Written by The Strategy
It’s officially now mid-summer, and if you haven’t gone away yet, you are most definitely starting to get that travel itch. For a short, weekend getaway, may I suggest to you a quick trip to Canada’s beautiful city of Victoria, British Columbia. I took a trip there a couple weeks ago, and it was the perfect amount of rest and relaxation to get me through to my next voyage.
Here is my black book on what to eat, see, and where to shop!
EAT
Pescatores, 614 Humbolt Street – The atmosphere, the raw bar, the food, the drink – everything at this restaurant was absolutely on point. Definitely worth a visit.
Ferris’ Oyster Bar & Grill, 536 Yates Street – A visit to Canada’s east or west coast would not be complete without an oyster or 6…If you’re an oyster fanatic like myself, you will notice the difference in taste, texture and size from those on the east coast, but they are just as delicious. Ferris’ is a great place to get your fill.
The Fairmont Empress Dining Room, 721 Government Street – I love an afternoon tea service, and the service at The Fairmont Empress Dining Room is legendary. The service has been enjoyed in the hotel by royalty, celebrities and many-a dignitary. Before I even got here, everyone told me this was a must-do, and after doing it, I have to agree.
SHOP
Kit And Ace, #118 – 560 Johnson Street – You will absolutely need to make a stop here at the pop-up to stock up on luxe basics. I will not say more. See for yourself.
Little Gold, 560 Johnson Street – This jewelry boutique was so good, I ended up coming back here 2 days in a row. The prices are amazing, and the jewelry is unique.
Still Life, 550 Johnson Street – With a separate store for ‘Him’ and ‘Her’, this boutique has some great brands (James Perse, Ganni, Daniel Wellington, etc.), and is perfectly curated to match the west coast laid back lifestyle.
SEE
Victoria seems like heaven to outdoor adventure travelers. Kayaking, hiking, and whale watching are among the most popular activities. For those who relish the idea of a more relaxing vacation, spa’s are every hotel in the area’s forte. It was hard to narrow down just three things to see and do because of this, however, there is one place that we know we would recommend to anyone I know going there: The Butchart Gardens.
Let me preface this recommendation by saying that I love a pretty flower as much as the next girl, but I hate gardening and plant shopping. When a stop here was brought up, I was less than enthused. But a stop to the world famous gardens seemed like a must-do, so I decided to take one for the team and go. And I am so happy I did! They have a rose garden featuring every iconic rose (who knew there was so many), like the Lancôme rose pictured above, a stunning Japanese garden, an Italian garden, and more. The landscaping is beautiful, and as you’d imagine, the smell is divine.
The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay
