City streets decked out in seasonal décor. The sound of bells and caroling in the air. Twinkling lights in every direction you look. Yes, it’s that time of year again and there is no better place than Victoria to embrace holiday magic. Whether you’re looking to explore the city for the first time with the family or just in need of a quick weekend getaway with close friends, here are five reasons to consider a holiday visit to Victoria:
1. Great Exchange Rate and Fantastic Shopping
Featuring streets lined with eclectic, locally owned stores, Victoria is the place to go if you are looking for unique gifts for family or friends. Fashionistas should be sure to visit trendy Johnson street, a locals favorite shopping hotspot. The street houses shops selling everything from rare, premium vintage to modern, custom-made clothes. You can also hop on a luxury motor coach for an Excursion to Uptown Shopping Centre, to browse a selection of more than 35 stores.
2. Experience The Butchart Gardens Holiday Lights
Christmas lights, holiday wreaths, carolers, ice skating and festive dining make December a magical time to visit The Gardens. Check out the more than 300,000 lights found on The Butchart Gardens Holiday Lights Tour with your friends, family and even your dog. Sip delicious hot chocolate while exploring this winter wonderland, which has received a few makeovers this year resulting in an even more vibrant display.
3. Discover Christmas in Old Town at the Royal BC Museum
Step back in time and imagine walking the wooden dockside streets in downtown Victoria during the 1900s with the rich smell of spices wafting through the air as you pass local kitchens. Chalk full of unique and interactive exhibits, the Royal BC Museum is a fun place for families of all ages to learn about British Columbia’s human and natural history. “This time every year we look forward to a visit from Father Christmas, who loves to set up shop in our Victorian-style decorated Old Town,” said Kyle Wells, Communications Specialist at the Museum. “The children who come love to share their holiday wishes and the parents love to capture the moment with some photos.” Father Christmas will be in town from December 4-20 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 3pm.
4. Spa Weekend Girls Getaway
A luxurious stay at Victoria’s historic hotel is just what you need to rejuvenate during the holidays. Enjoy a weekend of pampering with the girls at one of Conde Nast’s Top Resort Spas in Canada, the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Empress. Let holiday stress melt away with one of their 85 different spa treatments and access to a Hungarian mineral pool, eucalyptus steam room and sauna. With the Tea Room and Bengal Lounge located nearby, you can pop over for the Empress’ Festive Afternoon Tea or a holiday beer.
5. Seek Out Solace
Located on the edge of the Victoria Inner Harbour, a slower pace and sparkling waters provide serenity during the otherwise hectic holiday season. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of your daily routine with a couples escape to the resort-style Inn at Laurel Point. Spoil that special someone with a water view room, bottle of sparkling wine, a decadent chocolate surprise and bath romance basket (filled with bath salts, bath oil, bath bubbles and botanical mist) as well as festive meals at the award-winning AURA restaurant.
The wealth of festive activities combined with the stunning sight of the city’s 19th century architecture dressed up with lights is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. During the day or night, simply walking around town gives you the sense of something magical. Experience the wonder yourself, getaway to Victoria and make cherished memories that are sure to last for years.