Issue link: http://read.canadatravelguides.ca/i/809166
Canada's westernmost province is a gateway between Asia to the west and the rest of the country to the east. It is an important centre for trade and commerce. It has cosmopolitan cities and fl ourishing creative industries. And it is, above all, a place where work and play coexist beautifully. GETTING VANGROOVY Vancouver is the province's biggest city, a modern, multicultural metropolis that is regularly rated one of the world's most livable cities. Bordered by mountains and ocean, it has an easygoing lifestyle that combines outdoor adventure with urban sophistication. It is home to Canada's largest and busiest port, as well as thriving fi lm, tech, tourism and green businesses. It is also a centre for culinary excellence, celebrated for its obsession with fresh, seasonal farm-to-table ingredients. From Vancouver, it's just a short drive to the farming commu- nities of Fraser Valley, the exceptional Asian cuisine of Richmond and the seaside communities of the Sunshine Coast. ISLAND HOPPING Escape to the idyllic isles along the Pacifi c coast. The largest is Vancouver Island, a ninety-minute ferry ride from the main- land; it is home to B.C.'s historic capital city, Victoria, as well as vineyards, mountain parks and the surfi ng mecca of Tofi no. Between Vancouver Island and the mainland are the Gulf Islands, populated by a quirky mix of artisans and fi sherfolk. Further north is Haida Gwaii, a remote archipelago of unspoiled natural beauty and traditional Aboriginal culture. 4,751,600 Victoria www.hellobc.com Victoria International Airport, 25 km (16 mi.) from downtown Vancouver International Airport, 15 km (9 mi.) from downtown Abbotsford International Airport, 5 km (3 mi.) from downtown and 64 km (40 mi.) from Vancouver Kelowna International Airport, 12 km (7 mi.) from downtown ROUNDHOUSE LODGE, WHISTLER • TOURISM VANCOUVER/TOURISM WHISTLER BC 65