Lizard Adventure Travel

Burger road-map Victoria, BC

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 02:40:00 +0000

Burger joints have been been cropping up all over Victoria, and many tourists have been asking which place I recommend. Here are my personal reviews and feedback from friends:

Pink Bicycle Gourmet Burger Joint
While voted best in the city for 2009, 2010 and 2011 I do believe this place has slipped in their customer service. If you are willing to put up with that they do serve a DELICIOUS burger. I recommend their 'Blue Cheese Lamb Burger' but dislike their 'Metchosin Mutton'. See menu for further details.

What I do appreciate is that they serve their burgers on the buns from Bond Bonds Bakery - these sesame buns are amazing! Also, if you're Gluten Free they purchase from Origin Bakery (another place I love!) I appreciate that they support small-businesses when sourcing their products, which adds to the experience.

Feedback from others for Pink Bicycle: "love the pink sauce" and "onion rings are a must".

Photo: outside of Pink Bicycle

Bin 4 Burger Lounge
Definitely my favourite place so far! I highly recommend the 'Minted Lamb' burger or the 'Dirty Bourbon'. The atmosphere is also really chill and the service fantastic. They offer a decent selection of dipping sauces for your fries, but I think the fries at Big Wheel Burger (below) are better.

They have this one drink called 'Plantation' which is fantastic, but their house red wine (Cortes) is pretty bad.

After 9pm the burgers are 50% off with a purchase of a drink!

Big Wheel Burger
Simple, fresh fast-food but I guess I expected more because the high-caliber owners of Pig BBQ Joint and Zambris created this restaurant. I do appreciate their sustainability efforts and the philosophy behind what they do, but I'd like to see a better delivery on product. The burger reminded me of Whitespot - roughly slapped together with few unique toppings and the actual patty was fairly thin and lacked a distinctive taste. Don't get me wrong - it definitely tasted far better than a Whitespot burger!

It made me sad that such a fantastic location was not utilized effectively. Cook St Village has so much foot-traffic, is close to the beach and the locals were so ready for a unique burger joint.

Positives: their fries are pretty awesome and if you're looking for the best fast-food burger in town...then this is definitely the place.

Photo: Cheeseburger, fries and drink from Big Wheel Burger.

Aura - (restaurant at the Inn at Laurel Point)
While not known as a gourmet burger joint, this location is known for their "Best Burger", but I might add that it's also the most expensive...$18. The burger was extremely tastey but I found it to be a little too massive...I could barely take a bite. I'd guess the actual burger was more than a pound of meat, so if you've got a hungry guy you're trying to impress this is definitely the place!

The view is fantastic as it overlooks Victoria harbour but the fries were pretty awful...overcooked and too salty.

Photo: Best Burger at Aura

Fatburger
I've not had a chance to try this place yet, but it recently opened downtown Victoria. It is a franchise that has done extremely well (open since 1952 and well-known). From what I've heard there is a really fun feel in this joint, with a jukebox to select your own tunes, plus they have a great selection of seasonings for your fries.

Celebrate new Moms - Victoria, BC

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:40:00 +0000

Over the holiday break I visited lots of friends that recently became new Moms! Below I've provided information on how to celebrate these new Moms during your nex trip to Victoria; also some very helpful info if you actually live here!

Emerald Day Spa - A local hot-spot in Victoria! This spa offers not only fantastic services but reasonable prices for new Moms on a budget. It is exteremly important that new-Moms feel beautiful, relaxed and balanced. To book your appointment: 250-383-2441 or info@emeralddayspa.ca They also offer gift-certificates!

Photo: Emerald Day Spa Proprietor, Tanya Higgin (c) poses with estheticians Jessica and Heather.

Running Moms - A community for Moms who run.
Frontrunners (1200 Vancouver St.)
Through the support of Frontruners you can select one of two options:
1) Drop–in Runs (ongoing and social)
2) Half-marathon Clinic (more structured and goal–based)
Team leader is S.J. Erickson joy_sara@hotmail.com
More info check out their running blog

Photo: S.J. Erickson (run-leader of Running Moms, Frontrunners)

MeetUp Clubs - various communities within Victoria offer 'MeetUp' groups for Moms
A great way to coordinate playdates, make new friends, schedule outings or to garner general support from like-minded individuals. Currently available in Mill Bay, North Saanich, Victoria - plus, some groups are specific to the Dads that might need a little extra support.

