Victoria’s vintage charm

Rameshinder Singh Sandhu

Have the most beguiling postcards been scattered all around, or is it simply a grand art exhibition fervently presenting the highly enthralling sceneries. These intriguing questions may race in your mind when in Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia.

The journey to Victoria, which is located on the Vancouver Island, right on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, is an extraordinary one. Take a ferry from the lower mainland, Tsawwassen Bay, which is just few miles from Vancouver and Surrey but if you love flying, seaplanes or helicopters leaving from Vancouver is another exhilarating option. While ferry journey takes little less than two hours, the air travel lands you within 30 minutes but both modes are known for introducing the best of nature on the way. However, do choose the time when sun is waking up or biding adieu for more exhilarating moments.

Finally, once in the heart of Victoria, which is usually flooded with visitors from across the world, you may getconfused as to where to start from since there are many captivating sights everywhere. And, of course with the buildings soaked in old European architecture and traditional horse carriages on every street, you will simply feel transported to another world.

In the capital city it would be a good idea to start with its grand neo-Baroque Renaissance-styled ‘Legislature’ building, inundated with colourful lawns in front. One can also go inside and register for free guided tours that reveal not only how the British Columbia government functions here but also the historic importance of the legislature and its architecture with no restrictions on photography. Don’t forget to capture the capital from its upper floor of the building, as these offer an amazing view of the harbour.

Next could be jumping on one of the horse carriages as the ride silently indulges you more in its old world charm. Ask any local, and this will be an absolute must. One can board these carriages from anywhere and tailor the route according to one’s plan. However, the best route commences from the Legislature building and takes you to the old town, another unique world inundated with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants and bars, all housed in  old buildings. Victorian clocks hung on poles and street entertainers are sure to delight. And, the carriage’s coachman or coachwoman, who are traditionally dressed, also guide you about the city and make short stops while coming in front of rare attractions.

One of these attractions is the Empress Hotel, a few steps away from the Legislature. Considered to be an iconic symbol of Victoria, it is known for its quintessential British afternoon tea, which is on every tourist’s list. Every day more than 800 guests come to enjoy this tradition that has been on since the hotel opened on January 20, 1908.  

 Butchart Gardens, another national historic site, should be on your itinerary.  Located in Brentwood Bay and not far from downtown, it is visited by over a million visitors each year. Hues of nature exceed all expectations here. 

Lastly, if you are lucky you may even come across a film or a song shoot. All credits to Victoria’s charm and beauty where you would always love to come again and again!