VICTORIA
VICTORIA
#SIAinYYJ
Ahhh… Victoria. The capital of British Columbia, home to a lot of bunnies (sadly, now culled), retired folk and students. These were my thoughts exactly on this city. At most I would spend a few hours in the city - not much more than that - and peace it. The long ferry ride over didn’t exactly appeal to me as well as the sleepy hours but after a recent trip to the capital, I think my perspective may have shifted.
I can understand why Victoria gets a lot of visitors. Stationed right by the water, Victoria makes its own on the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island, near the San Juan Islands. Its close(wish) proximity to Vancouver, stunning parliamentary buildings and vast history make it a suitable day trip or overnighter. With COVID-19 still affecting all of us (in much higher rates than its initial impact in March), it has forced me to stay local, explore and really become acquainted with the beautiful province of BC.
I was able to resist Victoria a few weekends ago to recapture and pay a visit to the city. My friend, Hector, is from there and is recently in the process of relocating back so he was super helpful in recommending some great gems and spots. Between that and self-exploration, I was really surprised to find some breathtaking spots that I honestly can’t wait to return to on my next visit. That, along with a day trip out past Sooke all the way over to Port Renfrew made for a wonderful weekend stay that marks Victoria as a destination.
Where to stay in Victoria:
It’s all about location and there are a couple key places I like to stay out. For centrality, I loved staying at the Marriott Inner Harbour Victoria. It’s super central and is walking to distance to everything in the city. It is located right in the heart of downtown and steps away from major attractions. Mind you, it is an older building so keep in mind that the building itself and rooms are a little dated.
If you prefer something a little quieter but still central, I would also recommend staying at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Victoria Ocean Pointe Hotel which is just across the newly-renovated architectural masterpiece that is the Johnston Bridge. The hotel has boasts some of the best skyline views of the city and if even has a convenient harbour ferry stop right in front of the hotel.
Do you want a location that’s even further removed? Do you like golf? Then maybe you’ll prefer the cabin-chic Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa. It is far up on Bear Mountain but the views seriously cannot get any better. Stunning views of the golf course and excellent, private, by appointment only time slots may be booked at the small, yet intimate pool.
Getting around Victoria:
Seaplane - Traveling by Harbour Air is my most preferred method of traveling to Victoria. Planes depart from Coal Harbour in Vancouver over to downtown Victoria in 25 minutes. It’s the best way to travel and super convenient. It’s a great option if you’re like me and just want to pop into the capital for lunch and be home shortly after.
Ferry - Probably the most common way to get to Victoria is by taking the ferry. Make your way to Tsawassen Ferry Terminal and find a cosy spot in the ferry and chill out for a 90-minute ride. Tickets vary but hover around ~$100 each way. Make a reservation to avoid any disappointment or sailing waits.
Bus - I’ve also bussed to Victoria! Take a bus from Bridgeport Station in Richmond down to the ferry terminal in Tsawassen and purchase a ticket for a walk-on passenger. There are a couple of double-decker busses awaiting your arrival that travel right into the city.
Water taxis - Once in Victoria, using a water taxi to get a cross the harbour is actually pretty handy!
On foot - Victoria is an extremely walkable city. If you’re staying right in downtown, you won’t even need a car. Great if you took the bus or seaplane in!
What to see in Victoria:
BC Parliamentary Buildings and Legislative Assembly of BC - It’s a gorgeous building. Have a picnic outside. Roam around and take photos. Take a tour inside (currently suspended during COVID-19). Take a gander - it’s lovely.
The Fairmont Empress - Ever wondered what it’s like to feel like royalty? The Royals always stay at this iconic hotel. The bar menu is excellent and the world-famous afternoon tea is to die for! Tip: the afternoon tea is much cheaper in the off seasons than in the summer months!
Market Square - Probably one of my favourite touristy places in the city! A square surrounded by restaurants, boutique shops, a brewery, small eateries and knick-knack stores. Be sure to grab a pint at Whistler Buoy Brewing Co and some take out from Ayo Eat hiding in the corner upstairs!
Fisherman’s Wharf - A little bit of a walk from downtown but a fun spot to walk around and snack on some fish and chips! I also love walking by all of the cute houseboats in the neighbourhood on the water.
Bastion Square - A little side street which opens up to a square surrounded by restaurants and nightlife. They often host artisan markets here on the weekends - a great place to find some locally-made finds!
Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley - The oldest Chinatown in Canada and home to the narrowest alley in the world - Fan Tan Alley! I love photographing around here. It’s small but the old doors are a treat to look at. Chinatown is also home to a lot of niche stores and boutiques. Highly recommend stopping at Kid Sister for artisan ice cream and Don Mee for old school push-cart dim sum!
Beacon Hill Park - A park that’s full of…peacocks!? I kid you not - it is literally filled with gorgeous peacocks. It’s also home to one of the tallest totem poles in the world as well!
The Breakwater - I never knew this place existed until I walked by it! Walk out by the lighthouse and take in the sea. This spot is popular for diving - you’ll see people walking along the rocks down by the water.
Hatley Castle - A gorgeous castle that’s the new home of…a university? Yes, that and you may have recognized it as it is a popular filming spot for shows and box office hits such as Smallville and X-Men. Highly recommend taking a walk in the castle’s gardens - stunning.
Holland Point Park - Stunning cliffside park that reminisces that of the California coast! There are lots of stairwells to make it down to the beach and to climb around and roam along the periphery of the cliff. Beautiful to catch a sunset here whether or not you’re at the top of the cliff or down by the beach. Breathtaking.
Chinese Cemetery - A cemetery may seem like an odd place to go but it is absolutely peaceful here. It extends out onto the rocks and down by the ocean. A great place to reflect or walk your dog.
What to eat in Victoria:
Red Fish, Blue Fish - Probably the best fish and chips I’ve had in my life! Get the halibut fish ‘n chips with the spot prawn mayo - you won’t be disappointed. But get there early as lines are insane nowadays!
10 Acres - Great comfort food, drinks and in a cozy setting.
Wind Cries Mary - Excellent cocktails and food in an intimately dark room. Try and get a table in the back outdoor patio if you can!
Kid Sister - Artisan ice cream right in the heart of Chinatown’s narrowest alley. Flavours rotate on a seasonal basis.
ReBar Modern Food - Vegetarian food meets comfort food. Everything is good here. Get it.
Ayo Eat - An Indonesian food stall in the corner of Market Square? Yes, please. It’s not the best Indonesian food I’ve had but it’s probably the only option here in Victoria if you have a craving!
Wannawaffel - I think this was featured on Dragon’s Den ages ago. Belgian waffles, anyone? Need I say more?
Menbow Ramen Bar - A pretty legitimate ramen shop right in the heart of downtown Victoria.
Pho Tru - Actually right beside Menbow Ramen Bar. Pretty good pho for Victoria! Recommend.
Heron Rock Bistro - All comfort food classics here. Entrees are served up quickly and are large. Friendly and warm service. Get the poutine.
Don Mee - Push cart dim sum, FTW!
Blue Fox Cafe - Victorians love to brunch and this is one of their most famous places. Honestly, anything is good here. Line up early to avoid disappointment!
Where to drink in Victoria:
Clive’s Classic Lounge
Q Bar at the Fairmont Empress
Wind Cries Mary
Whistle Buoy Brewing Co
Lighthouse Brewing
Once viewed as a sleepy day trip, my eyes have opened up and now I see Victoria in a new light. It is a great city full of wonderful eateries and sightseeing attractions. Until next time!