Victoria, B.C. Imparts
Spring Felicity
Travel Excursion
Victoria BC, Empress Hotel, Photo By Patrice Raplee
By
Patrice Raplee
Victoria, B.C.’s “More English than the English” is
a pertinent aphorism. The once British Colony draws visitors from around
the globe who wish to immerse themselves in an English atmosphere.
High tea in exquisite hotels, horse-drawn carriages that traverse the
bay at sunset, Victorian houses, double-decker bus tours, Craigdarroch
Castle and rolling green parks are among the numerous attractions of
this lovely, peaceful and felicitous city. Indeed the residents are
friendly, patient and accustomed to the constant tourist engagement
that marks three seasons.
The best time of year to visit Victoria is in late spring and summer
when the flora is sweet and in full bloom. However, planning your trip
for the first two weeks in May will generally afford travelers less
expensive off-season accommodation rates, not to mention less crowding.
Downtown Victoria sits at the tip of a beautiful inner harbor lined
with sailing ships. Directly opposite the harbor is the magnificent,
ivy-fronted Empress Hotel; celebrated for its historic architecture
and superb high tea. The Royal British Museum, located one block from
the Empress, is a fascinating museum to tour and regularly features
world-class exhibits. March 13th ushered in the new exhibit, Dragon
Bones When Dinosaurs Ruled China.
A stroll up Government Street brings visitors into the heart of the
downtown area with famous shops such as Roger’s Chocolates, Murchie’s
Tea and Coffee, Eaton’s Center and numerous European boutiques
that proffer items ranging from fine Irish knit sweaters to plaid tartans.
Fabulous and diverse ethnic restaurants and luscious bakeries from
French to Dutch are found at every turn. Try the La Patisserie on Fort
Street; definitely one of Victoria’s elite gourmet bakeries.
When you have had enough of shopping and are feeling drowsy from a
sumptuous meal, meander through Beacon Hill Park just a few blocks
away from the Royal British Museum. Grassy knolls lay tranquilly around
lily-pad ponds and rose arbors scent the warm afternoon air. Old English-style
stone bridges and the sun peaking out from behind weepy willows cast
a fairytale setting perfect for an afternoon nap or leisurely walk.
Victoria has so many attractions that several full days are required
just to scratch the surface. One of the biggest attractions is the
amazingly beautiful Butchart Gardens. Fifty-five acres of floral splendor
wind visitors through pathways of themed garden realms. Almost 100
years old, Butchart Gardens is the supreme enchantment for flora enthusiasts.
Bed and Breakfasts are abundant on Vancouver Island, each with a different
motif and appeal. One B&B with exceptional charm and value is the
Postern Gate Inn. Centrally located and just a few minutes walk from
downtown Victoria, the Postern Gate is the old groom’s cottage
for Craigdarroch Castle. The Inn is fashioned with English overtones
and each of the suites offers different amenities such as kitchenettes,
Jacuzzi tubs and a lovely private garden. Christine Peterson, the proprietor
of the Inn, is a warm and gentle lady who welcomes guests with an ease
and contentment that visitors find relaxing and appealing. For additional
information go to http://www.posterngateinn.com
Although Victoria is on Vancouver Island, there are several options
for transportation. The Washington State ferries leave from Port Angeles,
Anacortes and Bellingham. There are also ferries that leave from Twaasen,
B.C., located about three hours north of Seattle.
The Victoria Clipper leaves from Seattle’s Pier 69
and will whisk visitors to Victoria Harbor on a high-speed catamaran.
Seaplanes from
Seattle’s Lake Union are a visually exciting and expedient way
to arrive in Victoria Harbor. And of course, any major international
airport provides regular service to Sydney, about 45 minutes north
of the Victoria. For additional information, go to:
Washington State
Ferries, http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries Victoria Clipper, http://www.victoriaclipper.com
Seattle Seaplanes,
http://www.seattleseaplanes.com
For additional information on Victoria, B.C. go to http://www.city.victoria.bc.ca/common/index.shtml
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