September 02, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Campbell River, Whale Watching
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We went on the greatest whale watching voyage. We saw orcas, eagles, salmon jumping right out of the water to be photographed and a dall's porpoise playing. I would highly recommend the Discovery Marine Safaris. The staff is friendly and informative. They care about the whales and are very cautious when boating near them. The boat is stopped and a hydrophone is lowered so you can hear these great creatures talking as they swim by. Lunch is served and the sandwich, veggies, fruit and dessert are delicious. It is well worth the driving time to take the scenic route from Victoria to this quaint little town. There are great little restaurants for dinner and if you are lucky you will see seals and orcas right there in the harbour. We are definitely coming back for the grizzley tour!
September 02, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Alert Bay, Historic & Heritage Sites
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British Columbia's coastline is dotted with many remarkable communities, many accessibly only by boat or seaplane. These communities, in turn, are home to remarkable people and stories. One such place is Alert Bay, home to the 'Namg is First Nation.
In the mid-1980s, the 'Namg is built the Umista Cultural Centre to house dozens of ceremonial potlatch masks that were repatriated to the tribe after being confiscated in the 1920s. The cultural centre is provides visitors with an understanding of the masks, their artwork, and their place in coastal first-nations society, as well as an overview of the often painful story of BC's First Nations over the past two centuries. Today, the surrounding village of Alert Bay is a contemporary First Nations community, and it's picturesque location on Cormorant Island is an easy ferry-ride from Port McNeill. Alert Bay should certainly be included in the travel plans for anyone visiting Northern Vancouver Island, and the Umista Cultural centre is a gem of the Pacific Northwest.
September 01, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Courtenay, Hiking
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Just wanted to let everyone know about a great Bed and Breakfast on Vancouver Island called "All Seasons Roost " I am from Alabama, USA and just happened to find them. We were on our way to Port Hardy on the north side of the Island to go sea kayaking. Jim and Lorraine at "The Roost" were great hosts. They had wine with us on our arrival, gave us details and great stories about the area. All their suggestions for meals and things to do turned out good. The beds were top notch- pillow top or memory foam. Baths were luxurious. The house was comfy and quite. AND the breakfast was sumptious. I have only stayed in about 10 BandBs but this ranks as the best and was one of the least expensive. I would definitely stay there again.