Canada Day in Victoria

We did it again! Last March, we happened to be in Greece on their Independence Day. Now, again unknown to us, we happen to be in Canada on Canada Day. Our hotel is around the corner from the celebrations, which is in front of their parliament building on the harbor. Bands and performances will be ongoing from 11 AM until the fireworks at 1030 PM (1230 AM our time). We'll be in bed sleeping!

FYI, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia, on Vancouver Island. Fun fact - The city of Vancouver is not on Vancouver Island. It is on the mainland of Canada (also in the province of British Columbia).

In the morning, we perused the nicely done and interesting Royal British Columbia Museum (next to our hotel and next to the parliament building). We strolled around the parliament area and along the gorgeous harborfront. After a divine seafood lunch next to the water, we walked to Chinatown. Meanwhile, crowds have been increasing all day - people with Canada flags, hats, and shirts.

In the late afternoon, we explored Beacon Hill Park, across the street from our hotel. This large park (20 acres) has meandering footpaths, ponds, streams, small forest areas, and manicured flower beds exploding with color. The far end overlooks the Strait of San Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. What a treasure!Read more