tourism victoria's 2010/2011 professional tour and travel planner's guide
DESCRIPTION
The Tourism Victoria Travel Trade Planner has been developed to promote Victoria as a destination in the international tour industry by presenting easy-to-arrange, themed itineraries that have a broad appeal to travellers worldwide. Tourism Victoria uses this attractive, comprehensive guide at tradeshows such as Rendez-Vous Canada, Kanata, Spotlight Canada, Showcase Canada, and the National Tour Association, as well as distribution through Canadian Tourism Commission office, targeted direct mailing, familiarization tours, and for all sales calls and reservation/agent training initiatives.TRANSCRIPT
T O u r I S M v I C T O r I a ’ S Travel Trade Planner
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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 l T r a D e
Balmoral Group
®
www.balmoralgroup.comwww.balmoralgroup.com
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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 [email protected] 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
vICTOrIa — Full OF lIFe 4
Our ServICeS 6
TranSPOrTaTIOn 7
GarDenS 8
CulInarY TOurISM 10
OuTDOOr aCTIvITIeS 12
HerITaGe, arTS anD CulTure 14
SHOPPInG 16
CHrISTMaS 17
eDuCaTIOnal TOurS 18
CalenDar OF evenTS 19
MaPS 20
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.
Printed in Canada. Free distribution only.
Contents
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 [email protected] www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
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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.
victoria — Full of life
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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unlimited activities and attractions — World-famous Butchart Gardens, outdoor eco-adventure 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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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.
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5REASONS VISITORS LOVE VICTORIA
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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.
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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.
▲5REASONS VISITORS LOVE VICTORIA
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.
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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
Familiarization toUrS
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.
travel ProFeSSionalS viSiting victoria
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 must-see attractions. Contact Tourism victoria for qualifications.
new ProdUct
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.
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? check oUt oUr SamPle itinerarieS
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, multi-generational, golf and Christmas are listed at www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade.
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.
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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
❚ 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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air Service
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
• Hyack Air Ltd. www.hyackair.com
• Kenmore Air www.kenmoreair.com
• Orca Airways Ltd. www.flyorcaair.com
• Pacific Coastal AirLines www.pacific-coastal.com
• Salt Spring Air www.saltspringair.com
• United Airlines www.united.ca
• Victoria Airport Authority www.victoriaairport.com
• West Coast Air www.westcoastair.com
• WestJet www.westjet.com
FerrY Service
victoria and vancouver Island are well connected to the B.C. and Washington
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 passenger service between victoria and Port angeles, Wa. www.cohoferry.com
BrITISH COluMBIa FerrY ServICeS vehicle and passenger service between victoria and vancouver. www.bcferries.com
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
vICTOrIa San Juan CruISeS — Seasonal passenger-only service between victoria and Bellingham. www.whales.com
WaSHInGTOn STaTe FerrIeS — vehicle and passenger service between Sidney and anacortes, Wa. www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries
groUnd tranSPortation
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, double-decker 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
• BlueBird Cabs Ltd. www.taxicab.com
• Big Bus www.bigbusvictoria.ca
• CVS Cruise Victoria Ltd. www.cvscruisevictoria.com
• Go West Coach Lines www.gowestcoach.com
• Gray Line West, Victoria www.graylinewest.com
• Greyhound Vancouver Island Coach www.greyhound.ca
• LA Limousines & Transportation Tours www.lalimo.ca
• Pacific Coach Lines Ltd. www.pacificcoach.com
• Regent Limousine Service www.regentlimousine.bc.ca
• Tofino Bus www.tofinobus.com
• Via Rail/E&N Railiner www.viarail.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.
Transportation
BC F
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located on the southern tip of vancouver Island, victoria is easy to get to from anywhere in the world. Transportation choices include non-stop flights from major North American cities, quick connecting flights from Vancouver and Seattle and many other travel options by air and sea that make getting here an exciting part of any visit.
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gardenS
aBKHazI GarDen — This unique one-acre 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
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.
www.butchartgardens.com
GlenDale GarDen anD WOODlanD 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
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
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 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
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.
