Road Scholar : Home
Vancouver Island Exploration

Program Number: 20576RJ
Start and End Dates:
6/20/2013 - 6/27/2013; 8/22/2013 - 8/29/2013;
Duration: 7 nights
Location: Victoria, British Columbia
Price starting at: $1,896.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: History & Culture
Meals: 16; 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 6 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Experience the beauty of Vancouver Island – from the capital city of Victoria to the wilds of the western coast. Learn about the impact of First Nations culture on the region, join naturalists for an exploration of Pacific Rim National Park, and enjoy field trips to sites including Butchart Gardens, the Royal BC Museum and more.




Highlights

• Discover the unique past and intriguing present of Victoria as you set out on foot to explore the city's rich architectural, cultural and social history.
• Explore the incredible marine life and go in search of whales off the coast of Tofino on Vancouver Island’s west coast.
• Examine the natural wonders of Pacific Rim National Park and learn about the dramatic influence of the ocean on the human history of this fascinating coastal region.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles over uneven ground; some stairs.



Itinerary Summary

Independent arrival Victoria, 3 nights; coach to Ucluelet, 3 nights; coach to Victoria, 1 night, independent departure.



Coordinated by Routes to Learning Canada.




Victoria

This provincial capital on Vancouver Island is blessed with spectacular scenery and a mild climate year-round. Home to Butchart Gardens and the Empress Hotel, Victoria is rich in First Nations history, marine coastal ecosystems, cultural attractions and European charm that dates to its years spent under British colonial rule.
Accommodations
Comfortable hotels and resorts.
Meals and Lodgings
   Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
  Victoria, BC 3 nights
   The Canadian Princess
  Ucluelet, BC 3 nights
   Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
  Victoria, BC 1 night
 Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: With our convenient location in the heart of downtown Victoria, the largest city on Vancouver Island, BC, you can take a leisurely stroll along Victoria’s famous Inner Harbour, shop for treasures on Antiques Row or make business connections in Victoria’s nearby downtown core. Take a horse and carriage tour of Victoria with family and friends, create memories at Beacon Hill Park, and the Royal BC Museum is just around the block. Take in views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. There’s so much to see and do right at our doorstep! Enjoy yourself in the Royal Scot Hotel & Suite’s beautiful indoor pool, whirl pool, sauna and exercise room. Have some fun in our billiards room or gather with friends for a hand of bridge or a movie in the games room. We offer free wireless Internet access throughout the hotel. For your convenience our courtesy shuttle is available to take you anywhere within Victoria's downtown core. After a full day, rest easy in the cozy comfort of the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites and feel at home in downtown Victoria.
  Contact info: 425 Quebec Street
Victoria, BC V8V1W7 Canada
phone: 800-663-7515
web: www.royalscot.com/index.html
  Room amenities: Our guest rooms include daily newspaper delivery, comfortable lounge chairs, mini fridges, coffee maker with complimentary coffee, tea and cookies, complimentary high speed wireless Internet, iron and ironing board and bathrobes.
  Facility amenities: Our Guest Service Amenities include: Business Services Available Coin-Operated Guest Laundry Courtesy Shuttle between the Hotel and downtown Victoria daily Indoor Swimming Pool Hydrotherapy Pool Exercise Room with a variety of Fitness Equipment Billiards and Games Room Hotel Parking (for a fee) High speed Wireless Internet in all Guest Rooms and Hotel Common Areas Hotel Gift Shop Jonathon's Restaurant
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Call for availability & rates Please contact the hotel directly on your own OR if you require personal assistance contact Maritime Travel toll free at 1-888-905-5959. A service fee MAY apply.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM
  Additional nights after: Call for availability & rates Please contact the hotel directly on your own OR if you require personal assistance contact Maritime Travel toll free at 1-888-905-5959. A service fee MAY apply.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM

 The Canadian Princess
Type: Resort
  Description: Located in the village of Ucluelet, near Tofino and Long Beach on Vancouver Island, The Canadian Princess Resort offers warm hospitality, comfortable accommodation and great food. The sunrises and sunsets over the harbor are simply unbeatable. The Canadian Princess, formerly a hydrographic survey ship, operates as a floating hotel and restaurant and is permanently moored in the Ucluelet Harbor. Stay in well-appointed on-shore accommodations.
  Contact info: 1943 Peninsula Rd
Ucluelet, BC V0R 3A0 Canada
phone: 250-726-7771
web: www.canadianprincess.com
  Room amenities: Traditional hotel-style rooms with two double beds, cable, color television, tea/coffee maker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board and private bathrooms.
  Facility amenities: From a relaxing walk along the waterfront, to a cocktail in the lounge, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your time at the Canadian Princess Resort. The resort features a full service dining room and wireless internet in the lounge. Take advantage of the resorts proximity to the town of Ucluelet and wander the streets of this picturesque village.
  Smoking allowed: No


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Independent arrivals to program hotel in Victoria, BC. Check-in after 3:00 p.m. The welcome dinner is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. You will be staying at Royal Scot Hotel and Suites that night.
  End of Program:
Independent departures from Victoria, BC after breakfast. Breakfast is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Check out by 12:00 p.m. You will be staying at Royal Scot Hotel and Suites the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. PASSPORTS: Passport requirements are subject to change. Visit www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for information.
  Parking availability:
Parking is available at the hotel for an additional fee. Please contact the Royal Scot Hotel and Suites for additional information and rates at 250-388-5463.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Victoria, BC
  Nearest city or town:  Victoria
  Nearest airport:  Victoria International Airport
  From End of Program
  Location: Victoria, BC
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Victoria

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
AKAL Airporter
phone: 250-386-2525
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately CAD$21 + tax
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

20 - 30 minutes 
   

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) has many direct flights from Air Canada (Jazz) which offers connections from across North America via Toronto, Montreal and Halifax. Shuttle provides daily 1/2 hour service to/from the airport to all hotels and motels in Greater Victoria. Shuttles operate from 4:00 am until midnight or until last flight clears. Reservations are recommended. For more information visit www.victoriaairporter.com or call 877-386-2525.
 

Victoria

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately CAD $55
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Approximately 30 minutes 
   

Taxi is available to/from the hotel to the Victoria International Airport. Bus and Taxi drivers will exchange US currency. The hotel staff will be happy to arrange taxi service from the hotel at the end of the program.
 

Victoria

 

From Ferry Landing

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately CAD $5-6
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Approximately five minutes 
   

The Victoria Clipper passenger ferry offers service between Seattle and Victoria, BC and arrives/departs from the inner harbour just a few blocks from the hotel. Travel time is approximately 2 hours. For more information and current fares please call 1-800-888-2535 or visit www.victoriaclipper.com
 

Victoria

 

From Bus Terminal

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately CAD $5-6; $2 - 3 City bus
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

5 - 10 minutes 
   

Taxi service is available from the bus terminal to the hotel or use public transit.
 

Victoria

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
AKAL Airporter
phone: 250-386-2525
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $21 + tax
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

20 - 30 minutes 
   

Shuttles operate from 4:00 am until midnight or until last flight clears. airportshuttle@csp.net, www.victoriaairporter.com. Taxis are also available - approximately $50.00 CDN.

 

Victoria

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $55
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30 minutes 
   

Taxi is available from the hotel to the Victoria International Airport. The hotel staff will be happy to arrange taxi service from the hotel at the end of the program.
 

Victoria

 

To Bus Terminal

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$5 - 6 CDN (taxi); $2 - 3 City bus
Prices are subject to change.
 

Distance:

 

5 - 10 minutes
   

Taxi (or city bus) from the hotel to the bus terminal in Victoria. Pacific Coach Lines offers coach service from Victoria to Vancouver; the bus goes onto the ferry to Vancouver (airport and downtown) to the central bus station. Contact PCL at 1-800-661-1725 or visit www.pacificcoach.com
 

Victoria

 

To Ferry Landing

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$5 - $6 CDN
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

5 minutes 
   

Taxi (or walk) to the ferry terminal in in Inner Harbour to board the Victoria Clipper passenger ferry to Seattle, WA. Travel time is 2 ½ hours. For more information, schedules and current fares please call 1-800-888-2535 or visit www.victoriaclipper.com

 

Vancouver

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Coach and Ferry
phone: 800-661-1725
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Coach approximately CAD$40.00 plus taxes; Ferry approximately CAD$15.00 plus applicable taxes
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Total travel time is approximately 3.5 hours (subject to change) 
   

Pacific Coach Lines picks up in select locations in Vancouver and goes onto the ferry to Victoria, to the bus station in downtown Victoria - $5 -6 taxi fare to hotel. (. Contact PCL at 1-800-661-1725 or visit www.pacificcoach.com for up-to-date fares and schedules.
 

Vancouver

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Coach and Ferry
phone: 800-661-1725
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Coach approximately CAD$40.00 plus taxes; Ferry approximately CAD$15.00 plus applicable taxes
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

Total travel time is approximately 3.5 hours (subject to change) 
   

Pacific Coach Lines leaves the bus station in Victoria and goes onto the ferry to Vancouver (including Vancouver Airport), then on to the main bus station. Contact PCL at 1-800-661-1725 or visit www.pacificcoach.com for up-to-date fares and schedules.
 
Driving Directions
  From Seattle, Washington USA Board the Victoria Clipper (walk on only) at Seattle and disembark at the Inner Harbour Victoria, BC. Take a taxi to the hotel. (www.victoriaclipper.com)
  From Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal Leaving Swartz Bay (Sidney, BC), you will automatically by on Highway 17. The highway will eventually become Blanchard Street and takes you to the Inner Harbour (Belleville Street). Pass the Legislative Buildings, turn left on Menzies Street and then right on Quebec Street. The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites will be on your left.
  From Vancouver by Ferry BC Ferries operates daily, year-round ferry service between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island. Contact: 1-888-BCFERRY or www.bcferries.com Upon arriving in Swartz Bay (Sidney, BC) you will automatically be on Highway 17. The highway will eventually become Blanchard Street and takes you to the Inner Harbour (Belleville Street). Pass the Legislative Buildings, turn left on Menzies Street and then right on Quebec Street. The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites will be on your left.
  From Victoria Airport Following the Airport Road to Highway 17, turn right and follow the signs to downtown Victoria. Highway 17 becomes Blanchard Street and takes you to the Inner Harbour (Belleville Street). Pass the Legislative Buildings, turn left on Menzies Street and then right on Quebec Street. The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites will be on your left.
  From the Anacortes Ferry From the Anacortes, WA ferry arrival in Swartz Bay (Sidney, BC) - via Hwy 17 into Victoria. Exit with all traffic from the terminal - take a sharp left to the corner, and left again, following the waterfront. Then take a right to enter the highway - left at that light on the highway - following the signs into Victoria. You are on Hwy 17 that leads straight into Victoria - it takes about 35 minutes. Follow into the city where Hwy 17 becomes Blanshard Street. Keep going straight through town. Highway 17 becomes Blanchard Street and takes you to the Inner Harbour (Belleville Street). Pass the Legislative Buildings, turn left on Menzies Street and then right on Quebec Street. The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites will be on your left.
  From the Port Angeles Ferry From Port Angeles MV Coho Ferry - cars and passengers. The ferry docks in Victoria's Inner Harbour are on Belleville Street. Travel up one block to Quebec Street and turn left. The Royal Scot Hotel & Suites will be on your right.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Independent Arrivals/Welcome & Orientation
(Thursday, June 20)
   
 Afternoon: ARRIVALS & CHECK-IN: Independent arrivals and transfers to the program hotel in Victoria, BC after 3:00 pm. Please note that rooms are not generally available until mid to late afternoon.
 Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel.
 Evening: INTRODUCTIONS: Following dinner, you will meet for introductions, a review of the program and site orientation.
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Victoria Guided Walk/Royal BC Museum
(Friday, June 21)

Note: Please note: During your guided walk of Old Town and the Inner Harbour, participants should expect to walk just over 2 miles and stand for short periods of time (10 minutes) for interpretation en route. During your time at the Royal BC Museum, there will be benches available for participants who wish to rest during your visit.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: Guided Walk of Old Town and Inner Harbour. Discover the unique past and intriguing present of Victoria with a cultural historian as we set out on foot to explore the city's rich architectural, cultural and social history. Witness the cultural diversity on a guided walk that will highlight significant landmarks - the BC Legislature, Old Town, the historic Empress Hotel and Victoria's Inner Harbour. Stroll through the oldest Chinatown in all of Canada, juxtaposed with the James Bay area, where Victorian-styled houses and manors line the streets.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: This morning we will become familiar with the landscape, environment, culture, and history of Victoria. Our speaker will discuss the forces that shaped Victoria, the current personality of the city, and what the future holds. Victoria has an old-British charm where the residents are warm and welcoming and delight in showing visitors the beauty of this Seaside gem.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore the local fare.
 Afternoon: EXCURSION: The Royal BC Museum is one of the foremost cultural institutions in the world. Through an array of unique galleries, the Museum showcases the human and natural history of British Columbia. Each exhibit tells important stories about the region and provides an intriguing window on the province's past, present and future. On a self-guided exploration, examine the history of the peoples of the Pacific Northwest as you engage in an exploration of the First Peoples Gallery. Gain insight into the First Nations cultures before and after the arrival of Europeans.
 Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Butchart Gardens/Coach Exploration of Victoria
(Saturday, June 22)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: EXCURSION: Depart to the renowned Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, with interpretive commentary en route to these spectacular gardens. Explore the fifty-five acres of stunning floral show gardens independently. Learn about Jennie Butchart who crafted this gem from a limestone quarry. Discover the beauty of her Rose, Japanese and Italian gardens.
 Lunch: Lunch at Butchart Gardens.
 Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: Victoria's neighborhoods and historic landmarks en route back to Victoria. The most "British" of all cities in Canada, Victoria boasts prominent reminders of its colonial past: elegant Victorian and Edwardian-era mansions, stately hotels and impressive architecture around every corner. Learn about the fascinating history of British Columbia's capital city while exploring its beautiful and diverse architectural heritage. Visit the charming Rockland historic district, and hear about past Governors, Merchant Barons, Bankers and famous Architects who built their luxurious homes to show off their new gold rush wealth.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own to explore the local fare.
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Chemainus/Coombs Country Market/Cathedral Grove
(Sunday, June 23)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: EXCURSION: Travel along the coast to the town of Chemainus, famous for its murals depicting the history of Chemainus Valley and Vancouver Island. Chemainus was one of the largest lumber shipping points in North America. Today, "Muraltown," is famous as a trailblazer of the open-air mural art form that has subsequently been embraced by dozens of towns worldwide.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore Coombs Country Market where artisanal food and crafts abound. Peruse the many art stands and enjoy locally made dishes, baked goods and cheese.
 Afternoon: PRESENTATION: An introductory lecture will examine the human and natural history of the Pacific Rim National Park. The Pacific Rim region has been shaped by the power of the open Pacific, creating an internationally acclaimed area of pristine natural beauty. Later this afternoon, arrive in the pretty village of Ucluelet, located on the tip of a peninsula that stretches out into the Pacific Ocean at the south end of Pacific Rim National Park.
 Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: Cathedral Grove Coastal Forest MacMillan Provincial Park is famous for Cathedral Grove, one of the most accessible stands of giant Douglas-fir trees in British Columbia. Explore the network of trails meandering through towering ancient Douglas-firs, some of which are more than 800 years old. Learn about the rich biodiversity of the West Coast rainforest and hear about the efforts to protect the old growth forests.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: The Canadian Princess
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Pacific Rim National Park/Kwisits Interpretive Centre/Long Beach - Beach Walk
(Monday, June 24)

Note: Please note: During your time in Pacific Rim National Park, participants should expect to walk up to 2 miles over uneven, forest terrain. While on your Long Beach field trip, participants should expect standard beach terrain including soft sand, and rocky areas.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: Backed by the Vancouver Island Range and facing the open Pacific Ocean, Pacific Rim National Park presents the rich natural and cultural heritage of Canada's west coast. Its cool and wet maritime climate produces an abundance of life in the water and on land. Lush coastal temperate rainforest gives way to bountiful and diverse intertidal and subtidal areas. These natural wonders are interwoven with the long and dynamic history of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations and European explorers and settlers. With an expert local guide, explore this fascinating coastal region and learn about the First Nation’s Peoples and the local wildlife that inhabits the area.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: EXCURSION: Visit the Kwisits Interpretive Centre (formerly the Wickaninnish Interpretive Centre), overlooking the shores of the Pacific. Operated by Parks Canada, the center is dedicated to the natural and cultural heritage of Pacific Rim National Park. Examine the First Nations canoes, tools and various works of art.
 Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: Long Beach - Beach Walk. Discover the dramatic influence of the ocean on the human history of the west coast; Native people, lighthouse keepers, shipwreck survivors, homesteaders, prospectors and missionaries all have traveled along these trails and beaches. Stroll along the hard-packed sand of Long Beach, where you may catch sight of sea lions, seals, schools of porpoise and pods of Orca whales.
 Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.
   
Accommodations: The Canadian Princess
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Whale Watching/Tofino
(Tuesday, June 25)

Note: Please note: For your whale watching field trip, participants must be able to board the water vessel independently. Depending on the type of vessel provided, participants should be able to climb up and down a few steps into the water craft with ease. Ship crew/staff will be available to assist, if needed.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: Whale Watching. During a morning exploration of the coastal waters of Tofino, set out in search of some of the ocean’s most opulent creatures. Grey and humpback whales, transient orcas, sea otters at play, seals, porpoise and sea lions all wait to be discovered as you cruise the open waters with your expert marine guide. Each year the Gray Whales make the longest annual migration of any mammal, travelling about 5,000 miles/8,000 kilometres in each direction from their breeding and calving lagoons in Baja, Mexico to their summer feeding grounds in the Bering and Chukchi Seas off Siberia. About 22,000 of these great whales parade past the shores of Tofino and Ucluelet from early February through late April with resident Gray whales feeding in Clayoquot Sound and Barkley Sound through November.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore local fare.
 Afternoon: FREE TIME: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the seaside oasis of Tofino. Visit a local garden, explore one of the many local hiking trails or simply take a relaxing stroll through some of the downtown shops.
 Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.
   
Accommodations: The Canadian Princess
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Coach to Victoria/Farewell Dinner
(Wednesday, June 26)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Relax and enjoy the scenic journey back to Victoria stopping at points of interest along the way.
 Lunch: Lunch en route to Victoria.
 Afternoon: FREE TIME: Enjoy some free time to explore independently Victoria's harbor and the many downtown shops and galleries at your leisure.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner in Victoria.
   
