Where to Find the Best Local Valentine’s Day Gifts in Victoria

February is all about love! While you’re in Victoria, there are lots of ways to treat that special someone in your life and make Valentine’s Day really memorable! Whether you’re planning a low-key in-night or heading out for a night on the town, you’ll want to make sure that you have the perfect present to celebrate! But it can be tricky to figure out where to find all the best Valentine’s treats in a new city so we’ve taken the guesswork out of your shopping and compiled an easy list of our very favourite Valentine’s Day goodies and where to get them so you can be confident that you’re getting the very best of what this city has to offer!  

Chocolates

Organic Fair Chocolate

This amazing little farm in Cobble Hill is a purveyor of some incredible products from essential oils to herbs and spices, soda syrups and so much more. When it comes to dark chocolate, there’s nowhere on the island where you can find such an impressive collection of high quality chocolate bars. Every Organic Fair bar is certified organic, vegan and comes in an array of globally inspired flavours. If you’re staying in Victoria or Langford you can find them at the Market on Yates and the Market on Millstream or shop online and choose your shipping method. If you’re staying in the Cowichan Valley, you can pick up your order directly from the farm at checkout! 

Roger’s Chocolates

If you’re staying near downtown Victoria, a brisk, early spring walk to the gorgeous original Rogers chocolate store on Government St. is a great way to get into the festive spirit! With an enormous array of high-quality, decadent chocolates to choose from, this chocolaterie has been a Victoria standby for over 130 years! 

Sirene Chocolate

If you want to find delicious chocolate that makes you feel great, then you’ll want to make sure you grab a few bars of Sirene chocolate. At Sirene, every bar is made with the highest quality beans picked and processed ethically. Choose from a wide variety of flavours from the popular Dark Milk to the intense 73% dark chocolate Fleur de Sel and so many in between. You can find these bars at the Merchant Quarters General Store, Victoria Public Market and the Market on Yates in downtown Victoria. 

At Home Spa

Silk Road

If you’re looking to surprise your loved one with incredible local, organic bath and body items to make an at-home spa experience, Silk Road is one of the best places in the city to go. This downtown tea shop has become a haven for luxury and calm. Here, you can find bath salts, diffuser oils, skincare items and incredible teas that are sure to make this Valentine’s Day extra special.

Pacific Coast Soap Works

This wonderful, local shop specializes in handmade, small batch, natural bath and body products made with carefully selected, high-quality ingredients and distinctly West Coast scents. Their line includes soaps, bath bombs, lotions, essential oils, shampoos and more! Find their collections at Soulful Sister in Langford!

Flowers

Flowers on Top

Right in the heart of downtown Victoria on Broad St., you’ll find this gorgeous flower shop. From lavish bouquets filled with the most stunning blooms to living planters, Flowers on Top has everything you need to create a custom bouquet that’s sure to impress! 

Rook and Rose 

If you’re looking for something a little more unique and contemporary for your Valentine this year, you’ll want to shop at Rook and Rose. This relatively new flower shop has been taking the city by storm for the last ten years with their fresh take on the traditional floral arrangements. Specializing in both dried and fresh flower bouquets, you can pop into their downton location to order or simply go on the website and choose pickup or delivery! They deliver all over Greater Victoria including Sidney and Langford! 

Spa Packages

The Spa at Silk Road

While Silk Road may have an incredible selection of teas, bath and body works, it is also one of the most popular spas in Victoria as well! Voted Canada’s Best Organic Spa by Glow Magazine, Silk Road is our top choice for an afternoon of pampering in the city. This full service spa offers facials, massages, body wraps and scrubs as well spa packages that combine services for a whole afternoon of bliss!

Sapphire Day Spa

This wonderful Ayurveda inspired spa provides incredible self-care services that are rooted in Sapphire’s principle of meaningful and mindful treatments. Here, you’re not just getting a spa service, you’re going to have an experience that integrates your mind, body and spirit to ensure that you leave feeling fresh and uplifted. Whether you’re staying out in Sooke or at the top of the Saanich Peninsula, this is a spa experience that is worth the drive into town! 

Book Your Romantic Victoria Getaway Today!

The Best Valentines Day Restaurants on Vancouver Island

There’s lots to love about February on Vancouver Island. The month usually marks a change from the rains and plummeting temperatures to mild weather and sunnier skies. It’s during this month that the new buds begin to form on bare trees and early spring flowers pop out of the soil to welcome the burgeoning spring season. This is also the month of love and romance with Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s time to start planning where you’re going to take your special someone out for dinner. All over the Island, there are incredible restaurants where you can find gorgeous dishes and fabulous cocktails, perfect for a memorable evening. With so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect restaurant so we’ve done the heavy lifting for you! Here are our top ten restaurants near EMR rentals to ensure that your Valentine’s Day on Vancouver Island is magical. 

Victoria

Il Terrazzo 

555 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8W 1M2

Tucked away in Waddington Alley right in the heart of old town you’ll find one of the most romantic restaurants in Victoria. For nearly 30 years, Il Terrazzo has been known for its incredible ambience, service and menus, and is the perfect place for an intimate dinner with your Valentine. 

Tapa Bar

620 Trounce Alley, Victoria, BC V8W 1K3

Another long-standing local favourite in downtown Victoria is Tapa Bar. Known for its extensive food menu filled with small, shareable dishes, warm, intimate dining room and incredible cocktail and wine list, Tapa Bar is a fun and unique place to take your special someone on Valentine’s Day. 

Sidney 

Sea Glass Waterfront Grill

2320 Harbour Rd, Sidney, BC V8L 2P6

Sea Glass Waterfront Grill is a restaurant perched on the edge of the water at the upscale Van Isle Marina just north of Sidney town centre. With a menu that reflects the abundance of Vancouver Island, a carefully curated wine list and incredible ocean views, this is a restaurant made for special occasions. 

