARCH) Many Victoria area restaurants and accommodations offer special menus and rates. www.tourismvictoria.com/dine
MARCH CHOCOLATE FEST Demonstrations, workshops, exhibits, prizes, samples, games, beer, wine tasting and entertainment. Adult evening event with a trade show. www.chocolatefest.ca
APRIL VICTORIA HOT JAZZ JUBILEE An exciting weekend of jazz featuring various bands and styles of jazz music from the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s. www.victoria-hot-jazz.com
MAY VICTORIA DAY PARADE Victoria's largest parade featuring marching bands, floats, clowns. Over 120,000 spectators. 250-382-3111 UNO FESTIVAL OF SOLO PERFORMANCE Canada's oldest festival dedicated to one-person theatre offers live, highvoltage comedy, drama and dance. www.intrepidtheatre.com
JULY CANADA DAY Fireworks at Victoria’s Inner Harbour and other festivities. www.tourismvictoria.com/events ART GALLERY’S MOSS STREET PAINT-IN Up to 100 artists line Moss Street. www.aggv.bc.ca/moss+street.aspx
AUGUST VICTORIA SYMPHONY SPLASH Concert performed by the Victoria Symphony from a barge moored in the Inner Harbour. www.victoriasymphony.ca VICTORIA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Almost 100 dragon boat teams with crews of 22 paddlers race head-to-head in full dragon boat regalia with timing drums thumping away. www.victoriadragonboat.com VICTORIA FRINGE FESTIVAL A 12-day explosion of comedy, improv, drama, performance art and dance from around the world. www.intrepidtheatre.com
the Pacific Northwest showcase and serve only all-natural varieties. www.gcbf.com COWICHAN WINE AND CULINARY FESTIVAL Celebrating Vancouver Island wines, culinary excellence, original music and art. www.wines.cowichan.net FEAST OF FIELDS Sample the gourmet offerings of over 50 of the island's top chefs, wineries and microbreweries. www.feastoffields.com
OCTOBER ROYAL VICTORIA MARATHON Major event attracting over 10,000 runners and walkers from across Canada and the U.S. Marathon, half-marathon, 8k road race and kid's fun run. www.royalvictoriamarathon.com ROMP: FESTIVAL OF INDEPENDENT DANCE Supports the work and development of professional dance artists. www.suddenlydance.ca/romp/romp.htm GHOSTS OF VICTORIA FESTIVAL Spooky tours of some of Victoria’s most haunted sites. www.oldcem.bc.ca
NOVEMBER FESTIVAL OF TREES (NOVEMBER & DECEMBER) The Fairmont Empress transforms into a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children's Hospital. www.bcchf.net/FOT
DECEMBER CHRISTMAS IN VICTORIA (See page 17) THE WARRIOR EMPEROR AND CHINA'S TERRACOTTA ARMY (Late 2011-2012, to be confirmed) China's famed Terracotta Army will march into Victoria's Royal BC Museum. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
SEPTEMBER GREAT CANADIAN BEER FESTIVAL Over 45 breweries from across Canada and
For dates and more information, go to www.tourismvictoria.com/events Travel TRADE Planner 19
Garry Webster/Tourism Victoria
January
Downtown Victoria PRINCE
TOUR ACCOMMODATION
ROKE
ST
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
V E RY
ST
26
28 Queen Victoria Hotel & Suites
See ad pg. 24
C H AT
RNME
31 Swans Suite Hotel & Brewpub
ST
town
China
17 500
SU
PE
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20 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
R S T
11
QUADRA ST
RD
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25
D AR SH AN
Thunderbird Park
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28
16 SUP
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St. Ann's Academy
AC
AD
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SO
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ST
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BL
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RF
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9
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ETT
To Abigail’s Hotel
ST
Ter min als
35
13
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Pacific Undersea Gardens
Royal Theatre
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Victoria Bug Zoo
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22
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Greater Victoria Public Library
H
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BROUGHTON ST
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AD
21
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BROAD
34
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G
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Beacon Hill Park
E
QU
250 metres
BLANSHARD ST
The Bay Centre
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820 feet
Victoria Clipper Terminal
800
ST
3
GOVERNMENT ST
ES RD
T RF S
HE
WHA
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Trounce Alley
GORDON ST
Bastion Square
10
700
8
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33
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600
Maritime Museum of BC
RD
1300
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Johnson Street Bridge
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4
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23 19
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* Hotels with motor coach parking
19 Hotel Rialto
31
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36
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18 Hotel Grand Pacific
Centennial Square
