January 08, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Sightseeing Tours
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Last June I undertook a trip from Victoria to Bella Coola. I rented a mini van with good brakes and packed up two of my daughters, two of my granddaughters and my two, two year old great granddaughters...call me crazy. I also choose to drive the Sea to Sky Highway. Outside of the fact that the two little ones had a major aversion to auto traveling and were car sick the whole way there (somehow thier gramma convinced them they were not to get sick on the way back!) it was a gorgeous trip. I had never traveled that far up in BC by car and it was awesome. I only wish I had allotted us more time to look around different parts. I was not impressed with the Sea to Sky Hwy - too many repairs going on but it did prepare me for "the Hill" which actually wasn't as scary as I thought. Even though I'm scared of heights, I just took my time driving slow. We took pictures of the bears, deers and a badger and were amazed once again at the scenery. We arrived in Bella Coola pretty worn out from driving and ready for a rest. I don't know why more people haven't found this little treasure. The town is sweet with friendly people. We checked out the museum and local touristy spots. But mostly we enjoyed what we don't get here....peace and quiet. No sirens, car horns, no pollution, endless starry skys at night and no fears at walking around...even the dogs are friendly. I hope to retire there someday. People think it's so far away but it's not. One hour and a half from Vancouver by plane, or take your time and drive into some of the most beautiful country you'll ever see!