A quick hop from Seattle via the Victoria Clipper, there are few places more picturesque than Victoria.  Surrounded by water on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island in Canada, Victoria has distinctive architecture and exceptional gardens.  The most popular time to visit Victoria is mid-June through mid-September when flowers seem to be everywhere. 

For accommodations, there are several nice hotels to choose from with harbor views. One of the major landmarks in the heart of Victoria is the Empress Hotel, a magnificent turn of the century hotel built in 1908.  If you’re staying at the Empress Hotel, you may want to upgrade to the Gold floor which has a lounge where you can stop by for goodies during breakfast and  appetizers in the evenings. Outside of Victoria, there are some wonderful places to stay like the Sooke Harbour House, the Aerie Resort and the Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa.

Once you check-in, explore the Inner Harbour Walk, the copper-domed Parliament buildings, the Royal British Columbia Museum and the shops in Market Square. Victoria is very pedestrian friendly and you’ll enjoy it the most by walking around.   

Having Afternoon Tea at the Empress is a “must do” when visiting.  You’ll truly feel like you’re going back in time when you walk into the Empress.  Afternoon Tea at the Empress usually includes smoked salmon tea sandwiches, raisin scones with clotted cream, lemon curd tarts, and chocolate truffles as well as specially blended tea. Be sure to book reservations for tea one to two weeks in advance, and even earlier during the summer season.

Butchart Gardens is located 14 miles north of Victoria and has spectacular floral displays.  We visited in April and the tulips, narcissus and daffodils were amazing! The gardens attract flower enthusiasts from all over the world and you’ll hear many languages as you stroll around.  Don’t forget to bring a camera, you’ll get some great group shots.  On Saturday evenings between June and September, you’ll see a fireworks display as well.