KidsInVictoria.com - great website launched in conjunction with Island Parent Magazine.
Find Mommy Bloggers, classifieds, articles, community info and upcoming events.

Children's Concert - The Magic Flute:
Victoria Conservatory of Music - Wood Hall | 900 Johnson Street Victoria
11:00 - 12:00 | $15.00 adults $12.00 child

Top 20 festive events in Victoria...

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Christmas is fast-approaching, and it's time to embrace that warm and fuzzy festive spirit. Whether you're a tourist or a local, these opportunities are unique to Victoria and should not be missed!

*Feel free to add to this list in the comments section below.

1) Miracle on 34th Street - radio play to be presented at the Crystal Ballroom in the Empress Hotel

2) Oak Bay Christmas Festival - the village is transformed in a magical wonderland; kicks off the last Sunday of November

3) Festival of Trees at the Fairmont Empress Hotel; lush forest of beautifully decorated trees (funds raised go to the BC Children's Hospital), runs mid November to mid January

4) Countryside Christmas - nostalgic Chrismas treat at Chemainus Theatre Festival (Nov.11 - Dec.31)

5) Butchart Gardens - Dec.1-Jan.5, ten of thousands of Christmas lights are hung to create the ever-popluar 12 Days of Christmas Display, live performances and outdoor ice-rink on site!

6) Craigdarroch Castle - takes a month to decorate; rooms are presented in traditional Victorian fashion complete with Victorian toys

7) Santa Shuffle - Dec.3 with Running Room

8 ) Milner Gardens Christmas Magic - festival of lights and music, by donation

9) Ghosts of Christmas Past the legend of Christmas Hill and much more; ghost tours presented by local historian John Adams and his team with a specific Christmas flair!

10) AJ's Organic Cafe - offering a fantastic selection of ethically sourced seasonal beverages and baked goods for this festive time of year; located in the Atrium at Yates and Blanschard SPECIAL NOTE: if you have a Christmas or Holiday Party check out AJ's Catering Services (they also have gluten-free options)

11) Seasonal Beers - sample winter and holidy brews! Sat. Nov.12

12) Time Out - Surviving the Season - Tues. Nov.15, how to lower your stress this holiday season

13) Nautical Wreath Workshops - learn how to create wreaths from manila rope

14) Centennial Square Christmas Tree Light-Up - Nov.26, seasonal music, performances and more

15) Island Farms Santa's Lights Parade - Nov.26, more info contact Victoria Festivals Society at 250-382-3111

16) A Baroque Christmas - Dec.17, live performance by Nancy Argenta and Aulos Ensemble

17) Christmas Starlight Cinema - Christmas movies under the stars in the Victoria Harbour (event contact info 250-360-2999 or kelvin@dunnpr.com)

18 ) Stuary McLean and the Vinyl Cafe Christmas - Nov.28, one of Canada's best storytellers and beloved authors

19) The Nutcracker - presented by Dance Victoria with the Victoria Symphony

20) Christmas Light Tour with Lizard Adventure Travel - 2 hour Christmas Light Bus Tour of Victoria; info@LizardAdventureTravel.com or 250-891-6881 for more info or click promo video! We will visit the award winners from the Times Colonist Christmas Light's Contest - trip photos

Veterans before Santa...

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 19:55:00 +0000

...I'm not trying to be 'preachy' because I absolutely LOVE Christmas, but this is just a gentle reminder to acknowledge the Veterans on Remembrance Day (November 11), BEFORE jumping into the Christmas season.

I've noticed that the retail industry has moved straight from Halloween to Christmas, but let's recognize the heores that fought or passed away at war for us. Follow these 3 easy steps...

STEP 1

Before purchasing that Eggnog Latte from Starbucks, purchase a poppy (all funds support veterans)

STEP 2

Attend one of the many Remembrance Day Ceremonies:

Victoria: 11 a.m.: Cenotaph on the grounds of the B.C. Legislative Building, 614 Government St. Wreath-laying by dignitaries will be followed by a luncheon open to the public.

Saanich: 11 a.m. - noon, Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave.

Central Saanich: 10:55 a.m., Municipal hall, 1903 Mount Newton Cross Rd.

