August 20, 2010 | Tips from Us >
Victoria, Accommodation
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I had the opportunity to stay the night at the
Queen Victoria in downtown Victoria. This older property is super convenietly located across the street from the Royal BC Museum and I would definetly recommend it. The room I was in was spacious and had not one, but two, balconies....a bit of a rarity in hotels. The hotel was busy with tour groups, but as a single traveller, I enjoyed the buzz that they brought. Had dinner and breakfast in the hotel's acclaimed Samuel's Restaurant which has been turning out yummy food for over 30 years. Great service, great view, great food. All in all, a very pleasant stay.
August 17, 2010 | Tips from Us >
Victoria, Gardens
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As a former tour guide, I have had the opportunity to visit Victoria's
Butchart Gardens many many times as an escort to groups. This trip however was with my 10 year old daughter who had never been. She loved it and I saw it through a young person's amazed eyes. The real treat for me was going on the boat tour that departs from the foot of the Japanese Gardens. This 45-minute tour (on an electric boat) takes passengers on a trip around the periphery of the Gardens to where the property's original cement plant was located. The scenery was stunning and our captain told us area and Butchart family history. Can't remember exactly what we paid (think it was around $30 for both of us) but it was well worth it and highly recommended. It also provides a nice break from the heat on a hot day, and the crowds on a busy one! Thank you Butchart Team for a great product offering!