Travelling to British Columbia

British Columbia, Canada’s most westerly province, is home to the most startling, varied and stunning scenery in all of Canada. From the Rocky Mountains in the east and north to the desert of the southern interior to the rainforests of the Pacific coastal area, this province’s natural wonders are sure to amaze those travelling to British Columbia. Many of the province’s attractions are associated with its outdoor wonders. Its major cities do, however, also offer a variety of interesting sites.

When to Go
The climate in British Columbia is generally mild and warm. The winters are very rainy, but the summers can be sunny. The best time to travel to British Columbia is for the season beginning early June and ending in October. During these months, the visitor is likely to experience less rain and longer days.

Where to Go
Major attractions: Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria on Vancouver Island

Vancouver is a scenic city; mountains to the north and beaches on the shoreline surround the architecture of the city centre. Due to its grand natural setting, Vancouver caters to tourists and residents interested in healthy living. It also attracts numerous immigrant populations, whose cultural differences add vibrancy to the city. Some of the sites not to be missed when travelling to British Columbia include:

Stanley Park – This thousand-acre forest is accessible from downtown and allows for an escape from the busy city. Visitors can hike along paths through the giant trees or cycle or jog along the 9.5 km seawall that follows the park’s shoreline. Three beaches and an outdoor pool are also available for summer swimming.

Granville Island – Home to businesses, restaurants, galleries and theatres, this charming island is a great visiting spot. At the centre of island is the Public Market, where grocers, fishermen, butchers and bakers sell their wares. A number of craftspeople have set up studios and shops to be toured while visiting the Island.

UBC – The University of British Columbia, which juts out into the Georgia Strait, offers a number of attractions. Beyond the stunning natural setting of the campus, the botanical and rose gardens, as well as the Museum of Anthropology are all worth visiting.

Whistler is one of the top ski resorts in North America. Whistler’s Blackcomb Mountain is the largest downhill ski area in North America, while Whistler Mountain is second largest. Some of Whistler’s runs are open nearly year-round. Whistler village, designed in an old European style, offers a number of resorts, hotels and shops. Although known primarily as a winter holiday location, the hiking, cycling and canoeing trails available at Whistler make it a pleasant summer vacation spot.

Vancouver Island’s natural beauty is overwhelming. The mountain range down the centre of the island gives way to surrounding woods, lakes and streams. The island is an ideal spot for spotting marine and bird life. Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on the southeast corner of Vancouver Island, offers numerous attractions including:

Museums – The Royal British Columbia Museum, Helmcken House and Carr House are only some of the historical museums worth visiting.

Beacon Hill Park – In Victoria’s largest park visitors enjoy giant trees, flowers, ponds and pathways. To the South, the Park overlooks the coastline.

Thunderbird Park – The totem poles on display in this park are certainly worth a look.

Other Highlights when Travelling to British Columbia Include:

• The Sunshine Coast of Vancouver Island
• Okanagan Valley
• Totem Poles in the Queen Charlotte Islands
• Camping in Tofino on Vancouver Island

Travel Insurance
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