Deep Cove Chalet 

11190 Chalet Rd, North Saanich, BC V8L 5M1

For elegant, upscale dining you’ll want to book a table at Deep Cove Chalet. Offering impeccable French inspired cuisine and a wine list created by a Sommelier, this restaurant caters to those looking for memorable fine dining in an intimate, beautiful oceanfront setting.

Cowichan Valley

Alpina at the Eyrie

600 Ebedora Ln, Malahat, BC V0R 2L0

If you’re staying in the Cowichan Valley and want to take your special someone somewhere upscale and unique for Valentine’s Day, you’ll want to book a table at Alpina at the Eyrie. With food inspired by the cuisine of the Italian, Swiss, German and French alpine regions and informed by the incredible ingredients found on Vancouver Island, Alpina creates unique and inspired dishes that will thrill and surprise you. Plus, with unparalleled views of the Saanich Inlet, Southern Vancouver Island, the Olympic Mountain Range and majestic Mount Baker from almost every table in the dining room, an evening here is simply unforgettable. 

Nanaimo 

The Nest Bistro

77 Skinner St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5G9

If you’re looking for something really special while you’re staying in Nanaimo you’ll want to be sure to get a reservation at The Nest Bistro. Husband and wife team, Jen and Nic both have illustrious hospitality industry experience and have channelled all of their passion and expertise into opening one of the best restaurants north of Victoria. For superb service, romantic ambience and incredible food and wine, Nest is the place to go in Nanaimo.

Simonholt 

6582 Applecross Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9V 0A4

Looking for a more casual and lively way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Nanaimo? Simonholt has you covered! With a great menu filled with local favourites and casual dishes, this popular live music venue is a fun way to spend a date night!

Parksville and Qualicum Beach

Kalvas The Log House

180 Moilliet St, Parksville, BC V9P 2J9

This gorgeous log cabin restaurant is the ideal way to experience true West Coast Canadian dining. With a gorgeous interior, friendly staff and extensive menus featuring fresh seafood and expertly prepared meat dishes, Kalvas is sure to impress. 

Comox Valley

Avenue Bistro

2064 Comox Ave, Comox, BC V9M 1P8

This upscale, casual bistro in the heart of the Comox Valley is the perfect place to take your Valentine! With perfectly prepared bistro classics made with locally sourced ingredients, fresh seafood and globally inspired flavours in a beautifully appointed dining room, Avenue Bistro is sure to make your night a special one. 

It’s (Sometimes) a Winter Wonderland! Where to find the best Skating, Skiing and Sledding on Vancouver Island

There are a lot of things to love about Vancouver Island, top of the list is the incredibly temperate climate that we’re lucky enough to have. While the rest of Canada is blanketed in snow and plunged into a deep freeze at this time of year, we’re still looking up at the sky and wondering if we’ll get some of the white stuff…at some point. This year, if you’re visiting our warm little island on the West Coast and you’re looking for some real winter activities, no problem! From skating to skiing, Vancouver Island has lots of fun winter activities to look forward to! 

Skating

Outdoor Rinks

City Centre Park

1089 Langford Pkwy, Langford, BC V9B 0A5

Looking for an alpine-style experience right near Victoria? Then you need to check out City Center Park’s outdoor skating rink in Langford. With on-site skate rentals, heated cabins, firepits and a licensed patio, you can skate into the new year in style! 

Butchart Gardens 

800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8

With a touch of romance and nostalgia, the outdoor rink at Butchart Gardens is an always popular winter activity of South Islanders. Skating on the 5,000 square foot rink underneath beautiful twinkling lights is hands down, one of the best ways to spend a wintery night in Greater Victoria. While guests at any of the beautiful EMR Sidney properties are only a fifteen minute drive away from this beloved pastime, anyone staying on the South Island should put this at the top of their list! 

Indoor Rinks

If you’re on Vancouver Island and want to get a little time on the ice without a massive drive, there are lots of amazing local rinks that are a great option. Local arenas on the Island are a real slice of Canadiana, hubs of the community and usually have lots of drop-in options, skate rentals and super friendly staff. 

Cowichan Valley

Kerry Park 

1035 Shawnigan Lake-Mill Bay Rd, Mill Bay, BC V0R 2P2

Guests at any EMR Cowichan Valley properties will love this fun local rink! 

Nanaimo

Frank Crane Arena

2300 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 3K7

While you’re enjoying the beautiful properties near Nanaimo, make a day of it to enjoy the updated facilities at the nearby Frank Crane Area to get in some ice time.

Parksville/Qualicum Beach

Oceanside Place Arena

830 W Island Hwy W, Parksville, BC V9P 2X4

With two NHL sized arenas, this new facility is a must for anyone staying in the Parksville area.

Comox Valley 

Glacier Gardens Arena

1399 Military Row, Comox, BC V9M 4H2

This beloved rink has seen countless hockey games over the years and is a staple in the community. Plus, you can check out the aviation displays! 

Skiing & Snowboarding

When you think about Vancouver Island, ‘ski destination’ may not be top of mind but there are a few locations for downhill skiing and snowboarding on the Island that are as great as you can find on the mainland! 

Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Mt. Washington, 1 Strathcona Pkwy, Comox-Strathcona C, BC V9J 1L0

Mt Washington has everything you could want from an alpine resort, great skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and sledding. If you’re coming from an EMR Victoria property, you’re looking at a 3.5 hour drive to get there but if you’re staying in the Comox Valley, you’re only a 40 minute drive from a proper alpine winter wonderland! 

Mount Cain

Port McNeill, BC V0P 1R0

Unlike Mt Washington, Mt Cain is not for the faint of heart! If you’re a die hard skier or boarder and want some incredible powder and pristine backcountry downhill without any of the frills, this is where you need to be! It’s a trek but well worth it for one of the last places on earth where you can find this kind of incredible downhill without any of the crowds.

Sledding 

When we finally get some snow, Vancouver Islanders rush to their favourite local hills to make the most of the fun while it lasts! We’ve rounded up a list of the best local spots to get in some sledding whether you’re taking kiddos with you or not! 

