Victoria, British Columbia: A Travel Guide to History, Nature, and Food

Exploring Victoria's Rich History and Culture

• 🇨🇦 Chris Christensen revisits Victoria, British Columbia, a city he first visited in 1969, sharing his experiences from a recent week-long press trip.
• Chinatown, the second oldest in North America, offers a deep dive into Chinese-Canadian history, resilience, and heritage, marked by historic red lampposts and the colorful Gate of Harmonious Interest.
• 🏛️ The city's growth was significantly influenced by the Frasier Canyon gold rush and the Hudson Bay Company's historical presence.
• 🏮 The Tam Kung Temple, the only one of its kind outside Asia, showcases traditional Chinese folk religion and its deep roots in the community since the 1860s.
• 🎭 The Royal BC Museum provides an immersive experience with its "Old Town" exhibit, a recreation of Victoria from the turn of the century, and features the Hayashi Photography Studio, highlighting Japanese-Canadian history.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

• 🐳 A whale watching trip with Eagle Wing Tours offers encounters with orcas, providing insights into their maternal pods and family lines, alongside other marine life.
• 🛶 Kayaking in the upper harbor with Ocean River Adventures reveals the beauty of the gorge, tidal rapids, and local wildlife, showcasing the city's cleaned-up waterways.
• 🌳 The Malahat Skywalk provides a unique tree canopy walk experience with stunning views, culminating in a thrilling corkscrew slide.
• 🌸 Butchart Gardens, a world-renowned destination, features diverse themed gardens, including the iconic Sunken Garden, Japanese Gardens, and Rose Garden, with something to see in every season.

Culinary Delights and Accommodations

• 🍽️ Victoria offers a vibrant food scene, from casual seafood at Red Fish Blue Fish to farm-to-table experiences at 10 Acres Beastro and adventurous flavors at House of Bang.
• 🍻 A brewery tour and tasting at Phillips Brewing and Malting reveals a large-scale operation with a focus on lighter, less hoppy beers, distinct from typical West Coast IPAs.
• 🏨 Accommodation options range from the Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Point Resort with bay views to the apartment-style OGO Hotel, offering different experiences for visitors.
• ☕ Numerous cafes like U Merchie Tea and Coffee and Cafe Fantastico provide great spots for breakfast, pastries, and a relaxed atmosphere.