Whistler, Victoria and Vancouver - logistics and fall colors
 

Hi,

I have been to all 3 previously and loved all 3.

I took my mom to Whistler 2 years ago before a cruise and we wished we would have spent more time there. I have wanted to get my mom over to Victoria for Butchart gardens but have missed it 2x on a cruise ship so I think a land trip is going to make the most sense. This way, we can go at our own pace.

We are looking at most likely the 4th week of September. We were in Whistler the 2nd week and the colors were just changing. We stayed at the Pan Pacific Village Center and loved it and will probably stay there again. In Victoria, we are looking at the Fairmont Empress and in Vancouver - either Pan Pacific or Fairmont. Since this is off season, the hotel prices seem pretty reasonable.

My mom is visually impaired and gets tired easily so I don't want to wear her out too much - would rather take our time.

My question - logistics! Last time we used the shuttle to get from Vancouver to Whistler and there was a lot of construction so it took awhile. Obviously construction is now done. I am contemplating the shuttle, car or train to Whistler.

I am hesitant to book a package as they are costly even though the hotels are running some decent rates. And I would rather do thinks at our pace.

Considering we will probably do Vancouver last so that we can then board the plane there - any recommendations if we do Whistler first or Victoria. Also, would like to know the best way to get to Victoria (and hotel) without having a car. I had planned to do the hop on, hop off in Victoria or taking a shuttle to the Gardens so I would prefer not to bring a car on the ferry over to Victoria.

Maybe there is a package where I can book the hotels on my own and just book transportation between the places.

Any guidance, advice is wanted. I will rent a car if necessary but I had hoped to not.

Also - when we were in Whistler mid-September, the colors were just starting to change. When do the colors usually change there? I was thinking of going around Sept 25th or so.

Thanks for assistance. I will be calling the Rocky Mountaineer today to see what they can provide.

Getting to Victoria from Vancouver is very easy and you definitely don't need a car while you are there. You can get a bus from downtown Vancouver directly to downtown Victoria. There are dozens of hotels and B&B's within easy walking distance from the bus terminal. Here is the website for the bus company. As you will see they also go to Whistler. http://www.pacificcoach.com/

I would recommend not getting a hotel package in Victoria. The bus runs on a regular basis and as I said there are so many hotels to choose from in Victoria and September is past the peak tourist season.

If you have any questions regarding accommodations just post again. It sounds like you and your mother are going to have a wonderful trip!

Thank you - that is a lot of help! Especially since I don't want to rent a car.