Sidney: 11 a.m., Cenotaph in front of town hall; Army Navy pipe band playing at noon at the Army, Navy, Air Force Unit, 302, 9834 Fourth St.

Oak Bay: 10:55 a.m., Oak Bay cenotaph; Beach Drive from Dorsett to Rutland is closed 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Esquimalt:10:30 a.m.Remembrance Day parade from the Esquimalt Legion to the Memorial Park cenotaph across from municipal hall, 1229 Esquimalt Rd.; Ceremony at 10:55 a.m.; also 9:30 a.m. at the Veterans’ Cemetery.

Western Communities: 10:50 a.m., parade leaves the Langford Canadian Legion for ceremony at Veterans Park, Veterans Memorial Parkway and Goldstream Avenue.

STEP 3

Take photos of Remembrance Day Ceremonies and spread via Twitter and Facebook to show support.

Photo: Remembrance Day Ceremony, Victoria, BC, 2009.

Any other suggestions on how to honor Veterans?

Oct, Nov, December on Vancouver Island...

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 21:45:00 +0000

Lots of visitors and locals have been asking what there is to do around Victoria in the 'off-season' or 'rainy' months. See below for a list of suggestions:

Seasonal Outtings
3rd Annual Fall Vintage Fair - music, vintage fashion shows and more

G host Tours - haunted walks or guided bus tours offering a history of ghosts in the Pacific Northwest! You can also book Ghost Tours through us (Lizard Adventure Travel); we get the original, local historian John Adams as a guest on our bus for your own private adventure!

Goldstream - infamous salmon spawning takes place late October - early November, then the bald eagles soar above in December to pick up the leftovers

Storm Watching & Surfing - see blog post below on Tofino and Ucluelet (lots of great storms this time of year, which means the waves are huge!)

Sports
UVic Vikes - rugby, soccer, golf, basketball, swimming, field hockey, track & field/cross country, rowing

Victoria Royals (ice hockey); home-opener was September 24, 2011 but there are many more games to come

Non-Profit Events
CIBC Run For The Cure - Sun. Oct. 2, 2011

Farafina Lolo! Stars of Africa in Celebration of an Independent Guinea; fashion show, dance party, ska reggae

Foodie Events
Cranberry Taste Tours - prices start at $5 which includes cranberry samples!

Art of the Cocktail Festival - workshops, sampling and so much more...

Chef Survival Challenge - Sun. Oct. 2, 2011; Chefs race around Madrona Farm and then create masterpieces from their pickings

Muse Winemakers Dinner at Deep Cove Chalet - Nov.12, 2011; tastey food and delicious wine

Tofino is awesome, but Ucluelet...

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 20:43:00 +0000

I recently visited Tofino but ended up spending the majority of my time in Ucluelet. This neighbouring district to Tofino lacks recognition, and I felt it was time to provide insider info...

First, a few details about Ucluelet:
- district municipality on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, approximately 40km from Tofino or 288km northwest of Victoria
- Ucluelet means "people of the safe habour" in the indigenous Nootka language
- population of approximately 1500

Why you should visit Ucluelet:

1) Less developed

Ucluelet is still transitioning from a resource-based economy (fishing and logging) to a tourism-based economy. You get to observe 'un-touched' nature before the big resorts move in!

2) Affordable
Because the town is less well-known the service and accomodation providers need to keep their prices low to attract visitors.

3) Unique culture

Very important in the local society is the Yu-cluth-aht people whose government is the Ucluelet First Nation. Great place to learn about Aboriginal culture on Vancouver Island.

4) Kayaking
Depending on the time of year you can observe salmon spawning while bears roam the water's edge to collect leftovers. Locals recommend Majestic Ocean Kayaking. Some of the salmon jump out of the water over your kayak and you'll need to duck to avoid 30lbs of fish flying through the air!

5) Accomodation
Bostrom's B&B: rated #1 on Trip Advisor so I had to stop by to see for myself. Owner's Judy and Gary were warm, welcoming and knowledgeable. They (plus resident dog, Baxter) provided a tour of their stunning accomodation. This B&B sits on the water and offers oceanviews from the private rooms and outdoor decks. The attention to detail is what caught my eye: outdoor hot-tub overlooking the ocean, fireplace, snooker table, internet, local artwork, sound-proofed media room, heated floor tiles and spa showers!