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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
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 year-round. 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
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.
average maximUmtemPeratUreS
MONTH ˚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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winerieS, ciderieS and diStillerieS 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 groups. www.lizardadventuretravel.com
MerrIDale eSTaTe CIDerY — Ciders made from apples grown on the estate. restaurant and cider shop. Daily tours and sampling. www.merridalecider.com
Sea CIDer FarM anD CIDerHOuSe Certified organic orchard, cider house with ocean and orchard views, sampling and tours. www.seacider.ca
vanCOuver ISlanD WIne TOurS — Day tours from victoria to the southern vancouver Island wine region. www.vancouverislandwinetours.com
verJuS WIne TOurS — a choice of three vineyards either on the Saanich Peninsula or in the Cowichan valley. www.verjuswinetours.com
vICTOrIa SPIrITS — The only producer of premium, handcrafted gin in British Columbia. www.victoriaspirits.com
WIne ISlanDS vInTnerS aSSOCIaTIOn — representing vintners on vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, collectively known as the Wine Islands. www.wineislands.ca
BrewPUBS and microBrewerieS
CanOe BreWPuB, MarIna anD reSTauranT — restaurant and lounge with a selection of handcrafted beers. www.canoebrewpub.com
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 —Canada’s oldest licensed brewpub features a traditional artisan brewery, restaurant, separate malt-vinegar brewery, brick-oven bakery and full sausage kitchen and smokehouse. www.spinnakers.com
SWanS BreWPuB — restaurant, pub, beer and wine shop specializing in house-brewed beers and ales. www.swanshotel.com
vanCOuver ISlanD BreWerY —Guided one-hour tours include sampling and a souvenir pint glass.www.vancouverislandbrewery.com
Culinary TourismAward-winning wines, handcrafted ales, local produce, organic meats, edible flowers and herbs, ocean-fresh seafood, gourmet delicacies – victoria offers a feast of unique, delicious experiences. Build a multi-day gourmet itinerary from this menu of options, or incorporate one or two activities into another tour.
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cUlinarY and Farm toUrS
CHeF’S TaBle — Chef David Feys cooks for six to 30 guests in his catering kitchen. www.feysandhobbs.com
COWICHan valleY — Winery, cidery and 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 foods and outstanding local wines. Meet chefs, growers and vintners. Six-day, seven-night 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
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, shipwrecks and artificial reefs in Vancouver
Island waters are renowned among divers. Guided adventures and lessons are available.
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
easy beach strolls to half- or full-day adventures in the region’s parks and even challenging multi-day treks with camping.
KaYaKInG — a wonderful way to explore the scenic splendour of victoria’s shorelines, kayaking is a very popular year-round activity. Guided tours can be tailored to suit any group.
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
Ocean coastlines, old-growth forests, abundant marine wildlife and thrilling adventures make victoria and vancouver Island the ideal destination for outdoor adventurers. and because of our mild climate, most outdoor activities can be enjoyed year round.
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undoubtedly on foot. Walking tour themes include ghosts, gardens, heritage and more.
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 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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mUSeUmS/attractionS
arT GallerY OF GreaTer vICTOrIa 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
B.C. FOreST DISCOverY CenTre — 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 exhibit tracing the history of the cement industry at Bamberton from 1904 to 1982. www.bambertonhistoricalsociety.org
CanaDIan SCOTTISH reGIMenTal MuSeuM — Displays include material from the earliest days of the regiment to participation in united nations peacekeeping operations. www.islandnet.com/~csrmuse
Carr HOuSe — Built in 1863, Carr House is the birthplace and childhood home of emily Carr, one of Canada’s most famous artists and authors. www.emilycarr.com
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 exquisite stained-glass windows, woodwork and period antiques. www.thecastle.ca
CraIGFlOWer ManOr anD SCHOOlHOuSe — a pioneer-era home and 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
HerITaGe aCreS: SaanICH HISTOrICal arTIFaCTS SOCIeTY — 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 native Cowichan experience. Tours, multi-media presentations and authentic cuisine. www.quwutsun.ca
rOYal BC MuSeuM — The displays at 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
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.
Heritage, arts and Culture
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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, 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
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
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 Information on a variety of heritage tours available in victoria. www.heritagevictoria.org
WalKaBOuTS HISTOrICal TOurS Guided heritage tours, including the Fairmont empress. www.walkabouts.ca
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 — Knowledgeable, friendly guides providing step-on services in a variety of languages. www.wilsonstransportation.com
gallerieS/StUdioS
For a complete list of art galleries and studios, visit www.tourismvictoria.com.
