In This Issue:
British Columbia

British Columbia: You may know a little or a lot about this beautiful province. Whether you call British Columbia home, visit often, or only know that it's 'on the west coast' - part of BC's appeal is the local hospitality and eagerness to share it all: the arts and culture, the outdoor adventure, the gorgeous golf courses and the thriving wine country. Here's a taste:

Vancouver

It's one spectacular city where you can follow a day of golf or kayaking with a meal at one of North America's hottest restaurants and an evening at the theatre. Laid back and energetic; stylish and outdoorsy; cosmopolitan and welcoming. Think Los Angeles meets Hong Kong, with a dose of Seattle. Local tip: Get a taste of Shakespeare at the annual Bard on the Beach Festival from June 3 - September 25. Set in Vanier Park the main-stage tent is open-ended so that the actors perform against the spectacular backdrop of mountains, sea and sky.

Whistler

The ultimate outdoor playground - while the hills are alive with skiers and snowboarders in winter, summer is the time to explore nature on foot, bike, kayak, via zipline or the famous PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Just two hours from Vancouver, Whistler has all the creature comforts and exciting nightlife of an international year-round resort. Local tip: Every Sunday from June 21 - October 11, the Whistler Farmers Market is overflowing with local produce from the Pemberton Valley and beyond. Tasty artisan foods, live cooking demos by Whistler's chefs, local artists and musicians all gather in the beautiful Upper Village Market stroll.

Victoria

The mix of quaint British charm and hip attitude has lured many to British Columbia's capital city on Vancouver Island. Gorgeous gardens and stately castles captivate, while rejuvenating spas, funky shops and exceptional restaurants beckon. And the mild climate allows adventurers to experience whale-watching, hiking and golf year-round. Local tip: Part of the charm of Victoria is the trip there. While ferries are the popular option, consider a float plane ride which takes you from downtown Vancouver to Victoria's Inner Harbour flying over the beautiful Gulf Islands en route.

Vancouver Island

Everyone needs a little island time, where you can leave everything behind and spend your day beachcombing the windswept coast, perusing local artisan shops and fresh farmer markets, or indulging at an upscale resort. Hop a ferry for the Gulf Islands and an idyllic retreat at a cozy B&B where a good book and fireplace is a sure recipe for relaxation. Local tip: Many wouldn't think of Canada as prime surfing territory but Tofino on Vancouver Island's wild west coast has a passionate community of local surfers and stunning beaches like Long Beach at its doorstep. Take a lesson, rent a board and hit the waves.

Thompson Okanagan

Savour an award-winning merlot and drink in the sparkling vista of lakes and vineyards in British Columbia's pre-eminent wine region. With over 100 wineries to visit, be sure to save time to sample the other local delights of the region - overflowing fruit stands, lush golf courses and refreshing water activities. Local tip: Fall is the perfect time to watch the grapes ripen in the sun and indulge yourself in the harvest celebrations of the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival. From October 1 - 10 you can attend over 100 wine and food events while experiencing the hustle and bustle of the grape harvest at the surrounding vineyards.

With so much to see and do, let a Flight Centre travel consultant help you plan your memorable holiday in British Columbia. Call today at 1-866-317-4794.

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