Victoria

My sister and I are planning a vacation to Vancouver and Victoria in late March 2001. Neither of us has ever been to either place before, and we need advice! <BR> <BR>I'm looking for hotel, dining, and sightseeing ideas. We're flying to Victoria, and then planning to take the ferry to Vancouver. We hope to spend three days in each place. We're likely to use public transit to get around. <BR> <BR>As much as living in the lap of luxury sounds great, we are on a budget (but not too cheap!). If you have ideas on how we can get the most out of our time and money I'd appreciate hearing them! Thanks so much. <BR>

April

Several hotels are located around the major sights at Victoria's inner harbour. Some high season rates listed in the accommodations guide are: $109-$169 for the Admirals Hotel, $119-189 for the Embassy Inn, $135-$425 Queen Victoria Inn, $155-319 Gatsby Mansion to name a few. Rates in March should be lower(?). It might be worth checking to see if places like the Empress Hotel, Ocean Pointe Resort and Laurel Point Inn have any specials at that time of year. Closer in town is Swans Hotel listed at $119-179 (high season). I know someone who stayed there and liked it. If you really want to save money and don't mind a hike or bus ride to the sights, you could stay at the Travellers Inn Downtown listed at $39-$89. It is at the other end of town, but close to a department store and a few restaurants and cafes - also not far from Chinatown. <BR> <BR>A visit to the Royal British Columbia museum is a must as is a stroll through the Empress Hotel (both near the inner harbour). If you must have tea at the Empress, it will cost a fortune but not as much as in mid-summer. You should make a reservation. <BR> <BR>Little ferries run across the harbour and along the Gorge waterway. <BR> <BR>Butchart Gardens should be full of spring blooms. You can get there by tour or regular city bus. Regular adult bus fare, one zone, is $1.75, correct change needed. If you plan to take the bus often it might be worth your while to get a sheet of 10 tickets for $15.00. Shopper's Drug Mart downtown is one place that sells these. Get a bus schedule from any bus. They sell for 25¢ but often they give them to you for free. <BR> <BR>The bus station is located beside the Empress Hotel. Just go there to catch a bus to Vancouver. Ferries at that time of year will probably be running every second hour.

tom o

I would encourage you to get out of town---Buchart gardens is spectacular--enjoyed taking ferriea a lot to the islands --but that was in August--The area north of VAncouver and north/west of victoria is beautiful--probably hard to get around without a car tho

April

If you did rent a car for a day in Victoria I would recommend driving the scenic marine drive from the Beacon Hill Park area through Oak Bay, continuing to Mt. Doug and walking up to the viewpoint (very short walk), maybe out to Butchart's stopping at Mattick's Farm on the way, or out to Hatley Castle. The marine drive is one of the best features of Victoria, I think.

Naneki

Regarding Victoria, you might want to tray one of the many quaint bed & breakfasts. A friend and I stayed at Holland House B&B and quite enjoyed it but it might be a little pricey for your budget. I'm sure there are others in Victoria that would fit in your budget. I also recommend whale watching -- what an incredible experience! We went with Prince of Whales on a zodiac boat which was great. You'll have to check into whether or not whales can be seen in late March. <BR> <BR>In Vancouver check out Granville Island. Great shopping on Robson Street but might be a little rich for anyone on a budget. Do a search on this forum for more info on Vancouver. I know others have posted websites and recommendations.

Valley Guy

You may enjoy renting a car to drive through the Fraser Valley, while in Vancouver. Follow either Highway 1 or Highway 7 (more scenic), or follow both as a day trip loop. Or, take a Pacific Coach Lines' tour around greater Vancouver. http://www.pacificcoach.com/ <BR>Lots of interesting places to stop and visit in the Fraser Valley. Check out Fraser Valley communities, attractions and sight seeing at: http//:www.fraservalleyguide.com

Robyn

Take a look on this site for other Vancouver/Victoria related posts. I know there's a lot of information there that will be of interest to you. Feel free to e-mail me.

vjolsen

Thanks for the ideas!

Radda bai

Beaconsfield Inn, on Humboldt St., is unbelievable. For less than $100 US you can have a Double Jacuzzi in a private room. $15 more gets a Jacuzzi and a Fireplace! They include Afternoon Tea as well as breakfast in their price. Their telephone is 888-884-4044.