Victoria is a perfect destination when you think of the mild climate it offers. Spring begins in February when the local residents count the blossoms in their gardens to create a city-wide total. Summer is dry and warm; allowing visitors full reign on outdoor exploration. Fall occurs in late September exhibiting a host of reds and golds throughout the many deciduous trees. Winter temperatures are moderate, which are perfect for golf enthusiasts and people who enjoy strolling along ocean pathways and parks. 

Victoria offers something for everyone. It is a city that provides Pacific coast beauty, arts and culture of past and present, and the romance of tradition found in its architecture, horse-drawn carriage rides and the sailing ships anchored in the Inner Harbour.

Victoria was established by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1843 as a British fur trading past and many of the city's architecture dates back to those early years. Fort Victoria was actually situated where Bastion Square is today and is a popular square where visitors may peruse the intimate shops and restaurants that are nestled within historic buildings.  The stately Parliament Buildings and of course the regal Empress Hotel are landmarks recognized around the world.

Currency and Banking
Canadian currency is in dollars and cents, like U.S. money. The Canadian one dollar and two dollar denominations are coins, while all other dollar denominations are paper currency.

• U.S. currency is accepted at most shops and restaurants; exchange rates vary and change is given in Canadian currency.

• Major credit cards are accepted at most locations

• Traveller's cheques are encouraged and are the safest way to carry money.

• Cash machines with 24-hour access to metworks such as Plus, Cirrus, Interac, and Visa are available at many convenient location

• Banks are generally open from 9:30am until 4:00pm, Monday to Friday.

Taxes

• Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax of 7% application to most purchased goods and services regardless of whether the buyer is a resident of Canada or a visitor to Canada.

• Visitors living outside of Canada can obtain a rebate on most goods taken out of Canada and for the GST on accommodation if their stay is less that 30 days.

• An instant GST rebate of up to $500 CDN can be obtained at participating duty-free shops.

• Alternatively, visitors may file for a GST rebate once they return home; they will receive reimbursement by cheque. Form are available at Tourism Victoria's Visitors Info Centre at 812 Wharf Street.

• A provincial sales tax of 7% applies to all retasil purchases with the exception of liquor which is taxed at 10%. The provincial sales tax is exempt from clothing for children under the age of 15.

• A provincial accommodation room tax also applies to establishments with four or more sleeping rooms.

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