Greater Victoria 

Beacon Hill Park 

With lots of hills and almost no traffic this beloved city park becomes the go-to place for sledding in Victoria once the snow hits the ground. This is the ideal place to get in some sledding or just go for a snowy walk and watch the kids as they shriek their way down the hill. 

Westshore Rec 

With a big sloping hill down the back of the rec centre and no traffic to worry about, this is, by far, the best hill in the Western Communities. If you’re staying near Langford, grab a sled at one of the many box stores in the area and head on over! 

Cowichan Valley

Cobble Hill

One of the most popular mountains in the Cowichan Valley is Cobble Hill Mountain and when it snows, all the sloping fields become ideal snow hills! So if you’re a guest at an EMR Cowichan Valley property, this is a great spot to get in on the fun! 

Nanaimo 

Mt. Benson School 

This is a nice steep hill that slopes into the soccer field so it’s perfect for older kids while still being safe.

Ecole Quarterway Elementary

This is another nice big hill with lots of space so everyone has room to make the most of the snow!

Parksville/Qualicum

Parksville Community Park 

This massive hill is the one that you can see from the main highway directly across from the Dairy Queen. One main selling point of this popular hill is that on snowy days, the city of Parksville shuts down the right hand lane of the highway to keep the hill safe for everyone! 

Comox Valley 

Forbidden Plateau

If you’re in Comox Valley and you’re looking for some great snowy adventures of any kind, you won’t find better snow than Forbidden Plateau! 

How to Celebrate the Lunar New Year

One of the top reasons for visiting Victoria is that for a relatively young city, there are an enormous amount of historical sites to visit and explore. From the majesty of The Empress Hotel to the craggy gravestones and winding paths of Ross Bay Cemetery, one of Canada’s oldest graveyards, Victoria is rich with history. One of the most resplendent and highly visited areas in downtown is Chinatown. As the oldest Chinatown in Canada and second oldest in North America, so much history is encapsulated in one block of BC’s beautiful capital city! It’s no wonder that it draws crowds from around the globe and during the Lunar New Year, there is nowhere better to be than Victoria’s Chinatown enjoying the festivities and engaging with the local Chinese and Asian communities that celebrate this important holiday. 

The Lunar New Year is celebrated in East and Southeast Asia based on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. While Lunar New Year is celebrated on the same day by many different Asian countries, the celebrations, interpretations and even zodiacs are unique to each country. In China, the New Year is called Chūn Jié, in Vietnam, Tet, Korean New Year is called Seollal, and in Tibet it is known as Losar. The Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival and begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends on the first full moon of the lunar calendar, 15 days later. Because the lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, the dates of the holiday vary from year to year. In 2021, Lunar New Year was celebrated on February 12th on Western calendars and in 2022, Lunar New Year begins on February 1st. Before the beginning of the new lunar year, it is customary to thoroughly clean the house to remove any bad luck and prepare for a fruitful and fortuitous year. It is also customary to spend New Year’s eve and New Year’s day with family members, performing religious ceremonies and honouring ancestors. On New Year’s day, family members receive red envelopes called lai see with small amounts of money inside that are meant to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. During the holiday, there are frequent dances and fireworks displays, culminating in the Lantern Festival, celebrated on the last day of the New Year’s celebrations. On this night, colourful lanterns light up the houses, and traditional foods are served to mark the anticipation of the return of spring and symbolising the reunion of family. 

This year, the traditional festivities that mark the Lunar New Year may be postponed but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still celebrate the Year of the Tiger! Below are five ways to celebrate Lunar New Year in Victoria, even if the traditional festivals are cancelled! 

Shop in Chinatown 

Whether you’re staying right downtown Victoria or if you have to make the drive from Sidney or Sooke, a day shopping in Chinatown around Lunar New Year is a wonderful way to spend a festive afternoon! 

Fisgard Market

This packed store has been a staple of Victoria’s Chinatown for many years. If you’re looking for authentic Asian snacks and a great selection of ingredients for pho, stir fry, sushi or any of your favourite dishes, this is the place to go. They also have a large selection of cookware, flatware and odds and ends to make sure you’re prepared, no matter what culinary task you’re taking on. 

Quonley Gifts and Grocery 

On the corner of Chinatown right next to the Gate of Harmonious Interest is Quonley’s, a staple of the community and so much more than just a corner store. While the bulk of the business is a convenience store, you can find beautiful teapots, cup sets, paper umbrellas and silk slippers.

Dragon Village

If you’re looking to get ready for the Lunar New Year, this is the place to go for everything you need to get ready for the celebration. From lanterns and decorations to red envelopes and traditional crockery, Dragon Village is the place to go for New Year prep! 

Eat in Chinatown 

Taking a walk over to Chinatown to enjoy some of the incredible, authentic food is a fabulous way to get into the spirit! 

Dumpling Drop

Tarn and Toom, the owners of this incredible dumpling house have taken their family’s traditional dumpling recipes and methods and brought them to you! Order a bag of frozen dumplings to cook at home or get them fresh fried and enjoy on the spot!  

Wah Lai Yuen Bakery + Restaurant 華麗園

This unassuming restaurant in Chinatown is a favourite locals spot to find incredible food at decent prices. Everyone in Victoria knows that this is the place in Victoria to get the best BBQ duck and perfect Chinese buns.

Make Traditional Foods

If you’re staying at a property outside of Victoria, you don’t have to make the trip into town to get into the Lunar New Year celebrations! These chef-worthy kitchens are perfect for trying your hand at some traditional recipes served during the holidays! 

Steamed Fish

Steamed fish is one of the most popular dishes served on Lunar New Year, especially in China. In Chinese the word for ‘fish’ sounds similar to the word for ‘surplus’, thus making it an auspicious dish thought to help bring a year or prosperity to the family. This recipe is easy to follow and will help you create an auspicious fish dish yourself! 

