a whole new world.
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nicely and simply stated markrosy. You came across the Atlantic, we came from So.Cal coast, entirely two different locations. VI offers an 'experience' that is unfamiliar. That is what I really enjoy about travel.

In 10 years time, the world would be a different place if every 5 year old was now taken for a week's worth of rockpooling on Sooke beach. Instead of gawping at facebook, google and the rest 14 hours a day, our teenagers might appreciate what is out there.

I agree. My class of 8 years olds enjoy searching for interesting sea creatures. One of the joys of living on the Pacific ocean.

Absolutely right, markrosy. My kids and grandkids are coming for a visit next month - they absolutely loved it here in Sooke the last time they were here, two years ago. They can't wait to explore on the Spit and swim in the Potholes. We just marvel at the beauty of the place every single day, and we've lived here for five years now.

Nobody doubts Vancouver Island has appeal that is unique and in the eye of the beholder. That isn't the issue here.

It seems a reasonable guess that a safari in Africa would afford nearly everyone reading this forum a far more unique experience than they've ever had previously. The point is that it isn't worth the considerable extra hassle to get oneself to Africa in order to take in the wonders there.

Victoria is 57 miles away from Vancouver and Victoria is 74 miles away from Seattle. It takes aaaaaaaaaaaaaages to get to Victoria from either of the others. There have been people all over this forum talking about being in the area for 3 or 4 days and wasting their time going round-trip to Victoria when 3 or 4 days is far better spent getting to know either of the others without all of the hassle and added expense.

Were we talking about just one hour allocated to go 57 to 74 miles then fine, it would be no big deal. If you're coming from far away to see Seattle or Vancouver for the first time, and have precious little time to spend, then Victoria U-SUALLY isn't worth the repeated hassles involved in getting there and back.

One recent Fodors forum visitor offered this:


"""I have just realized that it is going to take me at least 3:30 hs to get to Victoria, and more 3:30 hs to get back."""

(when contemplating a day trip to Victoria, 57 miles away)

northwestmale You consistantly advise against Victoria. In all of my travels in the States everyone I have met rave about Victoria. To each his own but you are always so negative. You know it might just be worth 3 and 1/2 hours to some people. Ask JanisJ and danielwilliams to name just a couple.

"It takes aaaaaaaaaaaaaages to get to Victoria "

- Half an hour by seaplane last time I checked.

I think we made the point - Vancouver is any ole world city.

Vancouver Island is up there with the Serengeti/South America.
As we have also said - you can buy Armani in Manchester but I don't see Black Bears in MY backyard or Orca in the Irish Sea. One I would travel 4500 miles for the other I wouldn't. Simple as that. Next time we come I will go straight from Vancouver International to the seaplane terminal and head for VI for two weeks. The sushi is good in the city be it isn't that good

markrosy: Glad you enjoyed Vancouver Island. I grew up on the North end of the island and there literally are Black bears wandering through my mother's garden on a regular basis.Not to mention the eagles who nest in a tree on her property every year and raise their brood.
I spent my childhood poking around in tidal pools and gave my son the same experience each summer. It was a pretty good way to grow up.
Hope you come back soon and get to explore more of the island.