BEST OF Vancouver Island

Victoria's unique character is deeply rooted in its 150-year history. It is a history full of colourful people and fascinating tales. The city's British colonial heritage is still very much in evidence, but contemporary Victoria has a distinctly Pacific Northwest flavour. Today, Victoria is BEST known as the capital city of British Columbia, and as a world-class tourism destination.

One of the most visitor-friendly cities anywhere, Victoria is also one of Canada's favorite places to call home. Greater Victoria and its outlying areas now have a population in excess of 300,000 and the one-time colonial outpost is alive with cosmopolitan dining, superb shopping, a colourful nightlife and a full complement of cultural offerings.

Named by Queen Victoria, the city began its commercial life clustered around the downtown harbour when Hudson's Bay Company Emissary, James Douglas, built a fort in 1843. The population increased rapidly when the region became a supply centre for the 1858 Fraser Gold Rush speculators. Incorporated in 1862, Victoria became the Capital of the British Colony of Vancouver Island, and then of British Columbia, a position the City holds today.

The majority of residents are of British ancestry, but many other ethnic and cultural groups are also well represented. Greater Victoria has attracted people from all over Canada, the United States and other countries. Many of those moving here add to the high level of artistic, technical and professional skills as well as to entrepreneurial activity. 

Vancouver Island's strategic location as a gateway to the Pacific Rim, its closeness to U.S. markets, and its many sea and air links have made the area a hub for business development and economic investment.

Whether you are coming to shop, dine, golf, play on the beach or just relax, Vancouver Island, British Columbia offers the BEST of everything. There are hundreds of shops and places to eat, drink, play and relax. The BEST of these establishments are listed on this Web Site with detailed information on their products, services and menus as well as interactive mapping that will direct you to their front door.

For the BEST shopping, services, restaurants, entertainment, lodging accommodations, real estate information and community events, click on to the categories below and start planning your trip to beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia.