Hi, I'm planning a trip for my husband and myself for about 10 days in late September, early October. Is that a good time of year to visit Vancouver and Vancouver Island? What is the weather like? Any suggestions for an itinerary that would take in some of the island towns and Vancouver. Any help would be most appreciated.

Early October is usually quite pleasant in Vancouver and the Island although the mornings have a decided fall like chill. There is about a 30% chance of cool wet weather increasing as you get further into October. A decided benefit of traveling at that time of year is that the summer tourist season is pretty well over and the accomodation rates are about half what they'd be mid summer.<BR><BR>Itineries would be dependant on what you prefer. The scenery is wonderful everywhere and I would allot at least 4 days to Vancouver and two to Victoria. The west coast of Vancouver Island is wonderful and worth an overnight trip. If you enjoy fishing Campbell River has great Salmon fishing as do a number of other places on Georgia Straight. The Gulf Islands and the Sunshine Coast north of Vancouver are very peaceful and pretty. You might like to drive up to Whistler as well since you're in the area and it is the top Mountain resort in North America.

hi karen:<BR>Try the Helm's Inn while in Victoria. Close to everything (at the edge of Beacon Hill Park and right behind the museum), quiet and reasonably priced ($85/night CAD). Rooms are large and comfortable, kitchenettes as well as continental breakfast. Family owned, only downfall is no elevators, but only 3 floors. Check out the web-site. (helmsinn.com) What you see is what you get.

The weather is iffy. Be prepared. Warm clothes, lighter options, rain jacket. You never know.Usually the beginning of September is nice but the weather usually turns by October.

I'd actually go as far to say that September is gorgeous - sunny, warm and beautiful... BUT there is a chill in the air that is definitely autumn. October is also beautiful - it's before the rainy season, the days are usually sunny, the mornings are foggy and the sun casts that golden light. It's also the harvest season and the deciduous leaves are vibrant shades of oranges and reds. <BR><BR>While there's more chance or rain in October than in November, I'd still say October's a good month, as long as you realise the temperature's a bit cool and it's fall. September is still for the most part summer.

Oops! I meant to say, "there's more chance of rain in October than in September (not November... November is much more rainy than October)

Thanks to all of you for your replies. I found the information very helpful. I'll report back after the trip.