Welcome to Victoria - the "City of Gardens" I have returned to live in the city of my youth, Victoria, British Columbia. More about this garden city in a moment, but for now I just want to leave you with an invitation to visit this beatiful spot just a few hours away from Vancouver. This intimate, sophisticated seaside City is the vacation capital of Canada and the premiere tourist spot in the Pacific Northwest. Victoria is situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and sparkles in one of Canada's mildest climates. This area is the sunniest spot in the province and the gentlest in the country in terms of climate, environment, and lifestyle. Victoria's unique character is deeply rooted in its 150-year history -- a history full of colourful people and fascinating tales. The city's British colonial heritage is still very much in evidence, but contemporary Victoria has a distinctly Pacific northwest flavour. Today, Victoria is best known as the capital city of British Columbia, and as a world-renowned tourism destination. One of the most visitor-friendly cities anywhere, Victoria is also one of Canada's favourite places to call home. Greater Victoria and its outlying areas now have a population of 300,000, and the one-time colonial outpost is alive with cosmopolitan dining, superb shopping, a colourful nightlife and a full complement of cultural offerings. During my teen years here, I couldn't wait to leave for the big city lights of Vancouver, now I couldn't wait to return. While Victoria certainly has it's big city flavor and big city problems, it still manages to retain the small communtiy roots and hospitality. I have left you with a few pictorial images and an invitation to see this gem of the Northwest that so many call home . . and now fortunately that includes ME! gmr Sonlight Ventures 2009