BlackRock Resort: luxury accomodation that recently opened (2 years ago). An absolutely stunning venue that has gone above and beyond in their room details - did I mention you can see the ocean from your private shower?! They also have a high-end, very reasonably priced restaurant (Fetch) and spa (Drift) on site. The prices are extremely affordable for a luxury resort of this level; I recommend checking them out before too many people catch on! I understand there was some controversy around the development of this resort, as it is located on the Wild Pacific Trail, but the hotel is working diligently with locals to implement a solution that works for everyone involved. After chatting with some locals I discovered that general opinion is that this hotel is a positive addition to the location.

6) World-renowned Hiking
The Wild Pacific Trail runs from Ucluelet out to Tofino, but if you want to experience a small portion of it I recommend the 2.6km loop (southern section) in Ucluelet. It will take approximately 30 minutes, but since you'll likely stop for photos at the many viewpoints, allow for more time.

The New York Times also reviewed this hiking trail, and rated it as one of the top ones in North America! Below is a view from the trail...

7) Food
As mentioned above, Fetch at BlackRock is amazing - Executive Chef Andrew Springett holds a strong reputation in the community and maintains reasonable prices for high-quality, local treats!

Norwoods Restaurant
Specializes in indigenous ingredients from the pacific north west, and food is paired with local wines. All products are sourced as close to home as possible, in fact the Chef connects directly with the local fisherman for ling cod, salmon, rock fish, halibut and octopus - no middle men, just fresh caught fish!

Ukee Dogs - I couldn't find an official website for this place, but locals rave about it. Offering comfort food for every mood: gourmet hotdogs, meat pies, cookies, salads and more...

SOBO Restaurant
Ok - this isn't actually located in Ucluelet but I had to mention it because it's pretty fantastic. Take a quick visit to Tofino and sample the Killer Fish Tacos - they have won lots of accolades including a mention in the New York Times

8)Storm-Watching!
Storms are particularly impressive in Ucluelet because a lot of the beach areas have large, exposed rocky areas that the waves smash up against. Enjoy this storm video from Ucluelet, courtesy of Anchors Inn.

Lizard Adventure Travel offers group trips to Tofino & Ucluelet - to book your own group adventure (10-24 people) please contact Liz Bonham: info@LizardAdventureTravel.com | 250-891-6881

Valentine's in Victoria

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 05:37:00 +0000

Tourist or Local?...here are some insider ideas to surprise your Valentine in Victoria:

FOODIES

- Victoria Tea Festival (largest public tea exhibition in North America)

- Dine Around (fabulous food paired with VQA wine)
- Valentine's Brunch (Fairmont Empress Hotel - cold buffet and delicious a la carte)
- Valentine's Dinner (Merridale Cidery - 3 courses for only $30)
- Ladie's Night - Death by Chocolate (Bengal Lounge - ladies receive 50% off chocolate buffet)

FILM BUFFS

- Victoria Film Festival (Vancouver Islands’s biggest and longest runningFilm Festival)

HISTORY BUFFS

- Royal BC Museum: Behind the Scenes (insider’s look at the museum’s124-year-history)
- Live at Lunch: engaging topics on RBCM research, travel, collections and exhibitions

ARTSY

- Emily Carr: On the Edge of Nowhere (learn about Emily Carr through her paintings - Victoria Art Gallery)

- Visual Trickery Photo Exhibit at the Maritime Museum of BC (photo manipulation - 40,000 historical photographs)

FAITH & SPIRITUALITY

- Theology Cafe (expand your diversity of understanding)

- ‘The Gift’ (answers to questions that man has asked throughout the ages)

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

- Hockey Night in Canada's Play On! (60 teams in 4 on 4 street hockey tournament)

- Birding Basics (Guided Walk to learn about tips & tricks of birding)

- Owl Prowl (Guided Walk with guest naturalist David Allinson): 250-478-3344

- Rotten Luck (Guided Walk to learn of decomposers in the woods)

Outdoor markets in Victoria - don't miss out...

Wed, 19 May 2010 19:06:00 +0000

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:

Inside scoop - Southern Gulf Islands...

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 17:46:00 +0000

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

Most asked question on my tours...

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 17:13:00 +0000

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!