Lizard Adventure Travel

It's that time again...the outdoor markets are starting to open in and around Victoria! 

Below I've made a list of the markets I recommend, where you'll get to purchase locally made product and treat your taste-buds to fresh local food:

Fernwood Tuesday evening Market 

Fresh, funky and welcoming!  This market offers bakers, artists, local farmers, restaurants and live music.  I've also heard they sell vegan cupcakes!

Every Tuesday (June 7-Sept 7)

2000 Fernwood Road (beside Belfry Theatre)

More info: 250-595-2262

Photo: Fernwood Market, 2008

Bastion Square Public Market

Located downtown Victoria (between Government and Wharf St.), this area is transformed into a colourful open-air marketplace with a distinct European flare!  Featuring original local arts and crafts with live busking in the background. 

Open Wednesday to Sunday (April 1-Oct 15)

10:30am-5:30pm

More info: 250-885-1387

Photo: Location of Bastion Square Market

FoodRoots Pocket Markets

These markets are run by a not-for-profit coop distributor (FoodRoots), helping to distribute locally grown foods and produce on Vancouver Island.  Supporting community gardeners and urban farmers to sell their goods in the community. 

www.foodroots.ca (for a list of pocket markets in your neighbourhood)

More info: 250-385-7974

Government Street Public Market

Located downtown Victoria, between McPherson Theatre and China Town (on the 1600 block of Government Street) - you can't miss this fantastic collection of vendors offering an exciting array of arts and crafts, imports, food and entertainment. 
Sundays and some holiday Mondays (April 18-Sept 26)
11am-4:30pm

More info: 250-598-2593

Inner Harbour Night Market

Local hand-made arts and crafts, coupled with musicians, street performers and fantastic food!  Many of the artists create their art on site to help display the creative process and talented workmanship behind their work.  A highly talented group of individuals! 

Friday and Saturday nights (June 11-Sept 18)

7pm-10:30pm

More info: jgonyeau@victoriaharbour.org

Photo: Street Performer, Inner Harbour Night Market

Moss Street Market

This is one of my favourite markets, because the atmosphere is so inviting and the food is fantastic!  A blend of local and organic produce, handmade crafts, artisan clothing and community education.  This market has been around for over 18 years! Located in the heart of Fairfield Gonzales (Sir James Douglas school yard and boulevard Moss Street and Fairfield Road).

Every Saturday (May 1-Oct 30)

10am-2pm

More info: info@mossstreetmarket.com

James Bay Community Market
Just 5 minutes from Victoria's Inner Harbour - featuring produce, arts, food and music.  An emphasis is on homemade, handmade and homegrown.  Located at the corner of Menzies Street and Superior Street (behind Parliament Buildings)

Every Saturday (May 8-Oct. 9)

9am-3pm

More info: 250-381-5323

CLICK HERE FOR MAP of MARKETS IN VICTORIA

MARKETS OUTSIDE VICTORIA

Sidney Summer Market

Over 200 vendors sell gifts, fresh produce, handmade crafts, great food and so much more! Wonderful entertainment on every block!

Every Thursday (June 10-Aug 26)
5pm-8:30pm

Peninsula Country Market

This vibrant open air market has more than 50 vendors offering farm fresh products, jams and jellies, honey, homemade bread, cut flowers, assorted fresh meats, organic produce and a fine selection of arts and crafts.  Located on the Saanich Fairgrounds 1528 Stelly's Cross Road

Every Saturday (June 5-Oct 9)

9am-1pm

Saturday Market - Salt Spring Island

So many reasons to visit this market: Internationally acclaimed arts and crafts from Canada's "Island of the Arts". For potters, jewelers, fiber artists, woodworkers, and fine decorative arts. For farmstead cheeses, organic foods, music, and free festive fun.

Every Saturday (April - last Sat in Oct)

8am-4pm

Metchosin Farmer's Market

This market has a little bit of everything!  Located at 4450 Happy Valley Rd. (behind the firehall)

Every Sunday (May 9-Oct 31)

11am-2pm

There are many more great markets to visit, but this is a good start.  Feel free to add the markets I missed!

If you'd like to take a day to visit all of these fantastic markets with a group of friends - please contact us to set up a private trip: 250-891-6881 or info@LizardAdventureTravel.com

We travel in the 'Lizard Bus' - seats 24 passengers:

I'm always surprised that many Victoria locals have yet to visit the stunning Southern Gulf Islands that surround Vancouver Island.  I've decided to provide the 'inside scoop' on each location, to help you with your future trip planning: 

Salt Spring Island

The largest and most developed of the Southern Gulf Islands, this charming location is expanding quickly but never loses its appeal.  I recommend you start your adventure in Ganges, the largest village, where the Visitor Centre can provide you with maps and information on what is offered.  There’s just so much to see and do, so you need to make a list if you’re only staying for the day. 

My list of local recommendations:

- Wine Tasting: there are various wineries all within close distance offering award-winning samples (Garry Oaks Winery, Salt Spring Vineyards and Mistaken Identity Winery).

- Mt. Maxwell: for the active traveller you can hike up to the top but there’s also a long, unfinished road that is available for those reaching the top by car (once you’re at the top there are various trails to be explored and the views are worth the effort...we saw bald eagles on our last visit!)

- Biking: roads are narrow and there are many hills, but you’ll find that Salt Spring Island is popular with the cycling crowd!  After a long bike-ride you can go camping in Ruckle Provincial Park, located in a large expansive area that overlooks the Pacific Ocean!  For those interested in hidden treasure, I know there’s a box of goodies at the top of the trail that leads south out of the camp-site (under a large rock that overlooks the water).   Send me an email if you find it!

- Salt Spring Island Cheese Company: hidden in the forest off a windy road near Fulfurd Harbour, this is a delicious location as you get to sample hand-made goat and sheep cheese!  On site you’ll get to learn how the cheese is made through their interactive viewing windows that overlook the staff that are producing the product. For the animal-lovers, you can make friends with the goats and chicken that roam freely in the surrounding farmland. Say hi to Nestor (the friendly goat) when you’re there!

- ‘The Bread Lady’:I don’t even know the actual name of the bread company on Salt Spring Island, but if you ask any local where ‘the bread lady’ is – you’ll be happy you did!  Be aware that she is only open on restricted days, so ask in advance if you’re planning a specific visit. 

Pender Island

One of the quieter islands, a perfect location if you’re hoping to get a little R&R.  For a weekend of pampering I recommend Poet’s Cove Resort and Spa, nestled in a private cove, this facility is unique, as every room offers an unbridled view of the Pacific Ocean.  I personally would opt for the cottage instead of a lodge room, as many of the cottages have outdoor hot-tubs and BBQs!  You can also check out the local art studios, sample wine at Morning Bay Vineyard or take up a game of disc golf!  

Photo: Cottage at Poet's Cove Resort and Spa

Mayne Island
One of the more remote Southern Gulf Islands, but I highly recommend a visit to this tranquil location!  Back in the1900s, the distance between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland was too far, and Mayne Island was utilized as a stopping point between the two locations.  The central village on the island is Miner’sBay (2 minutes from the ferry terminal), and this area is characteristically known for their selection of heritage buildings: Springwater Lodge (oldest hotel in British Columbia, 1895), Argricultural Hall (1900), St.Mary Magdelene Church (1887), Georgia Lighthouse(1885), and the Plumber’s Pass (1896).  

If you enjoy camping, you’ll take pleasure in the outdoor showers (Mayne Island Eco-Camping) that have been built into the trees overlooking the Pacific Ocean.  Water pours out of a pipe that runs up the trunk of a massive, ancient tree and a wooden platform has been built into the thick forest brush so that you can see out, but people can’t see in...and yes, the shower actually has warm water!  While visiting the island I also recommend a visit to the Japanese Gardens, and if you keep an eye out you should see some llamas roaming in some of the farmland nearby!

Photo: Mayne Island outdoor tree shower at Mayne Island Eco-Camping.

Galiano Island

I recommend a visit to this island if you are interested in wildlife and photography, or those specifically interested in bird watching.  Galiano Island is a major flight path for migrating birds, so you'll see hundreds of bird species, including but not limited to bald eagles, herons, commorants and raptors.  Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park (white shell beachs) and Dionisio Point Provincial Park (sculpted sandstone formations) are the natural highlights on the island.

On the western side of the island, I recommend you explore the series of sandstone caves!

Photo: Sandstove Cave - Galiano Island.

Saturna Island 

A very small island with a permanent population of around 350 people, this island is truly unique as half of the island is designated as a Gulf Island Natural Park Reserve.  A couple of fun things to check out when visit Saturna include:

- Russell Reef (natural swimming hole)

- East Pointe Regional Park (stunning shorelines)

- Mount Warburton Pike (one of the highest summits of the Gulf Islands)

- Brown Ridge Trail (stunning views!)

The above list represents that Gulf Islands that are in close proximity to Victoria, but I do recommend you also check out the Southern Gulf Islands closer to Nanaimo and beyond (ex. Gabriola, Thetis, Kuper, Valdes, New Castle and more). 

Hopefully this summary has inspired you to explore one or all of the Southern Gulf Islands!

To book your own private, group trip to one of the above mentioned islands - give us a call or email:

250-891-6881 or info@LizardAdventureTravel.com

A similar quesion comes up on our tours - so we've decided to compile an answer and post it on our blog.  Please feel free to add to this list!   

Most asked question:  Where are the good places to eat in Victoria?

Amazing Prices:

Hernandez - Delicious home-made tacos!  5 tacos for $5!  Remember to bring your own water (no tap water is served).  This place is rated as one of the favourite food choices by top chefs in Victoria. 

Pig BBQ Joint - Pulled pork sandwiches for only $5!  The slogan of 'meat+bread=good' sums it all up.  I also recommend their beef brisket sandwich, with a side of cornbread.  If you don't like meat, don't go here!   

One Fish Two Fish: located in a small shack in the Cook St Village, I believe this food joint is a sister company of Red Fish Blue Fish, serving fish tacos to take-out.  This company prides themselves on sustainable fishing practices, in support of earth friendly reuse and recycle systems. 

Mid-range:

Lucy's In The Square - located in Fernwood (short drive from downtown), this restaurant recently opened and has received rave reviews by all the 'foodies' in town.  They offer reasonably priced food that is cooked by a top chef in the city!  Their products are from local farmers and fishmongers.  Great place if you want to sample local food from Vancouver Island; they also have Oceanwise Certified Seafood!

Pagliacci's - so many people have already heard of this restaurtant - but you can't visit Victoria without trying out this place!  When celebrities visit town they often frequent this place (some examples include Allen Ginsberg and Saul Bellow to Bruno Kirby, Susan Sarandon and Bob Dylan).  Pagliacci’s is a joint you’ll never forget, with very reasonable prices!

Higher-End:

Brasserie L'ecole - small French bistro near Chinatown - best food ever! 

Cafe Brio - focuses on regional products and offers a fantastic sampling of high-end cuisine.  I recommend you take a risk and ask the Chef to come up with an interesting selection of foods instead of ordering off the menu.  The Chef will ask what you like/dislike and come up with an amazing selection for a reasonable price!

Zambri's - It's as if you landed in Italy for dinner when you enter this restaurant.  Amazing food, wine and atmosphere explains why there's always a line up on weekends!  Opt for the spicy octopus starter!

Breakfast places:

The Village - A Montreal or New York style Jewish Deli that is open for breakfast all-day! Great location because you can take a walk down Willow's Beach following your breakfast.

The Blue Fox Cafe - I couldn't find their website but they are located at 101-919 Fort Street, Victoria, BC.  This place always has a line-up down the street, indicating it's popularity.  The portions are generous, a true classic in Victoria.  Cinnamon Bun appetizer is a must! 

Shine Cafe - All day breakfast place, with delicious home-made hollaindaise sauce.  I recommend the Maharaja, an eggs benny with chicken breast, caramelized onions and avocado topped with home-made curry hollandaise.

Mole Restaurant - Grown from a simple eatery to an institution in just a few years.  This place offers tasty pesto hashbrowns, and if you find there's a line-up upon arrival you can enjoy a coffee in Habit Coffee next door instead of waiting on the street (they'll take down your name and come find you!)

There are so many other great places in Victoria - but I couldn't list them all!

I recently returned to Vancouver Island from a glorious week in Oahu, Hawaii.  I went from sunshine and temperatures of 25+ degrees Celcius to a rainy and windy 10 degrees.  Although this sounds like I'm leading into a complaint, I have to say I felt the exact opposite.  As I caught up on the local news, I felt a sense of privilege...it is winter, yet here in Victoria it's only 10 degrees Celcius! 

The rest of Canada, much of the United Kingdom and even Florida are experiencing record cold snaps.  I think I can handle a little drizzle, and consider myself lucky that my 'winter' jacket is only a thin wind breaker.

To emphasize my point, I came up with the top ten reasons why Vancouver Island is so awesome in the winter:

10) You can have fresh herbs, vegetables and flowers from your garden in the winter.  If you don't have your own garden, there are many local farms where you can indulge and support the local economy!

9) You can play outdoor soccer year-round...go Vic West!  Also when you go for  a run you look normal... those balaclavas can really cramp one's style!

8) Big Discounts! Since our peak tourism season is from April-October, ask around for off season discounts at local tourist attractions and accomodations.  

7) The wineries on Vancouver Island still operate and benefit from the winter weather - most wineries have challenges in the winter months.  Our wine just gets better! 

6) If you want to experience some snow you can take a day trip to Mt.Washington and participate in various winter sports: down-hill or cross-country skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing or even snow angel making.  There are also cabins that you can rent if you want to spend a couple nights. 

5) If you're more interested in the summer sports you can also hit up the local golf courses.  Yes, they are open and fully operational in the middle of the winter!  You can also try sailing, as you won't freeze out here!

4) Stormwatching in Tofino - I absolutely love watching the big waves roll into the shore, and even better is when you catch a surfing competition.

3) Hike the rainforests of Vancouver Island, and you'll actually be surrouded by wildlife and greenery.  Most other locations in the winter are so cold that the animals hibernate and the leaves of the trees fall off, leaving the area barren.  We are so lucky to have the temperate rainforests that are so beautiful year-round!  One of my favourites...the Gowlland Tod Trails (about 30 minutes outside of Victoria).

2) You heating bill is going to be lower, compared to other Canadians.  This means two things:  you'll have more money to spend on surf lessons when you go to Tofino and enough to hop on a Lizard Adventure!

and what I find most exciting....

1) An opportunity to watch the hundreds of bald eagles that fill the area around Goldstream Provincial Park (about 30 minutes from Victoria).  In the winter months this area if full of bald eagles, as they search for food and feast on the left over salmon from the spawning the took place in the stream (Oct-November).  A truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else!

Please feel free to share why you feel Vancouver Island is so special in the winter.  To comment on the blog, you must register as a Lizard Member (free!). 

There are many reasons to visit Chemainus - the most popular being the Chemainus Theatre Festival or to view the infamous Mural Project.  Today the Lizard Bus dropped by Chemainus with a group of seniors to watch a live performance of Anne (based on the bestselling novel, Anne of Green Gables by Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery).  An instant hit, which led the seniors to reminisce about their childhood stories and memorable experiences of growing up.  My favourite comment was from one senior that reflected on her excitment around getting her first job (as a nurse in Victoria)... "Back then we got paid $210 for the entire month...now people get paid more than that in a day...this isn't a recession"...

I know it's all relative, but wow...things have changed! 

I passed on the theatre today, and spent a little time checking out the stores.  At first glance I felt this town was full of tourist shops, but a closer look I discovered I was very wrong.  If you head to Chemainus check out the following places (unfortunately many of these don't have websites):

Gallery 786 Inc.: a very cute shop with the friendliest staff, offering a huge selection of products (jewellery, ladies handbags, clothing, native art and more).  I'm was trying to find Christmas presents but ended up finding a stylish sweater-dress for myself (oops!).  I couldn't resist because the prices were so fantastic - they also had a tempting selection of pashmina scarves, only $7.99 each (much cheaper than the prices in Victoria!)

Top Hat Antiques & Collectibles: they offer a unique, huge selection of hats that were used once or twice in movie filmings; the hats are very well priced $9-$25 (located in the older part of town - Maple St)

Sa-Cinn Native Enterprises Ltd.: authentic Native art at affordable prices an a great selection of jewelry, woven items and famous Cowichan sweaters

Willow Street Soaps & Small Indulgences: fragrant soaps, exquisite candles and silky skin products (the place to go if you want to treat yourself to a little luxury)

To finish my day off, I found a delightful cafe...Willow Street Cafe...locally owned by Michelle and Phil and situated in a characteristic heritage building.   The staff made every effort to welcome each person that walked through the door.  They knew most people by name, I was an obvious tourist!  There was something special about this place - each table had a little note on it, personally signed by all staff members in an agreement to offer the best service possible.  A very personal note that I found truly unqiue and refreshing.  Beyond the friendly staff, I found the menu to be excellent with edibles such as gourmet pizza, quiches, sandwiches and muffins, in addition to specialty and fresh brewed coffee.  The cafe is even fully licensed - so if you need a little Baileys in that hot chocolate, you've found the right place!

Last Friday, I had the positive experience of taking the media from the Olympic Torch Relay on one of my tours.  The excitement and stories shared between the groups were fantastic.  They were reporting on the Olympic vision and hoped to extend the importance of this venture to their viewers and readers back home.  Cultures came together to share a motivational experience, and it was upsetting to see their work disrupted by several hundred protesters, that wanted to voice their anger towards the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.    

For me, the Olympics is a once in a lifetime experience that represents so much more than competitive sport.  In my eyes the Olympic Games help to unite communities, and create an intangible form of motivation for all ages.  Children look up to Olympic athletes, hoping to one day achieve a personal goal or to 'beat the odds'.  Most Canadian Olympic Athletes live below the poverty line, and overcome great struggles to reach where they are today.  It is a true inspiration (even as an adult) to look at the athletes that have sacrificed in so many areas, and to witness success is truly humbling. 

The protestors were demonstrating for a variety of reasons, but their primary concerns were towards the billions being spent on the Olympics instead of housing and health care.  It is easy to get upset with the protestors -why stomp on an event that is a motivational experience for so many people? 

Personally, organized sport has been a vital part of my life; I even went on to study Human Kinetics at university and currently work towards promoting physical activity through my own company.  The benefits of physical activity and organized sport are intangible and the Olympic Torch Relay represents so much of what I believe in.  Although I was upset and annoyed as the protesters took over, I did re-evaluate my position as I headed home along Pandora Street, in Victoria. 

Pandora Street is just one of the many streets in Victoria that is occupied with homeless and less fortunate people that need help from our government.  How does the government find so much money to transfer an Olympic Torch around the entire country - yet we can't muster up enough money to help the people that are living on our streets?  What are the priorities of the Canadian government?

I discovered that the Olympic Torch Relay is a 106-day journey, spanning a total of 45,000-kilometres.  Not only am I worried about the money that has been redirected away from the housing and health care issues, but how many fossil fuels were produced to transport the hundreds of staff around the country (300+ people from what I last heard)?  This endeavor conflicts a shared human understanding that everyone should have access to the basic needs of life (housing, food and health service), and further conflicts with my efforts to consume and produce less in our struggling environment.  

Although the journey is one of motivation and inspires many - does that intangible profit out weigh the benefits that could be drawn from investing the money in our less fortunate sectors of the community? 

After careful thought I'm still in support of the Olympic movement, but I would like to see more community discussion around the true impact of external events (i.e. Torch Relay).  Could we possibly look at cutting back on external traditions that require a lot of money, and look towards what areas might be in more need?  Not sure what the solution is - but I do feel strongly that the protestors could voice their opinion in a different manner - what message does it send to crash a family event?  Doesn't solve anything, especially when it harms the inspirations of young children and risks the safety of bystanders!

