Best Western Plus
Inner Harbour Hotel
Victoria

You can have it all... a great
hotel in Victoria's best location!



http://www.victoriabestwestern.com

Best Western Plus Inner Harbour Hotel - Blog

March
17

Victoria has been known to have one of the mildest winter climates in entire Canada. With this in mind, a lot of people assume they need to drive up to Mount Washington and other ski resorts to go cross-country skiing. While it is true that Mount Washington boasts well-groomed trails, there are actually a lot of places that feature sufficient layers of snow for those adventurous enough to explore new trails.

Although adequate snow is never guaranteed in particular areas, a visit during winter season, you can enjoy a fine dusting of snow on the Sooke Hills from Victoria. Certain parts of these areas are only open during weekends so make sure to conduct necessary checks. To help you with your plans, here are some information of the wonderful ski trails you can try out:

Cooper Canyon

This particular trail can be found on the northern section of the Cowichan Valley. Please note that the access to this area is only available for skiers during weekends. The trail starts at the gate at its main entrance with a charge of $2 per vehicle fee. Following the road, it will lead you right to Mt. Brenton, Silver Lake Road as well as along the Rheinhart Lake as well as other equally wonderful potential skiing venues. Snow has been known to be exceptionally heavy on higher elevations during the early parts of December up until late March.

Deerholme/Glenora

You will find skiing area here along the Timber West logging roads. Similar with other ski venues, the access to this trail is only available during weekends. There is also a gate on the main entrance, with the same fee of $ 2 per vehicle.

Kludahk Trail

This is another active logging area, where access is through the Jordan River trailhead, which can only be used during the weekends. Check out San Juan Ridge, as it has been known to collect considerable layer of snow during the winter season. Another route to access the area is through the Jordan Ridge.

Accommodations

If you are planning for a fun-filled weekend of skiing around Victoria, be sure to book your accommodations ahead of time. There are a number of wonderful Vancouver Island hotels in this area, including our sponsor, BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour:

BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour

412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia V8V 1W5

Phone: 250/384-5122 | Fax: 250/384-5113

If you want to ensure a comfortable stay on a location that provides easy access to a number of famous Vancouver Island attractions, then consider booking at BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour. Whether you are traveling with your friends, family, or alone on a business trip, this hotel can provide you all the necessary amenities you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Enjoy a well-appointed room with a wonderful balcony view. All rooms come with microwave ovens, in-room movies, fridge, as well as free Internet access. Along with the modern convenience, the hotel is also equipped with luxurious amenities such as an indoor whirlpool, heated pool, steam room and a sauna to ensure you can enjoy a relaxing stay. All hotel staff is also well trained to provide efficient 24-hour service. With reasonable rates and first-class accommodations, BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour offers you a safe haven in Victoria.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

Did you know that the Victoria Harbour Ferry is actually on its 20th year of performing the water ballet? This is one of those spectacular Vancouver Island tourist attractions that’s best witnessed up close and personal. The 20-minute ballet show started way back in the year 1993, designed to entertain locals and guests and showcase the dexterity of the little pickle boats as they maneuver their way above the waters of Inner Harbour with impressive synchronized precision. It later on became a famous icon of the city, which can be found alongside the Parliament buildings and Causeway – another two popular attractions.

Captivating Ballet Performance on Water

If you want to catch the show, it promptly starts at 10:45 AM every Sunday all throughout the months of May to September. Watching the performance up close is quite fascinating and definitely a unique experience for both the young and the old. The exceptional maneuverability of the boats are impressive to watch, all moving in harmony to the music of Blue Danube Waltz. The movements of the dancing Vancouver Island ferry boats are complex and certainly not something anyone have seen performed on the waters before. Under the capable direction of the Harbour Ferry captains, the nimble ‘water ballerinas’ has become such a huge hit among traveling guests since its debut and have been featured several times by foreign magazines and TV shows over the years.