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.
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16 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
government Street
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.
troUnce alleY and BaStion SqUare
Four blocks along Government Street, turn right into Trounce alley, one of victoria's best-kept 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.
loJo
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.
chinatown
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.
Fort Street
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.
Shopping
Victoria is a paradise for shoppers! Whether you are window shopping or on a major shopping spree, in victoria you can browse quaint shops, local markets and major shopping malls. The city’s layout encourages strolling and exploring the many side streets at an easy pace.
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Travel TraDe Planner 17
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 BuTCHarT GarDenS BuS TOurS — Motor coach operators 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
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
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
FeSTIval OF TreeS — local businesses sponsor and decorate dozens of trees that deck the halls of the Fairmont. www.bcchf.net/FOT
GallerY WalK — Five of victoria’s art galleries open new exhibits and serve gourmet refreshments. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
GInGerBreaD HOuSeS aT THe Inn aT laurel POInT — an amazing display of gingerbread houses raises funds for Habitat for Humanity. www.laurelpoint.com
GraY lIne WeST CHrISTMaS TOurS — City lights and Butchart Gardens 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
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 of Sidney celebrates the festive season with a parade along Beacon avenue and decorated boats sailing in the harbour. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
TallY-HO HOrSe-DraWn TOurS Beacon Hill Park, historic James Bay and victoria’s waterfront are featured on 45-minute horse-drawn wagon tours. www.tallyhotours.com
vICTOrIa BOBBY WalKInG TOurS Walking tours through historic Old Town highlighting victoria's Christmas past. www.walkvictoria.com
vICTOrIa CarrIaGe 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
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.
18 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
technical and indUStrY toUrS
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 [email protected] for more information.
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
FOreSTrY TOurS — Forestry and mill tours are available in various locations around vancouver Island. www.timberwest.com/woodstour.cfm
rOYal BC MuSeuM — Group visits to this award-winning museum are available. exhibits feature the history of the province. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
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
• Camosun College Department of Tourism www.camosun.bc.ca
• Continuing Studies www.uvcs.uvic.ca
• Faculty of Businesswww.business.uvic.ca
• GeOS language academywww.geosvictoria.com
• 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
• University of Victoria www.uvic.ca
• University of Victoria English language Centre www.uvcs.uvic.ca/elc
• Victoria International Academy www.eslschoolcanada.com
• Victoria International High School Programswww.studyinvictoria.com
• West Coast Eco-Adventure at Pearson College www.pearsoncollege.ca/eco
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.
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Calendar of events JanUarY
vICTOrIa WHISKY FeSTIval a premier annual gathering of whisky aficionados. www.victoriawhiskyfestival.com
FeBrUarY CHIneSe neW Year ring in the new Year with this festive annual party in Chinatown. www.tourismvictoria.com/events
vICTOrIa FIlM FeSTIval Ten days of screenings showcasing the best in Canadian and world cinema including feature films, documentaries and shorts. www.victoriafilmfestival.com