Dumplings

Traditional dumplings are notoriously difficult to make. The dough and filling must be the perfect thickness and consistency, and the pinching technique is an art form in and of itself. If you want to tackle the task of making these traditional New Year treats, this recipe is the best and easiest one I’ve tried, but in all honesty, for this Lunar New Year, I think I’ll just order from the Dumpling Drop! 

Glutinous Rice Ball

Traditionally served at the Lantern Festival in China, these rice balls symbolise family unity as family members gather to celebrate this important holiday. Sweet and gooey, once you know how to make these incredible delicacies, you’ll want to pull them out as a showstopper at every gathering. These can be made ahead of time and frozen so you can make a large batch and pop them on to boil when you need to

Decorate

There are lots of fun and easy ways to prepare your space for the Lunar New Year! Put couplets on the door, hang Chinese knots, keep blooming flowers indoors and hang red lanterns. These decorations are temporary, mobile, easy to hang and come in all shapes and sizes so you can easily decorate your EMR rental! 

Couplets 

Couplets as they are seen today originated from the Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 256 BCE) tradition of Taofu, inscriptions on boards made from peach trees and hung across door frames to ward off evil spirits. During the Song Dynasty (960 – 1279 CE), the peach wood boards were replaced by red paper, covered in bright wishes for the future. Today, you can find couplets to purchase from Dragon Village or create your own!

Chinese Knots 

There is some speculation that people may have originally made Chinese knots to record information and convey messages before the invention of writing but what is known however, is that during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE) these knots were popularised as both artistic decoration and to symbolise various good fortunes and wishes. Chinese knots are tied and woven from a single length of cord or rope into a variety of shapes of varying complexity, each with its own symbolic meaning. You can purchase these knots of various sizes in most shops in Chinatown and if you want to try to make your own, you can find a great tutorial for a daily simple luck knot here.

Red Lanterns

Lanterns are used in many different celebrations in China and the colour of the lantern dictates both its meaning and use. Red lanterns used during the closing of the Lunar New Year at the Lantern Festival are to symbolise wealth, fame, success and prosperity in the hopes that these attributes will follow into the new year. If you’re looking for more elaborate lanterns, you can purchase red lanterns of many sizes and styles in Dragon Village and many other stores in Chinatown or you can DIY simple ones of your own to hang!

Get into the Spirit

What better way to spread good wishes during the Lunar New Year than learning how to say “Happy New Year”? Below are all the ways you can acknowledge the Lunar New Year!

Mandarin:

Gong Xi Fa Cai: Wish you happiness and prosperity!

Cantonese:

Gong Hay Fat Choi: May prosperity be with you!

Korean:

Sae Hae Bok Mani Baduseyo: I wish you good blessings for the New Year!

Vietnamese:

Chúc Mừng Năm Mới: Happy New Year!

Vạn Sự Như Ý: Everything is as one wishes! Or Everything you want will come true!

Tibetan:

Tashi Delek: Blessings and good luck!

New Year, New You! Top Resolutions for the New Year and How to Actually Make them Happen on Vancouver Island Part II

The New Year is in full swing and it’s time to get on with your resolutions! This week, we’re back with part 2 of our New Year’s resolutions that you can tackle while you’re visiting Vancouver Island! 

Travel more

Ok so now you’re here on Vancouver Island! There are so many incredible things to do no matter what EMR property you’re staying at but if you want to make sure you get the most out of your Vancouver Island stay and make headway on your resolution, there are a few spots you won’t want to miss!

Tofino: As the wildest west coast town on the edge of the Pacific, Tofino and the neighbouring town of Ucluelet are known for the world-class surfing and breathtaking wild, natural beauty. 

Cape Scott Provincial Park: At the very top of Vancouver Island sits the historic Cape Scott. With incredible hiking, beaches, ancient rock formations and a historic lighthouse, Cape Scott is worth the trip! 

Gulf Islands: The Gulf Islands are ecological paradise that includes 15 islands, plus numerous small islets and reef areas. The forested Gulf Islands include Mayne, Galiano, Hornby, and Gabriola with the largest being Salt Spring. Each island is unique in it’s own way, exuding different qualities and vibes depending on its size, demographic, locale and accessibility. Here you can find wildlife, nature, coastal activities, and incredible spots to get away from the hubbub of the big Island. 

Learn a New Skill or Hobby

University of Victoria

With an ever-growing continuing education class list, online classes and an exceptional reputation, registering for a course or two at UVic is a great way to dive into an area of study that you are passionate about! It’s never too late!

Art Classes through Peninsula Art Gallery

Have you ever wanted to learn how to paint or draw? Are you a novice artist who wants to hone their skills? The Peninsula Art Gallery in Sidney offers incredible art classes for artists of all skill levels! If you’re not entirely sure which one would suit, you can give them a call or pop by if you’re a guest at one of the EMR Sidney properties. 

Pottery Classes at Lupine Art Studio

If you’re in the Comox Valley and you want to start pottery classes in a supportive environment, Lupine Art Studio is the place for you! No matter if you’re a total beginner or if you have a bit of experience, all the classes are easily adaptive to your experience level!

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Bookstores

Munro’s Books

In the heart of downtown Victoria, you’ll find the resplendent Monro’s Books. No matter what book you’re looking for, Munro’s probably carries it! No list? No problem! Here, you can take your time to peruse the shelves for something that inspires you and admire the beauty of the space.

Beacon Books

This popular bookstore in Sidney’s town centre is known for its unmistakable bright-red, Dutch door. Specialising in a wide selection of rare, collectable, out-of-print, second-hand, signed, and first-edition books, if you’re staying in Sidney, this is the place to come for your next page turner.

Sea & Summit Bookshop 

Sea & Summit is one of the best independent bookstores in the Nanaimo area where you can  find an incredible selection of new releases and bestsellers!