There are usually 5 boats in a single performance, and the steps have certainly grown remarkably more complex through the years. What started out as a 10-minute performance is now stretched to 20 minutes, much to the delight of the onlookers who gather every Sunday just to witness the magnificent performance. It showcases a wonderful combination of military march movements and intricate ballet choreography that could only be under the guidance of a professional ballet instructor. By the way, this is a free performance designed to simply entertain and captivate the audience, which never fails to evoke such uplifting impact all around.

Whether, you are visiting Victoria for its stunning legislature buildings, whale watching adventures or for a simple weekend of sightseeing, make sure to drop by and enjoy the water ballet show every Sundays.  It’s a memorable addition to any cheap family vacations.
Contact Details
Victoria Harbour Ferry Tours

1234-N Wharf Street Victoria, BC V8W 3H9, Canada
Phone: 250-708-0201

Website: www.victoriaharbourferry.com 

Getting to Victoria

 You will be surprised to know that among the great highlights of Vancouver Island getaways actually includes the trip to getting there. If you are traveling by land, you will be regaled by the majestic views of the land, giving you an enthralling preview of what to expect.

By Ferry

 This is the popular mode of transportation for both tourists and locals. Enjoy a leisurely mini-cruise with a scenic view of its raw coastal beauty. 

• If you are traveling from Vancouver to Victoria, you can take the 2-hour boat ride via

• If you’re from Seattle, you can travel via the Washington State Ferry , which is another 2-hour scenic boat ride.
 • From Port Angeles, it’s a short 45-minute trip via Coho Ferry, which offers a number of regular scheduled trips on a daily basis.

By Air

• From Vancouver to Victoria, it’s a short 25-minute plane ride.

• From Seattle to Victoria, it’s a 45-munite ride.

 
Vancouver Island Accommodations

When planning best family vacations, there are a lot of options you can consider when it comes to the choice of premium quality Vancouver Island hotels, including our sponsor, BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour:

BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia V8V 1W5
Phone: 250/384-5122 | Fax: 250/384-5113

Whether is a short weekend stay with the whole family, or a week-long adventure with your loved one, Inner Harbour is the perfect haven for your vacation.

Stay at one of the strategically located hotels in the area, giving you easy access to the great tourist attractions of Inner Harbour and Downtown Victoria. In fact, BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour is just a short walk away from some of the major attractions are well as the string of finest restaurants, oceanside paths and shops. A night stay includes a complimentary continental breakfast as well as free use of safe and secured parking space.

All guest rooms of BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour are beautifully adorned, with careful thought and attention put in every interior detail to give guests the perfect combination of luxurious comfort and state of the art modern conveniences. Had a tiring day? Relax at the outdoor seasonal heated spa, or the indoor whirlpool, steam room and sauna. The hotel is committed to providing almost all the imaginable convenience at reasonable rates.

If you are traveling on a business trip, you will find BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour capable to catering to your requirements. It houses a conference centre and a meeting room so you can conduct your business while on a vacation.

All staff members are proficiently trained to attend to your every need and ready to provide you assistance 24 hours a day to ensure a pleasurable stay. Go ahead and make a reservation today.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

March
13

Unleash It at WildPlay Element Parks in West Shore Victoria

A 15-minute drive from downtown Victoria will take you to one of Vancouver Island’s most popular adventure park and tourist attractions. People have explored the outdoors and put their courage to the test in order to break the barrier of self-perceived limits. What am I talking about? It’s the ultimate adventure destination for people ages seven and older – WildPlay Element Parks.

If you have grown tired of weekend getaways spent lazing by the beach, and are looking for some exhilarating action, WildPlay West Shore Victoria offers an exciting way to entertain yourself and guests with an outdoor challenge for the young and old. For fun family vacations, weekend getaways or birthday celebrations, their Monkido® Aerial Adventure is an ideal activity for real action and fun memories.

