Should petting bugs and goats not be to your liking, head to the great outdoors. According to Statistics Canada, Victoria is Canada’s Fittest City. Golfers love the ocean-side golf with its spectacular views. For those who enjoy walking or biking, check out the old train track trail called the Galloping Goose which runs from Sooke to Sydney, and offers some spectacular ocean views. The trail is mostly level, so it’s great for all ages and abilities for walking or cycling. Whale watching and hiking the West Coast Trail are two other very popular attractions. If you prefer, rent a kayak and explore the Inner Harbour from the ocean.
For some, shopping is the only adventure they seek. You can check out the latest and greatest in fashion on one street, while just a few blocks away the antique shops beckon.
Christman loves poking around Victoria’s Chinatown, the oldest in Canada. “There are so many novelty places and little grocery stores and of course great Chinese food. My kids love it because of the way it is laid out; it’s like a maze of stores connected together.”
Chinatown’s Fan Tan Alley, only 90cm wide at one point, is North America’s narrowest street. It once had a notorious reputation because of the
Victoria’s China Town SPRING 2011 | 17
gambling houses and opium dens; but today offers shops and restaurants for locals and tourists alike.
Jo-Anne Wiswell moved to Vancouver Island from Alberta over 25 years ago. She loves the caliber and variety of food here. “You can find any type of food you want by walking a five block area of downtown Victoria. Some of the
restaurants may not look like it, but they have the most amazing dishes you’ll ever eat.”
Vancouver Island is a seafood lover’s paradise. There are several local farms that supply fresh, seasonal ingredients to delight the gourmet in all of us. There are also local wines, created in several of the micro-climates on the island.
Deddeda Stemler/Tourism Victoria
The Fairmont Empress and Parliament Buildings
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