Books set on Vancouver Island 

Seaweed on the Street by Stanley Evans

Savvy, street-smart, Coast Salish investigator Silas Seaweed is hired to help find a billionaire’s daughter after she mysteriously disappears. His investigations uncover a trail of greed, obsession, violence and murder. It’s the perfect page-turner to kick off your New Year’s resolution that’ll have you hooked from the first page to the last. You can also check out more books in the Silas Seaweed saga here.

Awake and Dreaming by Kit Pearson

After having her life upended yet again by her immature, poverty-stricken mother, Theo, a young girl who lives in Vancouver, slips and falls on the ferry deck as she travels to Vancouver Island to live with her aunt. Mysteriously, when Theo awakens from her fall she finds herself adopted by her ideal family, the Kaldors. As time passes her new life begins to fade until Theo finds herself back with her mother, full of unanswered questions. Was her life with the Kaldor’s real and what is the shadowy figure that now haunts Theo’s dreams?

Cougar Annie’s Garden by Margaret Horsfield 

In 1915, courageous and independent, Ada Annie Rae-Arthur moved to Vancouver Island and tirelessly worked to clear a patch of rugged forest creating no ordinary homestead but a mesmerizing garden. Through the years, her garden bloomed into an enchanting, otherworldly escape among the untamed wilderness of early BC. A fascinating life full of losses and triumphs Cougar Annie’s story is one that tells the tale of a woman with the tenacity to take on the wilds of BC, whose legacy spans time and enchants and inspires over a century later. 

New Year, New You! Top Resolutions for the New Year and How to Actually Make them Happen on Vancouver Island Part I

The clock has struck midnight, Auld Lang Syne has been sung, champagne has been clinked and a new year has come. Every year, millions of people across the globe make a list of their new year’s resolutions and without fail, most resolutions…well, fail. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep trying! This year, we’ve come up with a list of the most positive resolutions and real-life, local ways to get the ball rolling on the changes that you want to make happen in 2022! 

Exercise More

Every year, the number one thing on everyone’s resolutions is to lose weight and exercise more and there is no better place than Vancouver Island to get out there and find the exercise you enjoy!

Hiking

With so many options, different terrains and vistas, it’s no wonder that hiking is the most popular activity on Vancouver Island! Here are our favourites on the Island. 

Mount Douglas: If you’re looking for an incredible hike that you can get to easily from EMR Victoria rentals, this hike to the summit is perfect for a real workout and incredible views! 

East Sooke Park: Guests staying in Sooke who want to get out in nature will love this sprawling park with incredible forested trails and stunning beaches.

John Dean Provincial Park: Perfect for guests at EMR Sidney properties, this extensive and lush park offers panoramic views at the top and easy perimeter trails. 

Cobble Hill Mountain: If you’re in the Cowichan Valley and looking for a bit of a challenge, this is the hike for you! 

Englishman River Falls: Hike through old growth forests and enjoy the rushing river, ideally situated for anyone staying in Nanaimo or Parksville.

Comox Lake Bluffs: One of the best and most interesting hikes in the Comox Valley is this gorgeous ecological reserve where you can find unique plants and gorgeous vistas of the lake.  

Cycling

With a temperate climate and lots of dedicated bike paths, there is no better place on Earth to find extensive, relaxing rides to get you out there!

Lochside trail: Running from the tip of the Saanich Peninsula all the way to downtown Victoria, this trail is ideal for anyone staying at any of the EMR Sidney properties. 

Galloping Goose: This popular trail extends from downtown Victoria all the way to Sooke and is mainly flat, easy to ride and the perfect trail for guests at any of the EMR Victoria or Sooke properties.

Cowichan Valley Trail: This route is perfect for those staying in the Cowichan Valley or anyone wanting an intermediate ride to explore a new part of the island!

Live Life to the Fullest

Whale Watching with Eagle Wing Tours

For over a decade, Eagle Wing Tours has been rated the number one place in Victoria for whale watching and eco tours. With an incredibly skilled and professional team, a dedication to providing every single guest with the best experience possible and a passion for educating their guests about preserving these incredibly rich ecosystems, there’s no wonder they’re coming out on top! 

Wild Play in Nanaimo

If you want to step outside of the box and do some safe thrill seeking this year, you can’t go wrong with a trip to this incredible, nature-based amusement park for kids of all ages. Go ziplining through the trees, do the treetop obstacle course, throw a few axes or bungee jump to your heart’s content! 

Sailing Charters

There are lots of ways to experience the beauty of Vancouver Island but there’s nothing quite like the peace and quiet of gliding through the waters around this magnificent Island on a sailboat. With options for boarding at harbours in Victoria, Nanaimo, Sidney and Comox, guests staying in one of the EMR Victoria, EMR Sidney and EMR Parksville & Qualicum properties will have an easy time enjoying this activity with minimal travel and maximum enjoyment! 

Ringing in the New Year in Victoria!

With the end of another year in sight, it’s time to start planning your New Year’s Eve celebrations! We all love a nice quiet night with a few friends, but if you want to get out and about this NYE, there’s no better time to plan a great night out in Victoria! If you love incredible food and live music, Victoria is the place to be for New Year’s Eve!

NYE with Groove Kitchen at Hermann’s Jazz Club

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a night with Groove Kitchen, one of Victoria’s most popular bands! With a mix of funk, soul, and a little bit of Latin in each set, these guys know how to get you on your feet! So if you’re looking for a fun, funky party downtown Victoria to ring in the New Year, Hermann’s is the place to be! 

Early NYE with the Jazz All Stars at Hermann’s Jazz Club

For 40 years, Hermann’s has been the place for jazz in Victoria. With a comfortable space perfect for enjoying the music at a table with a drink or dancing the night away, Hermann’s is a must visit! This year, you can kick off your New Year’s celebrations early at Hermann’s with The Victoria Jazz All-Stars! Start your NYE early at this swinging jazz party where you can dance and jive your 2021 blues away and get ready to dance into 2022.