Climb from tree to tree, soar across zip lines, and conquer a series of suspended obstacles! The West Shore Victoria Park presents fun and progressively challenging suspended games that will test the mettle of adventure seekers. Playing on the ever-popular Monkido® Kids, Buddy or Classic courses ignites primal screams of laughter. Guests bring out the monkey at heart while push their limits by traversing increasingly-higher and more challenging zip lines and suspended games. Based on the concept of "monkey see, monkey do", guests move at their own pace to conquer tightropes, missing plank bridges, swinging logs; soar on ziplines; climb on cargo nets, ascend tree ladders, and more - six to 60 feet (2-18m) above ground! Spend a full day unleashing your primal self.

Note: Access requirements and waivers apply to WildPlay Elements. Full details and descriptions are available at www.WildPlay.com

To start planning that adventure family vacations, contact WildPlay Element Parks:

WildPlay Element Parks, West Shore Victoria

15-1767 Island Highway, Victoria, BC V9B 1J1

Phone: 250-590-7529

Fax: 250-590-7673

Toll-free: 1-888-856-7275

For even more thrilling adventures WildPlay’s Nanaimo Park also offers (in addition to unique Monkido® courses):

150′ Bungy Jump

Want to try something new and conquer your fear? This adventure definitely earns some bragging rights! Savor the adrenalin rush as you leap off from the bungy bridge and into the Nanaimo River Canyon, wearing an ankle safety harness of course. Make sure to ask your friends to capture every second of your big leap. If you prefer to have a peer support, tandem jumps are also available. Bungy Jumping is something every adrenalin junkie should try.

Canyon Zip

If flying is more your thing, zip above the Nanaimo River and enjoy the breathtaking view below. Spanning the canyon, and under the Bungy Bridge, the Canyon Zip Element offers a memorable ride. To start your adventure, all you need to do is to show up and complete the demo. You’ll be gliding through the air within an hour or less. Professional and experienced guides will assist you all the way.

King Swing

One is never too old to let loose and have fun. Lots of “big kids” experience a wonderful time in the “sling-shot”-esque swing. G-force speeds whip brave riders from the Bungy Bridge into a wide pendulum arc through the Nanaimo River Canyon. If you seek some real thrills, this is the perfect activity to find your kid at heart.

To start planning that adventure family vacations, below is the full contact details of WildPlay Element Parks:

WildPlay West Shore Victoria
15-1767 Island Highway, Victoria, BC   V9B 1J1
Phone: 250-590-7529
Fax: 250-590-7673
Toll-free: 1-888-856-7275

Getting to Victoria

Because Victoria is situated on an island, there are a number of transportation options you can consider getting there. Among the most common means can be either via a ferry of plane.

By Ferry 

• Coho Perry takes off from Port Angeles to Victoria. Enjoy a 45-minute mini-cruise.

• Victoria Clipper takes off from Seattle right for a 3-hour ride to the heart of downtown Victoria.

• You can also opt to take the 2-hour ride via the Washington State Ferry from Seattle to Victoria.

By Air

•  A plane ride from Vancouver to Victoria will take 25 minutes.

• If you are starting off from Seattle, it’s a 45-minute plane ride to Victoria.

Accommodations

If you are planning that weekend adventure, don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance. There are a number of world-class hotels available in the area, including one of our sponsors, BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour:

BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia V8V 1W5
Phone: 250/384-5122 | Fax: 250/384-5113

If you are looking forward to a comfortable stay, with a location that gives you easy access to all the popular Vancouver Island attractions, BEST WESTERN PLUS Inner Harbour presents an ideal choice. Whether you are traveling alone or with a large group, the hotel offers a safe refuge with all the modern convenience you can expect from a premium quality accommodation.

Enjoy spacious guest rooms with a nice view from your private balcony, complete with microwave, a fridge, in-room movies and Wi-Fi Internet access. The hotel also offers luxurious amenities such as heated pools, indoor whirlpool, steam room and a sauna so you can relax and unwind after a day of adventure. The hotel staff is ready to provide you 24-hour assistance to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

March
11
The Royal BC Museum is located in downtown Victoria, BC on Vancouver Island. It is centrally located near the BC Parliament Buildings, the Inner Harbour and the Empress Hotel. The Museum has a collection of more than seven million unique objects and documents which makes every visit a new experience. The price of admission is reasonable and tours are available.

