By Ron Stern, Travel Photojournalist
Established by the Hudson Bay Company in 1843, the city was first known as Fort Victoria. Gold rush fever from the Fraser River area brought a wave of settlers in 1862, and six years later, Victoria was named the capital of British Columbia, Canada.
Today, Victoria is a thriving city that boasts the mildest climate in Canada as well as charming Old World style architecture, cultural traditions like afternoon tea and gorgeous green spaces and flower laden gardens year round.
Right along the Inner Harbor walkway is where street performers set up to entertain passersby with music, magic and acrobatic feats. During the day, street vendors sell everything from First Nations arts and crafts to fresh squeezed juice to ice cream.
With more than 1 million visitors per year,The Butchart Gardens, located 14 miles north of Victoria, has won numerous awards and is often considered one of the most beautiful gardens anywhere in the world. Tickets are available from CVS Tours (in front of the Empress) or as part of an afternoon tea package at the same hotel.
Today, visitors can tour 55 acres of lush landscaping and gorgeous, colorful flowers in 5 gardens: The Rose, Japanese, Mediterranean, Italian and Sunken. There are also plenty of green spaces, an old time carousel and dining options including afternoon tea in their Dining Room restaurant.
Your visit to Victoria would not be complete without taking part in the time honored tradition of The Fairmont’s Afternoon Tea. With a history that spans more than 100 years, the Empress has entertained celebrities, dignitaries and the public in a lavishly decorated setting.
Often confused with High Tea (dinner), Afternoon Tea is served at the Empress at a price of $59.95 per person and includes delectable finger sandwiches and pastries.
For more information: www.clippervacations.com