Day 4. Arriving On Vancouver Island. 21st April 2015
Headed out of our comfortable Vancouver abode on Burrard Ave and up the street to a nearby hotel, proudly flying a large rainbow flag. Here we were picked up by the bus service to go to Vancouver Island via ferry.
Caught up in morning traffic we did the rounds of the major hotels with the Driver keeping us and his boss informed of the difficulty manoevering around the roadworks. Finally made it to the ferry terminal at Tsawwassen, where the bus was loaded onto the ferry.
The ferries were a surprise: clean, well appointed. The final delightful straw was the buffet to end all buffets. Like an Airline lounge with great food and choice all for $20.
Back on the bus, as the ferry docked, for the drive into Victoria, the capital of Vancouver Island.The weather was what became the norm = cloudy, rainy, cold, with sunny spells.
WOW – what accommodation we discovered. Albion Manor. Accommodation against which all else in Canada would be judged! Breathtaking garden, a house renovated to perfection inside and out.
We were led to the Renoir Room which was filled with amazing antique furniture with giant comfy bed huge walk-in robe and kitchen.
Greeted by our host, Thomas, and made to feel comfortable immediately.The house was floor to ceiling with bric a brac and artwork-stunning.
Once settled we walked into Victoria that afternoon and visited bookshops, including Munro’s housed in an old building, went travel gadget shopping – took multiple photos of the Parliament buildings and ended up at Darcy’s pub.
Propped up at the bar we talked to the locals and we were again fascinated by Ice Hockey.This time Detroit was playing. Mentioned only because they have a charming habit of throwing a squid out on the ice before the game starts!
Anyway had a chat to Jenna who liked a beer and was traveling around Canada as pastry chef- got some tips about Banff.
Headed home after a mediocre Sushi meal to the sumptuous football pitch size bed. We both slept like logs.