British Columbia History

Victoria Express is the fastest ferry to get here; no cars allowed so you can make the trip in less than half the time it takes one of the larger ferries. It also docks in Victoria's Inner Harbour, just a few blocks from the restaurants and shops of downtown. I recommend the Brazilian restaurant just across the street from the Customs building you go through at the Inner Harbour (all martinis are standard 3 oz. and the deep-fried cheesecake is to die for); also, farther downtown on Government Street, there is a fantastic Irish pub where you can wash down a lamb burger with a pint of Guinness from the tap. You won't need a car to get around Victoria; I've backpacked and walked each of the 4 times I've visited. Taxis and rental scooters and bikes are abundant. If you plan on staying overnight, though, I recommend making reservations ahead of time, as the hotels here fill up rather quickly. Within walking distance of the harbor there are several museums, lots of shopping including a mall with a liquor store, and so much history evident in the gorgeous architecture. Taxis are available if you wish to venture out a bit farther to visit the famed Butchart Gardens (which, during the summer, have a fireworks show every Saturday) and Craigdarroch Castle.

A small town with interesting history on the tip of Vancouver Island. A must see.

On the way into the Rockies from Vancouver. Freindly place and a good town to visit on Canada Day. Historic railhead town figures in the history books as a key place where major rivers meet.

The Natural History Museum is spectacular. I've never seen another one like it. It puts you in the environment with sights, sounds, etc. It has some fun traditional pubs too.

A great day trip if you're in Seattle. Take a ferry ride across the border and step into Canada! There's plenty of old-world history mixed in with new-world charm. Take a tour of the city or one of its surrounding attractions. Check out the expensive chandelier in McDonald's and brave a walk down the narrowest street in the city. Before you end your day, stop in and have a drink at one of the many local pubs.