Royal BC Museum Exhibits

The Museum draws exhibits from all around the world. In recent times, these included exhibits on Egyptian artifacts, Genghis Khan, the Titanic, and Leonardo da Vinci.
The permanent displays with three-dimensional reproductions depict the stories of the early miners, the First Nations people, the gold miners, the logging industry and west coast history.
There are cave-like rooms that connect the different galleries within the stone walls of the museum that present the early life in British Columbia and the wildlife of this rugged rain forest wilderness.

Natural History Gallery

On the second floor is the Natural History Gallery which depicts the scenery and forests through the eyes of the wildlife, waterways and forests. At the entrance there is a massive Woolly Mammoth. There are three-dimensional displays on Ice age mammals and well as a Grizzly Bear hunting for food.
The displays cover the rugged geography of the provide as well as a simulated ocean journey. Recently a section was added to cover information on climate change.

First Nations Gallery

The First Nations Gallery on the third floor features a long house, interactive displays and an excellent display of ceremonial masks, primarily from the Kwakwaka'wakw era. It does a great job displaying life before and after contact with the European settlers.

Modern Era History Gallery

On the third floor, the Modern Era History Gallery covers the period in British Columbia history when the Europeans arrived and latter the Chinese settlers. You pass through cobblestone street replica of Victoria with a hotel,  a silent movie theatre, a train station, vintage cars and even Chinatown
On display is model of the original Fort Victoria and the stern from the vessel HMS Discovery, the famous ship that Captain George Vancouver discovered Vancouver Island.
You can also view displays of the logging and mining tools and activities of these early west coast industries.

Travelling Exhibitions

The Museum also has travelling exhibitions. Running until December 2013 is the Aliens Among Us which educates visitors regarding the current threat to our natural environment by alien species. The exhibit will visit nine community museums throughout British Columbia.

History of The Royal BC Museum

Some say that Victoria is more British than England. The Royal British Columbia Museum is a human history and natural history museum that was founded in 1886. The "Royal" title was approved by Queen Elizabeth II and conferred by HRH Prince Philip in 1987 during a Royal tour to British Columbia. The Museum and the BC Provincial Archives merged in 2003.
The Museum exhibits convey a real story about the past, present and future of British Columbia. The archives are a treasure trove of documents and information about our history.
Complementing the three permanent galleries of the Museum is an IMAX theatre which shows educational films as well as Hollywood movies.

Contact info: Royal BC Museum

675 Belleville St, Victoria BC V8W 9W2
Tel: 250-356-7226  Toll free: 888-447-7977 Email: reception@royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Victoria Accommodations – Inner Harbour

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
Best Western Plus Inner Harbour - A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.
Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.
Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.
Contact info: Best Western Plus Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email: info@victoriabestwestern.com
Come and enjoy Victoria BC on Amazing Vancouver Island and please tell your friends.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

The grounds and the British Columbia Parliament buildings in Victoria are a major attraction on Vancouver Island. The buildings overlook the scenic Victoria Harbour and are considered by some to be an architectural gem and one of most magnificent capitals in the world.

At night the Parliament Buildings have beautifully lighting using over 3,000 bulbs. A great time to photograph the buildings.

The lush front lawns of the Parliament Buildings have also been utilized for concerts, celebrations and political protests.

BC Parliament Buildings History

The BC Parliament Buildings were designed by Francis Rattenbury, a 25 year old immigrant from the United Kingdom. The construction was completed in 1898 with a cost of just under $1 million - considered at the time to be outrageously expensive.  The impressive buildings definitely reflect the ties to England.

As is today, the construction of the buildings was done utilizing as much as possible local resources and supporting local businesses.  The Douglas Fir and brick was from Vancouver Island and the granite rock foundations came from nearby Nelson Island. The facades are from Haddington Island in northern Vancouver Island.