The flame arrived atthe B.C. legislature after being carried in a traditional West Coastnative dugout canoe by First Nations paddlers. (CBC)

Olympic medallists Simon Whitfield and Catriona Le May Doan kicked off the Olympic torch relay in Victoria on Friday. (CBC)

Protestors make no apologies for distrupting relay. (Globe and Mail)

The other day I was chatting with my friend who recently moved to Victoria, and discovered that I was out of the loop (more specifically I was out of touch with Victoria's social scene), and it all came down to one website: www.MeetUp.com.  This website helps groups of people with shared interests, plan meetings and form offline clubs in local communities around the world.  Here in Victoria there are over 167 meetup groups, which range from the Social Dog Walking Club, to the Victoria Girls Cocktail Group to the more unique Michael Jackson Meetup Group.  If you're looking to get involved, stay connected or meet new people, this is truly the place to be. 

You simply type in your postal code and your topic of interest and all of the related groups will appear.  Since I have a passion for running I tried to search for a group in Victoria, but to my surprise there wasn't a running group!  Within 24 hours I decided it was time to take charge and I launched the Victoria Running MeetUp Group and I've already made 7 new friends!   

The idea is to post MeetUp events (so in my case it would be runs) and we meet at different places in Victoria to enjoy an interest that we share with complete strangers (whom will likely become friends).  This is different from joining a running group at a running store or recreation centre, because there is more of a online social component.  You can chat with fellow group members online - something that isn't available through other groups you might join in the city.  It is a great support network and it is very forward thinking, because it is accessible to more people - the majority of MeetUp groups are FREE to join!!! 

Once you join a group you can decide which MeetUp events to attend (most MeetUps are FREE or the group organizer can implement a cost if there are costs to cover, ex. transportation, entrance fees etc). 

In the Victoira Running MeetUp Group that I just started, you can join for free and there will be several runs that only require that you turn up and run.  Other events will be more structured (include transportation and guest lectures) and a registration fee is applied. 

I hope that you get out into your local communities to see what is offered.  Maybe you'll even start your own meetup group! 

The local seniors that I've taken out on trips make me laugh, but the questions from tourists really trump everyone.  I could devulge my list of top 20, but while reading the news today I stumpled across this list from Banff National Park.  I just couldn't resist a re-post...

From an unofficial survey of Banff tour operators, here are the top 20 outrageous questions, some with answers in case you've wondered the same thing. As for the rest, well, they stand on their own.

1.Are the animals with collars tame? (These animals have been fitted withtagged collars because they have had incidents with people. It isimportant to stay a safe distance away from wildlife.)

2. We are going into British Columbia. Do we need to change our money into Euros?

3.Can we drive our car onto a glacier anywhere? (Not to our knowledge,but you might enjoy a trip on the Ice Explorer across the ColumbiaIcefields.)

4. Do we need snow tires or chains to drive to Lake Louise in July?

5. Where are the igloos and the Eskimos?

6. If the Columbia Icefield melts before we get there, can we do a different excursion?

7. Can you see polar bears at the Columbia Icefield?

8. Can I walk around P.E.I. in a day?

9. Can I get from Vancouver to Toronto by driving in a day?

10. At what elevation do the deer turn to elk?

11. How much does that mountain weigh?

12. Is this all natural?

13. While working at the (Banff) Gondola on a rainy day I was asked to turn the fog off at the top so they could see."

14.While working at the Gondola, I got asked when we release the animalsso they can start feeding them. I had to remind them that this wasn't apetting zoo, the animals are wild and come out when they please -- andplease don't feed them."

15. Where's that place where I can see the bear in the cage? Can I get a photo with him?

16. If I see a bear when I'm hiking, can I just keep walking past it?

17. Can you guarantee wildlife sightings?

18. Where is the rocky mountain?

19. What's the best trail to take a bike on to see a cougar?

20. Where are the animals kept at night?

Bonus Question: Where can I find a wife?

Recently I've been taking senior groups out on day trips around Victoria and to more quaint places such as Salt Spring Island, Chemainus and Comox.  I have to say that these have been some of the more entertaining trips that I've had all summer!  The seniors are friendly, spontaneous and always up for an adventure!