Oak Bay Beach Hotel New Years Eve Champagne Gala

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s annual NYE celebration is back! Celebrate the last evening of 2021 in style in the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s elegant dining room at the New Year’s Eve Champagne Gala. Using locally sourced ingredients, Executive Chef Kreg Graham will wow you with Champagne pairings for each of the different culinary delights of the evening. This is a meal you won’t soon forget!

The Grandest of Evenings at The Fairmont Empress

There’s no doubt that the Fairmont Empress is the crowning jewel in Victoria’s Inner harbour. If you’ve ever wanted to spend a magical evening in this incredible heritage hotel, this is your chance! Ring in the New Year in the Fairmont Empress’ historic Crystal Ballroom at the event of the holiday season. This grand evening will be a classic black-tie event and include cocktails upon arrival, live entertainment and a four-course seated dinner. If you want to ring in 2022 in style, this is the place to be!

New Year’s Eve Gala at Bear Mountain

Bear Mountain is an incredible high-end neighbourhood in Langford as well as the top-tier Westin resort complex with two incredible Nicklaus designed golf courses. Just minutes away from Victoria, this community is a blend of gorgeous West Coast wilderness and high-end infrastructure. If you’re looking to ring in the New Year in style and admire the incredible view, the New Year’s Eve Gala at Bear Mountain is the place to be. With a prosecco reception, five course meal and live music this is an evening you’ll never forget!  

The Collective’s European Passport to the New Year

As one of Victoria’s best wine bars, The Collective is the place to go for the best selection of world wines and fabulous fare. This New Year, Chef Bränko has created a six course meal that will taste like a tour of Europe. Each course will be inspired by the flavours and culinary styles of the country it represents. Travel through France, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Greece, plus a surprise country all from the comfort of your table! Each course will have a wine pairing that has been carefully selected by The Collective’s sommelier but of course, the full bar, including cocktails will be available during the evening as well! Bon appetit!   

Edie Daponte – What the World Needs Now 

This is the perfect event for guests staying in Sidney to ring – or sing – in the New Year in Sidney! Join celebrated Vancouver Island jazz singer Edie Daponte at St. Paul’s United Church for an evening of beloved jazz and blues classics. With the venue so close to Sidney town centre, you can take a New Year’s Eve seaside stroll or book a table at a nearby restaurant and celebrate 2022 in comfort.

Ring in NYE in Victoria with EMR!

Holidays Made with Love: Small Businesses to Support on Vancouver Island Part II: Bath, Books, Clothing and More!

Part two is here! In this list we’ve rounded up the best local handmade gifts from bath and body products, eco-friendly kitchen accessories, gift boxes, handmade clothing and more! Each of these Vancouver Island businesses are all about strengthening their community, creating a more sustainable world and showcasing the beauty of this incredible Island. Shop online or in-person when available and give gifts that are made with love!

Bath and Body

RavenSong Soap and Candle 

Born and raised on Haida Gwaii, owner and operator Valerie, whose Haida name Slin-ga_a_Jaad means “creative girl”, has a passion for bringing parts of her home and culture to the world through soapmaking. With distinctive colours, incredible textures and unique Vancouver Island scents, RavenSong has taken the soap making world by storm winning national and international soapmaking awards. 

How to order: straight from ravensongsoap.com or stop in the shop at Willow Point in Campbell River.

Rebel Earth Soap Company

This tiny Parksville based business really takes the cake (or soap) when it comes to small batch, handmade soaps. Made with high-quality ingredients that are sourced as locally as possible as often as possible, this little local business is a great place to grab great treats for all your loved ones! 

How to order: Check out their Facebook page to see what soaps are ready to be picked up, place your order and arrange shipping or pickup at 606 Morison Avenue in Parksville! 

Food, Pottery and Kitchen

Vancouver Island Gift Box

While Frazer, founder of Vancouver Island Gift Box may have been raised on the Island, it wasn’t until he left it that he realized what a truly remarkable place it is. With endless outdoor activities, incredible agriculture, food, wine and a thriving artisan community, Vancouver Island might be small, but it’s got a big personality. The Vancouver Island gift boxes are packed with goodies from Vancouver Island to give to the people you love. Whether you want to introduce them to a taste of Island life or if they’re as much a fan as you are, these boxes make a perfect, thoughtful gift this holiday. 

How to order: go online and choose one of the pre-built boxes or build your own and ship to anywhere in North America for free with a purchase of a premium box! 

Evercoast Handmade

If you’re looking for high-quality, sustainable kitchen fabrics and accessories that are fun and functional, this is the place to shop! From trendy beeswax food wrap and reusable snack bags, to aprons and reusable paper towels, Evercoast handmakes all the latest in reusable kitchen fabrics right here on Vancouver Island. 

How to order: get one of their ready-made items from their online shop, contact them to place a custom order and choose shipping or local Victoria pickup for anyone staying in an EMR Victoria properties. For anyone staying in the Comox Valley, you can head into Little Village Store in Cumberland and pick up a few pieces in person!

FaeGarten Clay

Based in Nanaimo, owner and operator of FaeGarten Clay, Brenda Schnell uses the wild and imperfect beauty of nature to inspire her one-of-a-kind pottery. Without the use of a potter’s wheel, Brenda creates pieces that have their own unique, beautiful asymmetry and charm. You can find mugs, tea bag holders, vases and whimsical decor all with a distinct West Coast flair. 

How to order: go to FaeCarten’s Etsy shop or find them in-person at Neck of the Woods in Ladysmith, Island-ish in Nanaimo, Sea Thrift Artisan Boutique near Parksville, and The Tea Emporium in Victoria.

Books 

Bread + Clutter

If you’re looking for amazing children’s books, look no further. Vancouver Island author and illustrator of Bread + Clutter Books, Lindsay Ford, is revolutionizing the way we think of the world, the people in it and how we can talk to our kids about it. Her children’s books are all about changing the world we live in just by celebrating differences with every turn of the page. The series allows kids to approach difficult conversations like mental health, aging and gender norms and how being weird is wonderful. 