Rattenbury also designed the very impressive Empress Hotel, across the street from the BC Capital Legislature Buildings (Parliament Buildings), the the Crystal Gardens indoor swimming pool, and the Vancouver Court House (now home to the Vancouver Art Gallery).

BC Parliament Buildings Location

The BC Parliament Buildings and grounds are in the heart of downtown Victoria on Belleville Street.
The buildings are right on beautiful Victoria Inner Harbour which seems is the hub of activity for Victoria. In front of the Parliament buildings is a beautiful and large lawn and garden.

Across the street is a two-level walkway along the waterfront where you can view and all the comings and goings of a busy harbour - buskers (street performers), yachts, sailboats, whale-watching boats and the ferry to Washington state.

BC Legislature Buildings Victoria BC

BC Parliament Buildings Tours

You can tour the Parliament Buildings to learn about its construction, history and its current use as the capital of British Columbia.

Tours are available in several languages including: English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese, Norwegian and Swedish. During the tour you will learn about its design, history and the current day operating government building as the heart of the democratic administration of the province of British Columbia.

The tours are daily during the summer months between the May long weekend and Labour Day long weekend in September.
Reservations are recommended as the tour is popular amongst the some 3 million visitors to Victoria each year.

Contact info Legislative Tour Office

Legislative Tour Office
Phone: 250-387-3046
Email: tours@leg.bc.ca
Website: www.leg.bc.ca/info/2-2.htm

Victoria Accommodations – Inner Harbour

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:

A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.

Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.

Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.

Contact info: Best Western Plus Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email: info@victoriabestwestern.com

Come and enjoy Victoria BC on Vancouver Island and please tell your friends about us.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

From Government Street, stretching out to Chinatown, about 8 blocks away, you will find the primo shopping district of Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Kicking off the shopping right at Government Street, is The Bay Centre, which had been previously known as the Victoria Eaton Centre. It is the start point of the main shopping drag. From The Bay, the landmarks of the Harbour: The Royal BC Museum, the Provincial legislative Buildings, the Empress Hotel, Undersea Gardens, and more are in clear view and easily walkable.

The surrounding streets are often filled, with street musicians and vendors, as well as locals and tourists relaxing, enjoying a meal and enjoying the sights in between their ‘museum-ing’ and their ‘shopping’.  A must stop when you are visiting Vancouver Island.

The Stores of The Bay Centre

The Bay Centre offers world class and diverse shopping opportunities. The more tourist oriented stores will offer what is referred to as the ‘3M’s’, which are Moose, Mounties and Maple Syrup, in numerous different incarnations. You will find classic stores like the local Munro’s Books, and Roger’s Chocolates, which has 7 stores across Canada. You’ll also find chain stores like Aldos, Coles, Esprit, Guess, Crabtree & Evelyn and Payless, and Marble Slab, a ColdStone Creamery type ice cream emporium, filling the 4 floors of The Bay Centre.

The bright and airy feeling Mall has high glass ceilings which is part of its inviting nature and a glass elevator, which has been described as ‘rad’. With more than 90 shops, you can find a little of everything, including, Department stores, Electronic Stores, numerous Apparal and Footwear stores, Children’s stores, Jewelry and Specialty stores like Photography and Personal Care, as well as Restaurants, Cafes and also a Food Court. Underground parking is always convenient and its also free after 6 p.m.

The Guest Services Department believes in high quality service and will bend over backwards to be of help. This is a high quality shopping environment where you will find great brands, great food and great service.

For more information on The Bay Centre:

Victoria Accommodations – Inner Harbour

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.

Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.

Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.

Contact info: Best Western Plus Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email:
info@victoriabestwestern.com

Come and enjoy Vancouver Island and please tell your friends about us.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

When I first heard Roger’s Chocolates Mission Statement – To enrich people’s lives by creating cherished memories – one chocolate at a time! – I was touched.  First of all, I’m in favour of enriching peoples’ lives, by any means, and creating memories, but to be honest, it really is the ‘one chocolate at a time’ part that most piqued my interest. The more I’ve learned about this ‘yummy’ company, the more I can tell you, it’s pretty much a ‘Cocoa- Nirvana’.