vICTOrIa Tea FeSTIval Tea tastings, workshops and opportunities to purchase teas, tea wares and delectable tea-food selections. www.victoriateafestival.com
DIne arOunD anD STaY In TOWn (FEBRUARY & MARCH) Many victoria area restaurants and accommodations offer special menus and rates. www.tourismvictoria.com/dine
marchCHOCOlaTe FeST Demonstrations, workshops, exhibits, prizes, samples, games, beer, wine tasting and entertainment. adult evening event with a trade show. www.chocolatefest.ca
aPrilvICTOrIa 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
maYvICTOrIa 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, high-voltage comedy, drama and dance. www.intrepidtheatre.com
SWIFTSure InTernaTIOnal YaCHT raCe Oldest and largest annual yacht race in the Pacific Northwest. Six different races over four separate courses. www.swiftsure.org
JUnevICTOrIa JazzFeST InTernaTIOnal Musicians from around the globe perform jazz, blues and world music on multiple stages in downtown victoria. www.jazzvictoria.ca
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
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
JUlYCanaDa 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
SePtemBerGreaT CanaDIan Beer FeSTIval Over 45 breweries from across Canada and
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 micro-breweries. www.feastoffields.com
octoBerrOYal 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
novemBerFeSTIval 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
For dates and more information, go to www.tourismvictoria.com/events
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Travel TraDe Planner 19
MaritimeMuseum
of BC
McPherson
MarketSquare
Trounce Alley
DowntownMedicalCentre
VictoriaBug Zoo
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C O L L I N S O N S T
FA I R F I E L D R D
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STF I S G A R D S T
C O R M O R A N T S TSWIFT ST
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N O R T H PA R K S T
CALEDONIA ST
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CHATHAM ST
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W I L SON RD
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PEMBROKE ST
P R I N C E S S S T
P E M B R O K E S T
GREEN ST
S O N G H EE S R D
BURDETT
LegislativeBuildings
VictoriaClipper
Terminal
VictoriaClipper
Terminal
VictoriaConference
Centre
Black BallFerry
Black BallFerry
Via RailVia Rail
DowntownMedicalCentre
MiniatureWorld
VictoriaBug Zoo
Royal BCMuseum
PacificUnderseaGardens
Royal LondonWax Museum
IMAXTheatre
BusTerminal
BusTerminal
St. Ann'sAcademy
Vict
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Con
serv
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Mu
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McPherson Theatre
CityHall
Chinatown
Johnson StreetBridge
GreaterVictoriaPublic
Library
Pioneer Square
BastionSquare
MaritimeMuseum
of BC
The Bay Centre
MarketSquare
Save-On-FoodsMemorial Centre
RoyalTheatre
Central Park
Royal Athletic Park
ThunderbirdPark
Beacon HillPark
Inner Harbour
Fisherman'sWharf Park
Trounce Alley
CentennialSquare
Fan Tan Alley
Fan Tan Alley
To Fisherman’sWharf
To Helijet & Cruise Ship Terminals
9 0 0 1 0 0 0
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250 metres
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20 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
Downtown victoria
Ferry (International)
Harbour Ferry Stop
Seaplane
Motor Coach Loading
Washrooms
Visitor Centre
LEGEND
i
TOur aCCOMMODaTIOn1 Abigail's Hotel*
See ad pg. 262 Admiral Inn
3 Bedford Regency
4 Best Western Carlton Plaza
5 Best Western Inner Harbour
6 Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites
7 Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel
8 Dalton Hotel & Suites
9 Days Inn on the Harbour*
10 Delta Victoria OceanPointe Resort & Spa*
11 Embassy Inn* See ad pg. 26
12 Executive House HotelSee ad pg. 24
13 Fairmont Empress, The*
14 Gatsby Mansion Inn*15 Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites
16 Helm's Inn
17 Hostelling Int'l. Victoria
18 Hotel Grand Pacific
19 Hotel Rialto