How to order: shop directly through the website! 

Clothing

Modern Mini’s Apparel

This amazing online shop is owned and operated by “slay-at-home-Mom” Jessica who fills her days with four kiddos and her nights running her clothing company. This Nanaimo based company is positively packed with fun clothing, mugs, hats and more for everyone on your list. 

How to order: shop online to grab some incredible gifts! 

Cowichan Knitting

If you’ve walked around anywhere on Vancouver Island you’ve probably seen more than one person wearing a Cowichan sweater. They’re distinctive in the natural palette of grey, brown, cream and black and mirrored, geometric animal design. Cowichan knitters also make touques, socks, slippers and scarves all with the same palette and distinct designs. These items are all handmade using skills and traditions passed down through generations with all-natural fibers making them incredibly warm, water resistant and durable. In fact, many sweaters are passed down through families on Vancouver Island (I have one from my father), a testament to their longevity. In recent years, these items have seen a rise in popularity as a younger generation adopted them to both ward off the winter chill and as a fashion choice for everyday wear. Many global clothing brands have made their own versions of the Cowichan sweater, but there’s nothing quite like the quality and sentiment of a genuine article of Cowichan knitting. So if you’re looking for a Cowichan sweater, consider purchasing from one of these vendors who have personal relationships with the artisans who make these incredible items. 

Judy Hill Gallery

In heritage downtown Duncan you will find the Judy Hill Gallery, a space that ensures that the works of the Pacific Northwest First Nations artists are displayed as what they are: art. If you’re looking for an authentic Cowichan Sweater, this long-standing, little gallery in the Cowichan Valley is a great place to start. 

How to order: with worldwide shipping available, simply use her website to contact her about purchasing options.

Jennifer George 

There’s no doubt that the best way to purchase an item of Cowichan knitting is directly from the knitter themselves. Jennifer ‘Jenny’ George learned how to knit by watching her mother, helping wash, dry and card the wool to get it ready for spinning. Today, Jennifer is thankfully able to outsource much of the time consuming work of washing, drying and carding but she still insists on choosing only the highest quality raw wool and spinning it herself. Buying something from Jennifer means that you can give the gift of wearable art. 

How to order: you can browse her knitting on her website and contact her directly for ordering. 

Cowichan Trading 

For over 50 years, Cowichan Trading on the corner of Johnson St. and Government St. has been supplying Victoria with a large selection of authentic First Nations art, clothing, jewelry, baskets and more! Buying everything in stock directly from the artists themselves ensures that when you purchase an item of Cowichan knitting, you’re getting an authentic piece and helping to support local artisans! 
How to order: shop online or head to one of the downtown Victoria locations to have a look around! 

Book an EMR Vacation Today!

Holidays Made With Love: Small Businesses to Support on Vancouver Island Part I – Wall Art and Jewelry

Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places on earth to visit, and we aren’t just biased – Lonely Planet has ranked Vancouver Island as one of the best regions in the world for years! If you’ve ever been here, you’ve undoubtedly fallen in love with our incredible cities and breathtaking nature. So, this holiday season, why not share your Island love with your loved ones? Whether they’ve been here or not, the artisans on this gorgeous island create incredible gifts that will impress everyone on your list. Whether you’re looking for smaller gifts that are easy to pack or want something with that wow-factor, we’ve got you covered! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you in our two-part list of local artisans that gives you lots of online purchasing and shipping options, plus the brick-and-mortar stores where you can find some of these incredible gifts. Buying from small Island businesses means that you can be sure everything you give this holiday season will be made with love.

Art

Little Wren Fibre Co. 

Located in Nanaimo, Jen Vissers of Little Wren Fibre Co. creates charismatic home decor from handspun yarn, recycled fabrics and eco printed ribbons to give a second, and stunning, life to these unwanted fabric scraps. With a keen eye for colour and texture combinations, Jenn’s unique three dimensional creations make a thoughtful and beautiful gift. 

How to order: purchase a Little Wren creation on the Etsy shop and ship anywhere or choose local pickup in checkout for anyone staying in Nanaimo!  

The Marine Detective 

Right at the top of our beautiful Island in the little town of Port McNeill, photographer Jackie Hildering creates the most stunning under-water photographs that capture the majesty and dark, cold beauty of the north Pacific Ocean. This holiday you can give the gift of a glimpse of Vancouver Island’s incredible, diverse and breathtaking ocean. 

How to order: go directly through the website and ship to anywhere in the world!

Island Metal Arts

If you’re looking for something unique and custom made, take a peek at what Island Metal Arts has to offer! With a ready-to-purchase selection that includes monogrammed letters, colourful mermaids, Island cartography and fun sayings, plus an incredible team that is ready to take on any customized project, Island Metal Arts is a great place to find a gift with a wow-factor! 

How to order: contact them directly for custom orders or order something from their catalogue right from their website. If you’re staying nearby in Victoria and are interested in visiting in person, contact them to set up an appointment to see their workshop in Colwood! 

Jewelry

Sunday Jewelry Co.

For classic and contemporary, high quality jewelry at incredible prices, you’ll want to shop at Sunday Jewelry Co. Located in Victoria and made with ethically sourced materials, Sunday offers 18 to 24 Karat gold plated jewelry where you can find pieces from unique, bold statement pieces to subtle, timeless classics and everything in between. Grab one of these beautiful pieces and support a local business that donates a portion of each profit to organizations that protect our beautiful Island. 

How to order: shop online and choose a shipping method or local pick up if you’re staying at any EMR Victoria properties!  

Umlaut Jewelry 

With a passion for the natural beauty of her home, Zoë of Umlaut Jewelry successfully captures the essence of the earth, sea and sky of Vancouver Island in her pieces. Whether you’re looking for something simple for everyday wear or bold pieces to make a statement, Umlaut has an incredible array of jewelry where you’re sure to find a little something special for someone special. 