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McPherson Theatre
P
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36 Via Rail Canada
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17 Hostelling Int'l. Victoria
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35 Black Ball Ferry
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H
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15 Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites 16 Helm's Inn
ARD
1000
34 Big Bus Victoria
14 Gatsby Mansion Inn*
FISG 1600
STOR
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See ad pg. 24 13 Fairmont Empress, The*
LD ST
900
12 Executive House Hotel
HERA
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32 Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour* 33 Victoria Regent Hotel
See ad pg. 26
1700
30 Strathcona Hotel
Pointe Resort & Spa*
11 Embassy Inn*
ST
ST
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1800
10 Delta Victoria Ocean
HAM
GOVE
29 Royal Scot Suite Hotel*
CALE
800
8 Dalton Hotel & Suites 9 Days Inn on the Harbour*
T LAS S
27 Quality Inn Downtown
700
6 Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites 7 Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel
D IS C O
1500
25 Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa 26 Paul's Motor Inn
DOUG
4 Best Western Carlton Plaza 5 Best Western Inner Harbour
1900
23 Ocean Island Backpackers Inn 24 Oswego Hotel, The
3 Bedford Regency
T QUADRA S
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22 Magnolia Hotel & Spa
BLA NS HA RD ST
21 Inn at Laurel Point
See ad pg. 26 2 Admiral Inn
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20 Huntingdon Hotel & Suites*
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24
24 25 23 Victoria Int’l. Beacon SIDNEY Airport
James Adrena Line Zipline Adventure Tours 1 km = .6 miles H 31 Island Art Gallery of Greater Victoria VICTORIA TO: 1 Island View Belfry Theatre Sooke 37 km 40 min c Beach Park The Butchart Gardens Port Angeles (via car ferry) 95 min Brentwood h d 15 Bay Camosun College Interurban Port Renfrew 107 km 2 hr 30 min Island Camosun College Lansdowne View Rd Duncan 60 km 55 min t o u n A v e B env Canadian Scottish Chemainus 70 km 1 hr 15 min 9 4 28 W Regimental Museum Keating X Rd Ladysmith 88 km 1 hr 30 min a 17 Centre of the Universe Nanaimo 111 km 1 hr 42 min Will Church & State Wines Port Alberni 195 km 3 hr i P t. Craigdarroch Castle Ucluelet 291 km 4 hr 28 min Rd Gowlland-Tod Elk see ad pg. 25 Tofino 316 km 4 hr 51 min Provincial Lake 3 miles Ha Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse Park Parksville 147 km 2 hr 15 min rtl an d Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Qualicum Beach 158 km 2 hr 20 min 5 kilometres Av Mt. Work W. Lighthouse National Historic Sites Courtenay 219 km 3 hr 22 min Regional Park © Page One Publishing Inc. 2010 Sa 8 Glendale Gardens and Woodland a Beaver Powell River* 246 km 4 hr 37 min 1 aa Lake Great Canadian Casino Campbell River 264 km 4 hr 3 min Heritage Acres Port Hardy 502 km 7 hr 48 min 17A Mount Douglas Park Dr *Includes 1hr 15 min (27km) ferry ride from Comox 21 ak (west of Courtenay) Royal O Mount Tolmie 13 Mun 16 Naval and Military Museum nR 5 d s - CFB Esquimalt ACCOMMODATION kin Thetis Lake l Point Ellice House So 30 Comfort Inn & Suites Provincial ok Royal Roads University and e see ad pg. 2 Park Thetis Feltham n ak ee B Hatley Park National Historic Site Lake ke e eR ie Av Goldstream ar Mtn. Prky 31 Quality Inn Waddling Dog sidd H lmc Ar Mckenz d bu e Saanich Commonwealth Place see ad pg. 2 Provincial H tu sR Park 1 Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse W. 32 Quality Resort Bayside d 27 y T rans Canada Hw see ad pg. 2 Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre 14 le C a 17 ed d Bu r a see ad pg. 28 e 29 rn X R r Hi v G or d ll ge R side Clo 11 30 Goldst Sidney Booktown 6 Lansdo re a d wne m Sidney Historical Museum mi e Rd Sooke Region Museum llsid r i e H k 20 Bay 19 Sooke So o University of Victoria Esquimalt 12 18 7 lt Oak Bay Potholes . 3 vd Johnson Victoria Butterfly Gardens Park H Bl i Fort 14 ayy WildPlay West Shore Victoria Ba Oak B
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21 22 23
17A
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19 20
To Duncan & Nanaimo
DISTANCE CHART AND DRIVING TIMES
Malahat D
13 14 15 16 17 18
Saanich Inlet
Saanich Inlet
s Tran
PLACES OF INTEREST / ATTRACTIONS
17 Mills Rd
Patricia Bay
Seattle
Swartz Bay
i
Mill Bay
5
Port Angeles
11 12
Rd
Wain Rd
4
WASHINGTON STATE
8 9 10
Deep Cove
Qualicum Squamish Beach Parksville Port Nanaimo Vancouver Alberni 32 Ucluelet Ladysmith Gulf 1 Chemainus Islands Bamfield Duncan Port San Juan 1 Islands Renfrew 14 Pacific Anacortes Sooke VICTORIA Ocean Tofino
7
Lands E
1 Whistler
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19
to V anc
99
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River
nd
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Resthaven
VANCOUVER ISLAND Campbell
1 2 3 4 5 6
ouv er &
BRITISH COLUMBIA 19
W. Saancih Rd
Port Alice
Gulf Is
land s
Greater Victoria
Highway Ferry Routes Scenic Marine Drive Seaside Cycling Route Galloping Goose Trail Park Hospital Visitor Centre Sidney/Saanich Peninsula Saanich Oak Bay Victoria Esquimalt West Shore Sooke
Travel TRADE Planner 21
Goose Bay
Vancouver Island Qu Lace I.