20 Huntingdon Hotel & Suites*
21 Inn at Laurel Point
22 Magnolia Hotel & Spa
23 Ocean Island Backpackers Inn
24 Oswego Hotel, The
25 Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa
26 Paul's Motor Inn
27 Quality Inn Downtown
28 Queen Victoria Hotel & SuitesSee ad pg. 24
29 Royal Scot Suite Hotel*
30 Strathcona Hotel
31 Swans Suite Hotel & Brewpub
32 Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour*
33 Victoria Regent Hotel
TranSPOrTaTIOn34 Big Bus Victoria
See ad pg. 2635 Black Ball Ferry
See ad pg. 2736 Via Rail Canada
See ad pg. 25
* Hotels with motor coach parking
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19
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Travel TraDe Planner 21
Greater victoria
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to P
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Van
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Gul
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26
1
12 18
15
11
197 3
6
1727
102
20
1429
4 289
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8
2113
516
24 25 23
30
HighwayFerry RoutesScenic Marine DriveSeaside Cycling RouteGalloping Goose TrailParkHospitalVisitor CentreSidney/SaanichPeninsulaSaanichOak BayVictoriaEsquimaltWest ShoreSooke
LEGEND
Hi
Rest
have
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Beacon
Royal Oak Dr
Willia
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Happy
Val
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Rd
Cordova Bay Rd
Sooke Rd
Pat Bay Hwy
Mckenzie Av
Island ViewBeach
Vete
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Mem
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Wal
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Dr
Keating X Rd
Benvenuto Av
IslandView Rd
Cent
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aani
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Gord
on H
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Cook
Quadra St
Burnside Ri
chm
ond Cloverdale
Helmcke
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Gorge Rd
Feltham
Bay
Lansdowne
Cedar Hill
Bay
Fort
Dallas
Quadra
Fairfield
She
Foul
Douglas anshard
Johnson alt
Tilli
cum
Lam
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W.Burn
side
Trans Canada Hwy
Metchosin Latoria Rd
Sooke
to Mill Bay
Bear Mtn. Prky
W. Saanich Rd
SaanichInlet
BeaverLake aa
ElkLake
Patricia Bay
Deep Cove
Oak Bay
Saanich Inlet
BecherBay
MathesonLake
Thetis Lake
Sooke Potholes
Park
East SookeRegional
Park
GoldstreamProvincial
Park
Thetis LakeProvincial
Park
Witty’s LagoonRegional Park
Roche CoveRegional Park
Island ViewBeach Park
John DeanProv. Park
Mt. WorkRegional Park
Gowlland-TodProvincial
Park
Gulf IslandsNational ParkReserve — Sidney Spit
Ble nkinsop Rd
Kem
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W. S
aani
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Wain Rd
W. S
aanc
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Lands End Rd
Mills Rd
Rest
have
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McTavish Rd
Wal
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Dr
Mt. Newton X Rd
Keating X Rd
W. Saa nich Rd
Benvenuto Av Trans Canada Hw
y
Pat Bay Hwy
Fort
Tilli
cum
Shel
bour
ne
Bay
Dallas
Quadra
Fairfield
Royal Oak Dr
Emily
Car
r
Glan
ford
Av
Feltham
Arbutus Rd Gord
on H
ead
Shel
bour
ne
Foul
Bay
Cook
Quadra St Pat Bay Hwy
Burnside
Beach
Beac
h
Oak Bay
Mckenzie Av
Douglas Blanshard
Lansdowne
Ceda
r Hill
Cedar Hill X Rd
Johnson
Rich
mon
d Cloverdale
Ferndale
Hillside
Inte
rurb
an R
d
Munn Rd
Admirals
Helmcke
n
Gorge Rd
Esquimalt
W.Bur
nside
Trans Canada Hwy
Goldstream
Sooke Rd
Metchosin
Wis
hart
Jack
lin R
d
Latoria Rd
Hum
pbac
k R
d
Malahat Dr
Met
chosin Rd
Willia
m H
ead
Kangaroo Rd
Rock
y Point R d
East Sooke
East Sooke Rd
Gillespie Rd
Happy
Val
ley
Rd
Millstream
Lam
pson
ToDuncan &Nanaimo
Beacon
Wilkins on
Rd
Lochside Dr
Swartz Bay
SIDNEY
BrentwoodBay
Mill Bay
Victoria Int’l.Airport
Sidney Island
JamesIsland
Cordova Bay Rd
IslandView Rd
Wallace Dr
Cadb
oro
Bay
Otter Point Rd
Sooke
Elk
Lake
Dr
E. Saanich
Cent
ral S
aani
ch R
d
W. Saanich Rd
Willis P t. Rd Oc
ean B
lvd.