How to order: shop online directly through her website or you can find some of her jewelry at Cause & Effect Wellness in Courtney.

Coast Salish Jewelry 

Another popular fashion on Vancouver Island is stunning Coast Salish jewelry. Ranging from small bracelets and subtle rings to wide bangles, large pendant earrings and necklaces, the local Coast Salish artists create beautiful hand carved jewelry in a range of materials from white and yellow gold to sterling silver and copper, the incredible array of designs is astonishing. Each piece is carefully crafted depicting one or more animals or supernatural figures from First Nations culture, each symbolizing an aspect of life, personal trait or world view that will personally resonate. If you’re hoping to shop for an item of Coast Salish jewelry, it’s important to ensure it’s authenticity and support First Nations artists. 

 Spirits of the West Coast Gallery

Since 2006, Spirits of the West Coast Gallery has worked hard to create a space where customers can find incredible customer service and high-quality, authentic pieces, promote First Nations art and culture and most importantly to build lasting relationships with local First Nations artists who work in their traditional communities. 

How to order: you can browse their collection of jewelry online and take advantage of the free shipping within Canada and the USA, or while you’re staying in the Comox Valley go into the gallery in Courtney and have a look around! 

Judy Hill Gallery

Judy Hill is a local spot that offers a wide selection of incredible Coast Salish jewelry made by local artists. 

How to order: for custom orders and to inquire about current stock, you can contact Judy Hill through the website or pop into Duncan while you’re staying in the Cowichan Valley! 

Artina’s Jewelry 

Artina’s, right in the heart of Victoria on historic Government St., has the world’s largest collection of handcrafted Canadian jewelry! With the work of hundreds of Canada’s most talented artists on display, with a focus on local First Nations works, it’s safe to say that Artina’s might just be your best bet for Coast Salish jewelry in Victoria. You can find pieces made from gold, silver, titanium, and other materials including two-tone pieces. 
How to order: pop in while you’re wandering downtown Victoria or shop online from the comfort of your EMR Sidney Property and pick up downtown or ship your gift anywhere in the world!

Book Your EMR Vacation Today!

Cold Hands, Warm Heart: How to Give Back this Holiday Season

For many of us, the holidays are a cherished time of year where we gather with friends and family, enjoy good food and walk through streets draped with boughs of evergreens and twinkling lights to shop for gifts to give the people we love. For many others, the holidays are hard, a time fraught with insecurities of food, housing or finances – but you can help! There are lots of ways to celebrate the season while supporting local charities that help vulnerable citizens get the support they need. No matter where you’re staying, whether it’s in Sooke or right downtown Victoria, we’ve made a list of the best ways to support local charities and organizations that are fun and celebratory! Because at the end of the day, isn’t that what this holiday is really about?

Holiday Hamper 

If there’s one thing that we can all agree on is that kids are cuckoo for Christmas. However, there are many children whose families aren’t able to meet the expectations of the season and that’s where CFAX Santas Anonymous comes in. This incredible organization provides families with presents for each child in the household, three bags of non-perishable food and a $75 grocery gift card so that their caregivers can purchase perishable items to ensure that over the Christmas break, children have healthy meals. No matter where you are, you can help this incredible cause and donate a gift for a child or help a family in need with a food hamper! Simply log in from any EMR property, buy a food hamper or visit the virtual tree of wishes page and follow the three easy steps to help ensure that every child can wake up on Christmas morning to gifts under their tree.

 Festival of Trees at The Bay Center

For almost three decades Pacific Center has hosted the Festival of Trees and the large shopping mall downtown Victoria, turns into an indoor forest of decorated trees. This beloved, annual event has over fifty one-of-a-kind trees on each level of the mall. From comedic to ornamental, abstract to traditional there is a tree that’ll stand out for everyone! So while you’re visiting Victoria and admiring the high ceilings dripping with twinkling lights, enjoying the excellent holiday shopping and soaking up the atmosphere, make sure you participate in a holiday tradition that supports children’s mental health programs through the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.

13th Annual Gingerbread Showcase 

If you love baking shows and want to see what our local bakers and culinary experts can do with the spicy, seasonal confectionery, this is a must see event! The event is set to display some incredible works with the 2021 theme of The Future of Home which aims to imagine how we can make a smaller impact on our planet. For those staying right downtown Victoria, you can browse the displays, vote for your favourite and make a donation. All donations go to support Habitat for Humanity which helps mobilize volunteers and community partners to build simple, decent, affordable housing for lower income families in the Greater Victoria Region. This annual tradition is celebrating 13 amazing years so head over to the lobby of the lovely Parkside Hotel & Spa and the other three partner locations until January 2nd to take a peek! 

The IEOA Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive 

This year, the organizers of the Truck Light Convoy are pleased to welcome the crew back for another parade to ring in the holiday season! Beginning at 5:45 on December 4th at Ogden Point, the parade will follow Dallas road, go through Oak Bay, then double back and head west to downtown. It’ll then make its way north into the heart of Langford near Western Speedway. It’s a beloved tradition and a perfect way to get in the spirit and donate to the local food drives. There will be donation spots along the route but if you prefer, you can always make a donation online to support these vital organizations. Love the idea but don’t want to stand in the cold? This year, the organization will have a live stream to ensure that those who can’t be there in person, can be there in spirit. 

Oak Bay Beach Hotel Movie Nights

For many years, the Oak Bay Beach hotel has hosted holiday movie nights in their incredible David Foster Foundation Theater and this year, they’re back with bells on! Simply purchase your tickets to the movie of your choice here and you’ll be treated to complimentary parking, freshly popped popcorn, holiday sweets and bottled water for your evening. This is a perfect evening whether you’re staying in Sidney or right in Victoria for some holiday fun! A portion of each ticket sale is donated to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation who help raise funds for medical equipment, special projects, education and research at all the hospitals in the Greater Victoria Area.

Book an EMR Vacation Today!