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Cox I.
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Mt. Cain
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USA ALASKA
Nootka
Arctic Ocean
Anchorage
No
Yukon Territories Northwest Nunavut Territories Whitehorse Whitehorse Yellowknife Yellowknife
otk
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o
Victoria Portland
Iqaluit Hot Springs Cove
British ColumbiaAlberta Hudson Bay Saskatchewan Edmonton Manitoba Vancouver Regina Ontario Winnipeg Seattle Minneapolis Chicago
San Francisco Los Angeles
Flores I. Newfoundland Quebec Fredericton Halifax Montreal Ottawa Ottawa Toronto Boston
Detroit
New York Washington D.C.
Atlanta
Dallas
Atlantic Ocean
Pacific Ocean
North America
Gulf Of Mexico
Havana
Legend
Cuba Mexico City Honduras Caribbean Sea Guatemala Nicaragua San Salvador Panama San JosĂŠ
22 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Me
Tofino
Charlottetown
United States
Mexico
Vargas I.
St. John’s
Denver Phoenix
P
d un
Canada
Vancouver Island
B
Main Highway Paved Road Gravel Road Car & Passenger Ferry Passenger-Only Ferry Airport Park
Clinton
British Columbia
Lillooet Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park
n Bay
s Fra
Roy
er
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Hardwicke I. Thurlow I. W.Thurlow I. Sonora I.
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and
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Cortes I. 99
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101
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19A
Cumberland
19
4
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ng
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Pacific Ocean
Squamish Golden Ears Provincial Park
101
Nanaimo
Kildonan
Brackendale
Britannia Beach
ra Qualicum Beach it Parksville Coombs Sproat Lake Errington Lantzville Nanoose Bay 19
Kennedy Lake
Egmont
Earls Cove
19
Great Central Lake
28
Saltery Bay
Union Bay Denman I.
Fanny Bay
eares I.
Powell River
Comox
Courtenay
Strathcona Provincial Park
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Lund
Cowichan Lake
1 1
99
Gibsons
Ge
or
gi
West Vancouver North Vancouver 1
Vancouver a
Gabriola I.
Richmond
Burnaby 5
99
Surrey
Harris 7
Langley
Abbotsford 1
Chemainus Mayne I. Youbou Lake Cowichan Crofton Saturna I. Salt Honeymoon Bay Duncan Spring I. Pender I. Cowichan Bay Nitinat Lake Orcas I. 5 Lummi I. Cobble Hill Sidney Carmanah-Walbran Mill Bay Guemes I. Pacific Park 1 Brentwood Bay Shaw I. Malahat Jua 17 nD Port Renfrew eF Anacortes San Juan I. uca Ma Lopez I. rine View Royal Langford Tra il Colwood Jordan River 14 Sooke Neah Bay Metchosin To Se attl Juan de Fuca Strait e
Victoria
Washington State USA
Chilliwack
7
1A
Valdes I. Tsawwassen Delta White Rock Galiano I.
To Seattle via I5
Mount Vernon 5
Port Angeles
101
Everett
Puget Sd.
Forks
5 Travel TRADE Planner 23
101 101
Aga
Harrison Mills
Port Coquitlam
20
EXECUTIVE HOUSE HOTEL Capacity: 181 guest rooms Our unrivaled location ensures that our guests are able to experience all that Victoria has to offer without having to use transportation. One of the best features of Executive House Hotel is the city in which it’s located. Victoria offers visitors from all over the world the opportunity to enjoy world-class museums, shopping, a visit to the IMAX theater, the Buchart Gardens and restaurants, along with a wide range of water activities at the Inner Harbour, located a mere block away from the hotel. Additionally, you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to indulge in some of Victoria’s world-famous whale watching! After a long day of exploring Victoria, why not enjoy one of the many restaurants located in our luxury accommodations. The hotel features 181 spacious guest rooms and suites offering spectacular panoramic views of the City, Inner Harbour and Olympic Mountains.
