A Winter Guide to Victoria

Although beautiful all-year-round, there is something particularly endearing about British Columbia's capital city Victoria during the holiday season. The lights are up all around the city, the parliament buildings are decked out in Christmas decor, bookshops and coffee shops beckon with their pepperminty smells and store fronts play carols as you stroll past.

Have I convinced you yet?!

DO

Stop in at parliament for a free wander around during open hours, and make sure you walk the length of the main street to see Canada's oldest Chinatown while clutching a warm hot chocolate to keep your fingers toasty. We particularly enjoyed stopping in at the local bookshops to peruse our favourite titles away from the cold. Pop into the Royal BC Museum to catch the ongoing exhibits detailing Canada's vibrant history.

STAY

If you're on a budget, stay at the Embassy Inn Hotel for under $100 per night, conveniently located next door to the parliament buildings. This hotel is in walking distance to everything you'll want to see. Looking for a more lavish escape? There's no better place to go than the Fairmont Empress, which dominates the harbour and boasts luxury rooms with waterfront views.

EAT

My favourite thing to do in Victoria is have high tea. It feels like the appropriate atmosphere to sip daintily from a china cup with your little pinky extended. My usual place is Murchie's but I've heard rave reviews of Venus Sophia, which I plan to try next time!