Accommodations: Royal Scot Hotel and Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Independent Departures
(Thursday, June 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast is at 7:30 am at the hotel.
 Morning: Independent departures from the hotel after breakfast. Check-out is 12:00 pm.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Victoria, BC BC Legislature
The Legislative Tour strives to provide an enjoyable and informative experience for all visitors focusing primarily on the role of the Legislative Assembly and MLAs and the history of both the province of British Columbia and the Legislative Buildings. For additional information, visit www.leg.bc.ca/info/2-2-4.htm
  Craigdorrach Castle
Craigdarroch was built between 1887-1890 for Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish immigrant who made his fortune from Vancouver Island coal. This legendary Victorian mansion, built on a hill overlooking the City of Victoria announced to the world that Robert Dunsmuir was the richest and most important man in Western Canada. He died in 1889 leaving his entire estate to his wife Joan who lived in the Castle until her death in 1908. The immense fortune of the Dunsmuir family is reflected in the four floors of exquisite stained glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian era Furnishings. Once you’ve entered the circular room at the main entrance and paid your admission fee, your self guided tour begins. You will be treated to 39 rooms, most of which are furnished lavishly in the 1890s-1900s period, so enjoy the ambiance as you climb the 87 stairs to the tower. There you’ll see fabulous views of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Olympic Mountains. For additional information, visit www.thecastle.ca/
  Empress Tea
Indulge in one of Victoria's grandest traditions - Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Empress. For almost a century, the majestic lobby of this landmark hotel has played host to England's most beloved ritual - the taking of Afternoon Tea. Award-winning Pastry Chef D'Oyen Christie works his magic, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience - from your very first sip of our secret Tea at The Empress blend tea, right through to his freshly baked raisin scones served with clotted cream and strawberry preserves. Served in the relaxing atmosphere of the elegantly restored Tea Lobby, overlooking Victoria's sparkling Inner Harbor in the stately Harborside Room or under the hand-painted ceiling of the Library, Afternoon Tea is an absolute 'must do' for all who visit Victoria. For additional information, visit www.fairmont.com/empress-victoria/dining/afternoontea/
  Silk Road Tea
Since 1992 Silk Road Tea has been creating the world’s finest, freshest, organic teas, skin and body products. It all started in Victoria’s Historic Chinatown, with a passion for premium quality ingredients, exceptional customer service, an eco-friendly approach, and a commitment to community – values which continue to be just as important to us today as they were when we started. Our award-winning teas are made with premium quality, fresh, organic botanicals. Exceptional freshness, combined with organic growing practices, results in higher antioxidant levels and superior flavour in your teacup. What’s just as important as the premium quality ingredients we select for our teas, are the ingredients we never use – no artificial flavours, colours or hidden sweeteners- just pure, healthy, deliciousness in every sip! For additional information, visit www.silkroadteastore.com/
  Ucluelet, BC Aquarium
Come explore local marine life with all your senses! Knowledgeable staff, interactive demonstrations and fascinating diversity all within our new facility! Features a giant tide pool, kids play area, many touch tanks and video microscopes. Best part is that all the animals are released back into the wild at the end of the season after a short time on display. For additional information, visit www.uclueletaquarium.org/
  Wild Pacific Trail
The Wild Pacific Trail is located in Ucluelet and is a seven phase trail system skirting the rugged cliffs and shoreline of the west coast of Vancouver Island. Overlooking Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands to the east and the open Pacific Ocean to the south and west, it offers spectacular shoreline panoramas and seaward vistas through ancient cedar and spruce-framed viewing platforms constructed on the best headlands along the route. For additional information, visit www.wildpacifictrail.com/
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Traveller's History of Canada


Author: Robert Bothwell


Description: HISTORY, 2010, PAPERBACK, 220 PAGES A readable and admirably concise march through Canadian history from prehistory to today, including a timeline.



The West Beyond the West, A History of British Columbia


Author: Jean Barman


Description: HISTORY, 2007, PAPERBACK, 450 PAGES A fascinating history of the Canadian province from the 18th century to the mid-1990s. The author weaves portraits of major personalities and events into a readable overview of the many cultural and social influences that have shaped the region.



Looking at Indian Art of the Northwest Coast


Author: Hilary Stewart


Description: ART & ARCHITECTURE, 1979, PAPERBACK, 111 PAGES A concise, illustrated overview of the diverse art produced by the peoples of the Pacific Northwest. It focuses on the spiritual and cultural meaning of common motifs in the carvings, weavings, and masks that characterize the rich art of the area.



The Island Within


Author: Richard Nelson


Description: EXPLORATION, 1996, PAPERBACK, 284 PAGES A beautifully written tribute to the Pacific Northwest. Drawn from the author's journals, this is an account of the natural and cultural history of an island in the waters of Haida Strait, focusing on geology, marine life, wildlife, habitats and Koyukon heritage. Much in the tradition of Barry Lopez, the author focuses on the relationship between people and the land.



Victoria, Vancouver Island Map


Author: Map Art Maps


Description: A folded map of Victoria, Vancouver Island, at a nice scale of 1:25,000.



Myths and Legend's of the Pacific Northwest


Author: Katharine Berry Judson


Description: LITERATURE, 1997, PAPERBACK, 204 PAGES Presented here with 52 photographs, these traditional stories, first collected in 1910, reveal myths and traditions of creation, alongside noted geographical features of the territory.





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