777 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC V8V 8V8 TEL 250-388-5111 TOLL FREE 1-800-663-7001 EMAIL executivehouse@executivehouse.com WEB executivehouse.com
queen victoria hotel & suites Capacity: 146 guest rooms The Queen Victoria Hotel and Suites is the right choice to accommodate your group tour needs. We offer elegance, comfort, affordability and location. The Hotel is located across the street from the Royal BC Museum, and only steps away from the Inner Harbour and Beacon Hill Park. The majority of our spacious guest rooms have two queen beds – perfect for group tours. Guests may also enjoy our indoor pool, sauna whirlpool and fitness area. We offer complimentary internet, business centre and local phone calls. Group meals are accommodated in our restaurant, “Samuel’s by the Park.”
655 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC V8V 29P TEL 250-386-1312 TOLL FREE 1-800-663-7007 EMAIL info@qvhotel.com WEB qvhotel.com
24 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Craigdarroch castle Located in the heart of Victoria, only 8 blocks from the inner harbour, Craigdarroch Castle is an exceptional place to visit. Lavish Victorian-era furnishings and decor, exquisite stained glass, and detailed woodwork carved by artisans of days gone by... these all combine to create a warm and expansive entertainment experience. When you’re finished, take time to browse the Gift Shop and relax in the Castle grounds before moving on to your next destination. Open daily from 10 am – 4:30 pm for self-guided tours. Extended hours June 15th to Labour Day 9 am – 7 pm.
1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3C5 TEL 250-592-5323 EMAIL info@thecastle.ca WEB thecastle.ca
via rail canada Capacity: 130 VIA Rail Canada operates trains year-round, coastto-coast. In Ontario and Quebec, VIA’s intercity trains offer convenient downtown-to-downtown schedules with a choice of economy service or premium class. VIA’s overnight trains throughout the network feature both economy and sleeper classes with access to dome/lounge cars and dining services to fit every budget. On Vancouver Island, VIA operates the popular Malahat, known to locals as the E&N Railiner. A year-round service, the Malahat is ideal for a oneday excursion from Victoria up-island to Courtenay and back. See Vancouver Island as only the train can show you. All Aboard!
450 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC V8W 3L5 TOLL FREE 1-888-VIA-RAIL (842-7245) WEB viarail.ca
Travel TRADE Planner 25
aBIGaIl’S HOTel
capacity: 23 guestrooms; Private cooking classes for small groups up to 20 experience the friendly hospitality of this premier boutique hotel, a short walk to victoria’s main attractions. Rooms feature wood burning fireplaces, soaker baths with robes, AC, flat screen TV’s and DvD players. Includes evening hors d’oeuvres, full gourmet breakfasts with the Chef, parking & internet. 100% non-smoking; Spa services available. 906 McClure Street, victoria, BC v8v 3e7 tel 250-388-5363 toll Free 1-800-561-6565 weB abigailshotel.com
eMBaSSY Inn capacity: 103 guest rooms victoria’s most affordable Inner Harbour hotel. Shopping, attractions, and downtown victoria are steps away. Many rooms with a/C, kitchens, and balconies. restaurant, free parking, free wireless internet. Call for special seasonal rates. 520 Menzies Street, victoria, BC v8v 2H4 tel 250-382-8161 toll Free 1-800-268-8161 weB embassyinn.ca
BIG BuS vICTOrIa SIGHTSeeInG city tour: over 20 stops including inner harbour, chinatown, craigdarroch castle, rocklands, oak Bay village, Beach drive and more. Whether you want to visit major attractions, spend time shopping, or visit one of many fine restaurants - Big Bus is on the route! If you are only visiting for a few hours or a few days the 90-minute sightseeing tour with on-board commentary gives you a quick way to see the main attractions of our beautiful city. Big Bus tickets are valid for 2 full days and you can hop on and hop off our buses at any of the stops!
811 Government Street, victoria, BC tel 250-389-2229 toll Free 1-888-434-2229 email info@bigbusvictoria.com weB bigbusvictoria.com
26 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
SINCE 1959
Getting there
is half the fun Plan your
next adventure on
The Coho
Neah Bay
Sappho
Welcome to the M.V. Coho. The only vehicle/passenger ferry providing year round daily service from Victoria, BC. and Port Angeles, WA.
Forks
Westport
Aberdeen
Olympia
Offering travelers a growing selection of accommodations, activities and attractions throughout Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula to create exceptional vacation experiences. We take pride in our unique, reliable and affordable service and have partnered with others that share the same values. Explore our expanded travel packages and comprehensive online travel planning information at CohoFerry.com.
Wireless I • Cafeteria • Gift Shop • Duty Free Shop •
eck/solarium nternet• Viewing d
Victoria, BC • Port Angeles, WA Travel TRADE Planner 27