by Tim Trottier

Created on: February 02, 2007   Last Updated: April 22, 2007

Vancouver Island is a fabulous place to witness the wonders of nature that Canada has to offer. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver Island is a major tourism destination due to it's many rivers, lakes, mountains, wildlife, and pleasant year round climate. From north to south, east to west, Vancouver Island is one of the crown jewels of the country.

On the southern tip of Vancouver Island you will find the bustling city of Victoria. Victoria is an international melting pot of diversity and economy. A major hub for trade with the mainland of BC and the United States, Victoria serves as capital of the province. With amazing weather all year long, it is no wonder Victoria is a major tourist destination on the world stage.

In the north you find Port Alice, Port MacNeil and Gold River, small fishing and logging communities that define the pristine beauty Vancouver Island is renowned for. It is through the north that you can access BC Ferries on the trip further north to the amazing Queen Charlotte Islands.

The east coast of Vancouver Island has gained popularity in the past years with the development of an international airport in Comox. Never has the Island been more accessible to people from all around the world. The Comox Valley is a majestic area, littered with lakes and golf courses. Campbell River with its harbour area ranks as one the places to see. An hour south and you find the trendy communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. Situated 20 minutes north of Nanaimo, Parksville and Qualicum Beach are regularly voted the most beautiful places on the Island. Finally, Nanaimo is an emerging major city on Vancouver Island. With an airport, and a major BC ferry terminal, Nanaimo sees a large number of new visitors each year. The 2nd largest community on Vancouver Island will continue to grow as more people learn how nice it is to make a life here.

The west coast communites of Tofino, Long Beach, and Ucluelet have a lot to be proud of. Long Beach is one the most breath-taking areas in the country. People flock from all over to witness the pounding waves and serenity the Pacific Ocean offers. Add great camping and fishing and you know the West Coast is the place to be.

Wherever your journey around Vancouver Island takes you, you will be a better person for it. Enjoy the calm and peacefulness that a vacation to Vancouver Island has to offer.

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