Roger’s Humble Beginnings on Vancouver Island  

This Vancouver Island company is celebrating their 125th Anniversary this year. Created by Charles ‘Candy’ Rogers, in the back of his grocery store in 1885, just a short 6 years later he moved the chocolate company to 913 Government Street, into the very storefront they occupy today on the Inner Harbour. Government Street is a bustling and charming location, home to street performers, souvenir shops, and cafes, Munros’ Books, and fine restaurants.

Known as one of Canada’s premier chocolatiers, Roger’s Chocolates has expanded to include 7 retail stores, which include locations in Sidney, Oak Bay and Whistler, has merchandise carried by hundreds of outlets and ships orders worldwide.

Victoria’s Place for Chocolate, Chocolate and more Chocolate

Rogers’ offers a very full complement of chocolate treats: Milk, Dark, White Chocolates, Creams, Mints, Truffles, they Organic and no-Sugar Lines, Baking & Fondue and Dessert Sauces and more. They also celebrate Canada Day with maple flavored chocolate.

Don’t see exactly what you want to take home? You can pick and choose and Build Your Own Box of Chocolates. Need to find a special present? Try one of Rogers’ Gift Collections, maybe the Canadian Art Collection (a combo Art Souvenir as well as taste-treat). Looking for the perfect something for someone who works for you or a client?

Have a special occasion or event you’re planning? Orders both small and large are easily filled and the company seems to have a never ending pool of creativity when it comes to cocoa, including a monthly Tasting Club – I can hardly wait for the Hazelnut Creams in January.

Rogers Chocolates

 

Chocolate with a Conscience

Rogers’ Chocolates also seem to have a heart. They share Recipes for items like Fondue and Truffles. They advise on the care of Chocolate so that anything you don’t eat in the store can be stored and kept in their best condition for devouring at a later time.

Most impressively they lend support to numerous not-for-profit organizations with ‘in-kind’ chocolate donations, which helps raise money for worthwhile causes, in both the U.S. and Canada.  See all the good chocolate can do?

I think Rogers’ is a company that takes their Mission Statement to heart – and so do I – one chocolate at a time. Yuuuuummmmmmm!

To visit Roger’s Chocolates at Victoria’s Inner Harbour: http://www.rogerschocolates.com/stores.php#victoria

Inner Harbour Victoria Accommodations:

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.

Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.

Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.

Contact info: Best Western Plus Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email:
info@victoriabestwestern.com

Come and enjoy Vancouver Island and please tell your friends about us.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

There are numerous attractions filling Victoria’s Inner Harbour; museums, gardens, shops. I love this attraction because it has some of it all. It’s a museum and it’s a garden, and it has a gift shop.  It’s also underwater to boot: the Pacific Undersea Gardens: an interactive museum of marine animal life, which exists 15 feet under the surface of the Harbour. Located at the south west entrance of the Inner Harbour you board the vessel and find the Pacific Undersea Garden and marine animals swimming and playing in their natural environment.

There are numerous exhibits that are part of  Vancouver island’s Undersea Gardens, which showcases more than 5,000 different species of the marine life of British Columbia, which include Sea stars, Sea Anemones, Sea Urchins, Sea Cucumbers, various beautifully colored and shaped fish and crustaceans, as well as showing the life cycle of the salmon (complete with laying eggs and giving birth to their young). Wolf Eels and the largest Giant Pacific Octopus in the world, named Armstrong are also an important part of the undersea festivities, and I understand Armstrong is quite the star.

The sea animals live safely in aquariums which are attached to the Pacific Underwater Garden  vessel and are observed through large viewing windows.  I like to think they know we’re there and that they enjoy putting on a show for us. Speaking of which, there is an underwater theatre stage where a marine dive show runs all day with each of the kinds of sea creatures being featured, some by the human divers.