Vete
rans
Mem
oria
l Prk
y
Sooke Lake Rd
to San Juan Islands & Anacortes
Bear Mtn. Prky
Mill
stre
am L
ake
Rd Hartland Av
PLACES OF INTEREST / ATTRACTIONS
Adrena Line Zipline Adventure ToursArt Gallery of Greater VictoriaBelfry TheatreThe Butchart GardensCamosun College InterurbanCamosun College LansdowneCanadian Scottish Regimental MuseumCentre of the UniverseChurch & State WinesCraigdarroch Castlesee ad pg. 25Craigflower Manor and SchoolhouseFort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic SitesGlendale Gardens and WoodlandGreat Canadian CasinoHeritage AcresMount Douglas ParkMount TolmieNaval and Military Museum - CFB EsquimaltPoint Ellice HouseRoyal Roads University andHatley Park National Historic SiteSaanich Commonwealth PlaceSea Cider Farm & CiderhouseShaw Ocean Discovery Centresee ad pg. 28Sidney BooktownSidney Historical MuseumSooke Region MuseumUniversity of VictoriaVictoria Butterfly GardensWildPlay West Shore Victoria
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ACCOMMODATIONComfort Inn & Suitessee ad pg. 2Quality Inn Waddling Dogsee ad pg. 2Quality Resort Baysidesee ad pg. 2
DISTANCE CHART ANDDRIVING TIMES
1 km = .6 miles
VICTORIA TO:Sooke 37 km 40 minPort Angeles (via car ferry) 95 minPort Renfrew 107 km 2 hr 30 minDuncan 60 km 55 minChemainus 70 km 1 hr 15 minLadysmith 88 km 1 hr 30 minNanaimo 111 km 1 hr 42 minPort Alberni 195 km 3 hrUcluelet 291 km 4 hr 28 minTofino 316 km 4 hr 51 minParksville 147 km 2 hr 15 minQualicum Beach 158 km 2 hr 20 minCourtenay 219 km 3 hr 22 minPowell River* 246 km 4 hr 37 minCampbell River 264 km 4 hr 3 minPort Hardy 502 km 7 hr 48 min*Includes 1hr 15 min (27km) ferry ride from Comox (west of Courtenay)
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Campbell River
AnacortesPacificOcean
GoldRiver
VANCOUVERISLAND
WASHINGTONSTATE
BRITISHCOLUMBIA
Squamish
Whistler
VICTORIA
Nanaimo
San Juan Islands
GulfIslands
Ladysmith
QualicumBeach
PortAlberni
Parksville
DuncanChemainus
Port Renfrew
Bamfield
Sooke
Port Angeles
Anacortes
PortHardy
PortAlice
Seattle
Tofino
Ucluelet
PowellRiverGold
River
Vancouver
Campbell River
Courtenay
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19A
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22 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
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101 2
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19A
19A
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19
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1A
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Golden EarsProvincial Park
GaribaldiProvincial Park
Birkenhead LakeProvincial Park
StrathconaProvincial Park
Mt. Washington
Mt. Cain
Schoen LakeProvincial Park
Cape ScottProvincial Park
Brooks PeninsulaProvincial Park
TweedsmuirProvincial Park
ManningProvincial
Park
Carmanah-Walbran Pacific Park
Pacific Rim National ParkWest Coast Trail
Juan De Fuca Marine Trail
Skagit
Skagit
Fraser
Fraser
Fraser
Chilcontin
Thompson
Washington StateUSA
British Columbia
Vancouver Island
QueenCharlot te
Sound
Queen Charlot te Strai t
Strai t of Georgia
Pacific Ocean
Juan de Fuca Strait
Cowichan Lake
Nitinat Lake
Great Central Lake
Buttle Lake
Long Beach
Quatsino Sound
Kyuquot Sound
Nootka Sound
Barkley Sound
Sproat Lake
Kennedy Lake
Puget Sd.
Goose Bay
Cox I.Lace I.
Malcolm I.
Broughton I.
Gilford I.
Turnour I.
Hardwicke I.W.Thurlow I.
Thurlow I.
Sonora I.
Maurelle I.
Quadra I.
Cortes I.
Hernando I.
Lasqueti I.
Texada I.
Gabriola I.
Meares I.Vargas I.
Flores I.
Nootka I.
Valdes I.
Galiano I.
San Juan I.Lopez I.
Shaw I.
To Seattle
Orcas I.Lummi I.
Guemes I.
Mayne I.
Saturna I.
Pender I.
SaltSpring I.
Hornby I.
Denman I.
Nigei I.
