Often called more 'British than Britain' Victoria is a beautiful example of British influence in Canada. Afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel is the very epitome of British culture on the island. Lying on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it is an hour or two ferry trip from either Port Angeles, Washington or from Vancouver, BC. Victoria's location allows it to enjoy milder weather than the mainland due to the warm current of the San Juan Straight.
   Because of this milder weather, beautiful flower baskets hang from the street lights throughout town and every home has a flower garden.

   One of Victoria's more famous attractions is the lovely Butchart Gardens. Formerly a rock quarry and home of the quarry owner, the gardens are too beautiful for words. Divided into themed areas, there is the sunken garden, Japanese gareden, Italian, etc. Don't forget to rub the bronze boar's snout for good luck as you leave!

   Victoria is also the seat of government for the province of British Columbia. It's Parliament building sits facing Victoria's glittering harbour. Also in the immediate vicinity is Thunderbird Park with authentic Totem poles, lodge houses and carvings of local tribes. Victoria hosts a fantastic museum of natural history across the street from Thunderbird Park.