From nice to know, to need to know, our handy island essentials guide will help you make the most out of your vacation to Vancouver Island.
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Vancouver Island is a long, skinny island off the west coast of Canada. It is approximately 460 km long, 100 kms wide (at its widest point) and about 32,000 square kilometres.
The Island is home to British Columbia’s capital city of Victoria and in addition to the municipalities that make up Greater Victoria, the main cities and towns, and popular destinations on the island are:
The island has been home to many indigenous people for thousands of years and remains the homeland of 50 First Nations. They are located in three distinct tribal regions–Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl–the first peoples of Vancouver Island. Be sure to visit the Royal BC Museum First People Gallery and Our Living Languages exhibition to learn more about the people and the culture.
In the 18th century, both British and Spanish explorers set foot on the island and by the mid 1800’s, settlement of a fur trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company began.
Today, Vancouver Island has a population of approximately 900,000 – half of whom live in the southern part of the island in the Greater Victoria region.
To drive from one end to the other, it would take you approximately 8 hours and you would be treated to scenic ocean drives, towering trees, majestic mountains and abundant wildlife. The speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour. Approximate driving speed conversions are:
Most communities enforce a 30 km/h school zone which is in effect on school days between 8 am and 5 pm. Some areas post playground zones which are also 30 km/h however they are in effect 24/7.
Other useful information:
The island boasts the mildest climate in Canada, in particular the southern portion of the island. It is so mild in fact that some years we don’t even get a flake of snow and several gardeners grow tropical fruit such as lemons and limes. Read more about the weather in Greater Victoria here.
Almost all purchases are subject to taxes in BC and as of 2021, they are 7% Provincial Sales Tax plus 5% Goods and Services Tax (federal). Notable exceptions that are not taxable include food for human consumption, books and magazines, and children’s clothing. Some items are taxed at higher provincial rate and include liquor (10%), vapour products (20%) and accommodations (8% plus up to 3% municipal and regional district tax).
Got more questions about money in Canada? Read more here.
Other information you need to know:
In British Columbia, 19 is the legal age for:
Feb 25, 21 10:43 AM
Discover an impressive array of beach art at Esquimalt Lagoon
Feb 20, 21 04:36 PM
Discover all the best Victoria restaurants and pubs for everyone in your party - even the picky ones!
Feb 20, 21 04:17 PM
Come discover the oldest pub in British Columbia and the rest of the pubs in Victoria.