The underwater dive show runs about 20 minuutes.  You can tour the facility enjoying the views and the interactive areas as long as you like. There is a sea pool area, which is similar to a “petting zoo” for marine life and there’s also a seal pup rehabilitation tank.  One could rush through this exhibit in short order, but I think you might be shortchanging yourself and the exhibit.  On average, it takes about 60-90 minutes to really see and enjoy this attraction and to get to know the critters. Rescuing and rehabilitating seal pups is a project that the Pacific Undersea Gardens is deeply committed to and at first glance into the eyes of one of these sweet little creatures , one can understand why.

Clearly this is a great place to bring the whole family and after you go through the exhibits, you can hit the The Treasure Cove Gift Shop and pick up marine-related toys and souvenirs for the folks back home.

Anyone for petting a seal pup?

For more information on Pacific Undersea Gardens

http://www.pacificunderseagardens.com

Inner Harbour Victoria Accommodations:

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.

Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.

Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.

Contact info: Best Western Plus Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email:
info@victoriabestwestern.com

Come and enjoy Vancouver Island and please tell your friends about us.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

Located inside the landmark Fairmont Empress Hotel, seated royally at the entrance to the Victoria Inner Harbour, lives the magically-tiny Miniature World.

Filled with miniature dioramas (small scale models that create historical or fictional scenes for education and entertainment), doll houses, moving cars, and trains, pieces of history re-created, and fantasies come-to-life.

There are over eighty amazing dioramas all made beautifully with intricate details of each scene depicted. Vancouver island’s Miniature World is a great place to get to know more about Canada and it’s history as well as just have some fun and marvel at the amazing size, scope and quality.

 In the first exhibit, Space 2201, you’ll see space from the observation deck of a Starcruiser; peek out the portals, and check out the Astroidal Mining Base – don’t be surprised if a teeny-tiny miner hands you a pick to help out with the daily mining.

 Fields of Glory takes you to detailed depictions of some well-known battles, the Battle of Britain, WWII, and the battle for Canadian Independence are exemplary. From cannons to airplanes and tanks, horses to hand-guns, they impart the harsh reality of combat.

 The Canadian railroad history is a fabulous set up. Through the construction of the railroad across the country you really get a sense of the vastness and diversity of the terrain and sensibility of Canada. From Pacific coast Vancouver to Atlantic-side Halifax there are running trains.

 Experience miniature replicas of 12 of the most well-known European castles; Fantasy abounds with the Travels of Gulliver, Santa’s Castle and Snow White; Approximately 30 Doll-houses excite every little girl’s heart with the variety of dining at an exquisite dinner party, dancing at a ball, attending a church, and visiting an artist’s portrait studio, just for a start.

 With over 20,000 figures, flashing signs, and lighting that changes from day-to-night, Circus World, is a showpiece of the first order, where the Big Top comes to life, with clowns and elephants, horses and lots of animated rides. There are even buttons you can push and partake in making things move – very cool!

 Learn about logging, learn about London, Dickens, the Frontier life, and how to survive should you be shipwrecked like the Swiss Family Robinson as part of some of the other exhibits.

With such great detail and heart built into these teeny-tiny universes, you can’t help but learn as you enjoy the journey, making this a great trip for the kids of all ages.

For a bit more reality Miniature world go to:
http://miniatureworld.com/

Inner Harbour Victoria Accommodations:

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.

Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.

Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.

Contact info: Best Western Plus Inner Harbour
412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email:
info@victoriabestwestern.com

Come and enjoy Vancouver Island and please tell your friends about us.

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

In the mood for something elegant, something genteel, something that takes you back to a time that was more refined, more social, and definitely slower than the average instantaneousness of texting? Then you will be happy to know that right on the Inner Harbour, in the Lobby of the Fairmont Empress, is a true Victoria ‘don’t miss’ experience: an amazing traditional Afternoon Tea.

The Tradition of the Afternoon Tea in Victoria

The lore that has sprung up around the start of the traditional English Afternoon Tea goes like this: By the early 19th century, lunch was served at 12 noon, dinner was not served until 8pm, and the Duchess of Bedford (a lifelong friend of Queen Victoria’s), would experience a faint, light-headed feeling around five in the afternoon.