ColvertIsland
Port Angeles
Neah Bay
Forks
Langford
West Vancouver
ColwoodSookeJordan River
Port Renfrew
DuncanLake Cowichan
Chemainus
Ladysmith
AgassizParksville
Qualicum BeachGibsons
SecheltFanny Bay
Halfmoon Bay
Union BayBritannia Beach
Earls Cove
Comox
SquamishBrackendale
Boston BarLund
Tofino
Cumberland
Gold River
Black Creek
Tahsis
Zeballos
Lytton
Pemberton
Spences Bridge
Lillooet
Cache Creek
Clinton
Bloedel
Sayward
Port Alice
Courtenay
Port Neville
Port McNeill
Coal Harbour
Port Hardy
Wadhams
Rivers Inlet
Whistler
View Royal
Saltery Bay
Harrison Hot Springs
Holberg
Metchosin
Cobble Hill
Anacortes
Crofton
Honeymoon Bay
DeltaTsawwassen
Harrison MillsLantzville
Sproat Lake ErringtonCoombs
Egmont
Wilson Creek
Bamfield
Hot Springs Cove
Nootka
Merville
Woss
Fair Harbour
Jackson Bay RoyWinter Harbour
Kyuquot
Youbou
Telegraph Cove
Alert Bay
Nanoose Bay
Malahat
Mill Bay
Kingcome Inlet
Kildonan
Cowichan Bay
Brentwood Bay
Bowser
Ucluelet
Mount Vernon
via I5
Sidney
White Rock
AbbotsfordLangley
Port Alberni
Hope
Powell River
CampbellRiver
Everett
SurreyChilliwackNanaimo
Port Coquitlam
North Vancouver
Richmond
BurnabyVancouver
To Seattle�
VictoriaMain HighwayPaved RoadGravel RoadCar & Passenger FerryPassenger-Only FerryAirportPark
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
Legend
Whitehorse
Ottawa
Yellowknife
United States
Canada
Mexico
Hudson Bay
Gulf Of Mexico
Caribbean Sea
ArcticOcean
PacificOcean
AtlanticOcean
VancouverVictoria
YellowknifeWhitehorse
SeattlePortland
Edmonton
Regina
Iqaluit
Winnipeg
Detroit
TorontoOttawa
Montreal
Boston
New YorkWashington D.C.
St. John’s
HalifaxFredericton
Charlottetown
Chicago
Minneapolis
San Francisco
Los Angeles Phoenix
Anchorage
Dallas Atlanta
Mexico City
Havana
San José PanamaSan Salvador
BritishColumbia
VancouverIsland
ALASKA
Alberta
Manitoba
OntarioQuebec
Newfoundland
NorthwestTerritories Nunavut
YukonTerritories
HondurasNicaragua
Cuba
Saskatchewan
Denver
Guatemala
USA
NorthAmerica
vancouver Island
Travel TraDe Planner 23
20
99
3
101
17
1
19
1
101 2
19
19
19
7
14
28
28
19A
19A
19
19
19
1
4
101
1
1
1
1
97
97
5
1
1A
101
101
5
5
5
99
99
1
7
5
Golden EarsProvincial Park
GaribaldiProvincial Park
Birkenhead LakeProvincial Park
StrathconaProvincial Park
Mt. Washington
Mt. Cain
Schoen LakeProvincial Park
Cape ScottProvincial Park
Brooks PeninsulaProvincial Park
TweedsmuirProvincial Park
ManningProvincial
Park
Carmanah-Walbran Pacific Park
Pacific Rim National ParkWest Coast Trail
Juan De Fuca Marine Trail
Skagit
Skagit
Fraser
Fraser
Fraser
Chilcontin
Thompson
Washington StateUSA
British Columbia
Vancouver Island
QueenCharlot te
Sound
Queen Charlot te Strai t
Strai t of Georgia
Pacific Ocean
Juan de Fuca Strait
Cowichan Lake
Nitinat Lake
Great Central Lake
Buttle Lake
Long Beach
Quatsino Sound
Kyuquot Sound
Nootka Sound
Barkley Sound
Sproat Lake
Kennedy Lake
Puget Sd.
Goose Bay
Cox I.Lace I.
Malcolm I.
Broughton I.
Gilford I.
Turnour I.
Hardwicke I.W.Thurlow I.
Thurlow I.
Sonora I.
Maurelle I.
Quadra I.
Cortes I.
Hernando I.
Lasqueti I.
Texada I.
Gabriola I.
Meares I.Vargas I.
Flores I.
Nootka I.
Valdes I.
Galiano I.
San Juan I.Lopez I.
Shaw I.
To Seattle
Orcas I.Lummi I.