Favourite quotes from my senior groups...which I've graciously kept anonymous:

"Stop for that hunky hitch hiker!  He can sit on my lap" - hollered from the back of the bus

"Where's the Pot House?" - senior

"You mean the pottery house?" - Liz searching through tourist book

"No, NOT POTTERY...the marijuana house...I want to eat brownies and party on the Lizard Bus!" - senior

"That wine-tasting was delightful, so delightful I decided to keep the wine glass as a memory" - the wine glass was secretly revealed from within the purse, followed by a sly giggle

"I didn't like the wine, it tasted a bit like cat's piss...well you've gotta give everything a try!"

I look forward to the future senior trips, but in the interim I've found some great DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS: 

Air Canada

Many fares allow a Senior Citizen discount for passengers over 60 yearsof age. Typically, there is a 10% discount off of the base fare before taxes and surcharges. Unfortunately, Senior?s discounts cannot bebooked on the web site, but you can call Air Canada Reservations at 1-888-247-2262 for fare type applicability, fare quotes and reservations.

National Parks

Parks Canada Agency is responsiblefor national parks, national historic sites and canals. Those over 65 years of age receive 25% off the entry fees! Contact the individual parks for more information.

VIA RAIL

Seniors, take someone for a FREE ride! Take advantage of the standard 10% discount offered to seniors and get a FREE second ticket for your accompanying spouse, child or friend!

Sandman Hotels

Seniors 55 years or better will find fabulous discounts -approximately 25% off regular rates - at all 26 locations throughout Western Canada all year long.

In addition to the above mentioned areas, you'll also find a number of beauty salons, health and fitness studios, pharmacies, restaurants and car dealers offer senior discounts.  Don't be afraid to ask!

As I wondered into the inner harbour of Victoria, on Sunday evening I was greeted by the friendly volunteers of the Symphony Splash.  I then made friends with the hoards of people that were occupying the same small, square of grass as us, as we all vied for a great view of the stage floating in the harbour.  For the next 3 hours we all enjoyed the live music and fireworks, while sharing popcorn, chocolate and Belgium waffles...this was truly a 'Victoria' experience.  Nowhere else do you find such extreme openess and interest in making new friends. 

As we chilled on the hill we overlooked the harbour where we saw all of the kayaks, sailboats, motor boats and miscellaneous floating devices crowd the base of the stage.  Once everyone was settled the central motor boat cooked up a BBQ and served everyone hotdogs...utilizing their paddles as a serving tray between boats!  Surprisingly - not one dog fell into the water!

The following day I ventured down to St.Ann's Academy to catch some of the BC Day Celebrations, and was blown away by a live performance of Sahara Sloan in the St.Ann's Chapel.  As a soprano, opera singer she wowed the crowd with her immensely powerful voice.  On the final song, she brought the crowd to tears with 'Ave Maria' - truly amazing!  I couldn't believe that this was a FREE performance.  Something of this caliber is rarely FREE!

On the lawns of St.Ann's Academy there was a chill beer garden hosted by Vancouver Island Brewery, and a main stage held a range of performances from pop singers to extensive Flamenco workshops.  Truly the highlight of the outdoor area was the Polish food kiosk - homemade perogies and polish sausage...

Below I've noted other FREE events coming up in Victoria so you don't miss out:

Outdoor Movies in Beacon Hill Park (Cameron Bandshell)

Friday, August 7, 14, 21, 28 (9pm) *3D movies: First 1000 people on Fri. Aug.7 receive free 3D Glasses!

Saturday, August 8, 15, 22, 29 (8pm-11pm) *regular movies

Keen to see a flick for free? Don’t fancy being cooped up inside a hotstuffy theatre for hours? Come & enjoy a movie under the stars. Screenings are free, just bring your own snacks, flashlights & blankets.

Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (Inner Harbour)

August 14-16  In addition to paddling races you can check out various forms of entertainment: Bucan Bucan (14 piece gypsy marching band), Asmira Dance Theatre (set to middle eastern melodies) and much more...

Victoria Symphony in Beach Hill Park (Cameron Bandshell)

Sunday, August 9, 1:30pm

Check out a pic of the boats and fireworks of Symphony Splash: