Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Victoria July 5 – July 6

Victoria is a very nice city…that seems like a small town. There are no sky scraper buildings…or buildings that are higher that 4-5 stories I’d imagine. My wife and I covered most of the major “attractions” within the 2 days we were there. What makes Victoria beautiful and worth a short visit is it’s location by a bay and water front views. I’d recommend spending no more than 2 days here to enjoy the sites and take time to relax along the many water-fronts in the inner and outer bays. However, I think after a few days, visitors may find themselves asking “what’s next?”

Where to Stay
Unlike most cities, it’s easiest and most economical to stay just outside of the city. The city is so small that “getting out of town” is a 15 minute drive. I recommend searching Trip Advisor for a bed and breakfast outside of town along a water front. Dee Dee found the Bay and Harbour Havens. The property is one street back from the water and sits on a hill with fantastic views of the harbor. The hosts, Maggie and Nick are FANTASTICS and very forthcoming people who are eager to help tourists make the most out of a visit. Nick is a great cook and is innovative in his breakfast creations. Their hospitality made Dee Dee and I feel at home and welcome.

What to Do

THE attraction here is Butchart Gardens are 15 minutes outside the city. Now as a dude, the thought of visiting a gardens sounds like something my mother would love to do…and it is and she has by the way. However, these gardens are amazing. Dudes, just go….trust me…your jaw will drop with how well laid out and maintained these gardens are…and how colorful the flowers are. I that felt like I was visiting a movie set where the set designer made everything look perfect for the morning shoot. Yes, I know…maybe I should have my “man-card” revoked, but this place is magical and well worth the visit.

The big Travels with Sunny D tip is to either go right when the park opens..or anytime after 4:00pm. Both times enable visitors to avoid the large tour busses with droves of passengers and enjoy the many gardens at a leisurely place. If you are up to it, consider having dinner at the main house in the later evening..or enjoy an ice cream cone in the Italian garden.

The second high light is to have tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel and enjoy the great views of the inner harbor. This hotel is one of the oldest buildings in the city and is Victoria’s cultural lifeline to their mother ship, England and The Queen (not the rock band, but Queen Lizy). Be sure to make reservations roughly a week in advance of your visit for this is a major stop for the tourist buses. Consider making reservations anytime after 4:00pm when most of the tour bus crowd has left.

Now, regarding the “man-card,” it appears in any country affiliated with The Crown, civilized dudes must enjoy tea in the afternoon. So, there is no need to fear having the card revoked. If anything, you may get the card stamped by the distinguished wait staff. The tea experience is very traditional and what one would receive in England; finger sandwiches, scones, chocolates and a selection of their many teas. Be warned that tea comes at a distinguished price as well…like $60 each. However, the waiter will send you home with a can of tea as a thank you gift for your patronage…and to make the bite seem less painful.

The final attraction is really the city itself. Visit the tourist center near the Empress Hotel to get a walking map of the city. The map outlines walks that take you through the various districts of the city. Each walk is a few miles…and it’s possible to do all of them in a day. I’d recommend skipping the Beacon Hill Park walk…it’s a nice park, but Golden Gate Park is far nicer and the beach front area is very similar to Half Moon Bay. Yawn. The walk from the visitor’s center to fisherman’s wharf is really nice…and the wharf area is nice too. Just enjoy the leisurely walk and suck up the sun and laid back atmosphere.

Where to Eat
Brentwood Bay Pub
Hit this restaurant for a late lunch before visiting Bouchart Gardens. The pub is 5 minutes from the gardens and 15 minutes outside of Victoria. The restaurant has a great lunch menu, good beer and great harbor views. My wife thought the wait staff was the hottest that she’s seen in a long time. Hey, whatever keeps he wife happy.

Café Brio
This place is about a 15 minute walk from the water front and well worth the effort to find. The restaurant is very good…with a great list of Canadian wines to choose from. Several people recommended this place (even fellow Yelpers) to me and I’m glad we visited. Be sure to put this restaurant on your list.

The Fairmont Empress Hotel
High tea at The Empress is a meal in and of itself…for reals. Go to high tea hungry…and this can function as a $60 a person lunch.