Guemes I.
Mayne I.
Saturna I.
Pender I.
SaltSpring I.
Hornby I.
Denman I.
Nigei I.
ColvertIsland
Port Angeles
Neah Bay
Forks
Langford
West Vancouver
ColwoodSookeJordan River
Port Renfrew
DuncanLake Cowichan
Chemainus
Ladysmith
AgassizParksville
Qualicum BeachGibsons
SecheltFanny Bay
Halfmoon Bay
Union BayBritannia Beach
Earls Cove
Comox
SquamishBrackendale
Boston BarLund
Tofino
Cumberland
Gold River
Black Creek
Tahsis
Zeballos
Lytton
Pemberton
Spences Bridge
Lillooet
Cache Creek
Clinton
Bloedel
Sayward
Port Alice
Courtenay
Port Neville
Port McNeill
Coal Harbour
Port Hardy
Wadhams
Rivers Inlet
Whistler
View Royal
Saltery Bay
Harrison Hot Springs
Holberg
Metchosin
Cobble Hill
Anacortes
Crofton
Honeymoon Bay
DeltaTsawwassen
Harrison MillsLantzville
Sproat Lake ErringtonCoombs
Egmont
Wilson Creek
Bamfield
Hot Springs Cove
Nootka
Merville
Woss
Fair Harbour
Jackson Bay RoyWinter Harbour
Kyuquot
Youbou
Telegraph Cove
Alert Bay
Nanoose Bay
Malahat
Mill Bay
Kingcome Inlet
Kildonan
Cowichan Bay
Brentwood Bay
Bowser
Ucluelet
Mount Vernon
via I5
Sidney
White Rock
AbbotsfordLangley
Port Alberni
Hope
Powell River
CampbellRiver
Everett
SurreyChilliwackNanaimo
Port Coquitlam
North Vancouver
Richmond
BurnabyVancouver
To Seattle�
VictoriaMain HighwayPaved RoadGravel RoadCar & Passenger FerryPassenger-Only FerryAirportPark
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
Legend
Whitehorse
Ottawa
Yellowknife
United States
Canada
Mexico
Hudson Bay
Gulf Of Mexico
Caribbean Sea
ArcticOcean
PacificOcean
AtlanticOcean
VancouverVictoria
YellowknifeWhitehorse
SeattlePortland
Edmonton
Regina
Iqaluit
Winnipeg
Detroit
TorontoOttawa
Montreal
Boston
New YorkWashington D.C.
St. John’s
HalifaxFredericton
Charlottetown
Chicago
Minneapolis
San Francisco
Los Angeles Phoenix
Anchorage
Dallas Atlanta
Mexico City
Havana
San José PanamaSan Salvador
BritishColumbia
VancouverIsland
ALASKA
Alberta
Manitoba
OntarioQuebec
Newfoundland
NorthwestTerritories Nunavut
YukonTerritories
HondurasNicaragua
Cuba
Saskatchewan
Denver
Guatemala
USA
NorthAmerica
24 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
exeCuTIve HOuSe HOTelcapacity: 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 1-800-663-7001email [email protected] executivehouse.com
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Queen vICTOrIa HOTEL & SUITEScapacity: 146 guest roomsThe 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 29Ptel 250-386-1312 toll Free 1-800-663-7007email [email protected] qvhotel.com
Travel TraDe Planner 25
CraIGDarrOCH CaSTlelocated 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 3C5tel 250-592-5323email [email protected] weB thecastle.ca
vIa raIl CanaDacapacity: 130vIa rail Canada operates trains year-round, coast- to-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 one-day 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
26 www.tourismvictoria.com/traveltrade
811 Government Street,victoria, BCtel 250-389-2229 toll Free 1-888-434-2229email [email protected] bigbusvictoria.com
BIG BuS vICTOrIa SIGHTSeeInGcity 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 fi ne 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!
eMBaSSY Inncapacity: 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 2H4tel 250-382-8161toll Free 1-800-268-8161weB embassyinn.ca
aBIGaIl’S HOTelcapacity: 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 fi replaces, soaker baths with robes, AC, fl at 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 3e7tel 250-388-5363 toll Free 1-800-561-6565weB abigailshotel.com