She soon found the solution that would tide her over until dinner-time, and being a social sort, the Duchess began to invite a few friends over for the ‘meal-ette’, which consisted of tea (considered a very hip drink at the time, Darjeeling being her usual choice), some bread & butter and small cakes (which of course have come to be known as ‘tea cakes’).

The afternoon tea events became quite popular amongst ladies of leisure – and a tradition was born, which quickly filtered through to the upper and middle classes of England, where it has remained a staple of reminding us of a traditional Victorian England.

Afternoon Tea on vancouver island at the Empress delivers this fine tradition as if an art form. Served in several different rooms at the Empress, the most traditional location to enjoy the Tea is in the Tea Lobby, a large and grand Victorian space. Fabulous views regale you by way of the large bay windows which run the entire length of the room.

 

The Tea of the Afternoon Tea

There are eight fabulous teas on the menu, selections of which include: Earl Grey, a Green Jasmine, an herbal, fruity Berry blend, and more, but the pies de resistance is The Empress blend; nine high quality teas come together, a combination of Assam (thick malty and full bodied), Kenya (floral-like), South India (superbly fruity), Ceylon (airy, almost piquant), and China (burgundy with oaky notes) – creating a tea lover’s nirvana.

The Food of the Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea has come a long way since the day of the Duchess, an exquisite silver service appeared, filled with fruits and finger sandwiches filled with cucumber, smoked BC salmon, carrot and ginger with cream cheese, open-faced shrimp mousse and curry mango chicken salad. Next were Scones, with strawberry preserves and clotted cream, which were followed by an assortment of pastries, including chocolate truffles, fresh berry and lemon tarts, green tea cheesecake, and rose-petal shortbread cookies.

 

They are able to accommodate people with food allergies and special dietary needs, Including diabetics and those who are gluten sensitive, and they’ve even created a Prince and Princess Tea for the kids, which I think is very cool.The Afternoon Tea seating begins at 11:30am daily. Due to its popularity I recommend you make a reservation at least a week prior to your visit and plan to arrive a few minutes early, as reservations are only held for 15 minutes past the time of your booking and the place is always full.The Dress code,: casually elegant,  no ripped jeans, short shorts, cut off pants, beach wear, flip flops or baseball caps.

The Tea Room has a policy: (which I love) ‘For the comfort of all guests, it is requested that cell phones be turned off during Afternoon Tea.’ Oh yes, a truly genteel environment harkening back to a more elegant, relaxed, time period – like pre-texting 1999.

It is not an inexpensive Tea, but the quantity and quality are abundant, (some people skip dinner that day or ask for a ‘doggy bag’) and for most of us it is a once in a lifetime amazing moment in time.For more information about Afternoon Tea at the Empress
 

Inner Harbour Victoria Accommodations:

There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:

Best Western Plus Inner Harbour Victoria Hotel

A great hotel in Victoria, with the best location, right at the Inner Harbour/downtown Victoria and a short walk to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and oceanside paths.Enjoy complimentary extended continental breakfast and free parking. Our beautiful rooms, spacious one-bedroom suites and luxurious penthouse apartments are 100% non-smoking and each include a private balcony, fridge, microwave, free Wi-Fi and in-room movies. Ideal for extended stays, we also have kitchen studios and suites available for weekly & monthly stays.

 

Popular nearby Victoria attractions include the Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Buildings, Undersea Gardens, the Empress Tea Room, Miniature World, the Bug Zoo, Horse-drawn carriage tours, Beacon Hill Park, departures for whale watching tours (seasonal) and all the entertainment the Inner Harbour has to offer.


412 Quebec Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1W5, CA
Toll Free: (888) 383-2378 Phone: (250) 384-5122 Fax: (250) 384-5113 Email:
info@victoriabestwestern.com

Come and enjoy Victoria and please tell your friends about us.

 

Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.

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